Choosing a Breville espresso machine involves balancing performance, ease of use, and price. The Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express stands out as the best overall, offering reliable espresso quality and user-friendly features. For those seeking a premium experience, the Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch provides advanced automation and customization. Meanwhile, the Breville Bambino offers a compact, budget-friendly option for beginners. The main tradeoffs often involve balancing cost versus features, or simplicity versus customization. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to help you find the perfect fit.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Top picks vary significantly based on automation and price, with the Barista Express being the most versatile for home use.
- Premium models like the Barista Touch excel in customization but come at a higher cost and complexity.
- Compact options like the Bambino are ideal for small kitchens but sacrifice some control and features.
- Build quality and ease of maintenance are consistent strengths across Breville machines, though some models require more frequent cleaning.
- Price differences largely reflect the level of automation, with higher-end models offering integrated touchscreens and advanced settings.
| Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured) |  | Best Overall for All-in-One Convenience | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best Value for Freshness and Customization | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users and Customization | Portafilter: 54mm Full Stainless Steel | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper: 1/2 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Manual Control and Authentic Experience | Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Consistency and Automated Tamping | Weight: not specified | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Ease and Versatility | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Manual Control and Creative Baristas | Included: Razor dose trimming tool, tamper, milk jug, cleaning kit | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Cold Brew and Custom Drinks | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Type: Semi-automatic espresso machine | Features: Built-in grinder, touchscreen, cold extraction | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Compact and Beginner-Friendly Brewing | Model: BES450BSS | Color: Brushed Stainless Steel | Type: Espresso Machine | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Grade Home Espresso | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Water Tank Capacity | Included Accessories | Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Barista Express Espre | 67 oz | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | 67 oz | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Filter Holder | 1600 Watts |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 67 oz | — | 1680 Watts |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | — | Stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1600 Watts |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, cleaning tablets | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 67 oz | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit | 1680 Watts |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 67 oz | — | 1600 Watts |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | — | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 67 oz | Filter baskets, milk jug, cleaning kit | 1680 Watts |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured)
This remanufactured option shines for those seeking a comprehensive espresso setup without the premium price of a new machine. Its integrated conical burr grinder and precise PID temperature control mean you can go from beans to espresso in under a minute, making it ideal for busy mornings. Compared with the Breville BES870BSXL, this model offers similar features but at a lower cost, though the shorter six-month warranty might raise concerns for some buyers. Its manual microfoam wand allows for latte art, but the learning curve can be steep for beginners. The included accessories make setup easier, yet the remanufactured status may lead to variability in appearance or residual wear. This pick is best for those who want a versatile, all-in-one espresso machine on a budget but are comfortable with some manual control and limited warranty coverage.
Pros:- All-in-one machine with integrated grinder for convenience
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Manual milk texturing for latte art and flavor control
- Includes comprehensive accessories for easy use and maintenance
Cons:- Remanufactured product may vary in appearance and condition
- Six-month warranty is shorter than new models
- Learning curve for manual controls and microfoam techniques
Best for: Home baristas who want a versatile, cost-effective machine that combines grinding and brewing in one unit
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer fully automated, plug-and-play machines with longer warranties
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
- Features:Integrated conical burr grinder, digital PID temperature control, manual microfoam wand, grind size dial, adjustable grind amount
- Warranty:Six months Breville Limited Warranty
Our verdict“This model suits experienced home baristas seeking a budget-friendly, all-in-one espresso machine that balances convenience and manual control.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
This model makes a strong case for home baristas who want a built-in grinder and extensive customization without stepping up to higher-priced models. Its 1600-watt power and 67 oz water tank support frequent brewing, though the high power consumption could be a concern for energy-conscious users. Compared to the Breville BES880BTR, it offers similar core features but lacks some of the touchscreen convenience and advanced programmable options. Manual operation and grind adjustments provide control but require skill, making it less ideal for absolute beginners. The comprehensive accessory set helps with maintenance and brewing, but the relatively high power draw could increase utility bills over time. This machine is best for dedicated espresso enthusiasts looking for a capable, customizable machine at a mid-range price point.
Pros:- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds and flavor
- Adjustable grind amount and manual override for precise control
- Includes extensive accessories for brewing and maintenance
- Supports frequent use with a 67 oz water tank
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited water tank capacity for very frequent brewing
- Manual operation involves a learning curve
Best for: Home users seeking a durable, feature-rich espresso machine with built-in grinder for frequent, manual brewing
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited kitchen space due to its higher power needs and manual operation
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Filter Holder
Our verdict“This machine is well-suited for dedicated espresso fans who want customization and durability at a reasonable price.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Touch stands out for its user-friendly touch screen interface and a variety of customizable settings, making it ideal for those who want café-quality drinks with minimal fuss. Its built-in grinder and pre-programmed favorites streamline the process, but the higher 1680-watt power can lead to increased energy use. Compared with the Breville BES870BSXL, the touchscreen simplifies operation and saves time, though it comes at a higher price. The water filter and accessories support consistent results, but the need for a 110-120V outlet may limit placement options in some regions. This machine is best for tech-savvy enthusiasts who want quick, personalized coffee at home and are willing to pay a premium for advanced features.
Pros:- Touch screen interface for intuitive operation
- Built-in grinder with multiple pre-set favorites
- Customizable milk temperature and texture
- Includes comprehensive accessories and water filter
Cons:- Relatively high energy consumption
- Higher price point compared to simpler models
- Limited to 110-120V outlets, which may restrict placement
Best for: Home baristas who prioritize ease of use, customization, and modern interfaces
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer manual control over brewing parameters
- Portafilter:54mm Full Stainless Steel
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper:1/2 lb
- Display:Touch Screen
- Pre-Programmed Favorites:5
- Custom Settings:8
- Power:1680 Watts
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for tech-savvy users who want quick, customizable coffee at the push of a button without manual fuss.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This version of the Barista Express emphasizes manual control, appealing to users who want to fine-tune their espresso and milk textures. Its built-in conical burr grinder, precise temperature control, and microfoam steam wand mirror more advanced professional machines, but the setup can be complex for newcomers. Compared with the Breville BES880BTR, it lacks a touchscreen and some advanced programmable features, favoring hands-on operation instead. The limited capacity for frequent use without refilling may be a drawback for busy households. Nonetheless, for those who enjoy crafting their coffee with precision, this model offers unmatchable control, albeit with a steeper learning curve and higher price.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Steam wand creates microfoam for latte art
- Customizable grind size and dose
Cons:- More complex setup for beginners
- Limited capacity for continuous use without refilling
- Higher price for a fully manual experience
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want full manual control for perfecting their espresso and milk microfoam
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer automated, easy-to-use machines or those with limited space for complex setups
- 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
- Features:Built-in grinder, digital temperature control, microfoam steam wand, grind size dial
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced users who prioritize manual control and precision over simplicity and automation.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress distinguishes itself with its automatic dosing and assisted tamping, making it an appealing choice for users who want reliable, consistent espresso with less manual effort. Its built-in grinder with 25 grind settings and PID temperature control support quality extraction, while the powerful steam wand enables microfoam for latte art. Compared to the Breville BES880BTR, it offers more automation, but the absence of detailed specifications like exact weight and dimensions makes it harder for buyers with limited space or weight considerations. This machine suits those who want café-quality results with minimal fuss, though it may be overkill for casual drinkers who value simplicity. The advanced features come with a learning curve and potential complexity for novices.
Pros:- Automatic dosing and temperature control for consistency
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Includes accessories like milk jug and cleaning tablets
Cons:- Price may be high relative to entry-level machines
- Lack of detailed size and weight info for space planning
- Potentially complex for users unfamiliar with espresso brewing
Best for: Home baristas who value automation, consistency, and ease of use to produce café-quality espresso daily
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking simple, plug-and-play solutions or buyers with limited space due to unspecified size details
- Weight:not specified
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, cleaning tablets
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
- Tamping:Assisted tamping with 7-degree twist and 10kg pressure
Our verdict“Best suited for experienced home baristas who want automation and consistency with minimal manual effort, despite the higher price.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out for its combination of user-friendly interface and advanced customization, making it ideal for home baristas who want professional-quality drinks without a steep learning curve. Its touch screen interface simplifies operation, while the built-in grinder with adjustable control ensures fresh grounds for every shot. Compared with the Barista Express, this model offers more pre-set favorites and personalized settings, but the tradeoff is a higher price and slightly smaller water capacity. This pick is perfect for coffee enthusiasts who value convenience but are willing to invest in a premium experience.
Pros:- Intuitive touch screen with customizable settings
- Built-in grinder with adjustable control for fresh grounds
- Includes comprehensive accessories for varied brewing styles
Cons:- High price point for a home machine
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
Best for: Home users seeking a versatile, easy-to-use espresso machine with customization options
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those on a tight budget who may find the price prohibitive
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Touch Screen:Yes
- Pre-Programmed Favorites:5
- Adjustable Grind Control:Yes
- Programmable Milk Temp & Texture:Yes
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
Our verdict“This machine suits dedicated home baristas looking for a blend of convenience and customization in a premium package.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express is designed for those who want hands-on control over every shot, offering a more traditional espresso experience. Its built-in grinder and manual override allow skilled users to fine-tune their brew, making it ideal for those who enjoy customizing every aspect of their coffee. Compared to the Barista Touch, it lacks a touchscreen, which may require more skill but provides tactile control. Its larger footprint and manual operation make it less suited for casual drinkers or small kitchens, but it offers unmatched control for espresso aficionados.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with manual control
- Adjustable grind and dose for precision
- Comprehensive accessory package for complete control
Cons:- Manual operation requires skill and practice
- Larger size may not fit small kitchens
- Price can be high for casual users
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want maximum control and customization
Not ideal for: Beginners or those seeking quick, automated brewing
- Included:Razor dose trimming tool, tamper, milk jug, cleaning kit
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120V
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced users who prefer hands-on control and customization over automation.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress offers a blend of classic espresso features with innovative options like cold extraction for iced beverages. Its touchscreen interface makes selecting preset drinks and customizing flavors straightforward, while the built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds for each shot. Compared to the standard Barista Touch, this model emphasizes cold brew options, making it a smart choice for those who enjoy iced coffee. However, its advanced features and higher price can be overwhelming for beginners, and the complexity may deter casual users.
Pros:- Touchscreen with preset and customizable options
- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Supports cold extraction for iced drinks
Cons:- Complex for those new to espresso machines
- Higher price point due to advanced features
Best for: Coffee lovers who want a versatile machine capable of both hot and cold beverages
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking simple, straightforward espresso brewing
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Type:Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Features:Built-in grinder, touchscreen, cold extraction
Our verdict“This machine is best for enthusiasts who appreciate cold brew versatility alongside traditional espresso options.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers a compact footprint and simple operation, making it ideal for small kitchens and newcomers to espresso brewing. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing allows users to produce barista-quality milk froth with minimal effort. Compared with larger, more feature-rich machines like the Barista Pro, it sacrifices some customization but excels in ease of use. This machine is perfect for those just starting out or with limited space, though it requires some learning to optimize milk texture and shot timing.
Pros:- Compact design fits small spaces
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for easy drinks
- User-friendly for beginners
Cons:- Limited advanced customization
- Requires some learning for best results
Best for: Beginners or those with small kitchen space seeking straightforward espresso and milk frothing
Not ideal for: Experienced users or those wanting extensive customization options
- Model:BES450BSS
- Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Type:Espresso Machine
- Features:Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing, Compact
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for newcomers and small kitchens but isn’t suited for those seeking detailed control.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro elevates home espresso with its large LCD interface and built-in grinder, making it a top choice for serious coffee lovers. Its adjustable grind control and sizable water tank support multiple drinks without refilling. Compared with the Barista Touch, it offers more manual control through its LCD screen but lacks the touchscreen’s ease of preset selection. The higher power draw and complexity make it better suited for dedicated enthusiasts rather than casual users who prefer simple automation.
Pros:- Adjustable grind control for precision
- Large water tank supports multiple drinks
- Includes a comprehensive set of accessories
Cons:- High power consumption
- Complex operation for beginners
- Premium price might be a barrier
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking professional-quality espresso with manual control
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those new to espresso machines who want simplicity
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Included Accessories:Filter baskets, milk jug, cleaning kit
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“Best for dedicated coffee lovers who want a semi-automatic machine with advanced features and manual control.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso quality, especially for home use, and considered user feedback on reliability and maintenance. Additional factors included feature set, automation level, and overall design. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability and advanced features, ensuring options for different experience levels and budgets. We focused on models that provide meaningful differences in functionality so buyers can match their specific needs with the right machine.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When choosing a Breville espresso machine, it’s important to consider several key factors that influence your experience and satisfaction. Understanding these will help you avoid common pitfalls, such as overpaying for unnecessary features or selecting a machine that’s too complex for your skill level. The right choice depends on your coffee habits, space, and how much automation you prefer. Let’s explore the main considerations to keep in mind.Performance and Brew Quality
Look for machines that deliver consistent extraction and temperature stability, as these directly affect flavor. Higher-end models often have better temperature control and more precise pressure profiling. Cheaper or more basic machines might require more manual effort and may not produce the same quality shot every time, which matters if you’re serious about espresso. Investing in a machine with good performance can save money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Automation and Ease of Use
Consider how much automation you want. Manual machines offer more control but require skill and practice, while semi-automatic and fully automatic models simplify the process with presets and integrated grinders. Touchscreen interfaces and programmable settings make brewing easier, especially for beginners. However, more automation often means higher cost and potential complexity if something goes wrong, so balance your comfort level with your desire for convenience.
Build Quality and Durability
Breville machines are known for solid construction, but materials vary across models. Stainless steel bodies tend to last longer and look better over time, while plastic components may wear faster. Pay attention to the quality of the portafilter, drip tray, and steam wand. Proper maintenance is essential to keep your machine running smoothly, so choose one with accessible parts and straightforward cleaning routines.
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Espresso machines come in many sizes, from compact options like the Bambino to larger, feature-rich models. Measure your available space carefully and consider how the machine’s footprint fits into your kitchen. Smaller models are easier to store and move, but might have fewer features and larger water tanks or bean hoppers. Larger machines often have more advanced features but require more counter space and may be heavier to handle.
Price and Long-Term Value
While it’s tempting to buy the cheapest model, consider the long-term value of investing in a more durable and feature-rich machine. Higher-priced models tend to offer better build quality, more consistent performance, and additional features that can improve your brewing experience. However, ensure that the extra cost aligns with your needs; a beginner might not need all the bells and whistles of a premium model. Look for machines that offer a good balance of price, features, and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a more expensive Breville espresso machine worth the investment?
Generally, higher-priced Breville models deliver better build quality, more advanced features, and greater automation, which can improve your brewing consistency and convenience. If you’re a serious espresso enthusiast or plan to use the machine frequently, investing in a more premium option like the Barista Touch can be worthwhile. However, for casual users or beginners, a mid-range or entry-level model can offer excellent value without overpaying for features you might not need.
Do I need a separate grinder for a Breville espresso machine?
While some Breville models include integrated grinders, most do not. For optimal espresso, a good burr grinder is essential because grind size greatly impacts extraction quality. Many users find that investing in a dedicated grinder yields better results than relying solely on built-in grinders, which may lack precision. If you’re serious about espresso, pairing your machine with a quality grinder enhances flavor and consistency.
Are Breville machines easy to maintain and clean?
Most Breville models are designed for straightforward maintenance, with removable drip trays, water filters, and accessible parts. Regular cleaning of the portafilter, steam wand, and drip tray is necessary to preserve performance and hygiene. Some higher-end models feature automatic cleaning cycles or descaling alerts, which simplify upkeep. Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your machine and keeps your coffee tasting its best.
Can I make milk-based drinks with a Breville espresso machine?
Yes, most Breville espresso machines include steam wands capable of frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos. The quality of the steam wand and its control affect how well you can texture milk. Premium models with more powerful or precise steam wands provide better foam and easier handling. Beginners should look for machines with user-friendly steam controls, while enthusiasts may prefer models with adjustable steam pressure for more control.
Is a certified remanufactured Breville machine a good option?
Certified remanufactured Breville machines can be a smart way to save money while still getting a reliable product. These units are thoroughly tested, cleaned, and restored to factory standards, often with a warranty. However, they may have minor cosmetic imperfections or older hardware. If you’re comfortable with a slightly used product and want to access higher-end features at a lower price, remanufactured machines are worth considering, but buy from reputable sources.
Conclusion
For casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso, the Breville Bambino offers simplicity and affordability. The Breville Barista Express remains the best overall choice for most home baristas, balancing performance with ease of use. Those seeking a more automated, customizable experience should consider the Barista Touch or Barista Pro, especially if they value consistency and advanced features. Budget-conscious buyers can find great value in earlier models or remanufactured units, while enthusiasts should prioritize durability and performance in premium options. Matching your needs and skill level with the right machine makes all the difference in brewing satisfying espresso at home.
