Breville is renowned for its high-quality espresso machines, offering a range of options from beginner-friendly models to advanced barista setups. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out as the best overall choice, combining user-friendly features with professional results. The Bambino Plus is a strong pick for those seeking a compact and affordable machine, while the Oracle Jet appeals to serious enthusiasts with its advanced automation. Buyers often face tradeoffs between price, ease of use, and customization options. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each model to find the perfect fit for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Top-tier models like the Breville Oracle Jet offer advanced automation but come at a higher price point.
- The Breville Barista Express models balance affordability with customization, making them popular for home baristas.
- Compact options like the Bambino Plus excel in small kitchens but may lack some advanced features.
- Build quality and ease of cleaning are consistent strengths across most Breville machines.
- Choosing the right model depends heavily on your experience level and how much control you want over your espresso making.
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Customization and Ease of Use | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Fresh Grounds and Manual Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Quality Coffee at Home | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Burr Grinder: Built-in Baratza European Precision Burrs | Grind Settings: 45 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Consistent Results and Versatility | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact and Fast Heat-Up | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners and Versatile Use | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Customization and Affordability | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Included Accessories: 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users and Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact Choice | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Included Accessories | Voltage | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit, milk jug | 110 to 120 V | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | — | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | — | 110-120 Volts | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | 1600 Watts | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | 110-120 Volts | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch stands out as the most well-rounded option, combining a touchscreen interface with automatic microfoam milk texturing, making it easier to craft café-quality drinks at home. Compared to the Breville BES870BTR, it offers more intuitive controls and faster heat-up thanks to the ThermoJet system, but this convenience comes with a higher price and a limited preset selection. While the touchscreen simplifies operation, it might overwhelm beginners who prefer manual control. The built-in grinder and customizable settings make it ideal for users seeking precision and variety, though the complex setup could challenge those new to espresso machines. Tradeoffs include cost and limited pre-programmed options, but for users who prioritize ease and customization, this model delivers a compelling package.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent, professional drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system significantly reduces wait time
- Touchscreen interface makes customization straightforward
- Built-in grinder with adjustable settings adds convenience
Cons:- Expensive compared to basic or manual espresso machines
- Setup can be complex for users unfamiliar with high-end equipment
Best for: Home baristas who want a highly customizable, user-friendly espresso experience with professional-quality results
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer a simple, straightforward machine without the learning curve or for those on a tight budget
- 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“This machine is best suited for experienced home baristas who value customization, convenience, and café-quality drinks at home.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Express BES870BTR offers a compelling balance between control and convenience with its built-in conical burr grinder, making it ideal for those who want fresh espresso grounds without an external grinder. Compared to the Breville BES880BSS, it lacks a touchscreen but provides more manual control over grind size and extraction, appealing to users who prefer hands-on brewing. Its relatively high power consumption and shorter warranty are tradeoffs for its versatility and affordability. This model is best for those who enjoy customizing their grind and extraction process, though it may be overwhelming for absolute beginners. The built-in grinder reduces countertop clutter but requires regular refilling, which can interrupt workflow.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for ultra-fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID for optimal extraction
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Manual override options for experienced users
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited warranty period (1 year)
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want control over grind size and prefer manual brewing processes
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a fully automatic experience or users looking for a set-and-forget machine
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Ideal for users who enjoy a hands-on approach to espresso making and value fresh grounds, but less suited for those seeking automation or simplicity.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES985BSS Oracle Jet is designed for serious coffee lovers, offering automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping with a built-in Baratza burr grinder. It surpasses the Barista Touch in automation, providing a near-professional experience with customizable temperature control and rapid heat-up via ThermoJet. Its versatility extends to cold brew and cold espresso options, catering to a broad range of preferences. However, its size and complex setup make it less suitable for small kitchens or users new to high-end espresso machines. The higher price point reflects its premium features, making it a choice for those ready to invest in a near-automatic professional-grade machine. Tradeoffs include size and complexity for top-tier convenience and performance.
Pros:- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping for convenience
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Highly customizable temperature and microfoam settings
- Versatile for espresso, cold brew, and cold espresso
Cons:- Complex setup may be challenging for beginners
- Larger footprint may not suit small kitchens
- Higher price point for a home machine
Best for: Home baristas seeking professional-grade espresso with automatic functions and advanced customization
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simpler or more compact machines
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Burr Grinder:Built-in Baratza European Precision Burrs
- Grind Settings:45
- Portafilter Size:58mm
- Milk Frothing:Automatic microfoam with adjustable temperature and texture
Our verdict“Best for experienced enthusiasts wanting a near-professional machine with full automation and versatility, provided space and budget are available.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The BES876DBL Barista Express Impress offers a well-rounded experience with an integrated conical burr grinder, 25 grind settings, and assisted tamping, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Compared to the Barista Touch, its manual controls and included accessories give a more tactile experience, although setup can be more involved. The automatic dosing and tamping help ensure consistent shots, but the machine’s capacity and high price might deter those with limited space or tighter budgets. This pick makes the most sense for users who want reliable, customizable espresso making with less guesswork in tamping and dosing, but not for those seeking a fully automatic, touchscreen interface.
Pros:- Versatile with 25 grind settings for tailored brewing
- Automatic dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
- Includes accessories and free coffee bags
- Good balance of manual control and automation
Cons:- Setup can be complex for newcomers
- Relatively high price for a semi-automatic machine
Best for: Home baristas who want consistent results with manual control and automatic dosing assistance
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or users seeking a compact, low-cost machine
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Milk Jug Capacity:480ml
- Included Accessories:stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Perfect for users who want reliable, high-quality espresso with a mix of manual control and automated features, assuming space and budget allow.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus excels in small spaces, offering a compact footprint without sacrificing performance, thanks to its fast ThermoJet heat-up and automatic microfoam milk texturing. Compared to larger models like the Barista Touch, it simplifies operation with automatic features, making it ideal for those with limited counter space or who value quick setup. Its main tradeoff is the limited to 1 or 2 cup settings, and the absence of advanced manual controls might disappoint seasoned baristas seeking more influence over the brewing process. Still, for casual users or those new to espresso, its speed and ease of use are significant advantages, though it might lack the customization some advanced users desire.
Pros:- Compact size fits small countertops easily
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Precise temperature control ensures consistent extraction
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cups at a time
- Price may be high relative to feature set for some
Best for: Small kitchens and users who want quick, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas seeking extensive manual control or users needing larger capacity
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Dimensions:Width: 7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for small-space users who want quick, consistent espresso with automatic milk texturing, but less suited for those seeking extensive manual control.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out as the best all-around Breville option, combining a built-in conical burr grinder, precise temperature control, and a manual microfoam wand. It offers an authentic barista experience at home, surpassing simpler machines like the Bambino in customization and quality. However, its higher price and learning curve might deter beginners or those with limited space. The 67 oz water tank and 1/2 lb bean capacity are suitable for moderate use, but frequent refilling could be inconvenient.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
Cons:- Relatively high price for home use
- Requires some learning curve for optimal use
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, semi-automatic machine capable of high-quality espresso and milk drinks.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with very limited counter space, as it requires some skill to operate and is relatively bulky.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This is the best choice for dedicated home baristas seeking versatility and quality in one machine.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES876BSS combines professional features with a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for those new to espresso or looking for convenience. Its intelligent dosing system and assisted tamping simplify the process, while the 25 grind settings provide flexibility. Compared with the BES870XL, it offers more automation but may feel complex for absolute novices, and its larger footprint can be a concern in small kitchens. The machine’s ability to deliver consistent shots with minimal fuss makes it a strong choice for home baristas who want quality without a steep learning curve.
Pros:- Professional-quality microfoam for latte art
- Precise dosing and tamping for consistency
- Built-in conical burr grinder with multiple settings
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge complete novices
- Relatively large footprint for small kitchens
Best for: Beginners eager to learn espresso-making with guided features and consistent results.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas who prefer full manual control or limited space for a larger machine.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto correct dosing, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“Ideal for newcomers seeking a semi-automatic machine with helpful automation features for consistent espresso shots.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Black Sesame version maintains Breville’s core features, including a built-in conical burr grinder and digital PID temperature control. It appeals to users who want control over grind size and dose, similar to the BES870XL, but at a slightly more accessible price point. Its straightforward interface makes it suitable for those comfortable with manual adjustments, though it might feel limited compared to more advanced models like the BES881BSS. The 67 oz water tank suits moderate use, but higher power consumption and a learning curve for perfect shots are considerations.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature regulation (PID)
- Manual override for customization
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
Best for: Home baristas looking for a customizable machine that balances cost and control over espresso variables.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those who prefer fully automated machines, as it requires manual tweaks and some skill to master.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Features:Digital temperature regulation (PID), Adjustable grind size, Manual override
Our verdict“A strong pick for those wanting control over their espresso process without the complexity of higher-end models.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES881BSS elevates home espresso with a touchscreen interface, auto steam wand, and customizable drinks, making it appealing to those who want a semi-automatic with smart features. Its advanced auto milk system and wide grind settings give it a step ahead in automation and precision, outperforming models like the BES876BSS in user interaction. However, its higher price and complex features may overwhelm beginners, and its focus on specific coffee and milk types limits flexibility for some users. It’s best suited for tech enthusiasts who enjoy fine-tuning their coffee experience with minimal effort.
Pros:- Auto steam wand for customizable milk textures
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 30 settings
- Touchscreen with preset and customizable drinks
Cons:- Complex features may require a learning curve
- Higher price point limits accessibility
Best for: Tech-savvy coffee lovers who want a semi-automatic with intuitive controls and customization options.
Not ideal for: Traditionalists or budget-conscious buyers who prefer manual control and simpler machines.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 grind settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Drinks:13
- Customizable Drinks:Up to 6
Our verdict“Perfect for users who prioritize smart features and customization in a premium espresso machine.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino offers a streamlined, space-saving design with fast heat-up via the ThermoJet system, making it ideal for small kitchens or those new to espresso. Its automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam creation, and the precise temperature control ensures consistent extraction. Compared to larger models like the BES870XL, it sacrifices some customization and capacity, but its quick start-up and ease of use appeal to casual users. Its manual operation, although straightforward, might require some practice to perfect shots, especially for those wanting more control.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact design ideal for small kitchens
Cons:- Limited to home use, not commercial-grade
- Requires manual operation for best results
Best for: Users with limited space who want a quick, straightforward way to make quality espresso and milk drinks.
Not ideal for: Experienced espresso enthusiasts or those wanting extensive control over every variable, as it’s designed for simplicity.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Brew Settings:1 or 2 cups, hot water, steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“A solid choice for small spaces seeking a quick, reliable espresso machine with minimal fuss.”
How We Picked
This selection was based on evaluating each Breville machine’s performance, usability, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso, ease of operation, and durability, considering both beginner-friendly and advanced options. The ranking reflects a balance between features and price, ensuring that each model serves a specific type of buyer—whether they seek simplicity, customization, or automation. We also looked at user feedback and reliability to ensure these picks stand the test of time and daily use.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When choosing a Breville espresso machine, it’s essential to consider factors that align with your skill level and how you plan to use the machine daily. Beyond features, think about your space, budget, and the types of drinks you prefer. Understanding these considerations helps avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features or choosing a machine too complex for your needs.Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models, like the Oracle Jet, come with advanced automation that simplifies brewing but can be overwhelming for beginners. Conversely, machines like the Bambino Plus focus on straightforward operation, making them ideal for new users. Consider whether you want a machine that offers a lot of control or one that handles most steps automatically. The right choice depends on your experience and how much time you want to invest in learning to perfect your espresso.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Breville offers compact models like the Bambino Plus, perfect for small kitchens or limited counter space. Larger, more feature-rich machines like the Oracle Jet require more room and may be better suited to dedicated coffee stations. Assess your available space and whether a smaller footprint is more practical, or if you’re willing to sacrifice some space for more features and stability.
Budget and Value
Prices across Breville’s lineup vary significantly, from budget-friendly options to high-end machines. It’s wise to consider how much you’re willing to spend and what features are most important to you. Sometimes investing a bit more yields substantial improvements in durability, performance, and features, but there are also excellent mid-range options that provide great value for everyday use.
Customization and Control
For those who enjoy experimenting, machines like the Barista Express offer extensive manual control over grind size, dose, and temperature. More automated models limit these adjustments but ensure consistency. Think about whether you prefer the tactile experience of manual brewing or the convenience of automation. Your choice will influence your overall satisfaction and learning curve.
Maintenance and Durability
Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital to keep your machine performing well. Breville machines generally feature accessible designs and descaling alerts, but some models require more frequent upkeep. Consider how much time you’re willing to dedicate to maintenance and whether the build quality justifies a higher price point, especially if you plan to use the machine daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a more expensive Breville machine worth the investment?
Higher-priced Breville models typically offer more advanced features, automation, and build quality, which can translate into better espresso and longer-lasting durability. If you’re serious about espresso and willing to invest in a machine that offers more control and convenience, the extra cost can be justified. However, for occasional use or beginners, mid-range models often provide excellent performance without the premium price tag.
Can a beginner use any Breville espresso machine effectively?
Many Breville models are designed with beginners in mind, especially those with automatic functions like the Bambino Plus. These machines simplify the brewing process, making it easier to produce good espresso without extensive training. Still, some manual models require more skill and practice, so if you’re new to espresso, choosing a machine with automation features can help you get started quickly and avoid frustration.
How important is grind consistency when choosing a Breville machine?
Consistent grinding is key to making great espresso, and many Breville machines include integrated grinders or are compatible with high-quality external grinders. Machines with built-in grinders, like the Barista Express series, give you more control and freshness, but their performance depends heavily on the quality of the grinder component. Investing in a good grinder or choosing a machine with a reliable built-in grinder can significantly improve your results.
Are all Breville machines suitable for making milk-based drinks?
Most Breville models come equipped with steam wands capable of frothing milk effectively, but their ease of use varies. The Bambino Plus, for example, features a powerful steam wand that’s beginner-friendly, while some higher-end models offer more precise temperature and pressure controls for professional-level milk texturing. Consider your comfort with steaming milk if lattes and cappuccinos are part of your routine.
What common mistakes should I avoid when buying a Breville espresso machine?
A common mistake is choosing a model that’s too complex or too simple for your skill level, leading to frustration or underuse. Another is neglecting to consider available space or budget constraints. It’s also easy to overlook the importance of a good grinder, which plays a vital role in espresso quality. Taking time to match the machine’s features with your experience and needs ensures a more satisfying investment.
Conclusion
For casual coffee drinkers or beginners, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value and ease of use. Serious enthusiasts and home baristas who want greater control and automation should consider the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch as the best overall pick. Those seeking premium features and durability might find the Oracle Jet worth the investment, especially if espresso quality is a priority. Budget-conscious buyers should focus on mid-range models like the Barista Express, which strike a good balance between price and performance. Ultimately, your choice depends on your experience level, desired features, and how much you plan to invest in your espresso setup.
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