Breville is a leading name in home espresso machines, renowned for blending performance, innovation, and sleek design. The best overall pick, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, offers a perfect balance of features and usability. If you’re looking for a more premium experience, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch delivers advanced automation and customization. Conversely, for budget-conscious buyers, the Bambino provides solid espresso quality at a lower price point. The main tradeoffs revolve around price versus features, with more advanced models offering greater convenience but at a higher cost. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option to find the best fit for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the Barista Touch and Impress stand out for their advanced touchscreens and customization features, but come with higher price tags.
- Entry-level and remanufactured options provide good value, especially for beginners or those on a budget, without sacrificing essential espresso quality.
- Design and build quality vary across models, with brushed stainless steel finishes offering durability and a premium look.
- Automation features such as steam wands and programmable settings significantly impact daily usability and consistency.
- Choosing between a semi-automatic and fully automatic machine depends on how involved you want your brewing process to be.
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Customization and Modern Features | 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 BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best Value for All-in-One Home Barista Kit | 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 Ease of Use with Customization | Portafilter: 54mm Full Stainless Steel | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper: 1/2 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured) |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts Who Don’t Mind Manual Controls | 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 BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Manual Control and Quality | Included: Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas Who Value Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Who Want Ease and Speed | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Compact, Easy Operation | Model: BES450BSS | Type: Espresso Machine | Features: Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing, Compact Design, Manual Operation | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precision and Consistency with Assisted Tamping | 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 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Driven Users Who Value Customization | Included Accessories: 54mm portafilter, stainless steel jug, filters, water filter, cleaning kit | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Water Tank Capacity | Included Accessories |
|---|---|---|
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | 67 oz | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 67 oz | — |
| Breville Barista Express Espre | 67 oz | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 67 oz | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | — | Stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 67 oz | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 67 oz | 54mm portafilter, stainless steel jug, filters, water filter, cleaning kit |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress stands out for its combination of an intuitive touchscreen interface and advanced features like cold extraction, making it ideal for those who want personalized coffee drinks at home. Compared to the Breville BES880BTR, it offers more customization options and a sleeker user experience, though its complexity can be daunting for beginners. The built-in grinder and preset options mean you can brew with minimal fuss, but the touchscreen and extra functionalities come at a higher price and a steeper learning curve. This machine is best suited for coffee enthusiasts who value tech-savvy controls and variety, but not for casual users who prefer straightforward operation without many features.
Pros:- User-friendly touchscreen with customizable options
- Built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds for every shot
- Supports cold brew and cold extraction for versatile drinks
Cons:- Complex interface may overwhelm new users
- Higher price point reflects advanced features
Best for: Tech-savvy home baristas looking for a customizable, high-end espresso experience
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited technical comfort, due to its complex interface and advanced features
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Type:Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Features:Built-in grinder, touchscreen interface, cold extraction functionality
Our verdict“This is the best choice for experienced coffee lovers who want a feature-rich, high-tech machine capable of personalized drinks.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL offers a comprehensive, all-in-one approach to home espresso with its built-in grinder, adjustable settings, and a rich set of accessories. Compared with the Breville BES880BTR, it provides a similar core experience but at a more approachable price point, making it appealing for those who want quality without the latest tech. Its manual operation and limited water capacity mean it requires some skill and routine refilling, but its versatility and included tools make it a reliable choice for dedicated coffee lovers. This model works best for users who value a complete setup and are willing to learn manual controls, but it might be less appealing for those seeking ultra-automatic convenience.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with adjustable grind size
- Includes extensive accessories for brewing and maintenance
- Affordable compared to high-end automated options
Cons:- Manual operation requires skill and practice
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
Best for: Enthusiast home baristas who want a complete, budget-conscious espresso setup
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those preferring a fully automatic machine, due to manual operation and smaller water capacity
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
Our verdict“This machine offers excellent value for those who want a full-featured, manual espresso experience at home.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch is designed for home users who want a semi-automatic machine with smart features. Its touch screen controls and pre-programmed favorites make brewing straightforward, especially compared with the more manual Breville BES870XL. While it offers customizable settings like milk temperature and texture, its core appeal is simplicity combined with personalization. Its 67 oz water tank and built-in grinder add convenience, but the higher power draw and higher price could deter casual users. This machine makes the most sense for those seeking a balance between automation and control, but less so for absolute beginners or those on a tight budget.
Pros:- Touch screen interface with pre-set favorites
- Customizable milk temperature and texture
- Includes water filter and comprehensive accessories
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Price may be prohibitive for casual users
Best for: Home baristas seeking a user-friendly, customizable espresso machine with modern features
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or budget shoppers, due to its higher cost and semi-automatic operation
- 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
Our verdict“Ideal for users who want an intuitive, customizable experience without sacrificing some manual control.”
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured)
The Breville Barista Express (Certified Remanufactured) delivers professional-quality espresso at a lower cost, thanks to its all-in-one design with a built-in grinder and manual microfoam wand. Compared with the newer Barista Touch, it lacks touchscreen controls but appeals to those who prefer hands-on brewing and are comfortable with manual adjustments. Its 6-month warranty is shorter, and the remanufactured status might concern some buyers, but it still provides the core features needed to craft espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos. This option is best for budget-minded users who don’t mind a learning curve and manual operation, but it may be less appealing for those seeking ease of use or long-term reliability.
Pros:- All-in-one setup with integrated grinder
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Includes essential accessories for brewing and maintenance
Cons:- Remanufactured product may vary in condition
- Limited warranty duration
Best for: Budget-conscious home baristas eager to learn manual espresso techniques
Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prefer automated, maintenance-free machines, due to manual controls and shorter warranty
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Features:Integrated conical burr grinder, digital PID temperature control, manual microfoam wand
- Warranty:Six months
Our verdict“This model suits passionate learners who want a capable, manual espresso machine without a premium price.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express is a solid choice for beginners who want to learn the craft of espresso making. Its built-in grinder and manual operation require some skill but allow for greater control over the brewing process, unlike fully automatic models. Compared to the BES880BTR, it lacks touchscreen features but offers a more traditional, hands-on experience. Its 1-year warranty supports durability, but its size and manual operation might be intimidating for users seeking quick, effortless drinks. This machine makes the most sense for those willing to develop barista skills at home, but less so for those who prioritize convenience over control.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with adjustable settings
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Includes comprehensive accessories for brewing and maintenance
Cons:- Manual operation requires practice and skill
- Relatively large footprint and price
Best for: Home users eager to learn manual espresso techniques and develop barista skills
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those preferring quick, hands-off operation, due to manual controls and learning curve
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Warranty:1 Year
Our verdict“This is well-suited for beginners committed to mastering espresso brewing through hands-on control.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR stands out for its comprehensive feature set that combines a built-in conical burr grinder, precise temperature control, and a steam wand capable of microfoam. Compared to the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, it offers more manual control, appealing to users who enjoy fine-tuning their espresso. However, this setup can be daunting for beginners, and the machine’s complexity might lead to a longer learning curve. Its relatively limited capacity makes it less suitable for frequent large batches without refilling. The higher price reflects its versatility and control, making it an excellent choice for dedicated home enthusiasts rather than casual coffee drinkers.
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:- Relatively complex setup for beginners
- Limited capacity for frequent use without refilling
- Higher price point for a home espresso machine
Best for: Coffee lovers who want full control over their brewing process and enjoy customizing their espresso at home.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a straightforward, plug-and-play machine without the learning curve.
- 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“This machine is best suited for serious home baristas who value control and customization over simplicity.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro offers an excellent balance between automation and customization, featuring an intuitive LCD interface that simplifies operation compared to the manual control of the Barista Express. Its built-in grinder with adjustable control ensures fresh coffee every time, and the large 67 oz water tank supports multiple drinks without frequent refills. While its high power consumption might concern energy-conscious users, it provides quicker heat-up times and more consistent temperature stability. For those seeking a more automated experience, it surpasses the Breville Bambino in ease of use but comes with a premium price tag, making it ideal for home baristas who prioritize speed and convenience without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with adjustable control
- Intuitive LCD interface for easy operation
- Large water tank supports multiple drinks
- Includes comprehensive accessories and cleaning kit
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- May be complex for absolute beginners
- Price may be steep for casual coffee drinkers
Best for: Home users who want barista-quality espresso with minimal fuss and a user-friendly interface.
Not ideal for: Complete beginners who are overwhelmed by multiple settings, or budget-conscious buyers seeking a lower-cost option.
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This model is well-suited for tech-savvy coffee enthusiasts wanting quick, consistent results at home.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers a compact and straightforward approach to home espresso, ideal for newcomers. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing simplifies milk-based drinks, making it accessible for users still learning the craft. Compared to the more advanced Barista Express models, it lacks extensive customization, but that tradeoff makes it less intimidating to use. Its small footprint is perfect for tiny kitchens, although it may limit the variety of drinks you can make and requires some experimentation to optimize extraction. This machine makes the most sense for casual users who want quality espresso without a steep learning curve or the need for detailed adjustments.
Pros:- Easy to use for beginners
- Produces high-quality espresso and milk froth
- Compact size fits well in small kitchens
- Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing
Cons:- Limited advanced customization options
- Requires some learning for optimal use
- Not suitable for frequent high-volume use
Best for: Beginners seeking an easy-to-use, space-saving espresso machine for occasional use.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting extensive customization and advanced features.
- Model:BES450BSS
- Type:Espresso Machine
- Features:Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing, Compact Design, Manual Operation
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for new users wanting simple operation and good results in a small space.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress elevates home espresso with automatic dosing, temperature controls, and an assisted tamping system that simplifies achieving consistent pressure. Its built-in grinder with 25 grind settings supports precise dosing, while the powerful steam wand handles microfoam creation for latte art. Compared to the manual control of the original Barista Express, its automation reduces user variability, making it ideal for those seeking café-quality drinks with less effort. However, the absence of specific weight and dimension details and its potential complexity might deter absolute beginners or those with limited space. It suits users who want automation without sacrificing quality and consistency.
Pros:- Automatic dosing and temperature control
- 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:- No specific price listed, potentially costly
- Potentially complex for new users
- Weight and dimensions not specified
Best for: Home enthusiasts who prioritize consistent espresso quality with assistance in tamping and dosing.
Not ideal for: Beginners uncomfortable with advanced features or users with limited space for larger machines.
- 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“This machine is ideal for those seeking high consistency and automation in their espresso routine without sacrificing quality.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch offers a highly user-friendly experience with its touch screen interface, making it easier to craft a variety of coffee drinks. Its built-in grinder with adjustable control ensures fresh grounds, while pre-programmed favorites streamline routine drinks. Compared to the more manual Breville BES870BTR, it emphasizes automation and ease of use, ideal for users wanting quick results with minimal fuss. However, the high price and need for regular cleaning might be drawbacks for budget-conscious or low-maintenance users. This model suits those who want barista-quality drinks at home without the steep learning curve.
Pros:- User-friendly touch screen interface
- Built-in grinder with adjustable control
- Includes comprehensive accessories
- Supports various coffee styles with pre-set options
Cons:- High price point
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
- Limited water tank capacity for heavy daily use
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy customizing drinks with a simple interface and prefer convenience over extensive manual control.
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or those seeking a low-maintenance machine with fewer features.
- Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, stainless steel jug, filters, water filter, cleaning kit
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Touch Screen:Yes
- Pre-Programmed Favorites:5
- Custom Settings:8
- Adjustable Grind Control:Yes
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for users who want a customizable, easy-to-operate espresso machine with modern features.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on key factors that matter most to home baristas: performance consistency, ease of use, build quality, value for price, and feature set. We compared models across these criteria, prioritizing machines that balance advanced features with user-friendly operation. Price range was also a consideration, ensuring options for different budgets. The ranking reflects how well each model meets these needs, with the top picks excelling in overall usability and durability while offering good value for their class.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When selecting a Breville espresso machine, it’s important to consider several factors that influence your daily coffee experience. Not all models are created equal, and understanding what features matter most can help you avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary options or choosing a machine that’s too complicated for your skill level.Performance and Consistency
Look for machines with precise temperature control and stable pressure systems to ensure consistent extraction. Models like the Barista Touch and Impress excel here, delivering café-quality espresso every time. Avoid overly complicated machines if you prefer quick, reliable results without extensive adjustments.
Ease of Use and Automation
Automation features such as touchscreen controls, pre-programmed shots, and automatic milk frothing can drastically reduce the learning curve. However, more automated systems often come at a higher cost and less control. Consider your comfort level with manual operations versus preferring a push-button experience.
Build Quality and Durability
Stainless steel construction generally offers better longevity and a more premium feel. Cheaper plastics may save money upfront but tend to wear out faster. Think about how much you value a sleek aesthetic and long-term durability when making your choice.
Size and Space Requirements
Some models like the Bambino are compact, ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space. Larger, more feature-rich machines require more room but often provide more versatility. Measure your available space carefully to match your machine to your kitchen layout.
Price and Value
Higher-priced models typically offer more automation, durability, and customization, but may be unnecessary if you’re just starting out. Conversely, budget options can be a smart entry point, but might lack advanced features or ease of use. Balance your budget with feature needs to find the best value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a fully automatic Breville machine worth the extra cost?
Fully automatic Breville machines can save time and reduce the skill barrier, making it easier to produce consistent espresso and milk-based drinks. However, they tend to be more expensive and less customizable than semi-automatic models. If you value convenience and are willing to pay for automation, this type is worth considering, but if you prefer more control over brewing parameters, a semi-automatic might suit you better.
Are refurbished Breville machines a good choice?
Refurbished Breville models, like the Barista Express, often come at a lower price and still deliver solid performance, especially if purchased from reputable sources. They are a practical option for budget-conscious buyers who want quality without paying full retail. Just ensure the warranty and return policy are clear, and check for any signs of wear or prior use.
What’s the main difference between the Barista Express and the Barista Pro?
The Barista Pro offers a faster heat-up time and a more modern, touchscreen interface compared to the original Barista Express. It also features upgraded components for more precise temperature control and a more streamlined workflow. If quick operation and modern controls are priorities, the Pro version stands out, but it comes at a higher price.
How important is the steam wand type for milk frothing?
The quality and type of steam wand greatly influence milk texture. A commercial-style wand provides more control and better frothing, suitable for latte art and creamy textures. Some models, like the Impress, include automatic steam options, which are easier but less flexible. Consider your milk preferences and skill level when choosing the wand type.
Should I prioritize a machine with a built-in grinder?
Machines with integrated grinders, like the Barista Express series, offer convenience by grinding fresh beans for each shot, improving flavor. However, they often come with a higher price and require more maintenance. If you value freshly ground coffee and want to simplify your setup, a built-in grinder is a good feature; otherwise, using a separate grinder can sometimes deliver better control and longevity.
Conclusion
For casual coffee drinkers or those just starting out, the Breville Bambino offers simplicity and good quality at an accessible price. Serious enthusiasts seeking convenience and consistent café-style results should consider the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, which combines automation with advanced features. Budget-conscious buyers will find excellent value in remanufactured options like the Breville Barista Express, while those who prioritize durability and premium design should opt for models like the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, desired features, and how much you’re willing to invest in your daily coffee ritual.
