AIThis post was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).

Breville remains a leading name in home espresso machines, offering a range of options that balance performance, style, and ease of use. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall, combining professional-grade features with user-friendly design. For those seeking quick, quality espresso without fuss, the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent value and compactness. Meanwhile, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch appeals to coffee enthusiasts who want advanced customization. Navigating the tradeoffs between price, features, and ease of use can be tricky—continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and what makes them unique.

Before you orderOffer from Amazon

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
Start your free Prime trial Free trial for eligible customers · Cancel anytime
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
10
compared
1
brands
Which Breville should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas
Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick brewing
See on Amazon →
Beginners or casual coffee drinkers needing a small, quick, and reliable espresso maker
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Compact size fits easily on small countertops
View on Amazon →
Home enthusiasts who desire high-quality, customizable espresso with user-friendly features
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
Auto-correct dose and assisted tamping for consistent results
View on Amazon →
Design-conscious home baristas wanting a high-performance machine that enhances kitchen decor
Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp
Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
View on Amazon →
Home espresso lovers who prioritize ease, speed, and customizable features
Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou
Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
View on Amazon →
Pros & cons at a glance
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
✓ Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick brewing
✗ Complex interface may challenge beginners
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
✓ Compact size fits easily on small countertops
✗ Limited capacity and no detailed weight info
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
✓ Auto-correct dose and assisted tamping for consistent results
✗ Complex setup may challenge absolute newcomers
Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp
✓ Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
✗ Setup may be complex for beginners
Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou
✓ Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
✗ Complex features could require a learning curve
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
✓ Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
✗ Complex features require learning curve
Breville Bambino Espresso Mach
✓ Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
✗ Limited to home use, not commercial-grade
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
✓ Customizable milk and coffee settings
✗ Complex features require learning curve
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
✗ Steep learning curve for beginners
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
✗ Steep learning curve for beginners

Complete the kit

Breville Espresso Machine Compatible Descaler, 4 Uses, 1...
Breville Espresso Machine Compatible Descaler, 4 Uses, 1…
Add to your setup →
IMPRESA Coffee Machine Descaler, 2-Pack (1-Year Supply) U...
IMPRESA Coffee Machine Descaler, 2-Pack (1-Year Supply) U…
Add to your setup →
De'Longhi EcoDecalk Universal Descaler, for Coffee Machin...
De’Longhi EcoDecalk Universal Descaler, for Coffee Machin…
Add to your setup →

Key Takeaways

  • The top-tier models, like the Barista Touch, offer advanced customization and touchscreen controls but come at a higher price point.
  • Compact and budget-friendly options such as the Bambino Plus deliver solid performance for casual coffee drinkers.
  • Build quality and material choices, like stainless steel versus blue finishes, influence both aesthetics and durability.
  • Automatic features and ease of operation vary greatly, making some models better suited for beginners than experienced baristas.
  • There is a consistent pattern where more feature-rich machines tend to be larger and more expensive, requiring tradeoffs based on space and budget.
2
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Best Compact for Space-Conscious Users
1
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas
3
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
Best for User-Friendly, Professional-Quality Espresso at Home

Our Top Breville Picks

Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Overall for Versatile Home BaristasCapacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water TankPower: 1680 WattsVoltage: 120 VoltsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Compact for Space-Conscious UsersWeight: Not specifiedPower: 1560 WattsVoltage: 110-120 VoltsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for User-Friendly, Professional-Quality Espresso at HomeCapacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tankGrind Settings: 25Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tabletsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson BlueBreville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson BlueBest for Aesthetic Appeal and Precise ControlCapacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tankGrind Settings: 25Portafilter Size: 54mmVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBreville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBest for Advanced Users Seeking Automation and EasePower: 1680 WattsVoltage: 110 to 120VWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Overall for Serious Home BaristasMaterial: Brushed Stainless SteelPower: 1680 WattsVoltage: 110-120VVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Beginners in Compact SpacesPower: 1560 WattsVoltage: 110-120 VoltsIncluded Accessories: 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning toolVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Guided Learning and PersonalizationMaterial: Brushed Stainless SteelHeating System: ThermoJetGrinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settingsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBreville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBest for Manual Control and AffordabilityCapacity: ½ lb Bean HopperWater Tank: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Hands-On Control and All-in-One DesignCapacity: ½ lb Bean HopperWater Tank: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
BrevillePowerVoltageCapacityIncluded Accessories
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro1680 Watts120 Volts1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water TankSingle & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso1560 Watts110-120 Volts——
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp——250g bean hopper, 2L water tank54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp——250g bean hopper, 2L water tankStainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou1680 Watts110 to 120V—54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou1680 Watts110-120V——
Breville Bambino Espresso Mach1560 Watts110-120 Volts—1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou————
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp1600 Watts120 Volts½ lb Bean Hopper—
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr1600 Watts120 Volts½ lb Bean Hopper—

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out for its rapid ThermoJet heating system, which reaches optimal brewing temperature in just 3 seconds, making it ideal for those who want quick results without sacrificing quality. Its precise temperature control and manual microfoam wand enable users to craft espresso and latte art with confidence. Compared to the Breville Bambino Plus, this model offers more advanced customization and a built-in grinder, but its larger size and higher price can be barriers for smaller kitchens or budget-conscious buyers. The interface, while intuitive for experienced users, might overwhelm beginners. This machine is best suited for dedicated home enthusiasts who appreciate professional features but are prepared for a steeper learning curve and larger footprint.

    Pros:
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick brewing
    • Precise temperature control enhances espresso quality
    • Manual microfoam wand allows latte art creation
    • Built-in conical burr grinder offers adjustable settings
    Cons:
    • Relatively high price compared to simpler models
    • Complex interface may challenge beginners
    • Large size requires significant counter space

    Best for: Home baristas seeking a versatile, feature-rich espresso machine with professional-level control

    Not ideal for: Small kitchens or casual coffee drinkers who prefer simpler, more compact 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 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “This pick makes the most sense for experienced home users who want quick, professional-grade espresso with extensive customization.”
  2. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Compact for Space-Conscious Users

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Bambino Plus offers a compact footprint and fast heat-up thanks to its ThermoJet system, making it ideal for smaller kitchens or for those new to espresso brewing. Its automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing, delivering consistent microfoam suitable for lattes and cappuccinos with minimal fuss. Compared to the Barista Pro, it lacks a built-in grinder and advanced customization options, but its straightforward operation makes it perfect for beginners. The absence of detailed weight information and limited capacity may be setbacks for users planning to brew multiple drinks in quick succession. This machine makes the most sense for casual users or small-space dwellers who prioritize ease of use over extensive features.

    Pros:
    • Compact size fits easily on small countertops
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    • Automatic steam wand simplifies milk frothing
    • Precise temperature regulation for quality espresso
    Cons:
    • Price not specified, possibly expensive for its size
    • Limited capacity and no detailed weight info
    • Requires registration for promotional offers

    Best for: Beginners or casual coffee drinkers needing a small, quick, and reliable espresso maker

    Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting extensive control and customization

    • Weight:Not specified
    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Width:7.7 inches
    • Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
    • Number of Cups:1 or 2
    • Warranty:2 Years
    Our verdict
    “This machine is perfect for beginners who want quick, easy espresso without taking up much space.”
  3. Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for User-Friendly, Professional-Quality Espresso at Home

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress blends professional features with user-friendly automation, making it a standout for those wanting café-quality drinks without complex setup. Its auto-correct dose and assisted tamping simplify the process, making consistent espresso more achievable for less experienced users. The 25 grind settings and PID temperature control enable tailored brewing, rivaling the Barista Express but with more automation. However, its bulkier size and higher price could deter those with limited space or tighter budgets. This machine is best suited for home users who want professional results but prefer some automation to reduce learning curves.

    Pros:
    • Auto-correct dose and assisted tamping for consistent results
    • 25 grind settings for flavor customization
    • Includes free coffee beans with registration
    • Professional-quality espresso and milk frothing
    Cons:
    • Complex setup may challenge absolute newcomers
    • Relatively high price point
    • Bulkier size requires dedicated space

    Best for: Home enthusiasts who desire high-quality, customizable espresso with user-friendly features

    Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a very simple machine or those with limited counter space

    • Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
    • Grind Settings:25
    • Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
    • Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dose, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
    Our verdict
    “This machine is an excellent choice for those who want professional results with added automation to simplify the process.”
  4. Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue

    Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue

    Best for Aesthetic Appeal and Precise Control

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress in Damson Blue combines striking aesthetics with advanced features like an integrated grinder and assisted tamping for consistent puck preparation. Its 25 adjustable grind settings and powerful steam wand make it easy to craft personalized, café-quality beverages. Compared to the Brushed Stainless Steel version, this model emphasizes style with its unique color but maintains the same core capabilities. Its size and price may be prohibitive for those with limited space or tight budgets. This option makes the most sense for those who value aesthetics equally with performance and are willing to invest in both form and function.

    Pros:
    • Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
    • Assisted tamping ensures consistent espresso pucks
    • Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
    • Unique Damson Blue finish adds style
    Cons:
    • Setup may be complex for beginners
    • Larger size requires ample counter space
    • Higher price compared to basic models

    Best for: Design-conscious home baristas wanting a high-performance machine that enhances kitchen decor

    Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those with small kitchens who prefer a more understated look

    • 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 is ideal for style-focused users who want high-end features with a personalized touch at home.”
  5. Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Best for Advanced Users Seeking Automation and Ease

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch elevates home espresso with its touchscreen interface, automatic microfoam milk texturing, and rapid ThermoJet heat-up. Its intuitive controls and customizable settings make it ideal for enthusiasts who want café-quality drinks without extensive barista skills. Compared with the manual-focused Barista Express, the Touch simplifies operation significantly, but its high price and complex features may be overwhelming for novices. Its limited voltage compatibility to 110-120V could also restrict international use. This machine makes the most sense for experienced users who desire automation and speed combined with advanced customization.

    Pros:
    • Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
    • Touchscreen interface simplifies operation
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    • Customizable brewing settings for personalized drinks
    Cons:
    • High price point may be prohibitive
    • Complex features could require a learning curve
    • Limited to 110-120V power supply

    Best for: Home espresso lovers who prioritize ease, speed, and customizable features

    Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those on a tight budget who prefer simple appliances

    • Power:1680 Watts
    • Voltage:110 to 120V
    • 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
    “This pick is best for enthusiasts who want quick, automated, and highly customizable espresso at home.”
  6. Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out as the most comprehensive option, combining an intuitive touchscreen interface with advanced features like automatic microfoam milk texturing and integrated grinding. Compared to the Bambino, it offers more customization and automation, but at a significantly higher price and larger size. Its fast ThermoJet heating system ensures quick startup, making it ideal for those who want café quality with less wait. However, the complexity of features might be overwhelming for newcomers, and its bulk could be an issue for smaller kitchens. This machine is best suited for dedicated home baristas who want a fully featured, semi-automatic experience without sacrificing quality.

    Pros:
    • Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
    • Touchscreen interface with customizable settings
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    • Integrated grinder for fresh grounds
    Cons:
    • High price point may deter casual users
    • Complex features require learning curve
    • Bulkier size may need ample counter space

    Best for: Home users who are serious about coffee and want a semi-automatic machine with automation and customization

    Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with limited kitchen space who prefer simple, straightforward machines

    • Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
    • Power:1680 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120V
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
    • Features:Touchscreen display, programmable coffee settings, automatic milk texturing, integrated grinder, water filter
    Our verdict
    “This pick is perfect for dedicated home baristas seeking a feature-rich, semi-automatic espresso machine that delivers professional results.”
  7. Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Beginners in Compact Spaces

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Bambino makes a compelling case for newcomers with its quick ThermoJet heating system that heats in just 3 seconds, and its simple interface that feels approachable compared to more complex models like the Barista Touch. It’s designed for small kitchens or apartments, offering a compact footprint without sacrificing essential features like precise temperature control and automatic milk frothing. However, it’s not built for heavy-use or commercial-grade performance, and mastering perfect extraction might require some practice. Its price is relatively high for a beginner machine, but it balances ease of use with quality, making it ideal for casual enthusiasts who want café-style drinks at home.

    Pros:
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    • Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
    • Compact design suitable for small kitchens
    • Precise temperature regulation
    Cons:
    • Limited to home use, not commercial-grade
    • May require learning for perfect extraction
    • Price could be high for casual users

    Best for: Home baristas new to espresso who need a compact, easy-to-use machine

    Not ideal for: Experienced users or those seeking advanced customization and automation, since it lacks features like touchscreen controls

    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Included Accessories:1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool
    • Espresso Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “This machine is best for beginners who want a quick, compact espresso maker with automatic milk frothing for home use.”
  8. Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Guided Learning and Personalization

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Barista Touch Impress elevates home espresso making with its step-by-step guidance, assisted tamping, and customizable drink options, making it a smart choice for those wanting to learn while enjoying professional-quality drinks. Its touchscreen interface allows users to select from 13 preset drinks and up to 6 personalized recipes, which is a notable upgrade over the simpler Bambino. The auto MilQ milk system simplifies latte art, and the rapid ThermoJet heating ensures quick operation. However, its complexity can be daunting for absolute beginners, and the large size demands significant counter space. This machine works best for those who enjoy experimenting with their coffee and appreciate guided assistance, even if at a premium price.

    Pros:
    • Customizable milk and coffee settings
    • Fast heating with ThermoJet in 3 seconds
    • Intuitive touchscreen with preset options
    • Assisted tamping and personalized recipes
    Cons:
    • Complex features require learning curve
    • High price point
    • Large footprint on counter

    Best for: Home baristas interested in step-by-step guidance and customization, willing to invest in a premium machine

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer straightforward, manual machines

    • Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
    • Heating System:ThermoJet
    • Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
    • Display:Touchscreen
    • Presets:13 café favorites, up to 6 customizable drinks
    • Milk Features:Auto MilQ, alternative milk options, microfoam
    Our verdict
    “Ideal for coffee enthusiasts who want guided, personalized espresso experiences with a premium touch, despite the higher investment.”
  9. Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Best for Manual Control and Affordability

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Barista Express offers a manual experience with its built-in conical burr grinder and powerful steam wand, appealing to those who want hands-on control over every shot. Compared to the Barista Touch, it lacks touchscreen automation but compensates with tactile operation and affordability. Its integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds for each brew, while the PID temperature control provides consistent results. However, understanding how to dial in grind size and tamp properly can be a steep learning curve for newcomers. Its ½-pound bean hopper and 67 oz water tank are suitable for regular home use but might struggle with high-volume demands. This machine is well-suited for those wanting to learn the craft of espresso making without paying for unnecessary automation.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
    • Precise PID temperature control
    • Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam
    • Compact design suitable for home kitchens
    Cons:
    • Steep learning curve for beginners
    • Higher price compared to basic espresso machines
    • Limited capacity for frequent large servings

    Best for: Home users eager to develop barista skills with manual control at a reasonable price

    Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or users who prefer plug-and-play convenience without much learning

    • Capacity:½ lb Bean Hopper
    • Water Tank:67 oz
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Included:Razor Dose, Stainless Steel Portafilter, filters, tamper, milk jug
    Our verdict
    “Best for aspiring baristas wanting manual control and quality, even if it requires more effort to master.”
  10. Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Hands-On Control and All-in-One Design

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES870XL combines a conical burr grinder with a PID temperature system, offering a comprehensive, all-in-one approach for home espresso enthusiasts. Its manual steam wand and built-in grinder provide an authentic experience that appeals to those wanting to learn the craft of espresso making. In comparison to the Barista Touch, it lacks touchscreen presets but offers more tactile control. Its compact footprint fits well into most kitchens, but beginners may find the learning curve steep, especially when dialing in grind size and tamping pressure. For those who want a hands-on, quality-focused setup without paying for automation, this model provides excellent value, despite the need for more skill to achieve perfect results.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
    • Precise PID temperature control
    • Manual steam wand for microfoam
    • All-in-one design saves space
    Cons:
    • Steep learning curve for beginners
    • Higher price point relative to basic machines
    • Limited capacity for continuous high-volume brewing

    Best for: Home users seeking manual control and a combined grinder for a complete espresso setup

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prefer automated, preset options with minimal effort

    • Capacity:½ lb Bean Hopper
    • Water Tank:67 oz
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Included:Razor Dose, portafilter, filters, tamper, milk jug
    Our verdict
    “Ideal for hands-on users who want control over every step of espresso brewing and don’t mind some practice to perfect their skills.”
Breville
What makes a great Breville
1
Performance and Brew Quality
Look for machines with consistent temperature control and pressure stability, as these directly impact the taste and crema of your
2
Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models offer fully automatic or semi-automatic controls, which can simplify the brewing process for beginners.
3
Build Quality and Material
Stainless steel constructions tend to be more durable and visually appealing, especially for long-term use.
4
Size and Kitchen Fit
Espresso machines vary considerably in footprint, from compact models ideal for small kitchens to larger, feature-rich machines th
How to choose your Breville
1
How we picked
These products were evaluated based on their performance, usability, build quality, and feature set.
2
Performance and Brew Quality
Look for machines with consistent temperature control and pressure stability, as these directly impact the taste and cre
3
Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models offer fully automatic or semi-automatic controls, which can simplify the brewing process for beginn
4
Build Quality and Material
Stainless steel constructions tend to be more durable and visually appealing, especially for long-term use.
5
Size and Kitchen Fit
Espresso machines vary considerably in footprint, from compact models ideal for small kitchens to larger, feature-rich m
Vetted Breville ·
The best Breville, compared
★ Winner Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas
10compared

How We Picked

These products were evaluated based on their performance, usability, build quality, and feature set. Priority was given to machines that balance high-quality espresso output with ease of operation, making them suitable for both novices and enthusiasts. We also considered value for money, durability, and how well each model integrates into different kitchen setups. The ranking reflects a combination of these factors, with an emphasis on how each machine meets common user needs and preferences, from entry-level to premium options.
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 espresso machine involves weighing several key factors beyond just features. Consider your brewing experience, available space, and whether you prefer manual control or automation. Price points vary significantly, so understanding what features are worth investing in can prevent overspending on unnecessary extras or missing out on essential capabilities. Additionally, think about maintenance needs, build quality, and your future upgrade plans to ensure your investment aligns with your coffee goals.

Performance and Brew Quality

Look for machines with consistent temperature control and pressure stability, as these directly impact the taste and crema of your espresso. More advanced models often feature PID controllers that maintain precise brewing conditions, essential for brewing high-quality shots. If you prioritize flavor and precision, investing in a machine with better temperature stability can make a noticeable difference, especially over time.

Ease of Use and Automation

Some Breville models offer fully automatic or semi-automatic controls, which can simplify the brewing process for beginners. Others provide manual stepless adjustments, giving experienced users more control but requiring a learning curve. Consider your comfort level with espresso brewing—if you want quick, consistent results, a machine with presets or touch controls will serve you better. For those who enjoy experimenting, manual options might be more satisfying.

Build Quality and Material

Stainless steel constructions tend to be more durable and visually appealing, especially for long-term use. Cheaper plastic components may save money initially but could compromise longevity and aesthetic appeal. Think about where you will place the machine—if it’s in a high-use area, investing in a sturdily built model makes sense to prevent wear and tear over time.

Size and Kitchen Fit

Espresso machines vary considerably in footprint, from compact models ideal for small kitchens to larger, feature-rich machines that need more counter space. Measure your available space carefully and consider the machine’s height, width, and depth. Remember, larger machines often pack more features but can be less convenient if space is limited.

Price and Long-Term Value

Higher-priced models tend to offer more advanced features, better build quality, and enhanced durability, which can justify the investment if you’re serious about coffee. However, more affordable options like the Bambino Plus deliver good performance for casual drinkers. Balance your budget against your desired features to avoid overspending on bells and whistles you won’t use or sacrificing quality for a lower price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth paying more for a touchscreen Breville espresso machine?

Touchscreen models like the Barista Touch significantly simplify operation, allowing for easy customization and saving time. They are particularly valuable for users who want consistent results without the fuss of manual adjustments. However, they tend to be more expensive, and the added technology can sometimes mean more repair or maintenance costs. If you prioritize convenience and advanced features, a touchscreen machine is a worthwhile upgrade.

Can I get good espresso from a budget Breville machine?

Yes, models like the Bambino Plus can produce solid espresso, especially for casual use. These machines typically have fewer manual controls but offer quick heat-up times and decent steam performance. They are ideal for beginners or those with limited space who want a decent espresso without a significant investment. Keep in mind, however, that they may lack some customization options found in higher-end models.

How important is the material build in a Breville espresso machine?

Material quality directly impacts durability and aesthetics. Stainless steel models tend to withstand daily use better and age more gracefully, making them a good choice for long-term investment. Cheaper plastic components might suffice initially but can wear out or break sooner, especially in high-traffic kitchens. If you plan to keep your machine for years, prioritizing build quality is wise.

Are automatic milk frothers worth the extra cost?

Automatic frothers can significantly reduce the time and effort needed to make milk-based drinks, making them attractive for busy mornings or beginners. They deliver consistent foam and temperature, improving overall drink quality. However, they add to the machine’s price and may require more cleaning. If you often make cappuccinos or lattes, automatic frothers can be a valuable feature worth considering.

What’s the best way to choose between manual and automatic espresso machines?

Manual machines offer greater control over brewing parameters, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with settings. Automatic machines, on the other hand, prioritize convenience and consistency, ideal for users who prefer quick, reliable results with minimal fuss. Your choice depends on your experience level, how much time you want to spend on brewing, and whether you enjoy customizing your coffee or prefer simplicity.

Conclusion

For those new to espresso, the Breville Bambino Plus offers a user-friendly experience at an affordable price. Coffee lovers seeking a balance of quality and automation should consider the Barista Pro for its intuitive controls and professional features. Serious enthusiasts and those willing to invest more will find the Barista Touch provides extensive customization and touchscreen convenience. Finally, if space or budget is limited, simpler models still deliver solid espresso — just be prepared to trade off some advanced features for portability and cost savings. Your ideal choice depends on your brewing experience, budget, and how much you value automation versus manual control.

NFL SEASON / TAI

NFL season / tailgating Picks

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

You May Also Like

Best Keurig Water Filters in 2026: Top Accessories & Parts

Discover the top Keurig coffee makers for 2026. Find the best overall, best value, and options for small spaces and premium features. Read more!

I Tried SMEG’s New Forte Stand Mixer – It’s a Retro Baking Powerhouse That’s Almost Perfect

An in-depth review of SMEG’s new Forte Stand Mixer, highlighting its design, performance, and potential as a baking powerhouse with a retro style.

Best KitchenAid Stand Mixer for Beginners: Top Picks & Tips

Discover the top KitchenAid stand mixers for beginners in 2026. Find out which models suit your needs and the key tradeoffs to consider for easy baking.

How to Set Up Your New KitchenAid Stand Mixer: A Complete Guide

Learn step-by-step how to safely and efficiently set up your KitchenAid Artisan 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer, including tips for optimal use and troubleshooting.