Breville remains a leading name for home espresso enthusiasts, offering a range of machines that balance performance and ease of use. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall choice, thanks to its fast heat-up time and intuitive controls. For those seeking a more affordable entry point, the Breville Bambino Plus provides excellent quality at a lower price, though it sacrifices some advanced features. Meanwhile, the Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch combines touchscreen convenience with professional-grade espresso quality. Navigating these options involves tradeoffs between price, features, and complexity—continue reading for the full breakdown to find the best fit for your needs.
Get home appliances 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-ranked models deliver fast heat-up times and consistent extraction, making them ideal for daily use.
- Higher-end options with touchscreen controls and customization tend to be more user-friendly but come at a premium price.
- Entry-level models like the Bambino Plus excel in simplicity and compact design, perfect for small kitchens or beginners.
- Price differences often reflect build quality, feature sets, and programmability—consider what features matter most to you.
- Choosing between semi-automatic and fully automatic models depends on your comfort level with brewing control and automation.
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Water Pressure: Pre-infusion gradually increases pressure for balanced extraction | Porta-filter Size: 54mm | Coffee Dose: 19 grams | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Customization and Ease of Use | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Step-by-Step Guidance and Versatility | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional Control at Home | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best All-in-One for Home Baristas | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease and Customization with Touchscreen | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Hands-On Control and Fresh Grounds | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Precision and Assisted Tamping | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: Not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Voltage | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | 2 Years |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 1680 Watts | — | 2 Years |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1600 Watts | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | 2 Years |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 1 Year Limited |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | 1 Year Limited |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its compact size, making it ideal for those with limited counter space who still want café-quality espresso. Compared with larger machines like the Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch, it offers less automation but excels in quick heat-up and easy operation for beginners. Its automatic milk texturing and precise temperature control deliver excellent drinks, though its limited capacity for one or two cups and higher price may deter some users. This machine is best suited for individuals seeking a space-saving, straightforward espresso maker that can produce professional microfoam with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on small kitchen countertops
- Automatic steam wand creates professional microfoam
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick brewing
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cup settings, restricting flexibility
- Requires some practice to master optimal use
- Higher price point compared to basic espresso machines
Best for: Single users or small households needing a space-efficient espresso solution
Not ideal for: Entertaining large groups or users wanting a wide variety of coffee styles at once
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion gradually increases pressure for balanced extraction
- Porta-filter Size:54mm
- Coffee Dose:19 grams
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for small-space dwellers who prioritize quick, quality espresso with minimal complexity.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch makes a compelling case for home baristas wanting both automation and personalization. Its touchscreen interface simplifies brewing with customizable presets, setting it apart from the Breville Bambino Plus, which is more manual and less flexible. The automatic microfoam milk texturing and fast ThermoJet heating make it easier to produce consistent, café-quality drinks. However, its higher price and reliance on a 110-120V power supply could be limiting factors for some. This machine suits enthusiasts who value precise control and a modern interface but are willing to invest more for convenience.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface for intuitive customization
- Quick heat-up with ThermoJet system for fast brewing
Cons:- Relatively high price for home use
- Features can be complex and require learning
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Coffee lovers who want professional results with minimal effort and digital controls
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users or those needing a machine compatible with international power supplies
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for tech-savvy users seeking a high degree of automation and drink customization in their espresso machine.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress brings versatility and ease of use with its touchscreen controls and built-in grinder. It’s a strong choice for those wanting a semi-automatic machine that offers multiple coffee styles, including cold brew and alternative milks, thanks to its step-by-step guidance. Compared with the Bambino Plus, it provides more customization, but its higher price and complexity might pose a challenge for complete beginners. This machine is best suited for users ready to experiment with different coffee types and enjoy guided, professional-quality brewing at home.
Pros:- User-friendly touchscreen with preset customization
- Automatic milk texturing for latte art
- Built-in grinder with 13 settings and cold brew function
Cons:- High price may be prohibitive for some
- Complex features could require a learning curve
- Limited detailed review information available
Best for: Intermediate to advanced home baristas eager to explore various coffee styles and recipes
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a simple, no-fuss espresso machine
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Tamping:Assisted 22 lb tamping with auto correction
- Touchscreen:Yes, with 13 presets and customization options
- Milk Frothing:Auto steam wand with adjustable temperature and texture
Our verdict“Best for those who want a versatile, guided experience that covers many brewing styles in one machine.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress offers a high level of control through its built-in grinder, assisted tamping, and customizable settings. It’s a step up from more basic models like the Bambino Plus in terms of precision and features, making it suitable for users who want a semi-automatic experience that mimics café-level control. Its powerful steam wand and adjustable grind settings enable the creation of microfoam and tailored espresso shots, though its setup can be intimidating for beginners and it demands ample space. This machine works best for enthusiasts who want a semi-automatic with professional features without moving to fully commercial equipment.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with 25 adjustable settings for precision
- Assisted tamping and intelligent dosing for consistency
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Setup can be complex for beginners
- Relatively large size demands good counter space
- High price for casual users
Best for: Home baristas seeking advanced control and consistent results with a built-in grinder
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space or patience for complex setup
- 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“Designed for dedicated home baristas who want café-quality control and features in a semi-automatic package.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express offers a comprehensive package for home coffee enthusiasts, combining a built-in conical burr grinder, precise temperature control, and a steam wand in a single unit. It’s a versatile choice for those who want to grind, dose, and brew without multiple devices. Compared with the Bambino Plus, it adds the benefit of an integrated grinder, but its size and weight might be less convenient for smaller kitchens. Its limited warranty and the absence of detailed price data could be considerations, but for most home users, it delivers professional-grade results at a reasonable value.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID technology
- Steam wand for microfoam, suitable for latte art
Cons:- Price and weight are not specified, potentially high and heavy
- Limited warranty period of 1 year
- No detailed pricing info available
Best for: Home users seeking an all-in-one machine with integrated grinding and brewing capabilities
Not ideal for: Those who prefer separate equipment for more control or have very limited kitchen space
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“This is a solid choice for home baristas who want an all-in-one espresso machine with integrated grinding for convenience and quality.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro stands out for its fast ThermoJet heating system, which heats up in a remarkable 3 seconds, making it ideal for quick espresso shots. Its precise temperature control and integrated conical burr grinder ensure fresh grounds and consistent extraction, outperforming models like the Bambino in quality. While its higher price reflects its professional-level features, it may be less appealing for those who need larger batch capacity or are new to espresso making. The LCD interface simplifies operation, but there’s a learning curve for beginners who want to master manual controls. Overall, this machine offers a combination of speed, quality, and user experience that appeals to serious home enthusiasts.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control for better extraction
- Integrated conical burr grinder for freshness
- Intuitive LCD interface with progress animations
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Limited capacity for large batches
- Some learning curve for beginners
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking fast, high-quality espresso with a professional touch
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited kitchen space who prefer simpler, more affordable options
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for dedicated coffee lovers who value speed and precision over simplicity.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch offers a nearly effortless experience with its automatic microfoam milk texturing and a sleek touchscreen interface, making it perfect for users who want cafe-quality drinks at home without extensive manual effort. Compared to the Barista Pro, its main advantage lies in automation—users can easily craft drinks with the press of a button, which is ideal for beginners or busy mornings. However, this convenience comes with a higher price and limited flexibility for those wanting more manual control. Its 110-120V compatibility might restrict use outside North America. If you value simplicity combined with customization, this model delivers, but advanced baristas may find it too limiting.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen for easy operation and customization
- Includes free coffee beans with registration
Cons:- High price point
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
- May be complex for complete beginners
Best for: Home users seeking automatic, customizable coffee drinks with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Coffee connoisseurs who prefer full manual control or are on a tight budget
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for those who want quick, consistent cafe-style drinks with minimal manual effort.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Express offers a balanced mix of manual control and convenience, featuring a built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds and a steam wand for microfoam. It’s well-suited for users who want to learn espresso craft without the complexity of more advanced machines like the BES876DBL. Its manual grind size adjustments and temperature control allow for a customized extraction, but this setup may be intimidating for newcomers or those seeking quick results. Its 1-year warranty and moderate price point make it a practical choice for enthusiasts ready to refine their skills, though its water tank capacity may require frequent refills during busy mornings.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control for quality extraction
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Adjustable grind size and manual override
Cons:- Relatively high price for a home machine
- Complex setup for beginners
- Limited water tank capacity
Best for: Home baristas eager to develop their espresso-making skills with manual control
Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prioritize speed and simplicity over hands-on learning
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine suits those who want to learn and experiment with espresso making at home, accepting some complexity for greater control.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress combines advanced features like 25 grind settings and assisted tamping, making it ideal for users who want consistent results with less manual effort. Its intelligent dosing and ThermoCoil with PID control ensure stable temperature and precise extraction, outperforming the standard BES870XL in consistency. The included steam wand allows for microfoam, but its relatively small bean hopper (250g) and water tank (2L) limit larger quantities. Setup can be complex for beginners, and the high price reflects its specialized features. This machine is geared toward serious hobbyists who value precision but may be overwhelming for casual users.
Pros:- Precise dosing and temperature control
- Built-in grinder with 25 settings for customization
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck prep
- Includes steam wand for microfoam milk
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- High price point
- Limited capacity for larger quantities
Best for: Experienced coffee enthusiasts wanting consistent, professional results with assisted tamping
Not ideal for: Beginners or those seeking a straightforward, low-cost machine
- 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
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
Our verdict“This espresso machine favors those who prioritize precision and consistency over simplicity and cost.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers a surprisingly capable espresso experience within a compact footprint, making it perfect for small kitchens or limited counter space. Its fast ThermoJet heating system heats up in about 3 seconds, rivaling larger machines like the Barista Express in speed, but it sacrifices some manual control and customization options. Its automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam milk texturing, ideal for users who want decent results without fuss. The water tank details are limited, and it lacks a built-in grinder, so users must purchase grounds or a separate grinder. This pick is best for those who want quick, quality espresso in a small package but are willing to trade manual control for convenience.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact design fits small kitchens
- Precise temperature control for good extraction
Cons:- Limited details on water tank capacity
- No built-in grinder
- Less manual control for advanced users
Best for: Small-space dwellers seeking an easy-to-use, fast espresso machine
Not ideal for: Serious enthusiasts wanting manual control or larger batch capacity
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for small kitchen setups where convenience and speed matter most.”
How We Picked
The products were evaluated based on performance, ease of use, build quality, and value for money. Priority was given to machines that provide consistent espresso quality and reliable operation. We also considered user interface design, maintenance requirements, and how well each model balances automation with manual control. The ranking reflects a combination of expert insights and broad user feedback, ensuring each option serves a specific type of buyer—from beginners to seasoned baristas. Ultimately, the selection aims to highlight machines that stand out within their respective price ranges and feature sets.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves weighing several key factors. Beyond just features, consider how the machine fits into your daily routine, your budget, and your level of brewing experience. Understanding these factors can help you avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features or selecting a machine too complex for your comfort level. The following sections highlight the most important considerations when selecting a Breville machine to ensure you get the best value and experience.Performance and Consistency
Performance is the core of any espresso machine. Look for models with powerful boilers and precise temperature control to ensure your shots are consistently rich and full-bodied. Machines with PID temperature control tend to produce more stable results, especially when brewing multiple cups in succession. A machine that heats up quickly and maintains temperature stability will save you time and frustration, making daily espresso easier and more reliable.
Ease of Use and Controls
Ease of use varies widely across Breville models. Touchscreen interfaces and programmable settings simplify the brewing process for beginners, while manual dials appeal to more experienced users who want greater control. Consider how much automation you want—semi-automatic machines offer flexibility, whereas fully automatic models handle more steps at the push of a button. Choosing a machine aligned with your skill level can prevent frustration and improve your overall coffee experience.
Build Quality and Durability
Durability depends on materials and construction. Stainless steel bodies generally last longer and resist wear better than plastic or painted surfaces. Well-made components like high-quality portafilters, group heads, and steam wands contribute to consistent performance over time. Investing in a sturdily built machine can save money on repairs and replacements, especially if you plan to use it daily.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Espresso machines vary from compact models to larger, professional-style units. Measure your available space and consider how the machine’s footprint fits into your kitchen setup. Compact models like the Bambino Plus are ideal for small counters, but they might lack some features of larger machines. Balance your space constraints with your desired feature set to avoid overcrowding or under-equipping your kitchen.
Price and Value
Price ranges from entry-level to premium, reflecting differences in features and build quality. While higher-priced machines often offer better durability and more advanced controls, they may not be necessary for casual users. Conversely, skimping on cost might lead to disappointment due to inconsistent performance or flimsy construction. Aim for a machine that offers the best balance of features and quality within your budget, considering long-term value over short-term savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a fully automatic Breville espresso machine worth the extra cost?
Fully automatic Breville machines tend to be more convenient, handling many steps at the push of a button, which is ideal for busy mornings. They also often include programmable options for shot volume and temperature, helping ensure consistency. However, they come at a higher price and less control over brewing variables, which could be a drawback for enthusiasts who prefer manual adjustments. If you value speed and simplicity over customization, a fully automatic model can be a worthwhile investment.
Can I use ground coffee with a Breville espresso machine, or do I need pods?
Most Breville models are designed to use ground coffee, giving you flexibility over grind size and freshness. Many include a portafilter for manual tamping, allowing precise control over extraction. Some models also accept pods or capsules, but this varies by machine, so check compatibility if you prefer that convenience. Using ground coffee typically yields better flavor and allows for more customization, making it the preferred choice for most espresso lovers.
How important is steam power for making milk-based drinks?
The strength of the steam wand greatly affects how well you can froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos. Powerful steam wands produce hotter, denser foam and are easier to use for creating latte art. Cheaper models may struggle with steam pressure, resulting in less creamy milk. If you regularly make milk-based drinks, investing in a machine with a robust steam wand will significantly improve your results and overall experience.
Should I prioritize a machine with a ceramic or metal portafilter?
Metal portafilters, typically made of stainless steel, are more durable and conduct heat better, which helps maintain temperature consistency during extraction. Ceramic portafilters are less common and tend to be less durable, though they can sometimes offer a different aesthetic. For long-term reliability and better thermal stability, a machine with a high-quality metal portafilter generally makes more sense, especially if you plan to use it daily.
Is it better to buy a machine with a PID temperature controller?
A PID controller helps maintain a precise brewing temperature, which improves shot consistency and flavor. Machines without PID can have fluctuations that lead to uneven extraction. If you’re serious about espresso quality or want to experiment with brewing variables, choosing a model with PID is a wise investment. For casual use, simpler temperature controls might suffice but may result in slightly less consistent results over time.
Conclusion
For most home baristas, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro emerges as the best overall choice due to its balance of speed, control, and build quality. Beginners or those with limited space should consider the Breville Bambino Plus for simplicity and affordability. Coffee enthusiasts seeking advanced features and customization may find the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers excellent value. Budget-conscious buyers can still enjoy quality espresso with the Breville Bambino, though they should be prepared for fewer bells and whistles. Ultimately, your choice depends on your brewing experience, budget, and how much control you want over your espresso craft.
Fall yard work Picks
leaf blowers
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
