Breville is renowned for its high-quality espresso machines that cater to both home baristas and coffee enthusiasts. Among the options, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall due to its powerful performance and intuitive interface. For those seeking a more budget-friendly yet capable machine, the Bambino Espresso Machine offers excellent value, while the Barista Touch models deliver premium features for advanced users. Buyers often face tradeoffs between price, ease of use, and customization. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these top picks and what makes each unique.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville machines balance performance and ease of use, with the Barista Pro leading for its quick heat-up time and user-friendly controls.
- Premium models like the Barista Touch offer seamless customization but come at a higher price point and complexity.
- Entry-level options such as the Bambino provide solid espresso quality but lack advanced features and manual control.
- Design and build quality across all models remain high, with brushed stainless steel being the most durable and stylish finish.
- Price varies significantly; investing in higher-end models generally yields better longevity and functionality, especially for serious enthusiasts.
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas Who Value Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Aspiring Baristas Needing Precision and Automation | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Wanting Ease and Versatility | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners and Intermediate Users Wanting Ease and Control | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Value Seekers Wanting Quality and Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas Seeking Precision and Speed | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Ease and Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens and Quick Shots | 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 Versatile Brewing and Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Home Baristas Who Value Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Capacity | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1680 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Water Filter, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit | 1680 Watts | — | 110-120V |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tools | 1560 Watts | — | 110-120 Volts |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit | 1680 Watts | — | 110-120V |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville BES870BSXL stands out as the most versatile option due to its built-in conical burr grinder, precise PID temperature control, and adjustable grind size. Compared to the Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch, it offers more manual control but lacks the touchscreen convenience. Its main strength lies in delivering high-quality espresso with a tactile, hands-on approach, making it ideal for those who enjoy tweaking their brew. However, its complexity can be daunting for beginners, and water capacity may require frequent refilling during heavy use. It’s perfect for dedicated home baristas who desire control and customization but may be less suited for someone seeking a quick, foolproof setup.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for ultimate freshness
- Precise temperature regulation with digital PID
- Microfoam steam wand supports latte art
- Adjustable grind size and manual override
Cons:- High power consumption increases electricity use
- Limited water capacity requires frequent refills
- Complex operation for beginners
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want control over every brewing variable
Not ideal for: Casual users or those preferring a set-and-forget machine due to its learning curve
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Features:Built-in Grinder, Digital PID Temperature Control, Microfoam Steam Wand, Grind Size Dial
Our verdict“This machine is best for experienced users seeking maximum control over their espresso craft.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
Compared with the BES870BSXL, the BES876BST offers smarter features like assisted tamping and an intelligent dosing system, making consistent espresso more accessible. Its 25 grind settings and automatic dosing reduce guesswork, making it suitable for users who want quality results without extensive skill. The powerful steam wand allows for microfoam, ideal for latte art. However, the setup can be challenging for newcomers, and its larger footprint demands ample space. The high price tag might also be a barrier for casual coffee drinkers. This pick makes the most sense for those who want professional-like consistency with less manual effort, but it might be overkill for occasional drinkers.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 precise settings
- Assisted tamping and intelligent dosing for consistency
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
- High build quality with sleek black stainless steel
Cons:- Complex setup might intimidate beginners
- Large size requires significant counter space
- High cost for infrequent use
Best for: Home baristas looking for automation and precision in espresso-making
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited counter space due to its size and complexity
- 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“Ideal for dedicated enthusiasts who want consistent results with less manual intervention.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES881BSS delivers a highly intuitive experience thanks to its touchscreen interface, making it a strong contrast to the more manual BES870BSXL or the automation-focused BES876BST. Its fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet means less waiting, while the built-in grinder and preset options streamline the process. The machine’s versatility shines with features like cold brew, alternative milk settings, and the auto steam wand, ideal for users who want café-style drinks at home without fuss. The tradeoff is that its higher price and complex maintenance may not appeal to casual users or those who prefer simpler machines. This model best suits tech-savvy consumers seeking convenience and variety, but can be overwhelming for beginners.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface with customizable presets
- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Auto milk frothing with Milk Q wand and cold brew feature
- Built-in grinder with 30 grind settings
Cons:- Setup and initial learning curve can be steep
- Higher price point may deter casual buyers
- Requires ongoing cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Home baristas who value quick operation, multiple beverage options, and smart features
Not ideal for: Users seeking a basic, straightforward espresso maker or with limited space
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Preset Drinks:8 customizable presets
Our verdict“Best suited for tech lovers who want a versatile, quick, and automated coffee experience.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
Sharing the same core features as the B0DFX7FHYS model, this version emphasizes user-friendliness with a manual microfoam wand and an integrated grinder with 25 settings. Its straightforward design makes it approachable for those new to espresso making, yet it offers enough control for more experienced users. The included accessories and PID-controlled ThermoCoil system simplify operation compared to more manual machines. Nonetheless, its size and occasional grinder noise could be drawbacks in smaller kitchens or quiet environments. This machine makes sense for those who want high-quality espresso without the complexity of full automation, but may fall short for advanced baristas seeking ultimate customization.
Pros:- Easy to operate for beginners and intermediates
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- Manual microfoam wand for milk texturing
- PID-controlled ThermoCoil heating system
Cons:- Size may be large for small kitchens
- Some users find the grinder noisy
- Limited automation features
Best for: Home users new to espresso seeking a balance of control and simplicity
Not ideal for: Advanced enthusiasts who want more automation or a compact footprint
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
Our verdict“A solid choice for newcomers who want quality espresso with manageable complexity.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES870XL remains a popular choice for those who want a balance of features at a more accessible price point. Its built-in conical burr grinder, PID temperature control, and steam wand rival more expensive models like the BES880BTR, yet it lacks some of the advanced automation and sleek touchscreen. Compared to the BES876BST, it’s slightly less refined but offers comparable espresso quality with a more straightforward setup. Its moderate size and full manual control make it an excellent entry point for those willing to learn. The main tradeoff is that it requires a bit more skill to produce consistently good shots, and its bulk might be an issue for small kitchens.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control for accurate extraction
- Steam wand supports latte art
- Adjustable grind size and dose
Cons:- Requires some learning to master shot timing
- Bulkier size may not suit small counters
- Less automation than newer models
Best for: Budget-conscious home baristas who want solid features and control
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those seeking a totally automated experience
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
Our verdict“A strong pick for those who want good espresso quality without paying for the top-tier features.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out for combining a fast ThermoJet heating system with an integrated conical burr grinder, making it ideal for those who want café-quality espresso without long waits. Compared to the Barista Touch, it offers more manual control for brewing but lacks the touchscreen interface, which might appeal to traditionalists. Its precise temperature control via digital PID ensures consistent extraction, yet the machine’s complexity can be daunting for complete beginners. The built-in grinder with dose control enhances flavor, though the higher price and limited info on weight are tradeoffs. Overall, this model is perfect for experienced home baristas or enthusiasts who prioritize speed and precision, but less suited for users seeking a simple, plug-and-play device.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology
- Precise temperature regulation for consistent espresso
- Built-in grinder with dose control maximizes flavor
Cons:- Complex operation may overwhelm beginners
- Higher price point compared to entry-level machines
Best for: Experienced home baristas who value control and speed
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual users who prefer straightforward setups
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Temperature Regulation:Digital PID
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
Our verdict“This machine is best for users who want professional-level control and speed in a semi-automatic setup.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch makes café-quality espresso accessible through its touchscreen interface and automatic milk texturing, ideal for users new to home brewing but eager to experiment. Its fast ThermoJet heat-up rivals the Barista Pro, yet the touchscreen simplifies operation, making it easier for novices to craft drinks without extensive training. While the automatic microfoam wand yields barista-quality milk textures, the high price and limited voltage compatibility (110-120V) are potential hurdles. Compared to the Bambino, it offers more customization but requires some learning to optimize features. This pick is perfect for beginners who want intuitive controls combined with the ability to refine their drinks over time.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface simplifies operation
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High cost may be prohibitive for some
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Home users new to espresso seeking an easy and customizable experience
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those on a tight budget, due to its high price
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Water Filter, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine suits beginners who want an easy-to-use, customizable espresso experience with minimal fuss.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers a compact, space-saving design with rapid ThermoJet heat-up, making it ideal for small kitchens or those who prioritize quick espresso. Its automatic steam wand provides microfoam milk for lattes and cappuccinos, simplifying the process for users who want decent results without fuss. Compared to the Barista Pro or Touch, the Bambino sacrifices advanced control and customization for simplicity and size. Its limited details on water capacity and absence of a built-in grinder mean users need external equipment for fresh coffee. This machine is best for casual drinkers or those with limited space who want fast espresso without extensive setup, but it may disappoint users seeking more control or volume capacity.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
Cons:- Limited water tank details; refilling may be frequent
- No built-in grinder, requiring external equipment
Best for: Small kitchen dwellers or casual coffee drinkers needing quick, simple espresso
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting detailed control or larger brew capacity
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories:Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tools
- Warranty:1 Year
Our verdict“Ideal for those seeking a quick, space-efficient espresso solution with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express remains a favorite for its versatility, featuring a built-in conical burr grinder and manual microfoam wand that appeals to users who want control over their brewing process. It compares favorably with the Barista Pro by offering more hands-on adjustments, but it’s slightly less fast on heat-up and lacks the sleek digital interface. The adjustable grind size and tamping give experienced users room to fine-tune, yet its relatively high power consumption and smaller water tank might be inconvenient for frequent use. Overall, this machine balances convenience with a level of manual control, making it ideal for those who enjoy experimenting but don’t mind some extra setup time.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with adjustable grind size
- Manual microfoam wand for personalized milk textures
- Includes multiple accessories for flexibility
Cons:- High power consumption
- Limited water tank capacity requiring frequent refills
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their brew and milk textures
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking ultra-quick espresso with minimal effort
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- 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
Our verdict“This machine suits users who want a customizable, manual espresso experience with room for experimentation.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch is tailored for those who want a high level of control combined with user-friendly features, thanks to its touchscreen interface and programmable settings. It offers automatic microfoam milk texturing and rapid ThermoJet heat-up, making it suitable for busy mornings or for users who want to experiment with precise temperature and extraction adjustments. Compared with the Brushed Stainless Steel version, the Black Truffle adds a premium aesthetic but shares the same features. Its high price and complex features might deter casual users, but for those who enjoy tailoring every aspect of their espresso, it provides a flexible platform. If you prefer a fully automated experience with minimal input, this machine is less ideal.
Pros:- Touchscreen display for easy customization
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Programmable settings for brew and milk temperature
Cons:- High price may be a barrier
- Features can be overwhelming for new users
Best for: Tech-savvy home baristas who want customizable, café-quality drinks
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual drinkers who prefer straightforward operation
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit
- Features:Touchscreen display, programmable settings, adjustable grind and milk temperature
Our verdict“Designed for home baristas who want advanced customization with intuitive controls, but less suitable for beginners or those on a budget.”
How We Picked
I evaluated these Breville machines based on several key criteria that matter most to buyers: brewing performance, ease of use, build quality, versatility, and value for money. I compared features like boiler type, pressure control, and steaming capabilities to determine how well each model meets different needs. Additionally, I considered user reviews and the overall reputation of each product to gauge reliability and satisfaction. The ranking reflects a balance between performance, user experience, and price, ensuring each pick serves a distinct segment of the market.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine depends on your specific needs and budget. Beyond basic features, consider how much control you want over the brewing process, your space constraints, and how much you’re willing to spend. Understanding these factors can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as overpaying for unnecessary features or buying a machine that’s too complex for your skill level.Performance and Brewing Quality
Look for machines with consistent temperature control and good pressure stability to ensure café-quality espresso. Higher-end models typically include PID temperature control, which maintains optimal brewing conditions. Cheaper models may sacrifice consistency, leading to less flavorful shots. Assess how much control you want over extraction parameters—more control often means better results but can increase complexity.
Ease of Use and Automation
If you’re new to espresso, focus on models with intuitive interfaces, pre-programmed shots, and automatic steam wands. More advanced machines offer manual controls, which provide greater flexibility but require practice. Balance your skill level with your willingness to learn; a machine that’s too complex can become frustrating, while overly simple models might limit your growth.
Build Quality and Durability
Stainless steel construction often translates to better longevity and a more premium look. Cheaper plastic components might wear out faster or affect the machine’s durability. Consider how much space you have—compact machines are ideal for small kitchens but may sacrifice some features found in larger models. Investing in a well-built machine can save money over time by reducing repair and replacement needs.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Measure your available counter space carefully. Some Breville models are compact, making them suitable for small kitchens and apartments, while others are larger and better suited for dedicated coffee stations. Keep in mind that larger machines often include more features but require more room and potentially more maintenance effort.
Value and Long-Term Use
Higher-priced models tend to offer better control, durability, and features that professionals or serious enthusiasts will appreciate. However, for casual drinkers, mid-range or entry-level models can deliver satisfying espresso without the premium price. Think about your long-term plans—investing in a more advanced machine might be worthwhile if you’re committed to brewing quality coffee regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth paying more for a Breville Barista Touch?
Yes, if you value convenience and advanced features, the Barista Touch provides automatic tamping, customizable shot profiles, and a touchscreen interface that simplifies brewing. It’s ideal for those who want café-quality espresso without manual fuss. However, if you prefer more control or are on a budget, a simpler model might suit you better and save money over time.
Can I get good espresso with the Breville Bambino?
Absolutely, the Bambino offers solid espresso quality suitable for everyday enjoyment. It features a compact design and straightforward operation, making it a good entry point for beginners. However, it lacks advanced features like PID temperature control or automatic milk frothing, so it’s less suited for those who want more control or plan to expand their barista skills.
How important is boiler type in choosing a Breville machine?
The boiler type significantly impacts how quickly and consistently you can brew. Thermocoil boilers, used in many models, heat on demand and are cost-effective but may have slight temperature fluctuations. Dual or single boiler systems like in higher-end models provide more stability and allow simultaneous steaming and brewing, which is better for frequent or serious use. Consider your brewing rhythm when choosing boiler type.
Are Breville machines suitable for small kitchens?
Many Breville models are designed with space efficiency in mind, especially compact options like the Bambino or the Mini. These fit well into smaller kitchens without sacrificing too much functionality. Larger models, such as the Barista Touch, require more counter space but offer more features. Prioritize size if your kitchen is tight, but don’t compromise on essential features for your coffee style.
Is maintenance complicated for Breville espresso machines?
Most Breville machines are user-friendly to maintain, with features like removable drip trays and water filters that simplify cleaning. Regular descaling and cleaning of the brew head and steam wand are necessary to keep performance optimal. Higher-end models often include descaling alerts, which help prevent issues over time. Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your machine and keeps your coffee tasting fresh.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro is the clear choice thanks to its combination of performance, speed, and ease of use. Budget-conscious buyers aiming for solid espresso quality should consider the Bambino as a reliable entry point. Serious enthusiasts or professionals will find value in the Barista Touch models for their advanced features and customization options. Beginners should start with simpler, more straightforward machines, while experienced users can benefit from higher-end models with precise controls. Your ideal pick depends on how much control you want and how often you plan to brew coffee at home.
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