Breville is renowned for its high-quality espresso machines that combine performance with user-friendly features. The best overall pick for 2026 is the Breville BES870XL Barista Express thanks to its balance of affordability and advanced features. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out for tech-savvy users craving customization, while the Bambino Plus offers a compact, beginner-friendly experience. Each option involves tradeoffs: higher-end models deliver more automation but come at a premium, whereas entry-level machines are more affordable but less versatile. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to find the ideal Breville for your coffee journey.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the BES880BSS offer extensive customization but require a learning curve.
- Entry-level options such as the Bambino Plus excel in compact size and ease of use, ideal for beginners.
- Price correlates strongly with features—more expensive models provide advanced steam wands and automation.
- Build quality and material finish vary, with brushed stainless steel offering better durability and aesthetics.
- User interface and automation levels significantly impact daily usability and long-term satisfaction.
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Compact, Café-Quality Espresso | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Dimensions: 7.7 inches wide | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Hands-On Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Enthusiasts Who Value Precision and Accessories | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Small Spaces and Simplicity | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: Single and double shot baskets, milk jug | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Home Users with Automation & Customization | Material: Brushed stainless steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall for Hands-On Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease and Speed with Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for High-End Home Baristas | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Burr Grinder: Built-in Baratza European Precision Burrs | Grind Settings: 45 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners and Intermediate Users | 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 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Style and Consistency with Advanced Features | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Included Accessories | Voltage | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | — | 110-120 Volts | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | 1600 Watts | Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | Single and double shot baskets, milk jug | 110-120 Volts | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | — | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit, milk jug | 110 to 120 V | — |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its combination of speed, ease of use, and size, making it ideal for those who want café-quality drinks without a bulky machine. Its ThermoJet technology delivers rapid heat-up, and the automatic milk texturing elevates home barista skills. Compared with the Bambino (without Plus), this model offers more precise temperature control and automatic milk steaming, but at a higher price and with limited capacity. Its compact footprint suits small kitchens, though the lack of detailed weight info and limited cup options might be a tradeoff for space-conscious users.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on countertops
- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Precise temperature control
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cup settings
- Price is not specified, potentially higher for features
Best for: Coffee lovers who want quick, high-quality espresso in small kitchens
Not ideal for: Heavy daily users needing larger capacity or customization options
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Dimensions:7.7 inches wide
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Milk Texturing:Automatic steam wand
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for small-space dwellers seeking quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Barista Express BES870BSXL offers a semi-automatic experience with a built-in conical burr grinder and manual controls, making it well-suited for those eager to learn brewing. Its integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds, but this adds complexity compared to fully automatic machines like the Bambino Plus. The digital PID temperature control provides consistent results, though its higher power draw and water tank size may require more maintenance. While it has a steeper learning curve, this model rewards users with more hands-on control and customization. Compared to the BES870BTR, the Black Sesame has a more stylish look but similar core features.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Includes various accessories for convenience
Cons:- High power consumption
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
- Learning curve for novices
Best for: Home baristas interested in mastering espresso basics and customizing their drinks
Not ideal for: Those seeking quick, set-it-and-forget-it espresso without much adjustment
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
- Features:Digital PID, adjustable grind
- Voltage:120 Volts
Our verdict“This machine suits those willing to invest time in learning espresso craft for personalized results.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express BES870XL shares many features with the BSLX model but is distinguished by its sleek stainless steel finish and comprehensive accessories, making it a favorite for those wanting a full barista setup at home. Its manual microfoam wand and PID temperature control enable high-quality espresso and milk drinks, but the machine’s size and slightly higher price may be a consideration. Compared to simpler semi-automatic machines, this model offers greater control, but it involves a learning curve that might challenge beginners. Its robust build and included tools make it ideal for dedicated home baristas.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise PID temperature control
- Manual microfoam steam wand
- Includes extensive accessories
Cons:- Relatively high cost for home use
- Requires some learning to master
- Limited bean capacity
Best for: Intermediate users seeking a durable, customizable espresso machine with accessories
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or space-limited kitchens, as it’s larger and more complex
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
- Material:Brushed stainless steel
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for dedicated enthusiasts ready to explore espresso depth and precision.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers a straightforward, space-saving option for home espresso enthusiasts who prioritize quick setup and ease of use. Its fast heat-up with ThermoJet and automatic features make it accessible for beginners, yet it still produces quality espresso and microfoam. Unlike the Bambino Plus, it lacks automatic milk texturing, requiring more manual effort for milk-based drinks. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for small kitchens, but it may fall short for users wanting extensive customization or high-volume capacity. Compared to larger, more complex machines, it emphasizes simplicity over advanced features.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact design
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Good temperature control
Cons:- Limited manual control for milk
- Not suitable for heavy daily use
- Price not specified
Best for: Small kitchen owners seeking quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting advanced control over brewing parameters
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single and double shot baskets, milk jug
- Brew Settings:1 or 2 cups, hot water, steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for space-conscious users who want reliable espresso with minimal setup.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch Impress combines semi-automatic control with advanced automation, making it ideal for users who want professional-quality coffee with minimal effort. Its auto steam wand and preset drink options streamline the process, while the built-in grinder with 30 settings offers precise coffee customization. The touchscreen interface simplifies operation, but its higher price point and complexity may overwhelm newcomers. Compared to the more manual BES870XL, this model emphasizes ease and consistency, though at the expense of some user control. It’s a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of automation and personalization.
Pros:- Auto steam wand for consistent microfoam
- Built-in Baratza grinder with 30 settings
- Touchscreen with preset and customizable drinks
- Fast heating with ThermoJet
Cons:- Learning curve for new users
- Higher price compared to basic models
- Limited to specific milk types for best results
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking customizable drinks with step-by-step guidance
Not ideal for: Beginners or those on a tight budget, due to its complexity and cost
- Material:Brushed stainless steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Drinks:13
- Customizable Drinks:Up to 6
Our verdict“This machine is best for tech-savvy users who want high customization with ease of operation.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model stands out for its integrated conical burr grinder and precise temperature control, making it ideal for those who want to craft espresso with a hands-on approach. Compared to the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, it offers more manual customization but requires more effort to operate. Its built-in grinder means you get fresh grounds every time, yet the machine’s complexity may challenge beginners. The 67 oz water tank and 1/2 lb bean hopper support frequent brewing, though the higher power draw and limited warranty are tradeoffs. This pick is best for home baristas who enjoy manual control and fresh grinding, but it may be less suited for casual users seeking simplicity.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for maximum freshness
- Precise temperature control with PID technology
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Complex operation may intimidate novices
- Limited warranty period
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want a customizable, hands-on espresso experience.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those seeking a simple, set-and-forget machine due to its complexity.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for experienced users who value manual control and fresh grinding but may be overwhelming for newcomers.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch makes a compelling case for those desiring café-quality drinks with minimal effort, thanks to its intuitive touchscreen interface and automatic milk texturing. Unlike the BES870BTR, it automates many steps, streamlining the brewing process. Its quick heat-up time with the ThermoJet system and preset options make everyday coffee preparation fast and consistent. However, its higher price and limited pre-programmed options mean it’s less flexible for users wanting full manual control. The adjustable milk texturing and built-in grinder suit users seeking both convenience and customization, though beginners may find setup somewhat complex. This machine excels for users who prioritize quick, quality drinks with minimal fuss but isn’t ideal for those who want total manual control or a budget-friendly option.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen interface for easy customization
Cons:- Expensive compared to basic models
- Setup can be complex for beginners
- Limited to 8 pre-programmed options
Best for: Home baristas who want quick, customizable drinks without manual fuss.
Not ideal for: Coffee purists who prefer full manual control over brewing and steaming.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit, milk jug
Our verdict“Ideal for users seeking fast, consistent, and customizable espresso drinks with minimal effort but not suited for purists or budget shoppers.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES985BSS Oracle Jet elevates espresso making with automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping, perfect for those who want professional-quality results with less manual effort. Its built-in Baratza European Precision Burrs and 45 grind settings offer extensive customization, surpassing the BES876BSS in precision. The ThermoJet system delivers rapid heat-up, and the adjustable temperature controls allow fine-tuning. However, its size and higher price make it less suitable for small kitchens or casual users. This machine is tailored for serious coffee enthusiasts who value automation and precision but may be overkill for casual drinkers or those with space constraints.
Pros:- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping for convenience
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Highly customizable temperature and microfoam controls
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Higher price point limits accessibility
- Size may be large for smaller kitchens
Best for: Dedicated home baristas seeking professional-quality espresso with minimal manual work.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited kitchen space due to its large footprint and high cost.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Burr Grinder:Built-in Baratza European Precision Burrs
- Grind Settings:45
- Portafilter Size:58mm
- Milk Frothing:Automatic microfoam
- Heating System:ThermoJet
Our verdict“This machine suits committed coffee lovers wanting professional features with automation but may be too complex or costly for casual users.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES876BSS combines professional features like a manual microfoam wand and intelligent dosing with user-friendly automation, making it suitable for those learning espresso craft or seeking consistency. Its 25 grind settings and built-in conical burr grinder mirror higher-end models but with easier operation, especially thanks to its assisted tamping feature. Compared with the BES985BSS, it offers a more approachable learning curve but still delivers high-quality espresso. The size and need for regular cleaning are minor tradeoffs for the features offered. This pick is well-suited for those transitioning from beginner to more advanced home barista skills, though absolute novices might find setup challenging.
Pros:- Manual microfoam for latte art
- Precise dosing and tamping for consistent shots
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge complete novices
- Relatively large footprint
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
Best for: Home baristas developing their skills who want a balance of manual control and automation.
Not ideal for: Complete beginners who find setup intimidating or those with very limited 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
Our verdict“This machine offers a great balance for enthusiasts seeking quality results without full manual effort but isn’t ideal for absolute beginners or tight spaces.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The BES876DBL brings the same core features as the BES876BSS but adds a distinctive Damson Blue finish, appealing to those who want style along with performance. Its automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping, combined with assisted tamping, make consistent espresso accessible for both beginners and experienced users. The 25 grind settings and included accessories, like a milk jug and cleaning tablets, make it a well-rounded choice. However, its setup can be somewhat daunting for new users, and the size may limit placement in smaller kitchens. Compared to the brushed stainless steel model, this version emphasizes aesthetics without sacrificing core functionality. It’s best for style-conscious users who want reliable performance with a touch of flair but not for those seeking full manual control or a compact footprint.
Pros:- Versatile with 25 grind settings for customization
- Automatic dosing and tamping for consistency
- Includes accessories and free coffee bags
Cons:- Setup may be challenging for beginners
- Higher price point
- Limited capacity for frequent use without refilling
Best for: Design-conscious home baristas who want consistent results with a stylish machine.
Not ideal for: Minimalist kitchens or users preferring full manual espresso control.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine suits style-aware users seeking dependable, consistent espresso with elegant design but may be less ideal for space-constrained kitchens or manual control purists.”
How We Picked
The products included in this roundup were evaluated based on performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized machines that balance ease of use with advanced features, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned baristas. Reliability and customer feedback also played crucial roles in ranking, alongside versatility in features like steam wands and programmable options. Our selection reflects a mix of affordability and premium performance, ensuring there’s a suitable choice for different budgets and skill levels. Ultimately, the ranking reveals how different features influence daily coffee-making experiences and long-term satisfaction.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves understanding several key factors beyond just price. While high-end models offer automation and advanced controls, they also require more maintenance and a learning curve. Conversely, simpler machines may be more straightforward but lack customization. Evaluating your skill level, space constraints, and coffee preferences helps narrow your options. Prioritizing features like steam wand quality or automation can significantly influence your overall experience. Keep in mind that investing in a slightly higher-priced model can provide better durability and future-proofing, especially if you plan to craft espresso regularly.Performance and Brewing Quality
Look for machines with consistent brewing temperature control and pressure stability. These factors directly influence espresso quality, creating richer flavors and crema. More advanced models often include PID temperature control for precise adjustments, which can make a noticeable difference for coffee enthusiasts. Cheaper machines may struggle with temperature fluctuations, leading to inconsistent results. Consider how much control you want over the brewing process and whether you’re willing to learn manual techniques or prefer automatic features.
Ease of Use and Automation
Decide whether you want a machine that simplifies the process or one that offers manual control. Entry-level models like the Bambino Plus focus on straightforward operation, perfect for beginners who want good espresso without complexity. More sophisticated options, such as the Barista Touch, include programmable shots, touchscreen interfaces, and automatic milk frothing. Keep in mind that higher automation usually means higher maintenance and cost. Your comfort with technology and willingness to learn should guide your choice here.
Build Quality and Materials
Durability hinges on the materials used—brushed stainless steel is common and offers both aesthetic appeal and longevity. Cheaper plastics may save money upfront but tend to wear out faster and look less refined. The construction quality impacts not only appearance but also how well the machine withstands daily use. If you plan to keep your machine for years, investing in a solid build can save money and frustration over time. Consider the finish and weight as indicators of overall quality.
Size and Counter Space
Espresso machines come in a variety of sizes, from compact units like the Bambino Plus to larger, feature-rich models. Smaller machines are ideal for limited kitchen space or occasional use, while larger models often include more features but require more countertop real estate. Think about your available space and whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist look or don’t mind a bulkier setup. Also, consider storage and ease of cleaning, especially if you have a busy routine.
Price and Long-term Value
While budget options can satisfy casual coffee drinkers, investing in a higher-priced machine often delivers better durability, performance, and features. Consider how often you’ll use your machine—frequent users may benefit from models with better steam wands and programmable options. Sometimes, spending more upfront can reduce the need for upgrades or repairs later. Balance your budget with the features that will genuinely improve your coffee experience, avoiding overpaying for unnecessary extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth paying more for a fully automatic Breville machine?
For those who value convenience and consistency, a fully automatic Breville machine can be a worthwhile investment. These models handle grinding, tamping, brewing, and milk frothing at the push of a button, saving time and effort. However, they tend to be more expensive and require more maintenance. If you’re passionate about customizing every shot and enjoy manual control, a semi-automatic or manual machine might better suit your needs. Ultimately, consider how much you value automation versus hands-on involvement in your coffee process.
Are Breville machines suitable for beginners?
Many Breville models, such as the Bambino Plus, are designed with simplicity in mind, making them excellent choices for beginners. They often feature user-friendly interfaces, straightforward controls, and minimal setup requirements. However, some of the more advanced models with programmable features may be intimidating initially and require learning to operate effectively. If you’re new to espresso making, starting with a simpler machine can build confidence before progressing to more complex options.
How important is the steam wand quality in a Breville machine?
The steam wand is critical if you enjoy milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. A well-designed steam wand allows for better control of milk texture and temperature, resulting in creamier microfoam. Cheaper or poorly designed wands can make steaming difficult and inconsistent. Higher-end models often include more precise and powerful steam wands, which can significantly enhance your ability to craft barista-quality drinks at home. Consider your skill level and the types of drinks you want to make when evaluating steam wand quality.
Can I find a Breville machine that fits a small kitchen?
Yes, Breville offers several compact options like the Bambino Plus that are ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space. These smaller machines still deliver good espresso quality but sacrifice some advanced features and size. Be aware that smaller models may have less powerful steaming capabilities or fewer programmable options. Measure your available space carefully and prioritize models that balance size with the features you need to make the most of your coffee brewing experience.
Do I need to buy accessories or extra tools with a Breville espresso machine?
While many Breville machines come with essential accessories like a tamper, frothing pitcher, and cleaning tools, additional accessories can enhance your experience. For example, water filters can improve taste and machine longevity, while specialized tampers or milk frothing jars can refine your technique. Consider whether you want to invest in these extras for better results or stick with the basics, especially if you’re just starting. Upgrading accessories can make a noticeable difference in the quality and consistency of your coffee.
Conclusion
For casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso, the Breville Bambino Plus offers simplicity and excellent value. If you seek a balance between control and automation, the Breville BES870XL Barista Express remains a versatile choice for most users. Coffee aficionados or those willing to invest in their craft should consider the Barista Touch or Oracle Jet for advanced features and premium build. Budget-conscious buyers can find capable options without sacrificing quality, while those with limited space will appreciate compact designs. Your choice ultimately depends on your skill level, desired control, and how much you’re willing to spend for long-term enjoyment.
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