Choosing the right Breville espresso machine in 2026 depends on your brewing needs, budget, and experience level. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out as the best overall for its intuitive interface and consistent results. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent performance at a lower price point, while the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro provides a step-up in features for serious home baristas. The main challenge is balancing cost, ease of use, and advanced features—each model has its tradeoffs. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of which Breville suits your coffee routine best.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the Barista Touch excel in automation and user experience, making them ideal for enthusiasts willing to invest more.
- Entry-level options such as the Bambino Plus deliver solid espresso quality but may lack advanced customization and build features.
- Design and aesthetic options vary, with brushed stainless steel models generally offering a more premium look than colored or damson blue finishes.
- Price correlates strongly with features—more expensive models typically include touchscreens, multiple grind settings, and better steam wands.
- Ease of use and maintenance are critical; models with integrated grinders and automatic cleaning tend to be better suited for busy households.
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for 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 BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Precision Control and Customization | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Effortless, High-Tech Espresso at Home | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for User-Friendly, Touchscreen Control | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Guided, Customizable Coffee Making | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grind Settings: 30 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Space-Conscious Beginners | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Speed and Advanced Features | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Entry-Level Home Brewing | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Value for All-in-One Home Espresso | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES876BSS 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 BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | — | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V | Portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | — | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | Portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 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 well-rounded choice for dedicated home enthusiasts who want professional-quality espresso and milk drinks. Its combination of a manual microfoam wand, intelligent dosing, and assisted tamping offers a level of control that rivals some commercial machines, yet it remains user-friendly once set up. Compared with the Barista Touch, this model lacks a touchscreen, but its manual features give more hands-on control for those who prefer traditional espresso-making. The main tradeoff is its size and complexity—beginners may find the setup intimidating, and the bulkier footprint demands dedicated counter space. Still, for users willing to learn, it delivers customizable, café-quality brews at home.
Pros:- Professional-quality espresso and milk frothing for home use
- User-friendly features like assisted tamping and auto dosing
- Customizable grind size with 25 settings for optimal flavor
Cons:- Complex setup may be challenging for complete beginners
- Relatively high price point
- Bulkier size may require dedicated counter space
Best for: Serious coffee lovers who want a customizable, semi-automatic espresso experience with manual control.
Not ideal for: Casual users or small kitchens where space and simplicity are priorities, as its setup and size can be challenging.
- 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 dose, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for dedicated home baristas who value control and quality over simplicity.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville BES876DBL Damson Blue offers a stylish, vibrant finish for those who want a high-performance espresso machine with plenty of control. Its integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings allows precise flavor tuning, while assisted tamping ensures consistent puck preparation. Compared to the Barista Touch, this model lacks a touchscreen, but its manual precision appeals to serious coffee aficionados. The main drawback is its size—like other machines in this lineup, it demands ample counter space—and its setup can be daunting for newcomers. Nonetheless, it delivers a highly customizable experience for those who enjoy fine-tuning their brew.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings for precise control
- Assisted tamping for consistent espresso puck preparation
- Vibrant Damson Blue finish adds style to any kitchen
Cons:- Complex setup and learning curve for new users
- Requires significant counter space
- Higher price compared to entry-level options
Best for: Home baristas seeking maximum control and a personalized coffee experience with a vibrant aesthetic.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space, due to its size and learning curve.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Features:Integrated grinder, assisted tamping, customizable brewing parameters
Our verdict“Ideal for enthusiasts who want a stylish machine with detailed control, but less suited for casual users or compact kitchens.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch elevates home espresso with its touchscreen interface and automatic microfoam milk texturing, making it a top choice for those who prioritize ease and speed. Its fast heat-up via the ThermoJet system means you can get a quality shot in about three seconds, ideal for busy mornings. Compared with the Barista Express, it automates key steps, reducing the skill barrier but sacrificing some manual control. The main downside is its high price, which may be prohibitive for casual users, and its limited power supply compatibility—only 110-120V. Still, for espresso lovers who want convenience without sacrificing quality, it provides a compelling option.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface simplifies brewing and customization
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High purchase price
- Limited to 110-120V power supply, restricting international use
- Less manual control for experienced baristas
Best for: Home users who want quick, consistent, café-quality drinks with minimal effort and technology-driven features.
Not ideal for: Traditionalists or those who prefer hands-on control over every step of espresso making, or users outside North America due to voltage restrictions.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for those who want high-quality espresso with effortless operation but less hands-on control.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch combines sleek design with intuitive operation, making it ideal for users who want a semi-automatic experience with automation features. Its touchscreen display and programmable coffee settings allow for quick customization, and the automatic milk texturing wand simplifies creating latte art. Compared with the Impress model, this version offers a slightly more refined aesthetic and a more streamlined interface, but it shares similar features like fast heat-up and an integrated grinder. The main consideration is its high price and larger footprint, which might be a concern for smaller kitchens. For those seeking a balance of control and convenience, this machine fits well.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for high-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface with customizable settings
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price point
- Size may be too large for small kitchens
- Learning curve for fully utilizing advanced features
Best for: Home baristas who want a stylish, easy-to-use machine with customizable options and quick operation.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited countertop space, due to its size and premium price.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Features:Touchscreen, programmable settings, automatic milk texturing
Our verdict“A great choice for style-conscious users wanting quick, customizable espresso with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress offers a step-up in guidance with its step-by-step touchscreen interface and assisted tamping, making it perfect for users who want a semi-automatic machine that helps them craft personalized drinks. Its auto steam wand and Cold Brew function expand versatility, while the 30 grind settings from Baratza European conical burrs deliver precision. Compared with the Barista Express Impress, this model emphasizes guided operation and customization, suitable for those still learning but eager to experiment. Its larger size and premium price are factors to consider, but it’s a strong choice for home baristas ready to elevate their coffee skills.
Pros:- Guided, step-by-step touchscreen interface
- Assisted tamping and auto steam wand for consistent drinks
- 30 grind settings for precise flavor control
Cons:- High price and complexity may intimidate beginners
- Larger footprint needs more space
- Learning curve to fully utilize features
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want step-by-step guidance and extensive customization options to perfect their brew.
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer simple machines or users with limited space, due to its size and complexity.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grind Settings:30
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for passionate coffee makers who want a guided, customizable experience with room to grow.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express stands out for its integrated conical burr grinder, which ensures fresh grounds for a richer espresso experience. Its precise PID temperature control guarantees extraction consistency, a step above many semi-automatic machines like the Bambino Plus. The powerful steam wand allows for manual microfoam, making it ideal for those who want creative control. However, this versatility comes with a higher price and a learning curve for beginners, especially given its limited capacity for frequent, large-volume brewing. It’s best suited for dedicated home baristas who value quality and customization over simplicity.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for freshness
- Precise PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam
Cons:- Relatively high price for home use
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Limited capacity for large batches
Best for: Experienced home users seeking a compact, all-in-one machine with professional features.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those new to espresso who prefer a straightforward, plug-and-play option.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for dedicated home baristas who want complete control and café-quality results in a compact form.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus offers a sleek, compact design ideal for small kitchens without sacrificing quality. Its automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam creation, making it more accessible than manual wands like on the Barista Express. Quick heat-up through the ThermoJet system ensures you’re ready to brew in about 3 seconds, a significant advantage for busy mornings. While it lacks the integrated grinder of the Barista Express, this makes it less suitable for those who want fresh grounds without additional equipment. It’s best for beginners or casual drinkers who prioritize convenience and space.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for easy microfoam
Cons:- Price is not specified, which may be high for casual users
- No built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Lacks advanced customization options
Best for: Home users who want quick, reliable espresso with minimal fuss and limited counter space.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those seeking advanced grinding and manual control features.
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Number of Cups:1 or 2
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine suits beginners or space-limited kitchens needing quick, consistent espresso with minimal effort.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro is designed for users who want quick results, thanks to its ThermoJet heating system that reaches optimal temperature in just 3 seconds. Its LCD interface facilitates easy adjustments, and the built-in conical burr grinder offers more control over grind size than the Bambino Plus. Its manual microfoam wand allows for latte art, appealing to those who want a more authentic espresso experience. However, its size and price make it less ideal for small kitchens or casual users. It’s suited for those who want a balance between ease of use and professional-level control.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control for extraction
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Complex interface for beginners
- Large footprint requiring significant space
Best for: Intermediate to advanced home baristas looking for speed and customization.
Not ideal for: Newcomers or users with limited space who prefer simpler machines.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- 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“Best for those who want fast, flexible control and are willing to invest in a feature-rich machine.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino offers a straightforward, space-saving design ideal for those just starting out with espresso at home. Its ThermoJet system ensures rapid heating, and the automatic steam wand makes milk texturing accessible for beginners. While it doesn’t have the advanced controls of pricier models like the Barista Pro, it still delivers consistent results for casual drinkers. The main tradeoff involves a learning curve for perfecting extraction, and its limited capacity makes it less suitable for frequent large batches. This machine makes sense for newcomers or those with limited kitchen space.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for easy milk texturing
- Compact design for small kitchens
Cons:- Limited to home use, not commercial-grade
- May require some trial and error for perfect extraction
- Higher price relative to basic models
Best for: Home beginners wanting a simple, fast espresso machine with automatic milk frothing.
Not ideal for: Experienced users who want detailed control or higher-volume brewing capacity.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Espresso Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners seeking a quick, easy way to make café-quality espresso at home.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express remains a favorite for its all-in-one design that combines a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control. It’s comparable to the BES870BTR but often available at a slightly lower price, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want quality. The manual steam wand offers full control over milk texturing, though it requires practice. Its size is manageable for most kitchens, but the learning curve can be steep for newcomers unfamiliar with espresso nuances. Overall, it provides solid value for those seeking a comprehensive home espresso setup without overly complex features.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for freshness
- PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Manual steam wand for latte art
Cons:- Learning curve for beginners
- Relatively high price point
- Limited capacity for large batches
Best for: Home enthusiasts wanting good espresso without paying a premium for premium features.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prefer fully automatic machines with minimal manual input.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Supplies, Water Filter
Our verdict“This machine offers strong value for those who want an integrated grinder and manual control at home.”
How We Picked
These Breville machines were evaluated based on performance, build quality, ease of use, feature set, and value for money. We prioritized models that balance user-friendliness with professional-quality espresso, considering both beginner and advanced features. Our ranking reflects a mix of consumer reviews, expert insights, and feature comparisons, focusing on what helps users get consistent, high-quality results. We aimed to identify options that cater to different budgets and skill levels, highlighting which models offer the best bang for your buck versus those packed with premium features.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When selecting a Breville espresso machine, consider several factors that influence your overall experience and satisfaction. Beyond basic features, understanding how each aspect impacts your brewing routine can help you avoid common pitfalls and make a more informed choice.Performance and Brew Quality
Look for machines with precise temperature control, stable pressure, and good steam power to ensure barista-quality espresso. Cheaper models may produce inconsistent shots, so consider whether you prioritize convenience or professional results. Advanced models often include PID temperature control, which improves shot consistency and flavor extraction, making them better suited for serious coffee lovers.
Ease of Use and Automation
Features like touchscreen controls, pre-programmed drink options, and automatic milk frothing simplify brewing, especially for beginners. However, overly automated machines can limit customization and may be more difficult to troubleshoot. Striking a balance between automation and manual control is key, depending on your comfort level and desire for hands-on brewing.
Build Quality and Design
Investing in a machine with durable materials, such as stainless steel, ensures longevity and a premium feel. Aesthetic options vary, but choosing a design that complements your kitchen can enhance your overall experience. Keep in mind that more stylish finishes may come at a premium and sometimes require careful maintenance to keep looking new.
Size and Counter Space
Consider the available space in your kitchen. Compact models like the Bambino Plus fit well in small kitchens but might sacrifice some features found on larger machines. Conversely, larger models provide more professional capabilities but require ample countertop real estate. Measure your space carefully to avoid selecting a machine that’s difficult to accommodate.
Maintenance and Durability
Machines with automatic cleaning cycles and durable components reduce the hassle of upkeep. Be aware that models with integrated grinders and multiple parts may require more regular cleaning and descaling. Choosing a machine with accessible parts and clear maintenance instructions can save time and extend its lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a built-in grinder necessary for a good espresso?
A built-in grinder offers convenience and ensures freshness, as you grind beans immediately before brewing. However, dedicated grinders generally produce better results because they can be more precise and customizable. If you value simplicity and space, a machine with an integrated grinder can work well, but for enthusiasts seeking ultimate control, pairing a separate grinder with a manual espresso machine could be preferable.
Which Breville model is best for beginners?
The Breville Bambino Plus is a standout choice for newcomers because of its straightforward operation, quick heat-up time, and automatic milk frothing. It simplifies many steps without sacrificing espresso quality, making it easier for beginners to produce consistent results. Its intuitive controls help new users learn the basics while still offering room to grow in skill.
Are more expensive Breville models worth the extra cost?
Higher-priced models like the Barista Touch or Barista Pro typically include advanced features such as touchscreens, precise temperature controls, and better steam wands, which can significantly improve the brewing experience. If you value convenience and professional results, these models justify their price. However, if you’re just starting out or have a limited budget, more affordable options like the Bambino Plus still deliver good quality without the extra bells and whistles.
How important is the steam wand quality?
A good steam wand is essential for creating rich, velvety milk textures for lattes and cappuccinos. Higher-end models tend to have more powerful, adjustable steam wands that provide better control and consistency. Cheaper machines may produce less stable steam, making it harder to master milk frothing. Investing in a machine with a quality wand can elevate your coffee-making and reduce frustration.
Should I consider a model with a dedicated shot timer?
A shot timer helps ensure consistency by tracking extraction time for each espresso shot, which is vital for perfect flavor. Many high-end Breville models include this feature, making it easier to refine your technique. If you enjoy experimenting and want precise control over your espresso, choosing a machine with a built-in timer can be a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
For most users, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers a fantastic balance of ease of use and professional-quality results, making it the best overall pick. Those on a budget will find the Breville Bambino Plus delivers excellent espresso without breaking the bank, perfect for beginners or casual drinkers. For serious enthusiasts seeking advanced features, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro provides a compelling upgrade. Overall, your choice should align with your skill level, space, and how much you value automation versus hands-on control.
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