When it comes to coffee and kitchen appliances, Breville remains a leading name thanks to its innovative design and reliable performance. The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express stands out as the best overall choice for its balanced features and solid build quality. For those seeking a more advanced machine, the Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress offers touchscreen controls and customization options. However, choosing the right Breville product means weighing tradeoffs like price versus features, ease of use versus customization, and compact size versus capacity. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each model and how they compare.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models excel in balancing user-friendly features with professional-grade performance.
- Advanced models like the Barista Touch Impress offer touchscreen controls but come at a higher price point.
- The difference in finish and color options allows for better kitchen integration, though it doesn’t impact performance.
- Price varies significantly across models, with budget-friendly options still providing solid espresso quality.
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance remains a key factor influencing long-term satisfaction with these machines.
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Convenience and Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best 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 Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact Choice | 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 BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease and Speed | Color: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Home Baristas | 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 BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Ease and Customization | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lbs | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for All-in-One Convenience | 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 Precise Control and Professional Results | Grind Settings: 25 | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | Water Tank Capacity: 2L | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Style and User-Friendly Performance | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | Water Tank Capacity: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Included Accessories |
|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | 1600 Watts | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR stands out for combining a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control, making it a versatile choice for serious home baristas. Its integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds with each shot, unlike the separate grinder needed for models like the Breville BES881BSS. While it offers professional-quality microfoam via the steam wand, its relatively large size and limited water capacity mean it’s best suited for dedicated coffee spaces. The high price reflects its all-in-one convenience, but it may be a barrier for casual users. This machine strikes a balance between functionality and cost, making it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive espresso setup without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Integrated conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- User-friendly grind size dial
Cons:- Relatively high price
- Large footprint requiring ample counter space
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
Best for: Home users who want an all-in-one espresso machine with professional features and are comfortable with a larger footprint.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or casual coffee drinkers who prefer a more compact, budget-friendly option.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This model is best for dedicated coffee enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive, high-quality espresso experience at home.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress emphasizes ease of use with its touchscreen interface, automatic milk frothing, and built-in grinder. Its quick 3-second heat-up via the ThermoJet system makes it a standout for busy mornings, and the customizable presets allow users to craft a variety of drinks with minimal effort. Compared with the BES870BTR, it offers more automation, but this comes with a higher price and more complex setup, which might intimidate beginners. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain its automatic functions, and the touchscreen’s complexity could be a hurdle for some. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for those who prioritize speed, ease, and customization in a stylish package.
Pros:- Quick 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Intuitive touchscreen with customizable presets
- Automatic milk frothing with alternative milk options
- Built-in grinder with precise dose control
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Higher price point compared to basic models
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Home baristas who want a fast, customizable, and automated espresso experience with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Users on a tight budget or those preferring manual control over every step of brewing.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs
- Grind Settings:30
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Drinks:13
- Customizable Drinks:Up to 6
- Milk Frothing:Auto MilQ steam wand
Our verdict“Ideal for home users seeking a fast, automated, and customizable espresso experience, willing to invest in convenience.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville BES870BSXL offers a semi-automatic experience with a built-in conical burr grinder and PID temperature control, making it suitable for users who want more control over their espresso. Its included accessories, like the Razor Dose Trimming Tool, help optimize grind consistency, but mastering the machine’s features requires some practice, unlike the more plug-and-play BES880BTR. The 1/2 lb bean capacity might limit frequent users, and its higher power consumption could be a concern for energy-conscious households. This model is best for those willing to learn the nuances of espresso brewing and appreciate hands-on customization.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID technology
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Includes multiple accessories for customization
Cons:- High power consumption
- Limited to 1/2 lb bean capacity
- Requires some learning to optimize use
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy fine-tuning their shot and learning the craft of espresso making.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a straightforward, beginner-friendly machine without a learning curve.
- 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, Water Filter
Our verdict“Best suited for users eager to develop barista skills and enjoy hands-on control of every shot.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino is designed for smaller kitchens or spaces where convenience matters most. Its ThermoJet technology ensures a quick heat-up, comparable to higher-end models, and its manual steam wand provides control over microfoam. While it lacks the built-in grinder, this simplicity makes it a good entry point for beginners who already have or prefer to buy pre-ground coffee. Compared to the BES870BTR, it offers fewer features but is much more space-efficient. Its price might still be high for casual users who don’t plan to explore manual techniques deeply, but it delivers solid espresso quality in a compact form.
Pros:- Quick heat-up time with ThermoJet
- Precise temperature regulation
- Manual steam wand for microfoam
- Compact and stylish design
Cons:- Requires skill for manual operation
- No built-in grinder, needing separate purchase
- Limited capacity for frequent use
Best for: Users with limited space who want a straightforward, quick-heat espresso machine for occasional use.
Not ideal for: Serious coffee enthusiasts looking for built-in grinders or extensive customization options.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
- Brewing Capacity:1 or 2 cups
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
Our verdict“A solid compact choice for small kitchens and casual coffee drinkers who value speed and simplicity.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch combines automation and speed with its touchscreen interface and automatic microfoam milk texturing. Its fast heat-up with ThermoJet and built-in grinder streamline the process, making it ideal for busy mornings. Compared to the BES870BTR, it offers more automation and a sleeker interface, but these features come with a higher price tag. Its larger size and complex features might be overwhelming for casual users or those with limited space. This machine is best suited for tech-savvy individuals who want consistent results with minimal manual effort.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Touchscreen with programmable settings
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Built-in grinder for fresh coffee
Cons:- High price point
- Complex features may require learning
- Bulkier size needing more counter space
Best for: Home users seeking a quick, automated, and consistent espresso experience with modern features.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those preferring manual control over every step of brewing.
- Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Features:Touchscreen, programmable settings, integrated grinder
Our verdict“Perfect for those who prioritize convenience, consistency, and modern interface in their home espresso setup.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its combination of professional espresso quality and user-friendly features like assisted tamping and auto dosing, making it ideal for those who want café-level drinks at home. Compared with the Breville BES870XL, it offers more automation and guided features, but this comes with a higher price and a larger footprint. The setup can be complex for complete beginners, and it requires ample counter space. Its adjustable grind settings and microfoam wand provide control over flavor and texture, but the machine’s size and learning curve may deter casual users. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for serious enthusiasts willing to invest time and space for top-tier results.
Pros:- Professional-quality espresso and milk frothing for home use
- Adjustable grind settings for optimal flavor extraction
- User-friendly features like assisted tamping and auto dosing
Cons:- Complex setup may be challenging for complete beginners
- Relatively high price point
- Size may require ample counter space
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want customizable control and café-quality drinks
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited kitchen space who prefer simple, plug-and-play espresso machines
- 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 dose, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for experienced users seeking high customization and professional results at home.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This pick makes the most sense for users who want quick, consistent results with minimal effort, thanks to its automatic milk texturing and touchscreen interface. Unlike the more manual BES870XL, it offers pre-programmed favorites and easy customization, but it may sacrifice some control for simplicity. The rapid heat-up via ThermoJet and the touch controls streamline the process, though the price might be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers. Although the weight isn’t specified, its built-in features make it heavier and less portable. For those who value convenience and consistency over complete manual control, this machine delivers café-quality drinks effortlessly.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Rapid heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen interface for easy customization
Cons:- Price not specified, potentially expensive
- No detailed noise level info
- Weight not provided, possibly heavy
Best for: Home users seeking a balance of customization and ease of use
Not ideal for: Purists who prefer manual control or those on a tight budget
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Power:1680 Watts
- Display:Touchscreen
Our verdict“Ideal for those who want a quick, customizable, and consistent espresso experience at home without the fuss of manual brewing.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This semi-automatic option makes sense for those who want the flexibility of grinding, dosing, and steaming in one machine, but are comfortable with some manual involvement. Compared to the BES876BST, it lacks assisted tamping and auto dosing, requiring more hands-on control, yet it offers a built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee. Its precise temperature control and steam wand support high-quality extraction and microfoam but may pose a learning curve for beginners. The smaller water tank limits continuous use, making it better suited for occasional brewing rather than daily heavy use. This machine balances convenience with control, ideal for intermediate users aiming for quality without full automation.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee
- Precise temperature regulation for optimal extraction
- Steam wand creates microfoam for latte art
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- May require some learning curve for beginners
- Limited capacity water tank
Best for: Intermediate home baristas who want an integrated grinder with manual control
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or users seeking fully automated operation
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
Our verdict“Suitable for users who want a versatile, integrated espresso machine with some manual control but still appreciate convenience features.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This pick emphasizes precision with its 25 grind settings, intelligent dosing, and assisted tamping, making it perfect for users who want consistent, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss. Compared with the BES870XL, it offers more advanced automated features, but at a larger size and higher price. The powerful steam wand supports latte art, and its temperature control ensures reliable extraction. The complexity of multiple settings might be overwhelming for complete beginners, yet it provides an excellent platform for honing barista skills. It’s best for serious enthusiasts who want a semi-automatic machine that combines control with convenience, but not for those seeking simplicity.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with multiple grind settings
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Intelligent dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
Cons:- May be complex for beginners due to multiple settings
- Relatively large size requiring ample counter space
- Higher price point
Best for: Experienced home baristas dedicated to fine-tuning their espresso and milk drinks
Not ideal for: Beginners or users with limited space who prefer straightforward machines
- Grind Settings:25
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine suits enthusiasts who prioritize control and precision over simplicity and are ready for a larger, more feature-rich setup.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
This model combines the core features of the BES876BST with a distinctive damson blue finish, making it appealing for style-conscious buyers wanting professional espresso at home. It offers the same 25 grind settings, intelligent dosing, and manual microfoam wand, ensuring quality brewing and milk texturing. Compared to the stainless steel versions, its visual appeal and color options make it suitable for more personalized kitchen aesthetics. The machine’s complexity and size mean it’s best for dedicated espresso lovers who appreciate both performance and design, but less so for those seeking a compact or ultra-simple machine. It’s a solid choice for style-minded users who don’t want to compromise on features.
Pros:- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Stylish damson blue finish for aesthetic appeal
Cons:- No weight info, potential portability issues
- Complexity may be overwhelming for total novices
- Price not specified, likely premium
Best for: Design-conscious espresso aficionados wanting high performance with a unique look
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited counter space who prefer minimalistic machines
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
Our verdict“Perfect for style-savvy users who want high-quality espresso and milk drinks with a distinctive aesthetic, but who are comfortable with machine complexity.”
How We Picked
These Breville products were evaluated based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso and user-friendly features without unnecessary complexity. The ranking considers how well each model balances price against features like automation, control options, and durability. We also looked at customer reviews and reliability reports to identify which models hold up over time, ensuring that each recommendation offers a worthwhile investment for different types of buyers.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville machine depends on several key factors that influence both your experience and the value you get. Beyond specs, consider how much control you want over your espresso, how much space you have, and your budget. Understanding these broader considerations can help avoid common pitfalls like overspending on features you won’t use or buying a machine too complex for your skill level.Performance and Espresso Quality
Look for machines with consistent pressure and temperature control to ensure quality espresso shot after shot. Higher-end models often feature dedicated boilers or PID temperature control, which improve stability and flavor extraction. Cheaper models might save money but can produce inconsistent results, so consider your priorities—if you value professional-quality coffee, investing in a more sophisticated machine pays off in taste and reliability.
Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models offer fully automatic operation, including grinding, tamping, and extraction, making them ideal for beginners or busy mornings. Others provide manual controls for more customization but require more hands-on skill. Deciding how involved you want to be in the brewing process helps narrow down options, ensuring you don’t buy a machine that’s either too complicated or too basic for your needs.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Consider your available counter space when choosing a Breville machine. Compact models like the Bambino are suitable for small kitchens, while larger machines with more features may require dedicated space. Also, check the machine’s footprint and whether it can be easily stored or moved if necessary. A size mismatch can lead to frustration, so measure your space carefully before purchasing.
Build Quality and Materials
Premium finishes such as stainless steel or high-quality plastics impact both durability and aesthetic appeal. Machines with solid construction tend to last longer and resist wear, but often come at a higher price. Evaluate the warranty and customer support reputation as part of this consideration; a well-built machine backed by good service can save money and trouble over time.
Price and Long-Term Value
Breville offers a range of prices, with more expensive models generally providing advanced features and better build quality. However, a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better value for casual users. Think about how often you’ll use the machine and what features matter most—sometimes a mid-range model offers the best balance of features and affordability for everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a higher-end Breville machine worth the investment for a beginner?
In many cases, investing in a higher-end Breville machine can be worthwhile even for beginners, especially if you plan to develop your barista skills. These models often offer more consistent results, easier automation, and longer durability. However, they can also be more complex, so it’s important to choose a model that balances ease of use with advanced features to avoid frustration during the learning process.
How important is the grinder in a Breville espresso machine?
The grinder plays a crucial role in espresso quality because freshly ground beans significantly impact flavor. Many Breville models include integrated grinders, which streamline the process and improve consistency. If you already own a high-quality grinder, you might prioritize machines that allow separate grinding, but for most users, an all-in-one solution simplifies workflow and reduces mess.
Can I upgrade a Breville machine over time?
Most Breville models are designed with durability in mind, and some components like the water reservoir, drip tray, or grinder can be replaced or upgraded. However, core parts such as the boiler or internal electronics are not typically user-upgradable. Investing in a higher-end model initially can provide better longevity and flexibility, especially if you plan to expand your coffee-making skills.
Are Breville machines suitable for making multiple drinks at once?
While most Breville espresso machines focus on single or double shots, some larger models with bigger boilers or dual heating systems support multiple drinks in quick succession. If you frequently entertain or brew for several people, look for models with larger water tanks and faster heat-up times. Keep in mind that compact models are better suited for individual use due to their size and capacity limitations.
What maintenance is required to keep a Breville machine performing well?
Regular cleaning of the brew group, descaling the machine, and replacing water filters are essential for maintaining performance and longevity. Many models feature automatic cleaning cycles, which simplify this process. Neglecting maintenance can lead to clogged components, inconsistent brewing, and ultimately a shorter lifespan, so choosing a machine with straightforward cleaning features can save time and effort over years of use.
Conclusion
For casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso, the Breville Bambino offers simplicity and good value. Serious enthusiasts and home baristas should consider the Breville Barista Express or Barista Touch for their balance of control and convenience. Those seeking a premium experience with touchscreen controls and advanced features will find the Barista Touch Impress worth the investment. Budget-conscious buyers still get solid performance with mid-range models, while dedicated users aiming for durability should prioritize build quality and warranty coverage. Ultimately, your choice depends on how much you want to invest and how involved you wish to be in your coffee craft.
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