Breville has become synonymous with quality espresso machines that blend innovation with user-friendly features. The best overall pick, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, offers a perfect blend of convenience and advanced controls, ideal for enthusiasts and busy homes alike. The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for beginners thanks to its simple interface and compact size, while the Oracle Jet provides premium features for serious baristas. These options reflect the common tradeoffs between price, feature set, and ease of use. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the top models and what makes each one unique.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models balance automation with customization, appealing to both beginners and experienced users.
- Price differences often reflect build quality, feature complexity, and additional accessories—more expensive models generally offer more control.
- Compact models like the Bambino Plus are best for small spaces and entry-level users, but may lack advanced features found in higher-tier options.
- The more premium breville machines, such as the Oracle Jet, include integrated grinders and more precise temperature controls, catering to serious coffee enthusiasts.
- Ease of use and maintenance vary widely; models with intuitive interfaces and fewer parts tend to require less ongoing effort.
| 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 Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Fresh Grounds and Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Assisted Brewing and Consistency | Capacity: 250g bean hopper | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional Control with User-Friendly Features | Capacity: 250g bean hopper | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Home Baristas Seeking Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Beginners Who Value Freshness and Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Included Accessories: Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Serious Home Baristas Wanting Automation and Precision | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Burr Grinder: Built-in Baratza European Precision Burrs | Grind Settings: 45 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Enthusiasts Wanting a Balance of Control and Value | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens and Quick Results | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Dimensions: Width: 7.7 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Included Accessories | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit, milk jug | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | 1600 Watts | Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | Portafilter, tamper, milk jug | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out for its combination of advanced features and user-friendly interface. Its touchscreen makes customizing drinks simple, while the built-in grinder and automatic microfoam milk texturing elevate home espresso quality. Compared with the Breville Bambino, it offers more drink options and precise control, but the higher price and complex setup may challenge beginners. The quick heat-up with ThermoJet and intuitive interface make it ideal for enthusiasts who want café-style drinks with minimal fuss. However, this model’s limited pre-programmed options mean more manual tweaking for personalized results.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen interface for easy customization
- Built-in grinder with adjustable settings
Cons:- Expensive compared to basic espresso machines
- Complex setup for beginners
- Limited to 8 pre-programmed coffee options
Best for: Home baristas seeking a highly customizable, easy-to-use machine with professional features.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those new to espresso who prefer straightforward, plug-and-play options.
- 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 is best suited for experienced home baristas who want a versatile, high-tech machine for personalized espresso creations.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino is an excellent choice for those with limited space who still want to craft quality espresso at home. Its compact design makes it easy to fit into small kitchens, and the ThermoJet heating system ensures it’s ready to brew in just 3 seconds. While it lacks advanced features like a built-in grinder, its precise temperature control and automatic steam wand make it easier for beginners to produce microfoam and basic drinks. Compared to the Barista Express, it sacrifices some control and customization for simplicity and size. This makes it ideal for casual users who value convenience over extensive options but might frustrate experienced users seeking more control.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact design perfect for small spaces
- Precise temperature control for better extraction
Cons:- Limited to home use, not suitable for high-volume brewing
- Requires manual operation for some steps
- Price not clearly specified, potentially high for some
Best for: Individuals with small kitchens who want quick, quality espresso without complexity.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting extensive customization and grinding options.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 & 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“This is ideal for small-space dwellers who need a reliable, quick espresso maker with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express offers a strong balance between control and convenience with its built-in conical burr grinder, allowing users to grind fresh beans for superior flavor. Its PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction, rivaling more expensive commercial machines. Compared to the Barista Touch, it lacks a touchscreen but provides more manual control, appealing to those who prefer hands-on brewing. Its higher power consumption and somewhat complex operation can be a hurdle for beginners, but it’s a favorite for those wanting fresh grounds and manual customization without a fully automatic interface.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Adjustable grind size and manual override
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- May be complex for beginners
- Limited warranty period
Best for: Home enthusiasts who prioritize fresh grinding and manual control over automation.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a straightforward, no-fuss machine for quick drinks.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine suits those who enjoy grinding their own beans and want detailed control over their espresso process.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress combines automation with professional features, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned home baristas. Its 25 grind settings, automatic dosing, and assisted tamping simplify the process of achieving consistent shots, especially when compared to manual machines like the Barista Express. The powerful steam wand and Thermocoil heating system support quality microfoam and temperature stability. The main tradeoff is its somewhat complex setup and higher price point, which could overwhelm first-time users seeking simplicity. Still, for those who want a semi-automatic with less guesswork, this machine offers impressive versatility.
Pros:- Versatile with 25 grind settings
- Automatic dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
- Includes accessories and free coffee bags
- Good build quality and features for the price
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Relatively high price point
- Limited capacity for high-frequency use
Best for: Home users who want consistent results with some automation for ease of use.
Not ideal for: Complete novices or those with very limited space who prefer a simple, manual machine.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine is best for users who value consistent, high-quality espresso with less manual effort.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress offers a compelling mix of manual and automated features, making it suitable for both newcomers and experienced enthusiasts. Its manual microfoam wand enables latte art, while the intelligent dosing and auto-correct features help achieve consistent shots. The built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings allows for fresh grounds tailored to each brew, and the assisted tamping simplifies the process for beginners. Compared with the Damson Blue version, the brushed stainless steel finish adds a sleek aesthetic. The main challenge lies in its somewhat intricate setup and size, which may deter small-kitchen users. Still, it strikes a good balance for those wanting professional results at home.
Pros:- Manual microfoam for latte art
- Precise, automatic dosing and tamping
- Conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- User-friendly features for beginners
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge novices
- Relatively large footprint
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
Best for: Home baristas who want a semi-automatic machine with professional features and easy operation.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a simple, fully automatic machine or those with limited space.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets
- Features:manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto correct dosing, assisted tamping, PID temperature control
Our verdict“Ideal for home users who want a semi-automatic machine with professional control and consistent results.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch Impress stands out for its sophisticated auto steam wand and customizable milk options, making it ideal for those who want a professional-quality experience at home without manual steaming. Its built-in grinder with 30 settings and intuitive touchscreen provide a seamless process, but the machine’s complex features could be overwhelming for beginners. Compared to the Breville BES870XL, it offers more automation and a modern interface, though at a higher price and with a steeper learning curve. This pick is perfect for serious coffee lovers who value precision and convenience but are willing to invest time to master it.
Pros:- Advanced auto steam wand for personalized milk textures
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 30 grind settings for fresh beans
- High-resolution touchscreen with preset and customizable drinks
- Fast heating system for quick beverage preparation
Cons:- Complex features may require a learning curve for new users
- Higher price point compared to entry-level machines
- Limited to specific coffee and milk types for optimal operation
Best for: Experienced home baristas or enthusiasts who want a highly customizable machine with advanced features
Not ideal for: Casual users or newcomers who prefer simple, straightforward espresso 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“This machine suits experienced espresso lovers seeking advanced customization at a premium price.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville Barista Express offers a balanced blend of manual control and convenience, with a built-in conical burr grinder and precise temperature regulation that appeals to beginners eager to learn espresso craft. Its intuitive features make it easier to master than more automated options like the BES985BSS Oracle Jet. However, its smaller water tank and higher power consumption may limit frequent use for some users. It’s a solid choice for newcomers who want to develop barista skills while maintaining control over grind and extraction, though it requires some patience to dial in perfect results.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control (PID) for better extraction
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Includes essential accessories for immediate use
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent brewing
- Requires some learning curve to perfect the espresso shot
Best for: Home users new to espresso who want to learn the craft with a versatile and affordable machine
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those seeking fully automated, set-it-and-forget-it machines
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
- Features:Digital PID, adjustable grind size
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners who want hands-on control and fresh grounds at an accessible price point.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES985BSS Oracle Jet elevates home espresso with its automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping features, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize consistency and speed. Its 45 grind settings and customizable temperature control give a professional touch, but its setup complexity and size can be challenges for less experienced users or smaller kitchens. Compared to the BES870XL, it provides more automation and precision, yet at a higher cost. This machine makes sense for dedicated coffee lovers who want a near-automatic experience with minimal fuss, accepting the size and price tradeoffs.
Pros:- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping for uniform shots
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Adjustable microfoam with temperature control
- Versatile for espresso, cold brew, and cold espresso
Cons:- Complex setup may be overwhelming for beginners
- Larger footprint may not fit small kitchens
- Higher price point for home use
Best for: Home baristas who want convenience and consistency without sacrificing quality
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or those with limited kitchen space
- 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
Our verdict“Perfect for serious espresso fans seeking automation and precision at home, willing to accept size and cost.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES870XL combines a built-in conical burr grinder with manual microfoam steaming, making it well-suited for those who want to craft espresso with a personal touch. Its digital temperature control ensures better extraction than basic models, yet it requires a learning curve similar to the BES880BSS. While it offers solid value for the features, its capacity and price may be limiting for frequent users. Compared to the BES985BSS, it’s less automated, but still provides enough control for passionate home baristas seeking a reliable machine without the higher cost.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Includes comprehensive accessories
Cons:- Relatively high price for home use
- Requires some skill to optimize shots
- Limited bean capacity at 1/2 lb
Best for: Home users who want a balance of manual control and automation at a reasonable price
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those needing a compact or ultra-simple machine
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, tamper, milk jug
Our verdict“Suitable for enthusiasts seeking a good mix of control, quality, and value, with room to grow in espresso skills.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus offers a compact footprint with automatic microfoam milk texturing and rapid heat-up, making it a prime choice for those with limited space who still want café-quality drinks. Its automatic steam wand simplifies milk preparation, unlike the manual wands on the BES870XL, but this convenience means less control over the foam texture. Compared to larger models, it sacrifices some customization for speed and size, which is ideal for busy households or small kitchens. However, its limited options for multiple cups and less sophisticated features may frustrate more advanced users who want full control.
Pros:- Compact size fits small spaces
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic milk texturing for ease of use
- Consistent temperature control
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cup settings
- Price not specified, possibly high for its size
- Less customizable than larger machines
Best for: Small kitchen owners or those who want quick, automatic drinks without fuss
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or users seeking extensive customization
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Dimensions:Width: 7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Perfect for small kitchens and busy mornings, prioritizing speed and convenience over advanced control.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were evaluated based on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance needs, and value for money. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso quality while considering how accessible they are for different skill levels. Features like integrated grinders, touchscreen controls, and steam wand quality played a significant role. Our ranking reflects a balanced view of these factors, aiming to guide both casual users and coffee connoisseurs to the best choice for their needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves several considerations beyond just price. Understanding your skill level, space, and how much automation you want can help narrow down options. It’s important to weigh the tradeoffs between advanced features and ease of use, especially if you’re new to espresso making. This guide highlights key factors to consider to ensure you select a machine that matches your coffee goals and lifestyle.Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models come with fully automatic features, which are perfect for those who want consistent results without much effort. Others offer more manual control, giving experienced users the ability to finesse each shot. Beginners should lean toward models with intuitive interfaces and guided settings, while seasoned baristas might prefer machines with customizable parameters. Remember, highly automated machines can sometimes limit control, so consider your comfort with manual operation.
Built-in Grinder and Coffee Quality
Many top-tier Breville machines include integrated grinders, which ensure fresh grounds and optimal extraction. However, this feature often bumps up the price and adds complexity. If you already own a grinder or prefer pre-ground coffee, a machine without an integrated grinder could provide better value. Pay attention to grind consistency and burr quality, as these significantly influence the flavor of your espresso.
Size and Counter Space
Espresso machines vary from compact models like the Bambino Plus to larger, feature-rich options like the Oracle Jet. Assess your kitchen space carefully, especially if countertop real estate is limited. Compact machines are easier to store and move, but may lack some advanced features. Larger models often include more accessories and controls, but require dedicated space and may be more cumbersome to clean and maintain.
Maintenance and Durability
Durability depends on build quality and ease of cleaning. Machines with fewer removable parts and straightforward cleaning routines tend to last longer and require less effort. Consider models with durable stainless steel construction and accessible water reservoirs. Budget models might save money upfront but could incur higher maintenance costs or shorter lifespans, especially if they use cheaper materials or components.
Price and Value
While investing in a higher-priced Breville machine often means more features and better build quality, it’s important to evaluate whether those features match your needs. Entry-level models can be sufficient for casual use, but serious coffee lovers might find the extra investment worthwhile for precision and durability. Balance your budget with the features that will improve your daily coffee routine, avoiding overpaying for bells and whistles you won’t use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a built-in grinder necessary for good espresso?
Having an integrated grinder can significantly improve espresso quality by ensuring fresh grounds and precise control over grind size. However, it’s not a strict necessity; many users prefer to buy pre-ground coffee or use separate grinders for more flexibility. Consider your skill level, space, and budget—if you’re new and want convenience, a machine with a built-in grinder simplifies the process. For more control and potentially better results, investing in a standalone grinder is also a valid option.
Can I use regular coffee beans with a Breville espresso machine?
Yes, you can use regular coffee beans, but for optimal results, choose high-quality, espresso-specific beans that are freshly roasted. Beans intended for drip coffee may not grind well or extract as richly, affecting flavor and crema. If your machine has an integrated grinder, ensure you select the right grind setting for espresso. Pre-ground coffee is convenient, but fresh grinding usually yields better flavor and aroma.
Are higher-end Breville models worth the extra cost?
Higher-end models like the Oracle Jet or Barista Touch Impress offer advanced features such as precise temperature control, automatic milk frothing, and integrated grinders, which can greatly enhance your espresso experience. If you’re passionate about coffee or want consistent quality with minimal effort, these models justify their higher price. However, for casual users or beginners, more affordable options still produce good espresso but with less automation and control.
How much maintenance do these machines require?
All espresso machines need regular cleaning to maintain performance and flavor. Machines with fewer removable parts and automatic cleaning features tend to be easier to maintain. Descaling, cleaning brew groups, and milk system upkeep are common tasks. Higher-end models often include automated cleaning cycles, saving time and effort. Investing in good water filters can also extend the lifespan of your machine and reduce maintenance needs.
What’s the best Breville machine for a beginner?
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for beginners due to its straightforward operation, compact size, and consistent results. Its intuitive controls and straightforward milk frothing make it easier to learn the craft of espresso-making without being overwhelmed. It also offers good value, balancing ease of use with decent build quality. For those just starting out, this model provides an accessible entry point into home espresso brewing.
Conclusion
For casual users and newcomers, the Breville Bambino Plus delivers reliable performance with minimal fuss. Coffee enthusiasts seeking a balance of control and automation should consider the Barista Express models, such as the BES870BTR or BES876BSS, which offer more manual features and integrated grinders. Serious baristas or those willing to invest in premium features will find the Oracle Jet or Barista Touch Impress worth the cost, thanks to their advanced controls and built-in milk systems. Budget-conscious buyers should focus on models that provide core espresso-making capabilities without the extras, while dedicated hobbyists benefit from the durability and customization options of higher-tier machines.Cold & flu season Picks
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