When it comes to brewing high-quality espresso at home, Breville stands out for its blend of innovation and reliability. The Breville Barista Express is widely regarded as the best overall choice thanks to its balance of performance and affordability. Meanwhile, the Breville Barista Touch offers advanced features for enthusiasts, and the Breville Bambino presents an excellent entry point for newcomers. These options reflect the core tradeoffs in this category: higher-end models deliver more customization and convenience but come at a premium, while entry-level machines are simpler but less versatile. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these and other top Breville models tailored to different needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier Breville models like the Barista Touch and Barista Express impress with their customization and build quality, but they come at a higher price point.
- Entry-level options like the Bambino focus on ease of use and compact design, making them ideal for beginners but with fewer advanced features.
- The dual boiler models and those with integrated grinders provide better temperature stability and convenience, appealing to serious espresso enthusiasts.
- Design consistency across models emphasizes durability and ease of cleaning, though some premium options add aesthetic appeal with finishes like Black Truffle.
- Most models share core features like PID temperature control and steam wands, but differences in interface complexity and automation influence user experience.
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas | Capacity: 67 oz Water Tank | Bean Hopper: 1/2 lb | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine (BES880BSS), Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Who Want Ease | Model: BES880BSS | Color: Brushed Stainless Steel | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Customization and Style | Model: BES880BTR | Color: Black Truffle | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel (BES450BSS) |  | Best for Small Spaces and Beginners | ASIN: B0B1JPPG2L | Model: BES450BSS | Color: Brushed Stainless Steel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for All-in-One Value | Color: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1600 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Meraki Dual Boiler Espresso Machine with Grinder and Built-In Dual Scales |  | Best for Serious Home Baristas Who Value Precision and Dual Boiler Control | Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine | Operation Mode: Semi-Automatic | Wattage: 1600 watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want a Balance of Automation and Control | Color: Brushed Stainless Steel | Grind Settings: 25 | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Beginners Who Value Convenience and Customization | Model: BES881BSS | Finish: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet (3-second heat up) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine (BES878BSS), Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Intermediate Users Who Want a Balance of Manual and Automated Features | Color: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Color | Water Tank Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | — | — |
| Breville Barista Touch Espress | 1680 Watts | Brushed Stainless Steel | 67 oz |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | Black Truffle | 67 oz |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | Brushed Stainless Steel | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | Brushed Stainless Steel | 67 oz |
| Meraki Dual Boiler Espresso Ma | — | — | 2 liters |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | Brushed Stainless Steel | 2L |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville Barista Pro Espresso | 1680 Watts | Brushed Stainless Steel | 67 oz |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR earns its place as the best overall choice for home espresso enthusiasts because it combines a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control, allowing users to craft café-quality drinks without requiring separate equipment. Compared with the Breville BES880BTR, it offers similar features but with a slightly more compact design, though its water capacity might limit frequent use. The integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds, and the PID control maintains consistent temperature, crucial for good espresso. However, its higher price and learning curve might be barriers for absolute beginners, and its water tank size could require more frequent refills for heavy use. This machine suits dedicated home users who want quality and convenience in one package but are comfortable investing time to learn its operation.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh, on-demand grinding
- Precise PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Compact all-in-one design
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Learning curve for beginners
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
Best for: Serious home espresso lovers who want an all-in-one machine with a focus on quality and customization.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited counter space who prefer simple, plug-and-play options.
- Capacity:67 oz Water Tank
- Bean Hopper:1/2 lb
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Water Filter & Holder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for dedicated coffee enthusiasts wanting professional results at home but requires a willingness to learn.”
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine (BES880BSS), Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out for its touchscreen interface and automatic features that streamline espresso making, making it a strong pick for users seeking convenience without sacrificing quality. Its integrated conical burr grinder and automatic microfoam milk texturing set it apart from semi-automatic models like the BES870BTR, providing a more consistent result with less manual skill needed. The fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet and the ability to save up to 8 personalized drinks make it highly user-friendly. Nonetheless, its high price and larger footprint might deter those with limited space or budget constraints. This model is best suited for home baristas who value speed, customization, and modern convenience over manual control.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for latte-art quality drinks
- Integrated precision conical burr grinder with adjustable settings
- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet heating system
- Touchscreen with up to 8 personalized drink settings
Cons:- High price point typical of premium machines
- Relatively large footprint
- Semi-automatic operation still requires some learning
Best for: Coffee lovers who want to enjoy café-quality drinks with minimal effort and a sleek interface.
Not ideal for: Purists who prefer manual control or users with limited counter space.
- Model:BES880BSS
- Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Pre-Programmed Café Favorites:5
- Custom Drink Settings:8
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for tech-savvy home users who prioritize ease, speed, and customization in their espresso routine.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR with its sleek Black Truffle finish offers a blend of style and function, with a touchscreen interface that simplifies drink customization. It shares many features with the BES880BSS but adds aesthetic appeal for those who want their kitchen to reflect their coffee passion. Automatic microfoam milk texturing and rapid 3-second heat-up make it accessible for users who desire café-quality drinks without manual fuss. Its ability to save up to 8 custom settings caters to households with multiple preferences. However, its high power draw and registration requirements for free coffee offers add some hassle. This model suits those who appreciate a stylish design and personalized coffee routines but are comfortable with a higher investment.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for quality latte art
- Integrated conical burr grinder with adjustable settings
- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Customizable up to 8 personalized drinks
Cons:- Free coffee offer requires registration and terms
- High wattage (1680W) power consumption
- Premium price may be a barrier for some
Best for: Design-conscious users who want a personalized coffee experience with modern tech features.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer manual control over every step.
- Model:BES880BTR
- Color:Black Truffle
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Preset Drinks:5
- Custom Settings:8
Our verdict“Best suited for style-conscious users who want quick, personalized drinks at home with a modern touch.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel (BES450BSS)
The Breville Bambino BES450BSS offers a compact and affordable solution for those new to espresso or with limited kitchen space. Its 3-second ThermoJet heat-up and automatic steam wand make it straightforward to produce microfoam milk and espresso with minimal fuss. Compared to more advanced models like the BES870BTR, it lacks a built-in grinder, so users will need to grind beans separately, which adds a step but also allows for more control. Its small footprint is perfect for tight countertops, but this size limits simultaneous brewing and steaming or serving multiple drinks at once. This machine is ideal for beginners or singles who prioritize space and simplicity over advanced features.
Pros:- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Automatic steam wand creates microfoam for lattes
- PID temperature control for consistent extraction
Cons:- Manual steam wand requires practice
- Limited capacity and single-shot focus
- No built-in grinder; separate grinding needed
Best for: Novice home baristas with small kitchens who want quick results and straightforward operation.
Not ideal for: Experienced users seeking full manual control or larger capacity for multiple drinks.
- ASIN:B0B1JPPG2L
- Model:BES450BSS
- Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1560 Watts
- Heat Up Time:3 seconds
- Settings:1 or 2 cups; hot water and steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for beginners or small households seeking quick, quality espresso without the bells and whistles.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL combines an integrated conical burr grinder with a powerful steam wand, delivering a complete espresso experience at home. It mirrors the BES870BTR in many ways but is often considered the classic choice for those seeking value, as it offers similar features at a slightly lower price point. Its digital PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion are key to producing balanced, high-quality espresso. The main tradeoff is its manual operation, which demands practice and skill, especially when switching between brewing and steaming due to its single boiler design. This makes it ideal for users who want a reliable all-in-one machine but are ready to invest time learning proper technique.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion
- Microfoam steam wand for latte art
- Goes from beans to espresso quickly
Cons:- Manual operation requires skill to master
- Single boiler necessitates switching between brewing and steaming
Best for: Home baristas who want a full-featured espresso machine that balances price and performance.
Not ideal for: People seeking a fully automatic machine or those with limited space for a large setup.
- Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1600 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper:1/2 lb
- Portafilter:54mm Stainless Steel
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is a solid choice for dedicated home users willing to practice for professional-quality results, offering good value for the features provided.”
Meraki Dual Boiler Espresso Machine with Grinder and Built-In Dual Scales
This option stands out for its independent dual boilers, allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming, which is a major advantage over the single-boiler models like the Barista Pro. The built-in scales with 0.2 g accuracy support precise, repeatable dosing, making it ideal for serious enthusiasts focused on consistency. The 45-setting conical burr grinder with anti-static tech ensures near-zero retention, matching the quality of commercial machines. However, its large footprint and semi-automatic operation may challenge some users, especially beginners. Compared with the Barista Express, the Meraki offers better temperature stability and dosing accuracy but at a higher price and more complex operation. This machine is best suited for experienced home baristas who prioritize precision and workflow efficiency and are comfortable with a steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Independent dual boilers enable simultaneous brewing and steaming for faster workflows
- Built-in scales with 0.2 g accuracy support precise, repeatable grind-by-weight dosing
- 45-setting conical burr grinder with anti-static tech reduces grind retention
Cons:- Large footprint may not suit small kitchens or limited counter space
- Semi-automatic operation involves a learning curve for new users
Best for: Serious home baristas who want professional control and precision in dosing and temperature stability
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited counter space, as its size and semi-automatic operation can be daunting
- Coffee Maker Type:Espresso Machine
- Operation Mode:Semi-Automatic
- Wattage:1600 watts
- Output Pressure:9 bar
- Brew Boiler Capacity:350 ml
- Steam Boiler Capacity:550 ml
- Water Tank Capacity:2 liters
- Portafilter Size:58 mm (E61-compatible)
- Special Features:Dual Boiler, Integrated Grinder, Built-in Scales, PID Control
Our verdict“This machine suits advanced home baristas seeking professional-level control and efficiency, but it demands familiarity with espresso processes.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This pick makes the most sense for new or casual home baristas, thanks to its integrated conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings and the Impress Puck System that assists with tamping and dosing, simplifying the espresso process. Its manual steam wand provides control for milk microfoam, but requires practice, especially compared to fully automatic options like the Barista Touch. The Thermocoil with PID control ensures consistent temperature, which is a step up from basic machines. Compared to the Barista Touch, the Impress offers a more straightforward, manual approach, but lacks the touchscreen ease and preset options. This machine is ideal for users who want to learn espresso craft without fully automating every step, but not for those seeking high-tech automation or quick, push-button drinks.
Pros:- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings for fresh grounds
- Assisted tamping and dosing simplify espresso making for beginners
- Thermocoil with PID control ensures temperature stability
Cons:- Manual steam wand requires skill to produce microfoam
- Still involves a learning curve despite automation features
Best for: Beginner home baristas eager to learn espresso-making with guided features and manual control
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those preferring fully automatic machines with minimal manual input
- Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Grind Settings:25
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Portafilter:54mm stainless steel
- Heating System:Thermocoil with PID
- Tamping Pressure:10kg assisted
- Included Accessories:Milk jug, filter baskets, water filter, trimming tool
Our verdict“This machine offers a friendly entry point into espresso craft, balancing automation with manual control for new enthusiasts.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine excels for those who want user-friendly technology combined with customization, thanks to its touchscreen interface featuring 13 presets and 6 customizable drinks. The Auto MilQ steam wand simplifies milk texturing, making latte art accessible even for less experienced users. Compared with the Barista Pro, the Barista Touch offers more automation and step-by-step guidance, which can appeal to beginners or casual users seeking consistency. Its ThermoJet system heats in just 3 seconds, reducing wait times. The main tradeoff is its premium price and reliance on automation, which might deter purists who prefer manual control. This pick is perfect for users who prioritize ease of use, speed, and drink customization, but less so for those wanting full manual mastery.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface with step-by-step guidance and preset drinks
- ThermoJet system heats in 3 seconds for quick operation
- Auto MilQ steam wand with alternative milk settings for convenience
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive for some budgets
- Many automated features might reduce manual engagement
Best for: Tech-savvy home users who want quick, customizable drinks with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Purists or experienced baristas who prefer manual espresso and milk texturing control
- Model:BES881BSS
- Finish:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet (3-second heat up)
- Grinder:Baratza conical burrs, 30 settings
- Tamping:Assisted 22lb
- Presets:13 café, 6 customizable
- Steam Wand:Auto MilQ
- Special Functions:Cold brew, cold espresso, latte art
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for those seeking fast, customizable espresso drinks with simple, guided operation, at a premium cost.”
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine (BES878BSS), Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro makes a solid case for users who want quick heat-up and full control over their espresso process. Its ThermoJet system reaches extraction temperature in just 3 seconds, rivaling the Touch in speed, but it features a more traditional LCD interface instead of a touchscreen, appealing to users comfortable with manual controls but still seeking guidance. The integrated conical burr grinder with 30 settings ensures fresh grounds, and the PID temperature control maintains stability for consistent shots. Compared with the more automated Touch, the Pro offers a more tactile experience, but lacks the touchscreen’s preset flexibility. This pick suits those who want speed and control without sacrificing manual skills, though it’s not ideal for those who prefer complete automation.
Pros:- Fast 3-second ThermoJet heating system for quick operation
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 30 settings for fresh, customizable grounds
- PID control ensures consistent temperature stability
Cons:- Manual steam wand requires skill for milk texturing
- Larger footprint typical of bean-to-cup machines
Best for: Intermediate home baristas balancing manual control with speed and convenience
Not ideal for: Beginner users or those seeking full automation and minimal manual input
- Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Heating System:ThermoJet (3 sec)
- Grinder:Integrated conical burr, 30 settings
- Milk Jug:480 ml stainless steel
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine suits users who want rapid heat-up and a good degree of control without full automation, ideal for intermediates.”
How We Picked
In selecting these Breville options, I focused on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. I evaluated each machine’s brewing consistency, temperature stability, and ease of operation, since these directly impact coffee quality. Maintenance and durability were also key, along with how well the machine suited different user levels — from beginners to espresso aficionados. The ranking reflects a balance between feature set and price, ensuring each pick offers a distinct advantage for a specific type of buyer. By comparing these factors across models, I aimed to highlight the best options for different preferences and budgets.| Breville | Color |
|---|---|
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | — |
| Breville Barista Touch Espress | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | Black Truffle |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Meraki Dual Boiler Espresso Ma | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — |
| Breville Barista Pro Espresso | Brushed Stainless Steel |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine depends on understanding your specific needs, budget, and how much control you want over your brew. While all Breville models aim for quality, they differ significantly in features like automation, build, and price. Considering these factors carefully can help you avoid overspending on features you won’t use or settling for a machine that doesn’t meet your expectations. Here are key considerations to keep in mind before making your purchase.Performance and Brew Quality
Look for machines with precise temperature control and stable brewing parameters, as these directly influence espresso flavor. Machines with PID controllers tend to produce more consistent results, especially over multiple shots. If you’re particular about shot timing and flavor nuances, consider models that allow manual adjustments or have integrated grinders for fresh beans every time. Keep in mind that higher-performing machines often come with a steeper learning curve, so balance your skill level with your desired control.
Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models, like the Barista Touch, include touchscreen interfaces and automated routines, making operation straightforward even for beginners. Others, like the Barista Express, offer manual controls that require more skill but provide greater customization. Decide whether you want a machine that simplifies the brewing process or one that allows you to experiment with settings. Automation can save time but often adds cost, so weigh convenience against budget and learning curve.
Build Quality and Durability
Investing in a machine with solid construction, like stainless steel finishes, ensures longevity and ease of cleaning. Cheaper plastics might save money upfront but can wear out faster or look less appealing over time. Consider how often you’ll use your espresso machine; a higher-quality build can be more cost-effective in the long run by reducing maintenance and repair needs. Finishes like Black Truffle add aesthetic appeal but typically come at a premium.
Size and Storage
Counter space is often overlooked until the machine arrives. Compact models like the Bambino fit neatly in small kitchens, but they might sacrifice some features. Larger, feature-rich models require more space and may be heavier to move, which matters if you plan to store or relocate your machine frequently. Measure your available space carefully and consider how the size influences usability and setup.
Price and Value
The range of Breville machines spans from entry-level to premium, so defining your budget early helps narrow options. While higher-priced models offer more bells and whistles, they aren’t always necessary for casual users. Focus on what features will genuinely enhance your coffee-making experience and whether the extra cost justifies the benefits. Sometimes, a well-chosen mid-range model provides the best balance of features and value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth paying more for a dual boiler Breville machine?
Paying extra for a dual boiler Breville machine generally makes sense if you want to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously without waiting. This setup improves efficiency and consistency, especially for those making multiple drinks in succession. It’s a worthwhile investment if you’re serious about cafe-quality results and want greater control over temperature stability. However, for occasional home use, a single boiler with good performance might suffice, saving you money without sacrificing much quality.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with Breville machines?
Most Breville espresso machines are designed to work best with fresh, ground coffee, especially those with built-in grinders. However, many models, like the Barista Express and Barista Pro, include a bypass doser for pre-ground coffee, giving some flexibility. Keep in mind that pre-ground coffee is less fresh and can lead to inconsistent extraction compared to freshly ground beans. If you prefer convenience, look for a machine with a quality grinder and easy access to the portafilter for pre-ground use.
Are Breville machines suitable for beginners?
Many Breville models, like the Bambino and the Barista Express, are designed with beginner users in mind. They offer straightforward controls, clear interfaces, and helpful features like auto-p purge and pre-programmed shots. However, some advanced models with manual adjustments or touchscreen interfaces might have a steeper learning curve. For newcomers, starting with a simpler, more forgiving model can build confidence before moving to more complex setups.
How important is the steam wand quality for home use?
The steam wand’s quality significantly influences your ability to create microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. A powerful, responsive wand makes steaming easier and more consistent, especially in models with high steam pressure. Cheaper wands can be less responsive or produce uneven foam, which frustrates beginners and enthusiasts alike. If you frequently make milk-based drinks, prioritize models with a well-designed, adjustable steam wand for better control.
Should I prioritize a sleek design or functionality?
While aesthetic appeal enhances your kitchen’s look, functionality should take precedence, especially if you plan to use your machine regularly. Features like temperature stability, ease of cleaning, and consistent shot quality matter more than just how a machine looks. That said, many premium models combine durable build with attractive finishes, so it’s possible to find a balance. Consider your daily use and storage space when weighing form versus function.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville Barista Express offers a solid balance of features, quality, and price. If you want to invest in a premium machine with advanced automation, the Barista Touch makes an excellent choice. Beginners or casual users should consider the Bambino for its simplicity and compact size. Coffee lovers who prioritize speed and efficiency might prefer dual boiler models or those with integrated grinders. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, budget, and how much control you want over your espresso — but with these options, you’ll find a machine tailored to your needs.
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