When it comes to espresso machines, Breville stands out for its innovative features and reliable performance, making it a favorite among home baristas and coffee enthusiasts alike. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch makes a strong case as the best overall for its intuitive touchscreen and customizable options. The Bambino Plus offers a compact, budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality, while the Barista Pro balances performance and price for serious espresso lovers. However, choosing the right Breville depends on your budget, space, and experience level. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these models and what sets them apart.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the Barista Touch and Barista Pro excel in usability and customization, ideal for serious espresso enthusiasts.
- Budget-friendly options like the Bambino Plus deliver solid performance with fewer advanced features, perfect for beginners or small kitchens.
- Design variations, such as brushed stainless steel versus black stainless steel, primarily influence aesthetics but can also impact maintenance preferences.
- Size and footprint matter: compact models like the Bambino are great for limited space, but larger machines often offer more control and features.
- Price differences reflect feature sets, with premium models offering touchscreen controls, PID temperature stability, and faster heat-up times.
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Customization and Professional Results | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease of Use and Consistency | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Style and Custom Control | Grind Settings: 25 | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | Water Tank Capacity: 2L | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact Machine for Small Spaces | Power: 1560 Watts | Brew Capacity: 1 or 2 Cups | Included Accessories: Milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for All-in-One Control and Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Included Accessories: Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces and Quick Espresso | Water Pressure: Pre-infusion with low pressure, then high pressure | Dosing: 54mm portafilter with 19 grams | Heat Up Time: 3 seconds with ThermoJet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Users Wanting Touchscreen Control and Versatility | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European Burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Speed and Precision for Intermediate Users | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for All-in-One Experience and Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 54mm portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, cleaning kit, test strip | 1680 Watts | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | 1560 Watts | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — | 1560 Watts | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit | 1680 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress stands out as the most versatile option, combining an integrated grinder with intelligent dosing and assisted tamping, making it ideal for those who want a true barista experience at home. Compared to the BES870XL, it offers more user-friendly features like guided tamping and adjustable grind settings, although it has a larger footprint and a more complex setup that might challenge beginners. Its professional-quality espresso and steam wand enable microfoam for latte art, but the machine’s complexity and cost may deter casual users. This model suits passionate home baristas who prioritize control and customization but may overwhelm beginners or those with limited space.
Pros:- Professional-quality espresso with advanced customization
- Built-in grinder with 25 adjustable settings for precision
- Assisted tamping and microfoam steam wand for barista-style drinks
Cons:- Complex setup may intimidate beginners
- Relatively large size limits placement options
- Higher price point compared to basic machines
Best for: Experienced coffee enthusiasts who want maximum control and professional-quality drinks at home
Not ideal for: Casual users or small kitchen owners who prefer simplicity and a compact footprint
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for serious home baristas seeking maximum control and quality, despite its complexity and size.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch offers a compelling mix of automation and customization, making it perfect for those who want cafe-quality drinks without the learning curve. Its touchscreen interface simplifies operation, and the automatic microfoam wand produces consistent milk textures, unlike the manual wand of the BES870XL. While this ease of use is a major advantage, it comes with a higher price tag and a larger footprint, which could be a drawback for small kitchens. Compared to the Bambino models, the Touch provides more advanced features and personalization, but it might be overkill for casual drinkers. This pick is ideal for home baristas who want quality with less effort, but may feel excessive for those who prefer straightforward, manual machines.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent drinks
- Touchscreen interface for easy customization
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick brewing
Cons:- High cost for a home espresso machine
- Learning curve for mastering advanced features
- Larger size may not suit small kitchens
Best for: Home users seeking cafe-quality drinks with minimal fuss and consistent results
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those with limited counter space who prefer manual control
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, cleaning kit, test strip
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for users prioritizing convenience and consistency without sacrificing quality, despite its premium price.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville BES876DBL Damson Blue combines the core features of the standard Impress with a striking color and a slightly personalized aesthetic. It maintains the same integrated grinder, assisted tamping, and temperature control, making it suitable for those who want professional results with a pop of style. Compared to the stainless steel version, it appeals to buyers who value design and visual appeal but offers the same functionality, meaning it shares the same setup complexity and size considerations. For users who want a more colorful machine that still delivers quality coffee, this is an attractive choice. This pick is ideal for style-conscious home baristas but might not appeal to those seeking a more subdued look or the lowest price.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent extraction
- Vibrant color adds personality to the kitchen
Cons:- Same complexity and size as the standard Impress
- Higher price due to aesthetic features
- Limited color options beyond this shade
Best for: Design-savvy coffee lovers who want a high-performance machine with aesthetic flair
Not ideal for: Minimalist or budget-focused buyers who prefer neutral finishes or lower-cost options
- Grind Settings:25
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine suits those wanting a stylish, high-functioning espresso maker without sacrificing performance for appearance.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino addresses limited kitchen space with its compact, lightweight design, while still delivering quick heat-up and solid espresso quality. Its ThermoJet system ensures rapid readiness, making it ideal for mornings when speed matters. The automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam creation, a feature shared with higher-end models like the BES880BSS, but it requires some manual operation for optimal results. Compared to larger machines like the BES870XL, it sacrifices some customization and capacity for its small footprint. This makes it a strong choice for apartment dwellers or those with minimal counter space who still want to enjoy quality espresso. This pick is perfect for beginners or small households, though advanced users might find it limiting.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact, space-efficient design
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cups per brew cycle
- Requires manual operation for perfect results
- Price may seem high for basic features
Best for: Individuals with small kitchens seeking an easy-to-use, space-saving espresso machine
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those needing large capacity or extensive customization
- Power:1560 Watts
- Brew Capacity:1 or 2 Cups
- Included Accessories:Milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine offers quick, quality espresso in a small package, ideal for small spaces and new users.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL remains a favorite for its balanced combination of built-in grinder, manual microfoam wand, and adjustable settings, making it suitable for those who want to fine-tune their espresso. Its PID temperature control ensures stable brewing, and the manual steam wand allows for latte art, but it does require some skill to master. Compared to the BES876BSS, it lacks assisted tamping, which can affect consistency for less experienced users. Its size and learning curve make it less appealing for casual or space-limited kitchens. This machine is best for enthusiastic home baristas who enjoy tweaking every parameter, but may challenge beginners or those seeking plug-and-play convenience.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control for precise brewing
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
Cons:- Steep learning curve for new users
- Larger size and more complex operation
- No assisted tamping feature
Best for: Home baristas who want detailed control over their espresso and milk texturing
Not ideal for: Beginners or users with tight kitchen space who prefer automation
- Capacity:1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
- Grind Size Dial:Yes
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for those who want extensive control and are willing to learn, despite its complexity and size.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress stands out for combining professional-grade espresso and milk frothing capabilities with user-friendly features like assisted tamping and intelligent dosing. Compared to the Barista Pro, it offers a more hands-on experience with manual controls, which appeals to those wanting a more authentic barista experience, but this makes setup and operation more complex, especially for beginners. Its built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings allows precise control over grind size, translating into better flavor extraction. However, its size and high price mean it’s best suited for dedicated coffee enthusiasts with ample counter space willing to invest in quality. This machine makes the most sense for serious hobbyists who want control and quality, despite its steeper learning curve and cost.
Pros:- Professional-level espresso and milk frothing capabilities
- Intelligent dosing and assisted tamping for consistent results
- Built-in conical burr grinder with adjustable settings
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Relatively high price point
- Large size requiring significant counter space
Best for: Home baristas who want professional-level espresso and milk frothing in a single, durable machine.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited kitchen space who prefer simple, compact options.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dosing, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for dedicated coffee hobbyists who prioritize quality and control over convenience.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus offers a compact footprint ideal for small kitchens, with fast heat-up thanks to its ThermoJet system, making it a convenient choice for everyday espresso. Unlike the Barista Express Impress, it simplifies operation with automatic milk texturing and pre-programmed espresso settings, reducing the learning curve. Its 7.7-inch width ensures it fits comfortably on most counters, but this limits its capacity for multiple cups or heavy use. While it provides excellent consistency with automatic features, it doesn’t offer the same level of manual control, which may frustrate users seeking a more hands-on experience. This machine is best for casual coffee drinkers or those who value speed and ease over detailed customization.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on small counters
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand produces barista-quality microfoam
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cup settings
- Requires some learning for perfect results
- Higher price point for a compact machine
Best for: Small kitchen owners and casual users who want quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or enthusiasts seeking manual control and advanced features.
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion with low pressure, then high pressure
- Dosing:54mm portafilter with 19 grams
- Heat Up Time:3 seconds with ThermoJet
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Dimensions:7.7 inches wide
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for those who want quick, quality espresso in a small footprint with minimal setup.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch Impress elevates home espresso with its intuitive touchscreen interface, enabling easy customization and a variety of preset drinks. Its auto steam wand and cold brew function make it versatile, unlike the more manual Barista Express. The 30 grind settings from Baratza European burrs and customizable drink options appeal to those seeking a personalized coffee experience, but the extensive features can overwhelm beginners. The higher price reflects its advanced tech, which may not suit casual users or those on a budget. It’s best suited for tech-savvy home baristas who value convenience and customization, even if it means a steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Auto steam wand for perfect microfoam
- Touchscreen with custom presets
- Fast ThermoJet heating system for quick operation
Cons:- Complex features may intimidate beginners
- Higher price point due to advanced tech
- Limited detailed review available
Best for: Home users who want a highly customizable, touchscreen-enabled espresso machine with additional features like cold brew.
Not ideal for: Beginners or budget-conscious buyers who prefer straightforward, manual machines.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European Burrs, 30 grind settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Coffee Options:13
- Customizable Drinks:Up to 6
Our verdict“This model suits tech-savvy coffee lovers craving advanced features and customization at home.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro emphasizes speed and precision, thanks to its fast ThermoJet system and digital temperature control. It offers a semi-automatic experience with a built-in conical burr grinder, unlike the BES870XL, making it a step up for those wanting more control but without the complexity of manual adjustments. Its large interface and dose control provide a good balance of automation and manual input, perfect for users with some experience. However, its size and price may deter casual users or those with limited space. Its streamlined operation makes it a strong choice for those seeking cafe-quality results with less fuss than traditional manual machines.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise digital temperature control
- Built-in conical burr grinder with dose control
Cons:- Complex interface may overwhelm beginners
- Relatively large size requiring space
- High price point compared to entry models
Best for: Intermediate home baristas who want fast, precise espresso without extensive manual effort.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or casual drinkers who prefer simplicity and minimal setup.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for enthusiasts seeking quick, high-quality espresso with some manual control.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express offers a comprehensive, all-in-one solution with a built-in conical burr grinder, manual microfoam, and adjustable grind size, making it ideal for those who want control over every step of brewing. Its powerful 1600-watt motor and multiple accessories support a high level of customization, comparable to the BES876BST but with a more stylish finish. Its water capacity and power consumption are considerations for frequent use. While it provides excellent value for a versatile home espresso setup, its size and high price may be barriers for casual users or limited spaces. This machine suits dedicated home baristas who want an integrated, customizable coffee experience.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with adjustable grind size
- Precise temperature control for quality extraction
- Manual microfoam for latte art
Cons:- High power consumption
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
- Price may be high for casual users
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who prefer a single, versatile machine with adjustable grind and brew options.
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with limited counter space seeking a straightforward, minimal setup.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
Our verdict“This machine is best for committed home baristas seeking customization and all-in-one convenience.”
How We Picked
I selected these Breville models based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and overall value. I prioritized machines that demonstrate consistent espresso quality, intuitive interfaces, and durability. The ranking also considers user reviews and expert opinions to identify which models deliver the best experience for different types of buyers—beginners, enthusiasts, and premium shoppers. Cost-to-feature ratio played a key role, along with considerations like maintenance, size, and feature set, to ensure each product offers something unique for its target audience.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves more than just features; you should consider your skill level, space, and how much control you want over your brew. Understanding these factors helps prevent common pitfalls, such as overpaying for unnecessary features or buying a model that’s too complex for your needs.Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Some Breville models, like the Bambino Plus, are designed for simplicity and quick setup, making them ideal for beginners. Others, like the Barista Touch or Pro, offer advanced controls and customization that can be overwhelming at first but rewarding for experienced users. Consider your comfort with technology and willingness to learn when selecting a machine, as this impacts long-term satisfaction and enjoyment.
Size and Kitchen Space
Breville offers a range of sizes, from compact models like the Bambino to larger, feature-rich options like the Barista Pro. Measure your available countertop space carefully and choose a machine that fits comfortably. Keep in mind that larger models often include extra features that require more room, while smaller options may have fewer controls but fit better in tight spaces.
Feature Set and Customization
Decide which features matter most—such as built-in grinders, touchscreens, PID temperature control, or steam wand quality. Premium models typically include more advanced features, providing greater control over extraction and milk frothing. However, more features often mean higher cost and complexity, so balance your desire for customization with your comfort level and budget.
Build Quality and Durability
Look for machines with sturdy construction and quality components, particularly if you plan to use your espresso maker daily. Stainless steel bodies tend to last longer and resist wear better than plastic or painted finishes. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to keep your machine performing well over time, regardless of build quality.
Price and Value
While it might be tempting to go for the most feature-packed model, assess whether the added cost aligns with your needs. Entry-level machines can provide excellent espresso at a lower price, but may lack some convenience features. Premium models offer advanced controls and faster performance but at a higher investment. Finding the right balance depends on your intended use and how much you’re willing to spend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a higher-priced Breville machine worth it for a beginner?
Higher-priced Breville machines often include features like touchscreen controls, PID temperature stability, and faster heat-up times, which can enhance the brewing process. However, for beginners, simpler models like the Bambino Plus might be more practical and easier to learn on. Investing in a more advanced model makes sense if you’re committed to mastering espresso-making or plan to use it daily, but beginners can start with a more straightforward machine and upgrade later.
Do all Breville machines require a lot of maintenance?
Most Breville espresso machines need regular cleaning, including descaling, backflushing, and milk system cleaning to maintain performance. Some models with automatic cleaning cycles or easier access panels make this process less burdensome. Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your machine and helps ensure consistent quality, regardless of the model you choose.
Can I get commercial-quality espresso from a Breville home machine?
While Breville machines deliver impressive espresso for home use, they are not designed for high-volume commercial environments. They excel at providing cafe-quality shots with consistent temperature control and pressure profiling, but their build and capacity are intended for personal or small-scale use. For true commercial-grade performance, larger, industrial machines are necessary.
Is a built-in grinder necessary on a Breville espresso machine?
Built-in grinders offer convenience and ensure fresh coffee grounds for each shot, which can significantly improve flavor. However, they also add to the cost and complexity of the machine. If you prefer more control over your grind size and freshness, investing in a standalone grinder might be a better choice, especially if you already own a reliable grinder and are looking to upgrade your espresso setup.
Entry-level models like the Bambino Plus focus on simplicity, ease of use, and affordability, making them suitable for beginners. Premium models such as the Barista Touch or Pro incorporate advanced features like touchscreen controls, PID temperature regulation, and faster brewing times, which appeal to enthusiasts seeking more control and consistency. Your choice depends on how much you want to invest in learning and perfecting your espresso craft.
Conclusion
For those just starting out or with limited space, the Bambino Plus offers reliable performance without overwhelming complexity. Serious espresso lovers and enthusiasts who want maximum control will find the Barista Touch or Pro the best choices, thanks to their advanced features and intuitive interfaces. Budget-conscious buyers still get solid quality with models like the Barista Express series, which balances features and affordability. Ultimately, your selection should align with your skill level, budget, and how involved you want to be in crafting each cup of coffee.
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