When it comes to brewing espresso at home, Breville stands out as a trusted name known for quality, innovation, and durability. The best overall pick, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, offers a seamless experience with advanced features and a sleek design. For those seeking quick, straightforward espresso, the Breville Bambino Plus provides excellent value, while the premium Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress caters to serious coffee enthusiasts. The main tradeoffs in this category revolve around price, feature complexity, and user experience. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown that will help you find the perfect Breville machine for your coffee routine.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the BES880BSS and BES881BSS excel in automation and customization, but come at a higher price point.
- Entry-level options like the Bambino Plus deliver solid espresso quality with simpler controls, ideal for beginners.
- Design differences, such as stainless steel versus black truffle finishes, influence both aesthetics and durability.
- Features like integrated grinders and touchscreens are common in premium models, but may be unnecessary for casual users.
- Price often correlates with advanced features; understanding your brewing needs helps avoid overpaying for unnecessary tech.
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, cleaning kit, water filter | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Style and Customization | Portafilter: 54mm stainless steel | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper: 1/2 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Home Baristas | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper: 1/2 lb | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners | Model: BES450BSS | Type: Espresso Machine | Features: Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Compact Home Baristas | Control Panel: Yes | Number of Cups: 1 or 2 | Steam Button: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Who Want Customization and Cold Brew Options | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Type: Semi-automatic espresso machine | Features: Built-in grinder, touchscreen interface, cold extraction functionality | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Serious Home Baristas Who Value Consistency and Assistance | Weight: not specified | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Manual Control and Value for Money | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Style-Conscious Users Who Need a High-Performance Machine | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Enthusiasts Who Want a Fully Manual Experience with Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Features: Built-in grinder, digital temperature control, microfoam steam wand | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Included Accessories | Water Tank Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, cleaning kit, water filter | 67 oz |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — | 67 oz |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | Milk jug, cleaning kit | 67 oz |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | — | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tools | 67 oz |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | 1600 Watts | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, portafilter, milk jug, cleaning disc | 67 oz |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | Portafilter, tamper, coffee scoop, milk jug | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out as the most versatile and user-friendly option in this lineup, thanks to its intuitive touch screen interface and customizable settings. Unlike the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, which offers a similar LCD interface but without the built-in grinder, this model combines ease of use with the convenience of freshly ground beans. Its comprehensive accessories, including a Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool and water filter, make it ideal for serious home baristas. The main tradeoff is its higher price point and the smaller water tank, which may require more frequent refilling. Best for those who want a semi-automatic machine that balances convenience and customization.
Pros:- User-friendly touch screen with customizable presets
- Built-in grinder for fresh coffee extraction
- Includes extensive accessories for versatile brewing
Cons:- Higher price compared to manual machines
- Limited water tank capacity necessitates frequent refills
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Experienced home users seeking professional-level control with a sleek interface
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simpler machines
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, cleaning kit, water filter
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Touch Screen:Yes
- Pre-Programmed Favorites:5
- Adjustable Grind Control:Yes
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
Our verdict“This model is best for dedicated coffee enthusiasts who want a high-tech, all-in-one espresso experience.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR offers the same core features as the stainless steel version but with a striking black truffle finish, appealing to those who prioritize aesthetics. Its built-in grinder, touch screen, and customizable milk settings make it comparable to the Barista Touch, but the unique color makes it a statement piece. Price and power consumption are similar to the stainless steel model, with the added consideration that it might appeal more to style-conscious users. The limited voltage availability might restrict use in some regions. Best for users who want high functionality paired with a distinctive look.
Pros:- Attractive black truffle finish enhances kitchen decor
- Built-in grinder with adjustable settings
- Customizable milk temperature and texture
Cons:- Higher cost due to premium finish
- Limited voltage options may restrict use internationally
- Power consumption similar to other models
Best for: Design-savvy coffee lovers who want a standout machine for daily brewing
Not ideal for: Those seeking a budget-friendly or simple machine without aesthetic considerations
- Portafilter:54mm stainless steel
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper:1/2 lb
- Display:Touch Screen
- Pre-Programmed Favorites:5
- Adjustable Grind Control:Yes
- Power:1680 Watts
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for style-conscious users who want a feature-rich espresso maker that doubles as a decor statement.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro is designed for users who want professional-quality espresso with a more straightforward interface than the Touch models. Its large LCD screen simplifies operation compared to the touch panels, but it lacks a built-in grinder, unlike the Barista Touch. This makes it a better choice for those who prefer to grind separately or already own a grinder. The included accessories, such as the Razor Dose Trimming Tool, support precise extraction, but the machine’s complexity might challenge beginners. It’s less suited for casual users who want plug-and-play ease. Ideal for experienced enthusiasts wanting control without overly complex features.
Pros:- Large LCD interface for easy operation
- Adjustable grind control for tailored extraction
- Includes key accessories like a milk jug and cleaning kit
Cons:- No built-in grinder, requiring an external one
- More complex setup for newcomers
- Higher power consumption
Best for: Home baristas with some experience who prefer manual control and separate grinders
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those seeking an all-in-one machine with minimal fuss
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper:1/2 lb
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120V
- Included Accessories:Milk jug, cleaning kit
- Display:LCD
Our verdict“This machine suits experienced users who want precise control and are willing to handle more setup complexity.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers a compact, straightforward entry point into home espresso brewing, especially for beginners. Its automatic steam wand simplifies milk frothing, making it easier to produce microfoam without advanced skills. Unlike the Bambino Plus, it lacks customizable milk temperature controls, which might limit those wanting more precision. Its small footprint fits well in tight spaces, but it sacrifices some advanced features and customization options. This makes it perfect for users just starting out or with limited kitchen space. Best for newcomers who want quick, reliable espresso with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Automatic milk frothing with microfoam capability
- Simple controls for easy operation
Cons:- Limited customization options
- Requires some practice to master microfoam
- Less suitable for advanced users
Best for: New users seeking an easy-to-use, compact machine for everyday espresso
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting detailed customization and control
- Model:BES450BSS
- Type:Espresso Machine
- Features:Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing
- Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Size:Compact
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners who want straightforward espresso making without complicated settings.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus combines compact design with semi-automatic control, making it a strong choice for home baristas who want café-quality drinks without a bulky machine. Its customizable milk temperature and texture provide a level of control not found in the Bambino, making it a better fit for those wanting more precision. However, its small capacity limits brewing to one or two cups at a time, which could be inconvenient for larger households. Compared to the Barista Touch, it offers fewer bells and whistles but maintains excellent performance in a small footprint. Best for small households or individuals seeking high-quality espresso in limited space.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Adjustable milk temperature and texture
- Makes café-quality espresso and milk drinks
Cons:- Limited to 1-2 cups per brew cycle
- Requires some skill to optimize results
- Fewer automation features than higher-end models
Best for: Home users who want high-quality espresso with adjustable milk settings in a compact form
Not ideal for: Larger households or users requiring multiple drinks simultaneously
- Control Panel:Yes
- Number of Cups:1 or 2
- Steam Button:Yes
- Adjustable Milk Temp & Texture:Yes
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine suits small households or individuals who prioritize quality and customization in a compact footprint.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its touchscreen interface that simplifies complex settings, making it ideal for users who enjoy customizing their coffee drinks. Unlike the more manual Breville BES870XL, it offers cold extraction for cold brew beverages, broadening its versatility. However, its advanced features and digital controls can overwhelm beginners, and its higher price reflects the premium tech. Compared to the Barista Express, it sacrifices some tactile control for ease of use, which may be a tradeoff for traditional espresso enthusiasts. This pick makes the most sense for those seeking a high-tech, customizable experience with the ability to create cold brew, but not for users who prefer a straightforward, manual machine.
Pros:- Intuitive touchscreen with preset and customizable options
- Built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds with minimal effort
- Supports cold extraction for diverse beverage options
Cons:- Can be complex for users unfamiliar with digital controls
- Higher price point due to advanced features
Best for: Tech-savvy home baristas who want app-like control and cold brew capabilities
Not ideal for: Beginners or those on a tight budget who prefer simple espresso machines
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Type:Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Features:Built-in grinder, touchscreen interface, cold extraction functionality
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced users seeking a high-tech, versatile machine that combines customization and cold brew functionality.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This version makes its mark through automatic dosing, temperature control, and assisted tamping, ensuring consistent espresso quality, unlike the more manual Breville BES870XL. Its built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings provides a range of grind options, although the complexity of its features could challenge beginners. The included accessories, such as the milk jug and cleaning tablets, support maintenance and milk frothing, but the machine’s weight and size are not specified, which might be a concern for limited counter space. This machine is best suited for home baristas who want precision and consistency without extensive skill, but it’s less ideal for casual users or those craving simplicity.
Pros:- Automatic dosing and precise temperature control
- Built-in grinder with multiple grind settings
- Assisted tamping for consistently perfect tamp pressure
- Includes useful accessories for brewing and cleaning
Cons:- Potentially complex for users new to espresso machines
- Price not listed, which might be a barrier for some
Best for: Dedicated home baristas seeking consistent results with helpful automation
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with small kitchens due to potential size and complexity
- Weight:not specified
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“A strong choice for enthusiasts who want reliable, café-quality espresso with minimal effort but are comfortable with advanced features.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model is a classic, offering manual operation with a built-in grinder, making it suitable for those who want to learn the craft of espresso making. Its adjustable grind amount and manual override give users control, but it lacks some automation found in the Barista Express Impress, which can make consistency more of a challenge. The comprehensive accessory package enhances the experience, but the machine’s relatively large footprint might be a concern for small kitchens. It’s a solid choice for new users eager to develop barista skills but less appealing for those seeking high automation or space-saving design.
Pros:- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Adjustable grind and manual override for customization
- Includes extensive accessories for brewing and maintenance
Cons:- Manual operation requires some skill and practice
- Relatively large size may limit placement options
Best for: Beginners or home users wanting manual control and learning opportunities
Not ideal for: Advanced users or those needing a compact, space-efficient machine
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tools
Our verdict“Great for those starting out who want to learn manual espresso making with room for growth.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
This machine offers powerful features similar to the Barista Express, including a built-in grinder and adjustable settings, all wrapped in a sleek Black Truffle finish. Its 1600 Watts of power supports quick heating and consistent extraction, but it’s more complex for beginners due to its manual and adjustable elements. The comprehensive accessory set makes maintenance and brewing straightforward for experienced users, yet its high power consumption and limited water capacity mean frequent refills. Ideal for style-conscious users who prioritize performance and aesthetics, but less suitable for casual or space-constrained kitchens.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with adjustable grind size
- Powerful 1600W heating system for quick operation
- Includes a complete set of accessories for brewing and cleaning
Cons:- High power consumption increases electricity use
- Limited water capacity requires frequent refills
Best for: Home baristas who value style, power, and manual control
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a simple, low-maintenance machine
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, portafilter, milk jug, cleaning disc
Our verdict“A stylish and powerful machine best suited for experienced users who appreciate manual control and aesthetics.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model caters to those who prefer a manual espresso experience, with a built-in conical burr grinder, digital temperature control, and microfoam steam wand for latte art. Its grind size dial and dose control allow for extensive customization, but the setup process can be complex for beginners. The limited capacity for bean and water storage means frequent refills for heavy use, and its higher price reflects its premium features. Compared to the Barista Express, it offers more precise temperature tuning, making it ideal for serious espresso purists, but it may be less accessible for casual users.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise digital temperature control for optimal extraction
- Steam wand capable of producing microfoam for latte art
- Adjustable grind size and dose for customization
Cons:- Complex setup can intimidate beginners
- Limited capacity requires frequent refills for regular use
- Higher price point for a feature-rich machine
Best for: Experienced hobbyists who want maximum control over every aspect of espresso brewing
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a straightforward, plug-and-play machine
- Capacity:1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Features:Built-in grinder, digital temperature control, microfoam steam wand
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, tamper, coffee scoop, milk jug
Our verdict“Perfect for dedicated espresso enthusiasts who want complete control and precision in their brewing process.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on key factors that impact daily use, including brewing performance, ease of operation, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized models that deliver consistent espresso extraction and temperature stability, which are critical for high-quality drinks. Usability, such as intuitive controls and maintenance, also played a major role, as did durability and customer feedback. The ranking reflects a balance between premium features and accessibility, ensuring there’s a top recommendation for different budgets and skill levels.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves considering several factors that align with your brewing habits and space. Beyond the initial price, think about how much control you want over your espresso, the importance of automation, and the available counter space. Understanding these factors can prevent buyers from overspending on unnecessary features or ending up with a machine that doesn’t suit their skill level.Performance and Consistency
Look for machines with good temperature stability and pressure control, which directly affect espresso quality. Higher-end models often include features like PID temperature control for more consistent results. Cheaper models may produce variable shots, which can be frustrating if you value precision. Ensuring the machine can handle daily use without significant deterioration is also key for long-term satisfaction.
Ease of Use and Automation
If you prefer a simplified process, consider models with automatic milk frothing and programmable shot sizes. Touchscreens or digital interfaces can streamline operation, but they might add complexity if you’re new to espresso making. Conversely, manual models give more control but require a learning curve, so match the machine to your experience level.
Build Quality and Durability
Stainless steel construction generally offers better longevity and resistance to wear compared to plastic or painted finishes. The quality of internal components, like pumps and boilers, also influences how long your machine will perform well. Investing in a well-built model can save money on repairs or replacements over time.
Size and Design
Espresso machines vary greatly in footprint; measure your available space before purchasing. A compact machine like the Bambino Plus fits smaller kitchens, while larger models may include additional features or larger water reservoirs. Aesthetic preferences matter too—choose a finish that complements your kitchen decor.
Price and Value
High-end models with advanced features come at a premium, but often deliver superior performance and durability. For casual users, mid-range options may offer the best balance of cost and quality. Avoid paying for features you won’t use, but don’t skimp on essential quality if you’re serious about espresso.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a built-in grinder worth the extra cost?
Having a built-in grinder can significantly streamline the brewing process, ensuring your beans are freshly ground and reducing mess. However, it also adds complexity and costs more upfront. If you value convenience and consistent grind size, a machine with a quality integrated grinder is worth considering. For those who prefer more control or already own a grinder, a separate unit might be more flexible and cost-effective.
How important is a steam wand versus automatic milk frothing?
A manual steam wand offers greater control over milk temperature and texture, which can result in better microfoam for latte art. It’s ideal for enthusiasts willing to practice their frothing skills. Automatic frothing simplifies the process, making it perfect for beginners or busy mornings, but it might not produce the same level of finesse in milk texture. Your choice depends on how much time you want to dedicate to each cup and your comfort with milk steaming.
Can I upgrade parts or features later?
Most Breville machines have limited upgrade options, as they are designed as self-contained units. You can sometimes replace filters or descaling components, but core features like the grinder or boiler are fixed. If future upgrades are a priority, look for models with modular components or consider buying a machine with more advanced features upfront to avoid needing an upgrade soon.
Are higher-priced models significantly better than budget options?
In many cases, higher-priced models do offer improvements in consistency, durability, and feature set, which can be noticeable over time. However, budget models like the Bambino Plus still produce excellent espresso and are suitable for casual drinkers. The value of spending more depends on your brewing frequency, skill level, and whether you want advanced automation or customization.
What maintenance is required for Breville machines?
Regular cleaning of the portafilter, drip tray, and steam wand is essential for maintaining flavor and performance. Descaling is necessary if you use hard water, which prevents mineral buildup. Many models include automatic cleaning cycles, simplifying upkeep. Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your machine and preserves the quality of your espresso.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience and willing to invest, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out as the top choice, offering automation and high-quality results. Budget-conscious buyers or beginners will find the Breville Bambino Plus provides excellent value with straightforward operation. Coffee enthusiasts wanting a premium, feature-rich machine should consider the Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress. If space is limited, the compact Bambino makes a compelling case. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, budget, and how much control you want over your espresso brewing process.
