When searching for a Breville, you’re looking for a machine that combines quality, versatility, and ease of use. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall with its fast heat-up and intuitive interface. The Bambino Plus offers excellent value for beginners, while the Barista Touch series caters to those seeking a semi-automatic experience with advanced features. Choosing the right Breville depends on your budget, skill level, and how much control you want over your espresso. The main tradeoffs involve balancing feature set with simplicity and cost. Continue reading for the full breakdown of these top options and what makes each one unique.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models balance advanced features with user-friendly interfaces, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
- Price differences often reflect the level of automation and build quality; premium models offer more customization but come with a higher cost.
- The espresso machines with quick heat-up times and integrated grinders tend to be preferred for convenience and speed.
- Many models share core features like PID temperature control, but differences in touchscreens and steam wands set them apart.
- Choosing between semi-automatic and fully automatic Breville machines depends on how much control versus convenience you desire.
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall for Tech-Savvy Espresso Enthusiasts | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Quick, Professional-Style Coffee with Ease | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for All-in-One Home Baristas | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Beginners and Small Spaces | Water Pressure: Pre-infusion gradually increases pressure | Porta-filter Size: 54mm | Coffee Dose: 19 grams | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Users Seeking Customization and Guidance | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Precise Control and Customization | 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 and Speed with Automated Milk Texturing | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Balance of Control and Convenience | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: Not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for All-in-One Control and Quality | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Warranty | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 1680 Watts | 2 Years | 110 to 120 V |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1680 Watts | 2 Years | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1600 Watts | 1 Year | 120 Volts |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — | 1560 Watts | 2 Years | 110-120 Volts |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip | 1680 Watts | 2 Years | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Single and Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | 1560 Watts | 1 Year Limited | 110-120 Volts |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | — | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model stands out for its fully automatic microfoam milk texturing and touchscreen interface, making it ideal for those who want barista-quality drinks with minimal effort. Compared with the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, it offers a more advanced milk system, but at a higher price and with limited voltage compatibility, which might complicate setup. Its fast heat-up via the ThermoJet system ensures quick operation, but the complex features could present a learning curve for beginners. This pick makes the most sense for experienced home baristas seeking convenience and customization without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent, professional-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface simplifies customization and drink selection
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick operation
Cons:- Relatively high price for a home espresso machine
- Complex features may require time to master
- Limited to 110-120V power supply, restricting international use
Best for: Tech-savvy coffee lovers who want professional results with intuitive controls
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited electrical setup, due to its higher price and voltage constraints
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced enthusiasts who prioritize convenience and high-quality customization at home.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine is tailored for users who want speed and simplicity, thanks to its fast ThermoJet heating system and intuitive LCD interface. Its built-in conical burr grinder ensures fresh grounds, but compared to the Breville BES880BTR, it offers slightly less advanced milk texturing, making it a better fit for those primarily focused on espresso rather than milk-based drinks. While the LCD provides helpful progress indicators, some may find the learning curve for the grinder and settings a bit steep for absolute beginners. It makes the most sense for busy households seeking quick, high-quality espresso without the full automation of more advanced models.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick brewing
- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds every time
- User-friendly LCD interface with progress animations
Cons:- Higher price point may be a barrier for casual users
- Limited capacity for frequent large batches
- Some learning curve for mastering grinder and settings
Best for: Home users who value speed, ease of use, and consistent quality
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking highly customizable milk texturing or advanced barista features
- 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 Years
Our verdict“Best suited for busy households wanting fast, reliable espresso with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model is perfect for those who want a versatile, all-in-one espresso experience, combining a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control and a steam wand. Compared to the other options, it offers excellent value for its integrated grinder, but its limited warranty—just one year—may concern more serious users. Its weight might also be a factor for portability. This makes the most sense for home baristas who enjoy customizing every step of the process, from grinding to steaming.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh, customizable grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID technology
- Steam wand allows microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Limited warranty period of only 1 year
- No detailed specs on weight, which could affect portability
- No automatic milk texturing, requiring skill and practice
Best for: Home espresso lovers who want an all-in-one machine with manual control and customization
Not ideal for: Users seeking a machine with automated milk texturing or faster heat-up times, as it requires more hands-on effort
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
- Warranty:1 Year
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated home baristas wanting control over every espresso-making step.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This compact machine excels for users new to espresso or with limited counter space, thanks to its small footprint and automatic milk texturing. Its quick heat-up via ThermoJet and precise temperature control are major advantages, but with only one or two cup settings, it may fall short for households needing higher throughput. Its higher price compared to basic models could deter casual users who don’t need advanced features. This makes the most sense for individuals or small households valuing quick setup and consistency in a small package.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on small countertops
- Automatic steam wand produces microfoam suitable for latte art
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cup servings at a time
- Requires some learning curve for optimal use
- Higher price point compared to entry-level machines
Best for: Beginners or those with limited kitchen space seeking high-quality espresso and milk drinks
Not ideal for: Large families or users wanting multiple drink options at once, due to its limited cup capacity
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion gradually increases pressure
- Porta-filter Size:54mm
- Coffee Dose:19 grams
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners and small spaces where quick, quality espresso is desired.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This high-end model introduces a touchscreen interface with step-by-step guidance, making it suitable for users who want both automation and control. Its built-in grinder with 30 settings and assisted tamping set it apart from simpler machines like the Bambino Plus, offering a more personalized experience. However, its premium price might be prohibitive for casual users, and the feature set could be overwhelming for those seeking straightforward operation. This pick is geared toward dedicated home baristas ready to explore advanced customization and step-by-step assistance.
Pros:- User-friendly touchscreen with 13 presets and customization options
- Automatic milk texturing with adjustable temperature and texture
- Built-in Baratza European conical burr grinder with 30 settings
Cons:- High price point may be a barrier for some buyers
- Complex features might require a learning curve
- Limited detailed review information makes full evaluation difficult
Best for: Experienced enthusiasts who enjoy detailed customization and guided workflows
Not ideal for: Casual users or those on a tight budget, due to its high price and complex features
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Tamping:Assisted 22 lb tamping with auto correction
- Touchscreen:Yes, with 13 presets and customization options
- Additional Features:Cold brew function, step-by-step guidance
Our verdict“Best suited for serious home baristas who want advanced features combined with guided operation.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
This model stands out for its precise dosing, temperature control, and assisted tamping, making it ideal for those who want to fine-tune every aspect of their espresso. Compared with the BES870XL, it offers more advanced grind and tamping features, but its setup can be complex for newcomers. It’s best suited for home baristas eager to experiment with their brewing process, though the limited capacity and higher price are tradeoffs. Its conical burr grinder with 25 settings ensures fresh, customizable grounds, and the thermo-coil with PID control guarantees consistent temperature—key to high-quality espresso. However, the machine’s complexity might deter casual users or those seeking quick, no-fuss coffee routines.
Pros:- Precise dosing and temperature control for consistently high-quality espresso
- Built-in grinder with 25 adjustable settings for customization
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck preparation
- Includes steam wand for microfoam milk
Cons:- Complex setup may be challenging for beginners
- Relatively high price point limits accessibility for casual users
Best for: Experienced home baristas or enthusiasts seeking a highly customizable machine with professional features
Not ideal for: Beginners or users who prefer a straightforward, plug-and-play espresso maker due to its complex setup
- 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
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
Our verdict“This pick is best for serious espresso lovers who want maximum control and are comfortable with a more involved setup.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine excels in delivering café-quality drinks quickly thanks to its automatic microfoam milk texturing and touchscreen interface. Compared to the BES870XL, it offers more automation, making it ideal for users who want good results with less fuss. The fast heat-up from the ThermoJet system and the ability to save custom drink profiles simplify daily use, though its high price and limited voltage compatibility might deter budget-conscious or international buyers. The touchscreen makes it easy to select and customize drinks, and the automatic milk texturing produces consistent microfoam, perfect for latte art. However, those who prefer manual control or have limited kitchen space might find it less suitable.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen interface for easy operation and customization
- Includes free coffee beans with registration
Cons:- High price point for home use
- Limited to 110-120V power supply, restricting international use
Best for: Home users seeking quick, consistent, café-quality drinks with minimal effort
Not ideal for: Purists who want full manual control or those on a tight budget due to its premium price
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for casual coffee drinkers who prioritize convenience and consistent quality over manual control.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This version of the Barista Express Impress offers a solid combination of built-in grinding, assisted tamping, and customizable settings, making it suitable for users who want professional features without the complexity of the BES876DBL. Compared with the BES870XL, it includes a more modern look and some enhanced features, but both share similar size and price points, which can be a consideration for space or budget. The built-in grinder with 25 settings allows precise control, and the powerful steam wand enables microfoam milk for latte art. However, its size demands ample counter space, and setup can still challenge beginners. It’s a good choice for those wanting a semi-automatic experience with modern features.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with 25 adjustable settings for control
- Assisted tamping and intelligent dosing for consistent espresso
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Customizable brewing settings for personalized experience
Cons:- Large size requires significant counter space
- Complex setup may be challenging for novices
Best for: Home baristas who want a feature-rich machine that balances control and ease of use
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users seeking a straightforward, entry-level machine 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 home enthusiasts who want a versatile machine with advanced features in a semi-automatic format.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino offers a compact footprint without sacrificing essential features like fast heat-up via ThermoJet and automatic milk texturing. Compared to larger models like the BES870XL, it’s more suitable for small kitchens or limited counter space, but it lacks a built-in grinder, meaning users will need to grind beans separately. Its simplified operation makes it accessible for beginners, yet the limited water capacity and absence of advanced customization options mean it’s less suited for frequent or highly personalized brewing. The automatic steam wand ensures microfoam milk, but users who want full manual control might find it restrictive.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Precise temperature control for extraction
Cons:- Limited water tank capacity, not ideal for high-volume use
- No built-in grinder, requiring separate grinding equipment
Best for: Small-space dwellers or casual coffee drinkers who want quick, quality espresso without fuss
Not ideal for: Serious home baristas or those wanting a built-in grinder or extensive customization
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories:Single and Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Best suited for small kitchens and casual users who want quick, quality espresso at home with minimal setup.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This classic model combines a built-in conical burr grinder, precise temperature control, and a manual steam wand, making it a versatile choice for those who want full control over their espresso process. Compared with the newer BES876 models, it has a more straightforward interface, but it lacks some of the latest features like assisted tamping. Its water capacity of 67 oz is suitable for daily use, yet the setup can be intimidating for beginners. The grinder’s manual adjustment options provide control, but the learning curve can be steep for those new to espresso making. It’s a reliable, tried-and-true option for users willing to learn.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Steam wand ideal for microfoam and latte art
- Manual grind size and override options
Cons:- Relatively high price for a home machine
- Complex setup and learning curve for newcomers
- Limited capacity for frequent large batches
Best for: Enthusiasts who want a dependable, manual-focused machine with adjustable grind and temperature controls
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a more automated experience or users with limited time for learning
Our verdict“This model suits dedicated espresso enthusiasts who want control and reliability, willing to invest time in mastering it.”
