Breville is renowned for its high-quality espresso machines that blend performance with user-friendly features. The Breville BES870XL Barista Express stands out as the best overall choice for most coffee enthusiasts, offering a balanced mix of control and convenience. For those seeking a more advanced experience, the Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch provides touchscreen operation and customizable settings. Conversely, budget-conscious buyers may prefer the Bambino for its simplicity and affordability. The main tradeoffs involve balancing price, feature set, and ease of use—more advanced models cost more but offer greater precision, while entry-level options prioritize straightforward operation. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and what makes them suitable for different needs.
Get coffee and tea gear delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The top-tier Breville models excel in automation and customization, appealing to serious coffee enthusiasts.
- Entry-level options like the Bambino focus on simplicity and affordability, ideal for beginners or casual drinkers.
- Design choices, such as color and finish, are more about aesthetics but can influence durability and cleaning.
- Price differences often reflect the inclusion of advanced features like touchscreen controls or additional brewing modes.
- All models maintain high build quality, but performance variations are driven by feature set and user interface complexity.
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Aspiring Home Baristas Who Want Ease and Automation | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Wanting Customization | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lbs | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact, Entry-Level Model | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Users Wanting Ease and Automation | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Advanced Home Baristas | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Intermediate Users Who Value Built-In Grinding | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | Water Tank Capacity: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best Entry-Level Semi-Automatic for Beginners | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Serious Espresso Enthusiasts with Limited Space | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Home Users Seeking Precision and Assistance | Grind Settings: 25 | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | Water Tank Capacity: 2L | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power |
|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | — | 1680 Watts |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper | 1560 Watts |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | — | 1680 Watts |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | razor dose trimming tool, stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools, water filter | 1600 Watts |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1600 Watts |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL stands out as the best all-around choice for home espresso enthusiasts who want a balance of quality and versatility. Its built-in conical burr grinder ensures fresh grounds, while the precise PID temperature control supports high-quality extraction. The steam wand produces microfoam suitable for latte art, making it a strong contender against more automated options like the Barista Touch. However, the machine’s relatively small water capacity and high power draw mean it’s best suited for frequent users willing to learn manual operation. It requires some skill to master, but offers a level of control that appeals to dedicated coffee lovers. Compared to the Bambino, it offers more features but at a higher learning curve. Ideal for serious hobbyists who value hands-on control and quality at home.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for ultimate freshness
- Precise PID temperature regulation for consistent results
- Steam wand creates microfoam for latte art
- Includes multiple accessories for convenience
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Requires some learning curve for optimal use
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
Best for: Home baristas seeking a versatile, high-quality espresso machine with manual control and built-in grinder.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simple, plug-and-play solutions without a steep learning curve.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Features:Built-in grinder, PID temperature control, manual microfoam, grind size dial
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for dedicated home baristas wanting manual control and quality, accepting some complexity in operation.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
The BES876BST Barista Express Impress offers a compelling mix of automation and professional results, making it ideal for users who want quality without extensive manual effort. Its intelligent dosing system and assisted tamping simplify the espresso-making process, setting it apart from the more manual BES870XL. The adjustable grind settings and hot water function provide customization, similar to the Barista Touch but with a more straightforward interface. Yet, the machine’s setup can be complex for complete beginners, and its size demands ample counter space. Compared with the Bambino, it provides more features and better control but at a higher price point. This pick is suited for serious hobbyists who want consistent, high-quality drinks with less fuss and a bit more automation.
Pros:- Automatic dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
- Adjustable grind settings for flavor control
- Hot water function for americanos and teas
- User-friendly interface with automation features
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge complete novices
- Higher price compared to basic machines
- Size could be an issue in small kitchens
Best for: Home users who want professional-looking espresso and milk drinks with minimal manual effort.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners seeking the simplest, most compact machine without complex setup or features.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dose, assisted tamping, PID control, hot water
Our verdict“This machine works best for users who want barista-quality drinks with less manual effort and more automation.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The BES880BTR Barista Touch elevates home espresso with its touchscreen interface and automatic milk texturing, making it ideal for users who prioritize ease of use combined with high customization. Its rapid ThermoJet heat-up system and pre-programmed drink settings enable quick, café-quality results. The touchscreen simplifies adjusting settings, making it accessible for those who find manual controls intimidating. However, the price is a significant consideration, and the weight could be a concern for those with limited space or mobility. Compared with the Bambino, it offers more features and automation but at a higher cost. This model suits those who want the convenience of automation with the ability to fine-tune drinks and enjoy a sleek, modern interface.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Intuitive touchscreen interface for easy customization
- Includes complimentary coffee beans with registration
Cons:- Expensive compared to manual or semi-automatic options
- Potentially heavy and bulky for small kitchens
- Price may be prohibitive for casual users
Best for: Tech-savvy home baristas seeking a customizable, touchscreen-controlled espresso machine with automatic milk texturing.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those preferring manual control over their espresso experience.
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Pre-programmed Settings:5 cafe favorites
- Display:Touchscreen
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for users who want quick, customizable, and automated espresso at home with a modern interface.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino offers a straightforward, compact option for beginners who want quick espresso with some manual control. Its ThermoJet rapid heat-up and precise temperature regulation support quality brewing in a small footprint. The manual steam wand allows for microfoam creation, but mastering milk texturing requires some practice. Compared with the more feature-rich models like the Barista Touch or Express Impress, the Bambino lacks automation and advanced customization, making it less suitable for frequent, high-volume use. Its smaller size and lower price point make it an attractive choice for those with limited space or budget. However, casual users should be aware that manual skills are still necessary to produce professional-quality drinks.
Pros:- Quick heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Precise temperature control for good extraction
- Compact size ideal for small kitchens
- Manual steam wand for microfoam
Cons:- Requires skill to master manual milk texturing
- Limited to home use, not suitable for high-volume demands
- Higher cost relative to basic entry-level machines
Best for: Beginners or small households wanting an easy, compact espresso maker with manual features.
Not ideal for: Experienced home baristas or those who want automation and extensive customization.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper
- Brewing Capacity:1 or 2 cups
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for beginners or small spaces seeking a straightforward, manual espresso option.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES880BSS Barista Touch combines automatic microfoam milk texturing with a touchscreen interface, making it ideal for users who prefer a quick, customizable experience. Its fast ThermoJet heat-up ensures minimal wait times, while the integrated grinder and pre-set options allow for consistent, café-quality drinks at home. The intuitive touchscreen simplifies complex adjustments, setting it apart from more manual models. Nonetheless, its higher price and larger footprint may be drawbacks for budget-conscious or space-limited users. Compared with the BES870XL, it offers more automation and modern controls but at a premium. This machine is best suited for those wanting a sleek, user-friendly, and automated coffee experience without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for latte art
- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen interface for simple customization
- Integrated grinder supports fresh coffee
Cons:- Higher cost may deter budget-conscious buyers
- Size may be less suitable for small kitchens
- Complex features could require time to learn
Best for: Home baristas who prioritize convenience, automation, and quick results in a stylish package.
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or those preferring manual control over their espresso-making process.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Features:Touchscreen display, programmable settings, integrated grinder
Our verdict“This machine suits users seeking a seamless, automated, and stylish espresso experience at home.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for combining professional-level customization with convenience, thanks to its automatic milk frothing and built-in grinder. The touchscreen interface simplifies operation, making it accessible for those wanting barista-quality drinks at home. Compared with the Breville BES876BSS, the BES881BSS offers more preset drink options and a Cold Brew function, but its complex setup and higher price might intimidate beginners. The quick heat-up with ThermoJet technology is a major advantage, but regular maintenance is necessary to keep performance at peak. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for experienced home users seeking maximum customization without manual effort, accepting that it requires some initial learning and investment.
Pros:- Quick 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Intuitive touchscreen with customizable presets
- Automatic milk frothing with alternative milk options
- Built-in grinder with precise dose control
Cons:- Complex setup may be challenging for beginners
- Higher price point compared to basic espresso machines
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want a versatile, semi-automatic machine with advanced features.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those on a tight budget, since the setup can be complex and the price high.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs
- Grind Settings:30
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Drinks:13
Our verdict“This is best suited for experienced espresso lovers who want high customization and convenience at home.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
Compared to the Breville BES870BSXL, the BES876DBL integrates a conical burr grinder with 25 settings, providing fresh grounds that enhance flavor. Its manual microfoam wand allows for latte art and milk-based drinks, appealing to users who enjoy hands-on control. However, the lack of detailed weight info and the potential for complexity may discourage complete beginners. This model is well-suited for those who want quality control without the full automation of higher-end models, but it might overwhelm users unfamiliar with espresso basics. Its design and features make it a good middle ground for enthusiasts ready to progress beyond entry-level machines.
Pros:- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
- Intelligent dosing system for consistent extraction
- Stylish damson blue finish adds aesthetic appeal
Cons:- No specific weight info provided, affecting portability
- Complexity might overwhelm beginners
- Price not clearly specified, possibly high for some buyers
Best for: Home baristas who appreciate manual control but want a integrated grinder for better flavor.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who prefer fully automatic machines or users who dislike complex setups.
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Ideal for intermediate users seeking a manual experience with integrated grinding in a stylish package.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
This model is a solid choice for those new to espresso brewing, offering a built-in conical burr grinder and precise temperature control via PID, which helps produce consistent shots. Its steam wand enables microfoam creation, but the machine’s relatively high power consumption and limited bean capacity mean it’s best for casual use rather than heavy daily production. Compared with the more advanced BES881BSS, it has fewer preset options and lacks some automation features, but its straightforward design still appeals to beginners. Its smaller footprint makes it suitable for compact kitchens, though it requires some learning curve to master the grind and tamping processes.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID technology
- Steam wand for microfoam
- Includes multiple accessories for convenience
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited bean capacity for frequent use
- Requires learning curve for optimal use
Best for: New espresso enthusiasts looking for a straightforward, affordable machine with built-in grinding.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those seeking a fully automated, feature-rich experience.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:razor dose trimming tool, stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools, water filter
Our verdict“This is a reliable choice for beginners wanting an all-in-one machine with room to learn and grow.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
Compared to the brushed stainless steel BES880BTR, the Black Truffle version offers a similar feature set with a stylish, darker finish that appeals to modern kitchens. Its integrated grinder and precise temperature control make it suitable for users who want professional results at home. The large footprint and 67 oz water tank mean it’s best placed in dedicated coffee areas, but it’s less ideal for small counters. Its focus on quality extraction and microfoam capabilities makes it a favorite for dedicated espresso lovers, yet the size and cost may turn away casual users. This machine balances performance and style for those willing to invest in a serious setup.
Pros:- Integrated conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Stylish black truffle finish
Cons:- Large footprint requiring ample counter space
- Higher price point
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
Best for: Home baristas who value style and professional features but have limited space.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with small kitchens who need a compact or budget-friendly option.
- 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“Best suited for dedicated espresso enthusiasts wanting a stylish, high-performance machine with a smaller footprint than larger commercial models.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine emphasizes automated features like intelligent dosing and assisted tamping, making it ideal for those who want cafe-quality espresso without the full manual effort. Its built-in grinder with 25 grind settings offers customization, and the powerful steam wand helps craft microfoam with ease. Compared with the BES876DBL, this version’s brushed stainless steel finish offers a sleek look, but both share similar core features. The size and price may be a barrier for casual users, but for serious home enthusiasts, the combination of automation and manual control provides a balanced experience. It’s a solid choice for those who want professional results with less fuss.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with 25 grind settings
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
- Intelligent dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
- Sleek brushed stainless steel finish
Cons:- May be complex for beginners due to multiple features
- Relatively large size and higher price
- Requires some learning curve for optimal use
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want automation combined with manual control for consistent results.
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual users who prefer simple, fully automatic machines.
- Grind Settings:25
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Included Accessories:stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Designed for experienced users seeking a balance of automation and manual control in a stylish, durable machine.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on their performance, build quality, usability, and value for different types of users. We prioritized models that consistently deliver great espresso with minimal fuss, while also considering features like automation, customization, and maintenance. The ranking reflects a balance between price and performance, with a clear distinction between entry-level, mid-range, and premium options. We also looked at customer feedback, reliability, and design to ensure each model offers a distinct experience suited to different buyer needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves more than just comparing features. It’s important to consider your skill level, how much control you want over the brewing process, and your budget. Understanding these factors can help you avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features or buying a model that’s too complex for your needs. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:Ease of Use and Automation
If you’re new to espresso making, look for models with intuitive controls and automation features that simplify the process. Machines like the Bambino excel here, offering quick setup and straightforward operation. More advanced users might prefer models with manual controls or touchscreen interfaces that provide greater customization but require some learning curve. Think about how much time you’re willing to invest in learning the machine versus getting consistently good results without fuss.
Build Quality and Durability
All Breville machines are well-constructed, but differences in materials and finishing can impact longevity and ease of cleaning. Stainless steel models tend to resist scratches and stains better, making them suitable for frequent use. Cheaper plastics might save money initially but could wear faster. Consider where you’ll place the machine and how much maintenance you’re willing to perform.
Features and Customization
More features, like adjustable grinders, temperature controls, and pre-infusion settings, offer greater control but also increase complexity and cost. Decide if these features matter to you—if you prefer a more hands-on approach or want to fine-tune every aspect of your brew, look toward higher-end models like the Barista Touch. Conversely, if you want reliable espresso with minimal adjustments, a simpler machine may suffice.
Size and Design
Space constraints can influence your choice significantly. Compact models like the Bambino are ideal for small kitchens or offices. Also, aesthetic details such as color and finish can complement your kitchen decor but might also impact how easily the machine cleans or resists fingerprints. Make sure to measure your available space and consider how the machine’s style fits into your environment.
Price and Value
While investing more often yields better features and durability, it’s important to match your budget to your needs. Entry-level models like the Bambino offer great value for casual users, but serious enthusiasts may find the additional features of mid-range or premium models worth the extra cost. Look for a machine that strikes a balance between what you want and what you’re willing to pay, avoiding overspending on features you won’t use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a more expensive Breville model worth the extra cost?
Generally, higher-priced Breville models include more advanced features such as touchscreen controls, precise temperature management, and customizable settings. If you value automation and consistency, the extra cost can be justified by the convenience and improved results. However, if you’re just starting out or prefer a straightforward brewing process, a more affordable model might meet your needs without the added complexity or expense.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with these Breville machines?
Most Breville espresso machines are designed to work with fresh beans, but several models include a dedicated portafilter for pre-ground coffee. If you prefer pre-ground options, check whether the specific model offers this feature and whether it allows for fine adjustments to grind size and dose. Keep in mind that espresso quality often depends heavily on freshly ground beans, so using pre-ground coffee may limit flavor potential.
How difficult is it to learn to use a Breville espresso machine?
Ease of use varies across models. Entry-level machines like the Bambino are designed for minimal setup and straightforward operation, making them suitable for beginners. More advanced models, such as the Barista Touch, include guided settings and intuitive interfaces that help users learn as they go. Overall, with a little patience, most users can achieve good results, but paying attention to the specific features of each model will help you find one that matches your comfort level with coffee equipment.
Do Breville machines require a lot of maintenance?
All espresso machines need regular cleaning to perform well, and Breville models are no exception. Machines with more features may require additional upkeep, such as descaling or cleaning specific components like the steam wand. Fortunately, many models include automatic cleaning cycles or alerts that simplify maintenance. Establishing a routine will prolong the life of your machine and ensure consistently good espresso.
Are Breville espresso machines suitable for commercial use?
While Breville machines excel in home use, they are generally not designed for high-volume commercial environments. Their build and capacity are optimized for personal or small office use, not for heavy daily operation. If you need a machine for a cafe or large-scale setting, exploring commercial-grade options from other brands would be advisable. For home baristas, however, Breville offers a level of performance that meets most coffee enthusiast needs.
Conclusion
For casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso, the Breville Bambino offers simplicity and affordability. Serious enthusiasts should consider the Breville BES870XL Barista Express for its balance of control and convenience. Buyers seeking a premium experience with advanced customization will find the Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch a compelling choice. Ultimately, your ideal pick depends on how much control you want, your budget, and your experience level. Matching these factors to the right model will help you enjoy consistent, high-quality espresso at home.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
