When it comes to brewing premium espresso at home, Breville stands out as a leading brand offering a range of machines that balance performance and user-friendly features. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro makes a compelling case as the best overall choice thanks to its powerful boiler and intuitive interface. For those seeking a more compact option, the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent quality in a smaller footprint, ideal for limited counter space. However, buyers face tradeoffs between advanced features and affordability, with higher-end models offering more customization but at a steeper price. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and what makes them suit different needs.
Get kitchen gear delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The top picks are distinguished by their user interface, with touchscreen models offering easier control over brewing parameters.
- Price correlates strongly with feature set; premium models include built-in grinders and advanced temperature controls.
- Compact designs like the Bambino Plus are perfect for small kitchens but may lack some customization options of larger machines.
- Durability and build quality vary, with stainless steel construction generally offering longer lifespan and better resistance to wear.
- Choosing the right Breville depends heavily on your experience level—beginners should prioritize simplicity, while enthusiasts may want more advanced features.
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Value with User-Friendly Features | Weight: Not specified | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Grade Espresso with Ease | Included Accessories: 54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test Strip | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown | ||
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Fast, Cafe-Quality Espresso at Home | Capacity: 67 oz Water Tank | Bean Hopper: 1/2 lb | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Home Baristas Who Want a Classic, All-in-One Machine | Weight: Unknown | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine |  | Best for Advanced Home Baristas Seeking Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Home Espresso Lovers | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Small Kitchens and Quick Results | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Entry-Level Espresso Enthusiasts | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: Not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Fresh Grounds and Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1 Year Limited |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | — | — | 54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test Strip | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 2 Year Limited |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, filters, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools, water filter | 1 Year Limited |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120 V | Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | 1 Year Limited |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1 Year Limited |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville BES870BSXL stands out for its combination of built-in grinder, precise temperature control, and manual steaming, making it a versatile choice for those committed to espresso craftsmanship. Compared with the Breville BES870XL, it offers more refined control and a sleek aesthetic, but its setup can be intimidating for newcomers and it takes up noticeable counter space. This machine is ideal for enthusiasts who want a semi-automatic experience that balances control with convenience, though it demands regular cleaning and maintenance to keep performance optimal.Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for ultra-fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID technology
- Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
Cons:- Complex setup may be daunting for beginners
- Bulky size may not fit small kitchens
- Requires consistent cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Serious home baristas who want professional-quality espresso with customization options
Not ideal for: Casual users seeking simple, plug-and-play options or small kitchens with limited space
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick suits dedicated enthusiasts willing to handle a more involved setup for premium espresso quality.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES876BSS combines professional performance with ease of use through automatic dosing and tamping, making it well-suited for those new to espresso who want consistent results. Unlike the BES870BSXL, it simplifies the brewing process, but this automation means less hands-on control and a slightly less authentic barista experience. It’s a good fit for home users wanting quality without the fuss, though its weight and setup complexity can be drawbacks for first-timers.Pros:- Precise dosing and tamping for consistent extraction
- Built-in grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Manual microfoam wand for milk-based drinks
Cons:- No detailed pricing info available
- Weight not specified—potentially heavy to move
- Complex setup for first-time users
Best for: Home users seeking a balance of quality and simplicity, especially beginners learning espresso craft
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas craving full manual control or those with limited kitchen space
- Weight:Not specified
- 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
Our verdict“This machine makes the most sense for users who prioritize convenience while still aiming for quality espresso at home.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES880BSS offers a comprehensive set of accessories and a high-quality stainless steel build, aiming at users who want a more complete, professional-looking setup. Compared with the other models, it boasts a more polished finish and extensive included tools, but lacks detailed feature descriptions that could clarify its automation level. This machine is perfect for dedicated home baristas who want a near-pro setup without the commercial price, though its complexity might challenge complete beginners.Pros:- High-quality stainless steel construction
- Complete set of accessories for brewing and maintenance
- Professional-grade espresso capabilities
Cons:- Limited detailed features or automation info
- Potentially complex for new users
- No specific size or weight info provided
Best for: Home baristas looking for a professional aesthetic and extensive accessories for maintenance and brewing
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space, due to its potentially complex setup and lack of explicit automation details
- Included Accessories:54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test Strip
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for those who want a premium home espresso setup with a polished look and comprehensive accessories.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro features a rapid ThermoJet heating system and integrated grinder, making it ideal for those who want quick, high-quality results without sacrificing control. Compared to the BES880BSS, it emphasizes speed and efficiency, but its slightly limited capacity and higher price may be barriers for larger households or budget-conscious buyers. It offers a good balance of automation and manual control for users who want café-quality drinks with minimal wait time.Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise PID temperature control
- Built-in conical burr grinder with dose control
Cons:- May be too complex for complete beginners
- Higher price point
- Limited capacity for larger households
Best for: Home users seeking quick, high-quality espresso with integrated grinding and fast heat-up
Not ideal for: Large households or beginners who prefer a simple, straightforward machine without many features to learn
- Capacity:67 oz Water Tank
- Bean Hopper:1/2 lb
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This model is perfect for busy coffee lovers who want café-quality espresso with rapid turnaround and integrated grinding.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES870XL is a well-rounded choice for those seeking an integrated grinder and espresso machine in one unit. It delivers solid performance with PID temperature control and a manual steam wand, making it suitable for users willing to learn the craft. Compared with the BES870BSXL, it may be slightly less refined in build but offers similar features at a more accessible price point. Its weight and complexity can be downsides for absolute beginners or those with small kitchens, but it remains a favorite for home enthusiasts ready to develop their skills.Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control for consistency
- Manual microfoam steam wand for milk texturing
Cons:- Heavy and bulky design
- Complex setup for beginners
- Some users report inconsistent grind adjustments
Best for: Home baristas aiming to learn espresso making with a versatile, all-in-one setup
Not ideal for: Users who prefer a more simplified, plug-and-play device or have restricted space
- Weight:Unknown
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, filters, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools, water filter
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine balances performance and learning curve well for dedicated hobbyists ready to master espresso making at home.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress stands out for its highly customizable coffee experience, combining an intuitive touchscreen with assisted tamping and rapid ThermoJet heating. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it offers more precise control over milk and coffee parameters—ideal for those who want a professional-grade setup at home. However, its extensive features come with a steeper learning curve and a larger footprint, which could be a drawback for smaller kitchens. Still, if you value customizability and speed, this machine delivers a truly personalized experience with consistent results.
Pros:- Customizable milk and coffee settings for personalized beverages
- Rapid heating system for quick coffee preparation
- Intuitive touchscreen with preset options and customization
- Assisted tamping ensures consistent extraction
Cons:- Complex features require a learning curve for new users
- Premium price point may be a barrier
- Large footprint may not suit small kitchens
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want full control over their coffee craft
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited kitchen space who prefer straightforward operation
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 grind settings
- Display:Touchscreen
- Milk Frothing:Auto steam wand with adjustable temperature and texture
- Cold Brew Function:Yes
Our verdict“This model is best for experienced enthusiasts seeking maximum control and customization in their espresso machine.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch offers a user-friendly experience with a sleek touchscreen and automatic microfoam wand, making it a strong choice for those seeking café-quality drinks without much fuss. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it provides more customization options and includes a comprehensive package of accessories, ideal for beginners who want to experiment with settings. Its high price point and limited voltage compatibility could be limiting factors for some buyers. Still, it balances ease of use with sophisticated features, making quality espresso accessible for most home users.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology
- Customizable settings and touchscreen interface
- Includes free coffee beans and accessories
Cons:- Premium price may be steep for some buyers
- Complex features might require an initial learning curve
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Home users who want a semi-automatic with automation features and a modern interface
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those in countries with different electrical standards
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip
- Features:Touchscreen, Programmable Coffee Settings, Adjustable Grind, Hot Water Dispenser
Our verdict“This machine suits those who want a balance of automation and customization in a sleek package without a steep learning curve.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus excels in compactness and speed, fitting easily on small counters while delivering café-quality espresso with automatic milk texturing. Compared with the BES880BTR, it offers less advanced customization but is simpler to operate and heats up rapidly thanks to ThermoJet. Its limited water tank size and absence of a grinder make it less suitable for frequent, high-volume use or those who want to grind fresh beans regularly. Overall, this pick is perfect for those who need fast, reliable espresso in a minimal space.
Pros:- Compact design fits easily on small countertops
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Automatic milk texturing creates barista-quality foam
- Precise temperature control for ideal extraction
Cons:- No detailed water tank capacity info provided
- Limited to 1 or 2 cup brewing
- No built-in grinder or extensive customization
Best for: Small apartment dwellers or those with limited counter space who want quick, quality drinks
Not ideal for: Heavy users who prefer extensive customization or larger capacity
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Dimensions:7.7 inches wide
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Milk Texturing:Automatic steam wand
Our verdict“Ideal for small spaces and quick espresso, but less suited for those wanting deep customization or high-volume use.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino offers a straightforward, small-footprint option for beginners interested in making espresso and milk-based drinks. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it lacks automatic milk texturing but still provides rapid heat-up and precise temperature control, making it a good starter machine. Its limited water tank details and absence of a built-in grinder imply that it’s better suited for occasional use rather than daily, high-volume brewing. If you’re new to espresso or have limited space, this model provides reliable fundamentals without overwhelming features.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact size ideal for small kitchens
- Includes essential accessories for brewing
Cons:- Limited water tank capacity info
- No built-in grinder or advanced features
- Price range not specified
Best for: Beginners or occasional home baristas needing a compact, easy-to-use machine
Not ideal for: Experienced users or those wanting extensive customization and larger capacity
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Brew Size Options:1 or 2 Cups
- Included Accessories:Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for newcomers or those with limited space seeking straightforward espresso brewing.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The BES870BTR Barista Express remains a favorite for its integrated conical burr grinder, allowing users to grind fresh beans for every shot—favorably comparing to the Bambino which lacks a grinder. It offers precise temperature control with PID and a steam wand for microfoam, making it versatile for serious coffee lovers. Its relatively high power consumption and potential learning curve might deter casual users, but for those committed to fresh espresso, this machine provides a comprehensive experience. It’s a solid choice for home baristas willing to invest time and effort.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Includes multiple accessories for convenience
Cons:- High power consumption
- May require some learning for beginners
- Price may be high for casual users
Best for: Enthusiasts wanting a built-in grinder and full control over their espresso shot
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those preferring a simple, plug-and-play solution
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated coffee lovers aiming for maximum freshness and customization at home.”
How We Picked
I evaluated these Breville products based on several key criteria that matter to home baristas and casual users alike. Performance was paramount, including how well each machine can consistently brew espresso and steam milk. Ease of use was also critical, especially for beginners; machines with intuitive controls or touchscreens ranked higher. Build quality and durability influenced the selections, with stainless steel models favored for longevity. Maintenance requirements and overall value—balancing features against price—also played a role. The ranking reflects a combination of these factors, aiming to highlight options suitable for different skill levels and budgets.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves weighing several important factors. Beyond initial features, consider how the machine’s usability aligns with your experience, and whether it offers room to grow into more advanced brewing. Durability and maintenance ease can significantly impact long-term satisfaction. Price is a key consideration, but investing in a higher-end model might pay off through better performance or longevity. Lastly, think about the available space in your kitchen—compact models can save counter real estate without sacrificing too much functionality.Performance and Brewing Quality
Consistent espresso extraction and milk steaming are what separate good machines from great ones. Look for models with precise temperature control, pressure stability, and robust boilers—these ensure your coffee turns out just right every time. Cheaper machines often compromise on these aspects, leading to inconsistent results. Advanced features like pre-infusion and PID temperature control can elevate your brewing experience, but they also add complexity and cost. Consider your skill level and how much control you want over the brewing process.
Ease of Use and Interface
For those new to espresso, simplicity is key. Machines with straightforward controls, clear displays, or touchscreens reduce the learning curve. More advanced models with customizable settings are better suited for enthusiasts willing to tinker and perfect their craft. Automatic milk frothing and programmable shot sizes save time and effort, but may limit personalization. Think about how much time you’re willing to dedicate to learning and whether you prefer an intuitive interface or extensive customization options.
Build Quality and Durability
Stainless steel construction generally offers better resistance to daily wear and tear than plastic or cheaper metals. A solid build translates into longer-lasting performance, especially if you plan to use your machine frequently. Cheaper models might have plastic components that break or degrade faster, leading to higher maintenance or replacement costs. Consider the warranty and customer service reputation—these can be indicators of how well your machine will hold up over time.
Size and Counter Space
Not all espresso machines fit comfortably in every kitchen. Compact models like the Bambino Plus are perfect for small spaces but often lack some features of larger machines. Larger units provide more brewing flexibility and often faster heat-up times but require ample counter space. Measure your available area carefully and consider where you’ll store accessories like cups and milk frothing pitchers. Balance your space constraints with your desired feature set to find the best fit.
Price and Value
Price varies widely across Breville’s lineup, often reflecting the range of features included. A higher price tag usually means better build quality, more precise controls, and additional functionalities like integrated grinders or touchscreen interfaces. However, not everyone needs all these features—sometimes a mid-range model offers the best value if it meets your basic espresso needs. Set a budget and prioritize features that genuinely enhance your brewing experience to avoid overspending on unnecessary extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-ground coffee with Breville machines?
Yes, most Breville espresso machines, including the Barista Express and Pro models, have a dedicated filter for pre-ground coffee. This makes them versatile for users who prefer buying coffee grounds instead of grinding fresh beans every time. However, for optimal flavor and consistency, using freshly ground beans is recommended, as pre-ground coffee can lose freshness faster. If you often switch between beans and grounds, choose a machine with a dedicated filter and easy access to the portafilter.
Are Breville machines suitable for beginners?
Many Breville models are designed with user-friendly features that make them suitable for beginners. Machines like the Bambino Plus and the Barista Express have intuitive controls and automated functions that simplify the brewing process. Although they offer advanced options for enthusiasts, their straightforward interfaces help new users produce good espresso without extensive training. Investing in a model with clear instructions and minimal setup can make your first coffee experience much more enjoyable.
How important is the built-in grinder in a Breville espresso machine?
A built-in grinder adds convenience and helps ensure fresh coffee grounds for each shot, which can significantly improve flavor. Models like the Barista Pro and Touch include integrated grinders that automatically dose and tamp the coffee, reducing mess and effort. However, these machines tend to be more expensive and require regular maintenance. If you already own a high-quality grinder or prefer manual control over grind size, opting for a machine without a built-in grinder may save money and give you more flexibility.
What maintenance is required to keep a Breville espresso machine in top condition?
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining performance and longevity. This includes descaling the machine to prevent mineral buildup, cleaning the brew group and portafilter, and replacing water filters as needed. Some models have automatic cleaning cycles or descaling alerts, which simplify upkeep. Neglecting maintenance can lead to poor extraction, inconsistent steam, or mechanical issues. Establishing a routine based on your usage frequency will help keep your machine running smoothly and extend its lifespan.
Is it worth paying extra for a Breville model with a touchscreen?
Touchscreen models like the Barista Touch offer enhanced control over brewing parameters, making customization easier and more precise. They often include pre-programmed recipes, guides, and step-by-step instructions, which can be especially helpful for beginners. However, the added cost may not justify itself for casual users who prefer straightforward operation. If you enjoy experimenting with settings and want a more modern interface, a touchscreen can add convenience and a sleek look to your setup.
Conclusion
For those new to espresso or with limited space, the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent quality in a compact, easy-to-use package. Experienced enthusiasts seeking maximum control should consider the Breville Barista Pro or Touch for their advanced features and customization. Budget-conscious buyers will find good value in the basic models without sacrificing core performance, while premium users benefit from machines with built-in grinders and touchscreen interfaces. Ultimately, your choice should align with your skill level, space, and how much you want to invest in your home barista setup.Evergreen bestsellers Picks
bestsellers
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
