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Breville is renowned for its innovative kitchen appliances, especially espresso machines that blend performance and style. The best overall pick, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, offers a balanced mix of automation and customization. For those seeking premium features, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro delivers professional-grade results at home. Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus is ideal for beginners or those with limited space, thanks to its straightforward operation. The main tradeoffs involve balancing price, ease of use, and advanced features — more tech often means more complexity and higher cost. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these top options and what makes each stand out.

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10
compared
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brands
Which Breville should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
Best Overall for Advanced Home Baristas
Advanced auto steam wand for perfect microfoam
See on Amazon →
Home baristas who prioritize consistent, café-quality espresso with easy operation and automatic milk frothing.
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
Automatic microfoam milk texturing
View on Amazon →
Small-space dwellers who want quick, high-quality espresso and milk drinks with minimal fuss.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Compact size fits small kitchens
View on Amazon →
Home users seeking a semi-automatic machine with manual and automatic features to develop their barista skills.
Breville BES876BST Barista Exp
Manual microfoam wand for detailed milk texturing
View on Amazon →
Home cooks who want a multi-function oven that can handle large meals and diverse cooking tasks without multiple appliances.
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven
13 versatile cooking functions
View on Amazon →
Pros & cons at a glance
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
✓ Advanced auto steam wand for perfect microfoam
✗ Steep learning curve for new users
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
✓ Automatic microfoam milk texturing
✗ Complex features require some learning
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
✓ Compact size fits small kitchens
✗ Limited to 1-2 cups at a time
Breville BES876BST Barista Exp
✓ Manual microfoam wand for detailed milk texturing
✗ Complex setup and operation
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven
✓ 13 versatile cooking functions
✗ High power consumption
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp
✓ Integrated grinder with adjustable grind size
✗ Relatively high power consumption
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
✓ Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
✗ Complex interface may challenge beginners
Breville Bambino Espresso Mach
✓ Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
✗ Limited to 1 or 2 cup brewing options
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
✓ Professional-quality espresso with customizable settings
✗ Complex setup can challenge beginners
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
✗ Learning curve for beginners

Complete the kit

Amazon Basics Basket Coffee Filters for 8-12 Cup Coffee M...
Amazon Basics Basket Coffee Filters for 8-12 Cup Coffee M…
Add to your setup →
Melitta #4 Unbleached Coffee Filters, Natural Brown Cone...
Melitta #4 Unbleached Coffee Filters, Natural Brown Cone…
Add to your setup →
8-12 Cup Basket Coffee Filters (Natural Unbleached, 200)
8-12 Cup Basket Coffee Filters (Natural Unbleached, 200)
Add to your setup →

Key Takeaways

  • The top-ranked Breville models balance advanced espresso-making features with user-friendly interfaces.
  • Higher-end models like the Barista Pro offer more customization but come with increased price and complexity.
  • The Bambino Plus is the best choice for beginners or small kitchens due to its simplicity and compact size.
  • Most models excel at delivering barista-quality espresso, but some trade off automation for control.
  • Durability and build quality are consistent across the lineup, with brushed stainless steel options offering a premium feel.
2
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
Best for Precise, Cafe-Quality Espresso
1
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
Best Overall for Advanced Home Baristas
3
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Best Compact for Small Kitchens

Our Top Breville Picks

Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Overall for Advanced Home BaristasMaterial: Brushed Stainless SteelHeating System: ThermoJetGrinder: Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 grind settingsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Precise, Cafe-Quality EspressoPower: 1680 WattsVoltage: 110 to 120VWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Compact for Small KitchensWater Pressure: Pre-infusion + high pressureDosing: 54mm portafilter, 19 gramsHeat Up Time: 3 secondsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless SteelBreville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless SteelBest for Versatile Home BaristasCapacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tankGrind Settings: 25Included Accessories: 54mm portafilter, milk jug, filtersVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer ProBreville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer ProBest Multi-Function Countertop OvenPower: 1800 WattsVoltage: 120VInterior Capacity: 16 x 13.5 x 7 inchesVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBreville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBest Overall for Versatile Home BaristasCapacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water TankPower: 1600 WattsVoltage: 120 VoltsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Speed and Tech-Savvy UsersCapacity: 1/2 lb Bean HopperWater Tank: 67 ozPower: 1680 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Compact for Small Spaces and BeginnersPower: 1560 WattsVoltage: 110-120 VoltsBrew Capacity: 1 or 2 CupsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Professional-Grade Automation and CustomizationCapacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tankGrind Settings: 25Portafilter Size: 54mmVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Classic Manual Control and CustomizationCapacity: 1/2 lb Bean HopperWater Tank: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
BrevilleIncluded AccessoriesPowerVoltageWarranty
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou————
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip1680 Watts110 to 120V2 Years
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso—1560 Watts110-120V2 Year
Breville BES876BST Barista Exp54mm portafilter, milk jug, filters———
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Pizza Pan, Oven Racks, Broil Rack, Roasting Pan, Mesh Basket1800 Watts120V—
Breville BES870BTR Barista ExpStainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools1600 Watts120 Volts1 Year Limited
Breville BES878BSS Barista ProSingle & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter1680 Watts—2 Year Limited
Breville Bambino Espresso MachMilk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder1560 Watts110-120 Volts1 Year Limited
Breville BES876BSS Barista ExpStainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets———
Breville BES870XL Barista ExprStainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools1600 Watts——

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Overall for Advanced Home Baristas

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress stands out for its combination of automation and customization, making it suitable for serious coffee enthusiasts who want café-quality drinks at home. Its auto steam wand ensures perfect microfoam, rivaling the manual control of the Barista Express Impress but with less effort, thanks to intuitive touchscreen presets. Compared with the Bambino Plus, it offers more drink customization and faster setup, though at a higher price and with a steeper learning curve. The inclusion of a cold brew function adds versatility that even the most specialized machines lack. However, this model’s complexity and cost make it less ideal for beginners or those seeking a straightforward setup. Tradeoffs include the higher price and a learning curve that might overwhelm casual users.

    Pros:
    • Advanced auto steam wand for perfect microfoam
    • Touchscreen with customizable presets
    • Fast ThermoJet heating system for quick operation
    • Cold brew function adds versatility
    Cons:
    • Steep learning curve for new users
    • Higher price point limits accessibility
    • Limited detailed review info available

    Best for: Home baristas who want a highly customizable, semi-automatic machine with advanced features.

    Not ideal for: Casual users or beginners who prefer simple, plug-and-play espresso machines without extensive settings.

    • 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 machine is best suited for experienced coffee lovers seeking professional-level customization at home.”
  2. Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Precise, Cafe-Quality Espresso

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers a sleek, touchscreen interface paired with automatic microfoam milk texturing, making it ideal for those who want high-quality espresso and milk drinks with minimal fuss. Its fast heat-up with ThermoJet rivals the Bambino Plus, but with more control over grind and dose thanks to its precise settings and included accessories. While it’s more affordable than the Barista Impress, it still commands a premium price for its automatic features. The large footprint might be a concern for smaller kitchens, and the complexity could challenge newcomers. Its main tradeoff is a higher cost and slightly larger size compared to simpler models.

    Pros:
    • Automatic microfoam milk texturing
    • Touchscreen interface simplifies customization
    • Fast heat-up time
    • Includes accessories for comprehensive setup
    Cons:
    • High price for home use
    • Complex features require some learning
    • Large footprint may not suit small kitchens

    Best for: Home baristas who prioritize consistent, café-quality espresso with easy operation and automatic milk frothing.

    Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those with limited counter space seeking a more straightforward machine.

    • 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
    “This machine is ideal for users who want professional-quality espresso with minimal manual effort and are willing to invest in user-friendly automation.”
  3. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Compact for Small Kitchens

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Bambino Plus delivers café-quality espresso in a compact form, making it perfect for small kitchens or limited countertop space. Its ThermoJet system heats up in just 3 seconds, rivaling larger machines like the Barista Express Impress. The automatic steam wand produces excellent microfoam, and with simple controls, it’s accessible for beginners. However, its limited to 1 or 2 cup settings and fewer customization options compared to larger, more advanced models mean it’s less suited for users wanting extensive drink variety or precise control. Its higher price might seem steep for the size, and some learning curve remains in mastering milk texturing. Tradeoffs include reduced versatility for space-saving design.

    Pros:
    • Compact size fits small kitchens
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
    • Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
    • Precise temperature control
    Cons:
    • Limited to 1-2 cups at a time
    • Requires some learning curve
    • Higher price for a small machine

    Best for: Small-space dwellers who want quick, high-quality espresso and milk drinks with minimal fuss.

    Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or households needing multiple drink options or advanced customization.

    • Water Pressure:Pre-infusion + high pressure
    • Dosing:54mm portafilter, 19 grams
    • Heat Up Time:3 seconds
    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120V
    • Warranty:2 Year
    Our verdict
    “This pick makes the most sense for users needing a space-efficient, quick-heat machine that still delivers professional-quality espresso.”
  4. Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel

    Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel

    Best for Versatile Home Baristas

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress combines manual control with automation, making it ideal for those who want to refine their barista skills while enjoying convenience. Its manual microfoam wand allows for detailed milk texturing, while the automatic dosing and assisted tamping simplify workflow, similar to the Barista Express but with smarter features. The built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings offers precise control over grind size, critical for quality espresso. Its size and complexity may overwhelm beginners, and its higher price reflects its professional-level features. The main tradeoff is that the setup and learning curve are more demanding than simpler machines. This machine balances manual control with automation, suited for enthusiasts ready to develop their skills.

    Pros:
    • Manual microfoam wand for detailed milk texturing
    • Smart dosing and assisted tamping
    • Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
    • Versatile for developing barista skills
    Cons:
    • Complex setup and operation
    • Relatively high price
    • Large size requires significant counter space

    Best for: Home users seeking a semi-automatic machine with manual and automatic features to develop their barista skills.

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited counter space who prefer a straightforward, plug-and-play machine.

    • Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
    • Grind Settings:25
    • Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, milk jug, filters
    • Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, assisted tamping
    Our verdict
    “This machine suits eager home baristas who want manual control combined with smart automation for better results.”
  5. Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

    Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

    Best Multi-Function Countertop Oven

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro expands beyond coffee into versatile cooking, offering 13 functions like air frying, roasting, and dehydrating. Its super convection technology ensures even cooking, and its large capacity suits big meals like a 14-pound turkey. While it’s a powerhouse for meal prep, its high power consumption of 1800 Watts and bulky size may limit convenience, especially in smaller kitchens. Compared to standalone appliances, its price can seem steep, but the multiple functions justify the cost for those seeking a single, all-in-one solution. The tradeoff is that it’s less portable and more energy-consuming than basic ovens.

    Pros:
    • 13 versatile cooking functions
    • Large interior capacity
    • Smart Element iQ for even cooking
    • Includes multiple accessories for varied tasks
    Cons:
    • High power consumption
    • Bulky size requiring ample space
    • Higher price compared to basic ovens

    Best for: Home cooks who want a multi-function oven that can handle large meals and diverse cooking tasks without multiple appliances.

    Not ideal for: Small households or those with limited counter space, due to its size and power needs.

    • Power:1800 Watts
    • Voltage:120V
    • Interior Capacity:16 x 13.5 x 7 inches
    • Cooking Functions:13
    • Included Accessories:Pizza Pan, Oven Racks, Broil Rack, Roasting Pan, Mesh Basket
    Our verdict
    “This oven makes sense for busy families or entertainers who need a wide range of cooking options in a single countertop appliance.”
  6. Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES870BTR stands out for its all-in-one design, combining a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control and manual microfoam, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive espresso setup at home. Compared to the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, it offers similar features but with a slightly more traditional interface, which may appeal to users who prefer tactile controls over digital displays. However, its higher power consumption and limited water capacity mean it’s less suited for frequent, high-volume use. This model is perfect for dedicated home baristas who value customization and all-in-one convenience, but it may be too costly and bulky for casual users or small kitchens.

    Pros:
    • Integrated grinder with adjustable grind size
    • Precise temperature control ensures optimal extraction
    • Manual microfoam for latte art
    • Includes multiple accessories and cleaning tools
    Cons:
    • Relatively high power consumption
    • Limited water capacity for frequent use
    • Price may be high for casual users

    Best for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking a versatile, compact machine with integrated grinding and manual control

    Not ideal for: Casual users who prefer quick, automatic brewing or have limited counter 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
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “This espresso machine suits serious home baristas who want full control and convenience in one package.”
  7. Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Speed and Tech-Savvy Users

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Barista Pro is designed for those who prioritize quick operation and digital precision, featuring a fast ThermoJet heating system that heats up in seconds and a digital interface for easy customization. Compared with the Breville BES870BTR, it offers an upgraded user experience with a more modern display and quicker heat-up, making it a strong choice for busy mornings. Its larger size and complex interface might overwhelm beginners or those with limited space, but experienced users will appreciate the accuracy and speed. It’s ideal for coffee lovers who want café-quality drinks with minimal wait, though its higher price and size could be drawbacks for smaller kitchens or casual drinkers.

    Pros:
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    • Precise digital temperature control
    • Built-in conical burr grinder with dose control
    • Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
    Cons:
    • Complex interface may challenge beginners
    • Relatively high price point
    • Large size may require significant counter space

    Best for: Tech-savvy coffee lovers who need quick, reliable espresso at home

    Not ideal for: Beginners or users with limited kitchen space who prefer simple, manual controls

    • Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
    • Water Tank:67 oz
    • Power:1680 Watts
    • 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 is best suited for experienced home baristas who value speed, precision, and modern features over simplicity.”
  8. Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Compact for Small Spaces and Beginners

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Bambino is ideal for those with limited kitchen real estate who still want to produce quality espresso, thanks to its quick heat-up via ThermoJet and automatic steam wand. Compared with the more manual Breville BES870BTR, it simplifies operation with automatic milk frothing, making it accessible for beginners. However, its limited brewing options—just one or two cups—and manual operation for other steps might frustrate users wanting more control. This pick makes the most sense for apartment dwellers or first-time espresso drinkers who prioritize ease and speed over extensive customization, but it may fall short for experienced baristas looking for advanced features.

    Pros:
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    • Automatic steam wand for microfoam
    • Compact design suitable for small kitchens
    • Precise temperature control for consistent results
    Cons:
    • Limited to 1 or 2 cup brewing options
    • Requires manual operation for precise results
    • Price not specified, but typically higher for its size

    Best for: Small-space dwellers and newcomers seeking straightforward, quality espresso

    Not ideal for: Experienced users or those wanting advanced customization and larger capacity

    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Brew Capacity:1 or 2 Cups
    • Included Accessories:Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “This machine is perfect for beginners and small kitchens where simplicity and speed are priorities.”
  9. Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Professional-Grade Automation and Customization

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES876BSS offers a semi-automatic experience with advanced features like assisted tamping and a built-in grinder with 25 grind settings, making it suitable for those who want barista-level control without manual effort. Compared to the Breville BES870BTR, its intelligent dosing and automated tamping streamline the process, reducing the learning curve while still offering customization. Its larger footprint and higher price point mean it’s best suited for dedicated coffee enthusiasts rather than casual users. For those seeking a semi-automatic machine with professional features and less manual fuss, this model delivers impressive results, though it might be overkill for casual drinkers or small kitchens.

    Pros:
    • Professional-quality espresso with customizable settings
    • Built-in grinder with 25 grind settings
    • Assisted tamping for consistent pressure
    • Includes useful accessories and cleaning tools
    Cons:
    • Complex setup can challenge beginners
    • Relatively large footprint
    • High price may be prohibitive for casual users

    Best for: Coffee hobbyists wanting semi-automatic control with automation features

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simple machines

    • 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 caters to dedicated enthusiasts seeking semi-automatic control with advanced automation features for professional results.”
  10. Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Classic Manual Control and Customization

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES870XL has long been a favorite for those who want a semi-automatic machine with extensive manual control, featuring a built-in conical burr grinder, precise temperature regulation, and a manual microfoam wand. Compared with the newer BES878BSS, it offers a slightly more traditional interface, which might appeal to purists who prefer tactile dials over digital screens. Its size can be a concern for small kitchens, but enthusiasts appreciate its depth of control and ability to craft personalized espresso shots. This model is ideal for those willing to invest time in learning the craft but may be too complex for absolute beginners or users with limited space.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
    • Precise temperature control with PID
    • Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
    • Customizable grind size and shot volume
    Cons:
    • Relatively high price point
    • Learning curve for beginners
    • Bulkier size may require ample counter space

    Best for: Experienced home baristas who want hands-on control and customization

    Not ideal for: First-time users or those with limited space seeking a plug-and-play machine

    • Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
    • Water Tank:67 oz
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
    Our verdict
    “This machine is best suited for seasoned users who value manual control and personalized brewing over simplicity.”
Breville
What makes a great Breville
1
Performance and Brew Quality
The primary reason to choose a Breville is its ability to produce high-quality espresso.
2
Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models prioritize automation, offering features like touchscreen controls and programmable settings.
3
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Espresso machines vary significantly in footprint.
4
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining brew quality and machine longevity.
How to choose your Breville
1
How we picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value.
2
Performance and Brew Quality
The primary reason to choose a Breville is its ability to produce high-quality espresso.
3
Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models prioritize automation, offering features like touchscreen controls and programmable settings.
4
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Espresso machines vary significantly in footprint.
5
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining brew quality and machine longevity.
Vetted Breville ·
The best Breville, compared
★ Winner Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
Best Overall for Advanced Home Baristas
10compared

How We Picked

The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized models that are widely reviewed and trusted by consumers, emphasizing features that improve brewing consistency and ease of operation. The ranking reflects a balance between advanced capabilities, price, and suitability for different skill levels. We also considered maintenance requirements and overall durability, ensuring these appliances stand the test of time for home use. The goal was to identify options that cater to a range of needs from entry-level to professional-grade espresso making.
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which Breville fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville

Choosing the right Breville machine involves considering several factors beyond just price. First, think about your skill level—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced barista. Next, evaluate the available space in your kitchen, as some models are more compact while others are larger and feature-rich. Consider how much automation versus manual control you want, especially if you enjoy tweaking settings or prefer a set-it-and-forget-it machine. Price is also a key factor; more advanced models tend to cost more but offer better precision and durability. Lastly, assess maintenance needs and how easy it is to clean and service your machine, as this impacts long-term satisfaction.

Performance and Brew Quality

The primary reason to choose a Breville is its ability to produce high-quality espresso. Look for models with robust heating systems, precise temperature control, and good pressure regulation. Manual control features like adjustable grind size and tamping can enhance results for experienced users, while automated milk frothing simplifies the process for beginners. Keep in mind that more advanced machines often come with additional accessories or features that improve consistency but can increase complexity.

Ease of Use and Automation

Some Breville models prioritize automation, offering features like touchscreen controls and programmable settings. These are excellent for users who want quick, reliable results without much fuss. Conversely, manual machines provide more control over brewing variables, which can be rewarding but may require more skill and effort. Consider your comfort with technology and how much time you’re willing to invest in learning your machine’s features.

Size and Kitchen Compatibility

Espresso machines vary significantly in footprint. Compact models like the Bambino are perfect for small kitchens or limited counter space, while larger units offer more features and capacity. Measure your available space carefully before choosing, and also consider storage for accessories like beans, filters, and cleaning supplies. A larger machine might be more versatile but less practical if space is tight.

Price and Long-term Value

While budget is always a concern, investing in a slightly more expensive machine can pay off in durability, performance, and features. Cheaper models may lack consistency or require more maintenance over time. Think about whether the initial cost aligns with your intended usage and future needs—sometimes paying more upfront results in better long-term satisfaction.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining brew quality and machine longevity. Look for models with accessible water tanks, removable drip trays, and automated cleaning cycles. Some units include descaling alerts or self-cleaning features that simplify upkeep. Ignoring routine maintenance can lead to clogs or performance issues, so choose a machine that fits your willingness to care for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get professional-quality espresso at home with a Breville?

Absolutely. Many Breville models, especially the higher-end ones like the Barista Pro or Impress, are designed to produce cafe-quality espresso. They feature professional-grade components such as precise temperature control, pressure profiling, and powerful steam wands. While they may not perfectly replicate a commercial machine, they come close for home use, especially with some practice. The key is understanding how to operate the machine to fully exploit its capabilities and invest a little time in learning basic barista techniques.

Are Breville espresso machines suitable for beginners?

Yes, several Breville models are tailored to beginners, offering intuitive controls and automated features. The Bambino Plus, for example, simplifies the espresso-making process with its one-touch operation and automatic milk frothing. These machines are designed to deliver good results without requiring extensive barista skills, making them ideal for newcomers. However, even beginner models allow for manual adjustments if you wish to learn more about brewing nuances later on.

How often should I descale my Breville machine?

Descaling frequency depends on your water hardness and usage, but a general rule is every 2-3 months. Hard water areas require more frequent descaling to prevent mineral buildup, which can impair performance. Many Breville machines have descaling alerts, signaling when maintenance is needed. Regularly descaling helps maintain temperature stability and pressure, ensuring consistently good espresso. Skipping this step over time can lead to clogs and damage, reducing the lifespan of your machine.

Is a more expensive Breville model worth the upgrade?

In most cases, higher-priced models offer improved durability, more precise temperature control, larger boilers, and additional features like touchscreen interfaces or more advanced steam wands. If you’re serious about espresso and plan to use your machine frequently, investing in a premium model can be worthwhile. It provides better control and consistency, which translates into better-tasting coffee. However, for casual users or those new to espresso, mid-range models often provide excellent value without the added complexity or cost.

What should I consider if I want a Breville machine for small spaces?

For limited kitchen space, look for compact models like the Bambino Plus, which offers good performance in a smaller footprint. These machines often sacrifice some advanced features but still deliver quality espresso and easy operation. Check dimensions carefully to ensure the machine fits comfortably on your countertop, and consider whether you’ll need additional accessories stored nearby. Compact models are ideal for those who want great coffee without sacrificing valuable kitchen real estate.

Conclusion

For the average home barista seeking a reliable, all-around espresso machine, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers a superb balance of automation and control, making it the best overall choice. If budget is a concern but quality is still a priority, the Bambino Plus delivers excellent results in a smaller, more affordable package. For enthusiasts who want professional-grade features and maximum customization, the Barista Pro stands out as the premium pick. Beginners or those with limited space should lean toward simpler, more compact models, while experienced users may prefer the advanced features of higher-end machines for consistent, cafe-quality results at home.

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