When searching for a Breville espresso machine, the options can seem overwhelming, but certain models stand out for their performance, usability, and build quality. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro earns the top spot for its quick heat-up time and intuitive interface, making it ideal for home baristas. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers advanced features and touchscreen control for those seeking a more automated experience, while the Bambino Plus provides a compact, budget-friendly entry point. Each model balances tradeoffs between price, features, and ease of use, so continue reading for the full breakdown to find your perfect fit.
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Key Takeaways
- The top models prioritize quick heat-up times and user-friendly interfaces, making daily brewing faster and easier.
- Advanced features like touchscreen controls significantly enhance convenience but often come with higher price tags.
- Compact models like the Bambino Plus are ideal for small kitchens but may lack some high-end features found in premium versions.
- Price often correlates with feature set; investing more generally yields better build quality and customization options.
- All top picks maintain consistent extraction quality, but usability and maintenance vary widely across models.
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease and Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Compact Spaces | Water Pressure: Pre-infusion with low pressure, then high pressure | Dosing: 54mm portafilter, 19 grams | Heat Up Time: 3 seconds | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional Results at Home | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: Portafilter, 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 Style and Performance | Grind Settings: 25 | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | Water Tank Capacity: 2L | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Home Baristas Who Value Customization and Speed | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Home Users Who Want a Built-in Grinder and Guided Brewing | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Looking for a Complete, Versatile Espresso Kit | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Small Spaces and Quick, Easy Espresso | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Brew Capacity: 1 or 2 Cups | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Enthusiasts Who Want Complete Control and 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 | Included Accessories | Power | Voltage | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | Milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro stands out for its quick ThermoJet heating system, which delivers near-instant heat-up times, making it ideal for those who want fast, café-quality espresso at home. Its precise digital temperature control ensures optimal extraction, and the built-in conical burr grinder with dose control simplifies the process of brewing fresh espresso. Compared with the Bambino Plus, the Pro’s larger capacity and more advanced interface provide greater control, though this can be overwhelming for absolute beginners. The tradeoff for this versatility is a higher price point and a larger footprint, which might be a concern for smaller kitchens. This pick is perfect for serious enthusiasts who value speed and precision but are prepared for a steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Excellent temperature stability for consistent results
- Built-in grinder with dose control
- Manual steam wand for microfoam
Cons:- Complex interface can be daunting for beginners
- Higher price and larger size may deter casual users
Best for: Home baristas seeking fast, precise espresso with minimal fuss and intermediate skill levels
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited counter space, due to its complexity and size
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine suits enthusiasts who prioritize speed and control over simplicity and space.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch offers a highly user-friendly experience with its intuitive touchscreen interface, making it a top choice for those who want professional results without extensive barista skills. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing simplifies creating lattes and cappuccinos, rivaling the Bambino Plus but with added customization options. Compared to the Pro, the Touch’s focus on ease of use and automation makes it more accessible, though at a similar price point, which may be a concern for budget-conscious buyers. Its larger footprint also means it isn’t ideal for small kitchens. This machine is best suited for home users who desire a mix of simplicity and personalization, with minimal learning curve required.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface for easy operation
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Customizable drink profiles
Cons:- High price for casual users
- Complex features may be confusing initially
- Large size not suitable for small kitchens
Best for: Home users wanting café-quality drinks with minimal effort and touchscreen control
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those with limited countertop space who prefer manual control
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for those who want a convenient, customizable espresso experience with little fuss.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus is designed for smaller kitchens or limited countertop space, offering quick heat-up with its ThermoJet system and automatic milk texturing. Its compact size (7.7 inches wide) makes it easy to fit on most counters, but it sacrifices some advanced features seen in larger models like the Barista Pro. While the automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam creation, the limited control may disappoint experienced enthusiasts who prefer manual steaming. Compared with the Pro and Touch, the Bambino Plus’s simplicity is a double-edged sword—great for beginners, but less flexible for customizing espresso or milk drinks. This machine makes the most sense for users with tight space constraints who want quality but are comfortable with a more straightforward experience.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Automatic microfoam wand
- Good temperature stability
Cons:- Limited to 1-2 cup settings
- Less manual control for advanced users
- Higher price for what it offers
Best for: Small kitchen owners or beginners seeking quick, quality espresso without extra bells and whistles
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting extensive customization, due to its limited controls
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion with low pressure, then high pressure
- Dosing:54mm portafilter, 19 grams
- Heat Up Time:3 seconds
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“Best suited for space-conscious beginners who prioritize convenience over extensive control.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
The BES876BST elevates home espresso by combining a built-in conical burr grinder with an intelligent dosing system and manual microfoam wand. Its auto-correct dosing and assisted tamping help produce consistent shots, making it suitable for users seeking near-professional results without complex manual skills. Compared to the Bambino Plus, the Impress offers greater control over dosing and grinding, but setup can be more involved, especially for beginners. Its larger size and premium features mean it’s best for dedicated espresso enthusiasts willing to learn. While the machine’s advanced features deliver excellent results, the learning curve and price could be barriers for casual users. It appeals to those who want high-quality espresso with some automation to reduce user error.
Pros:- Professional-level espresso and microfoam
- Auto-correct dosing and assisted tamping
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- PID temperature control for consistency
Cons:- Complex setup for beginners
- Relatively high price
- Larger footprint may be unsuitable for small kitchens
Best for: Home baristas aiming for café-quality espresso with some automation and control
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space, due to its size and complexity
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dosing, assisted tamping, PID control
Our verdict“Perfect for serious home enthusiasts who want high-quality espresso with automation assistance.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Damson Blue version of the Barista Express Impress combines the same high-end features as its stainless steel sibling, including a built-in grinder with 25 adjustable settings, assisted tamping, and a powerful steam wand. Its distinctive color and modern design make it a visually striking addition to any kitchen. Compared with the Black Stainless Steel model, the Damson Blue adds aesthetic appeal, but performance remains consistent across both. The size and setup complexity are similar, meaning it’s best for dedicated espresso lovers who appreciate style and want consistent, professional-quality results. Casual users or those with small kitchens may find the size and price less justifiable. This machine is for users who want both form and function in one package, with a focus on personalization and visual impact.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with 25 settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck prep
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
- Unique damson blue finish adds aesthetic appeal
Cons:- Setup can be complex for beginners
- Larger size may be unsuitable for small kitchens
- Price is high relative to basic models
Best for: Style-conscious home baristas who want professional features in a visually distinctive machine
Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prefer compact, budget-friendly options, due to size and price
- Grind Settings:25
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Ideal for style-minded espresso lovers who desire high-end features and a striking design in their home setup.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress stands out for its combination of an auto steam wand, fast ThermoJet heating, and a touchscreen interface that simplifies complex espresso making. Compared to the BES870XL, it offers more intuitive controls and a wider range of customizable drinks, making it ideal for users looking for a semi-automatic machine with smart features. The tradeoff is that its advanced features come with a steeper learning curve and a higher price, which could deter beginners or casual users. Its cold brew function adds versatility, but detailed reviews are limited, making it less transparent for those wanting in-depth performance insights.
Pros:- Auto steam wand delivers perfect microfoam consistently
- Intuitive touchscreen with multiple customizable preset options
- Fast ThermoJet heating system reduces wait times
- Includes cold brew function expanding coffee options
Cons:- Features may overwhelm new users due to complexity
- Higher price point limits accessibility for casual buyers
- Limited detailed performance reviews available
Best for: Experienced coffee enthusiasts who want a semi-automatic machine with high customizability and quick operation
Not ideal for: Beginners or those on a tight budget who prefer straightforward operation without extensive features
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 grind settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Coffee Options:13
- Customizable Drinks:Up to 6
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for experienced home baristas seeking advanced customization and speed at a premium price.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress offers a comprehensive setup with a built-in conical burr grinder, assisted tamping, and customizable settings that make it ideal for users seeking professional-level espresso at home. It surpasses the BES870XL by integrating grinder controls and intelligent dosing, which reduces manual effort and inconsistency. However, its larger footprint and complex setup can be daunting for complete beginners or those with limited kitchen space. The included accessories enhance usability, but the machine’s size and learning curve may be barriers for casual users.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh, customizable coffee grounds
- Assisted tamping for consistent extraction results
- Includes useful accessories like a milk jug and cleaning tools
- Professional-grade espresso quality
Cons:- Setup can be complex and time-consuming for beginners
- Large footprint may not fit in tight spaces
- Higher price may be prohibitive for casual users
Best for: Coffee lovers who want to fine-tune their espresso with integrated grinding and tamping assistance
Not ideal for: Small kitchen dwellers or casual drinkers who prefer a simpler, more compact machine
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for dedicated home baristas who value integrated grinding and guided operation over simplicity.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL has become a staple for newcomers thanks to its built-in conical burr grinder, manual microfoam wand, and straightforward controls. It offers a good balance of features for those new to espresso, with enough room for customization through adjustable grind size and shot volume. Compared to the BES876BSS, it’s slightly more approachable but may lack some advanced automation. Its size can be an issue for smaller kitchens, and the learning curve might be steeper for absolute beginners. Still, its accessories and reliable performance make it a versatile choice.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Includes various accessories and adjustable settings
Cons:- Relatively high price point for entry-level users
- Learning curve for mastering manual microfoam
- Bulkier size may require dedicated space
Best for: Beginners who want an all-in-one machine with room to grow into more advanced brewing
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting the most automation and speed, who might prefer newer models like the Barista Touch
- 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
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners eager to learn espresso craft while enjoying the flexibility of a built-in grinder and manual controls.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino is designed for those with limited space who want fast, quality espresso. Its rapid heat-up via ThermoJet system and automatic steam wand streamline the process, making it suitable for users who value speed and simplicity. Compared with larger models like the BES870XL, it sacrifices some manual control but gains in compactness and ease of use. Its limited brewing options and manual operation for best results might frustrate more advanced users, but for small kitchens or quick routines, it excels.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Precise temperature control
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cup brewing at a time
- Requires manual operation for optimal results
- Price not specified, but potentially high for its size
Best for: Individuals with limited kitchen space seeking quick, reliable espresso with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Experienced users wanting extensive customization or brewing multiple cups at once
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Brew Capacity:1 or 2 Cups
- Included Accessories:Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
Our verdict“Perfect for small-space dwellers who want fast, quality espresso without complexity.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR offers a high level of control with its integrated grinder, manual microfoam wand, and precise temperature management, making it suitable for those who want to fine-tune every shot. It shares many core features with the BES876BSS, but its distinctive color and slightly different aesthetic appeal. Its powerful performance and accessories support customization, yet its high power consumption and water capacity limit its suitability for frequent, high-volume use. This machine caters well to dedicated hobbyists who want to perfect their craft.
Pros:- Integrated adjustable grinder for fresh, precise grounds
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Precise temperature control for quality brewing
- Includes multiple accessories for customization
Cons:- High power consumption increases energy use
- Limited water capacity for frequent brewing
- Price may be high for casual users
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking full manual control and extensive customization options
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with limited space, as it demands more manual operation and space
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for passionate hobbyists who want manual control and customization at home.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each Breville model based on performance, ease of use, build quality, maintenance requirements, and value for money. Priority was given to machines that consistently deliver high-quality espresso with minimal fuss, especially for home use. I also considered the versatility of features, user interface intuitiveness, and durability. The ranking reflects a balance of these factors, favoring models that offer the best overall experience for different types of buyers—from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine depends on your brewing habits, space, and budget. While all models aim to produce quality espresso, different features cater to different needs. Considering factors like ease of operation, customization, and size can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your investment matches your expectations.Performance and Extraction Quality
The primary reason to choose a Breville machine is its ability to produce excellent espresso. Look for models with precise temperature control and pressure regulation. Higher-end options often feature pre-infusion or PID temperature control, which improves shot consistency. Cheaper models might compromise on these, resulting in less flavorful or inconsistent espresso.Ease of Use and Interface
For daily convenience, select a machine with straightforward controls. Touchscreen interfaces or programmable options can streamline your brewing process, especially if you want a quick shot with minimal fuss. However, overly complex controls can overwhelm beginners, so consider your comfort level with technology and manual adjustments.Size and Kitchen Fit
Breville offers a range of sizes, from compact models for small countertops to more substantial machines with additional features. Measure your available space before purchasing. Keep in mind that larger machines may offer more customization but can be cumbersome if space is limited.Maintenance and Durability
A machine’s longevity depends on ease of cleaning and build quality. Features like automatic cleaning cycles or removable drip trays simplify upkeep. Investing in a well-built model with durable components reduces long-term repair or replacement costs, especially if you plan to brew daily.Price and Value
While higher-priced models tend to offer more advanced features and better materials, consider whether those extras match your usage habits. For occasional drinkers, a simpler, more affordable model might suffice. Conversely, dedicated espresso enthusiasts can justify spending more for enhanced control and consistency.Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between a semi-automatic and an automatic Breville espresso machine?
Semi-automatic models give you control over shot timing and grind settings, making them ideal for those who enjoy customizing their espresso. Automatic machines handle some steps like water volume and shot timing, providing convenience at the expense of customization. If you’re new to espresso or prefer quick, consistent results, an automatic model might suit you better; experienced users often prefer semi-automatic options for greater control.Are higher-end Breville models worth the extra cost?
Higher-end models typically include features like touchscreen controls, better temperature stability, and more precise pressure regulation. If you brew daily and value consistency or advanced features, investing in a more expensive model can improve your experience. However, for occasional use or beginners, a mid-range or entry-level model often provides excellent results without the premium price.Can I make latte art with Breville machines?
Yes, many Breville machines, especially those with steam wands like the Barista Pro and Touch, allow you to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos. Mastering milk texturing requires some practice, but these machines provide the necessary control and steam power. Cheaper models like the Bambino may have limited steaming capability, making latte art more challenging.How much maintenance do Breville espresso machines require?
Regular cleaning of the portafilter, drip tray, and steam wand is essential to maintain performance. Many models include automatic cleaning cycles or descaling alerts, simplifying upkeep. Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your machine and keeps your espresso tasting fresh. Expect to spend a few minutes daily on cleaning and periodic descaling for optimal results.Is it better to buy a Breville espresso machine with a built-in grinder?
While machines with integrated grinders save counter space and simplify setup, they often have limited grind adjustments and may not match standalone grinders in consistency. If you’re serious about espresso quality and customizing your grind, pairing a Breville with a dedicated grinder provides more control. For convenience and simplicity, an all-in-one machine can be a good choice for beginners or casual drinkers.Conclusion
For those new to espresso or seeking an affordable, easy-to-use option, the Breville Bambino Plus offers great value with straightforward operation. Coffee enthusiasts wanting precise control and advanced features should consider the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch for its touchscreen interface. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall for its quick heat-up, consistent performance, and user-friendly design. For buyers with limited space, a compact model like the Bambino is ideal, while premium users aiming for top-tier customization might prefer higher-end models like the Barista Touch Impress. Your choice depends on your skill level, budget, and how much control you want over your espresso experience.
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