Best Breville Espresso Machines for Beginners
AIThis post was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).

Breville stands out as a leading brand in home espresso making, offering a range of machines from beginner-friendly models to professional-grade options. The Breville Barista Express remains the best overall pick for its balanced performance and value, while the Breville Barista Touch impresses with automation and ease of use. However, choosing the right Breville depends on your priorities: budget, features, or simplicity. Many buyers face tradeoffs between price and advanced features or between manual control and automation. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these options to find the best fit for your coffee setup.

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10
compared
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brands
Which Breville should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Best Overall for Home Baristas
Includes broad range of accessories for brewing and cleaning
See on Amazon →
Home baristas seeking a well-equipped machine with a stylish finish and good value
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex
Includes comprehensive accessories for brewing and cleaning
View on Amazon →
Home users who want high-quality espresso with minimal effort and a streamlined interface
Breville Barista Touch Espress
User-friendly touchscreen interface simplifies brewing
View on Amazon →
Experienced home baristas who want advanced automation and consistent quality
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings
View on Amazon →
Home baristas wanting a small, easy-to-use espresso machine with automatic milk frothing
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Compact size fits easily on countertops
View on Amazon →
Pros & cons at a glance
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
✓ Includes broad range of accessories for brewing and cleaning
✗ Small 1/2 lb bean hopper requires frequent refilling
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex
✓ Includes comprehensive accessories for brewing and cleaning
✗ Limited to a 1/2 lb bean hopper, requiring regular refilling
Breville Barista Touch Espress
✓ User-friendly touchscreen interface simplifies brewing
✗ Less manual control compared to semi-automatic machines like BES876BSS
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings
✗ Complex setup may be intimidating for newcomers
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
✓ Compact size fits easily on countertops
✗ Limited to small kitchen spaces
Breville Bambino Espresso Mach
✓ Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet for quick brewing
✗ Limited to home use, not suitable for high-volume environments
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder for freshness
✗ Steeper learning curve for perfect shots
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
✓ High-quality stainless steel build
✗ Setup and initial learning curve can be complex
Breville Barista Pro Espresso
✓ Durable stainless steel design
✗ Lack of detailed specifications makes full comparison difficult
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
✓ Touchscreen interface simplifies operation
✗ Heavy and large, not ideal for small kitchens

Complete the kit

Quick & Clean 2-Pack Descaler (8 Total Uses) - Made in th...
Quick & Clean 2-Pack Descaler (8 Total Uses) – Made in th…
Add to your setup →
Coffee Machine Cleaner Tablets, Coffee Maker Descaler and...
Coffee Machine Cleaner Tablets, Coffee Maker Descaler and…
Add to your setup →
HARRIS Coffee Machine Cleaner Descaler Descaling Solution...
HARRIS Coffee Machine Cleaner Descaler Descaling Solution…
Add to your setup →

Key Takeaways

  • The top-tier models like the Barista Touch offer advanced automation, but come with a higher price tag.
  • Manual machines like the original Barista Express provide greater control at a more accessible price point.
  • Fewer features often mean simpler operation, ideal for beginners or casual users.
  • Build quality and material choices vary, impacting durability and appearance over time.
  • Value depends heavily on how much you prioritize features versus straightforward usability.
2
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex
Best Value for Home Baristas Who Want Quality
1
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Best Overall for Home Baristas
3
Breville Barista Touch Espress
Best for Ease of Use and Consistency

Our Top Breville Picks

Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Overall for Home BaristasBean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lbWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black SesameBreville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black SesameBest Value for Home Baristas Who Want QualityBean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lbWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBreville Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBest for Ease of Use and ConsistencyPortafilter Size: 54mmWater Capacity: 480mlMaterial: Stainless SteelVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Precision and Advanced FeaturesCapacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tankGrind Settings: 25Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tabletsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Compact Choice for BeginnersWater Pressure: Pre-infusionPorta-filter Size: 54mmGround Coffee Capacity: 19 gramsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Compact for Small KitchensPower: 1560 WattsVoltage: 110-120 VoltsIncluded Accessories: Cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powderVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBreville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBest for Enthusiasts Seeking ControlCapacity: 1/2 lb Bean HopperWater Tank: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Convenience and Professional-Grade QualityIncluded Accessories: 54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test StripVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Versatile Home BrewingIncluded Accessories: Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water FilterVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso MachineBreville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso MachineBest Fully Automatic with TouchscreenOperation Mode: Fully AutomaticWattage: 1750 wattsVoltage: 120VVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
BrevilleIncluded AccessoriesVoltagePower
Breville BES870XL Barista ExprRazor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Holder120 Volts1600 Watts
Breville BES870BSXL Barista ExRazor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Holder120 Volts1600 Watts
Breville Barista Touch Espress———
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets——
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso—110-120 Volts1560 Watts
Breville Bambino Espresso MachCup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder110-120 Volts1560 Watts
Breville BES870BTR Barista ExpRazor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter120 Volts1600 Watts
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test Strip——
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter——
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou—120V—

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Overall for Home Baristas

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES870XL stands out as the best overall choice for those who want a versatile espresso machine with a robust build and comprehensive accessories. Its manual controls and adjustable grind settings give users a high level of customization, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced home baristas. Compared with the Breville Bambino Plus, it offers more control and accessories, but it also demands more space and a bit more maintenance due to its manual setup. The main tradeoff is its limited 1/2 lb bean hopper, requiring frequent refills, and it lacks a built-in grinder, so you need a separate one. Its sturdy stainless steel construction promises durability, though it consumes more power than smaller models.

    Pros:
    • Includes broad range of accessories for brewing and cleaning
    • Adjustable grind amount and manual override for personalized espresso
    • Sturdy stainless steel build enhances durability
    Cons:
    • Small 1/2 lb bean hopper requires frequent refilling
    • No built-in grinder, needing a separate purchase
    • Higher power consumption compared to smaller models

    Best for: Home users seeking a customizable, durable espresso machine with extensive accessories

    Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with limited counter space who prefer a simple, compact machine

    • Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Water Tank Capacity: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 Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Holder
    Our verdict
    “This model is best suited for dedicated home baristas who want control and durability despite a smaller bean capacity.”
  2. Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame

    Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame

    Best Value for Home Baristas Who Want Quality

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES870BSXL shares many features with the BES870XL but adds a sleek black sesame finish, making it appealing for style-conscious users. Its 1/2 lb bean hopper and 67 oz water tank provide ample capacity for regular use. The powerful 1600W motor ensures efficient extraction, and the included accessories—such as the stainless steel portafilter and tamper—support a full home espresso setup. Compared to the earlier model, it offers slightly more aesthetic appeal, but it shares the same limitations: no built-in grinder and a small bean hopper, which may be inconvenient for frequent users. Its price may be a barrier for casual users who don’t plan to brew daily but offers excellent value for enthusiasts wanting a reliable, feature-rich machine.

    Pros:
    • Includes comprehensive accessories for brewing and cleaning
    • Powerful 1600W motor for efficient brewing
    • Sleek black sesame finish adds style
    Cons:
    • Limited to a 1/2 lb bean hopper, requiring regular refilling
    • No built-in grinder, necessitating a separate grinder
    • Price may be high for infrequent users

    Best for: Home baristas seeking a well-equipped machine with a stylish finish and good value

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prefer a plug-and-play experience without manual adjustments

    • Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Water Tank Capacity: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 Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Holder
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “This machine offers strong value for dedicated espresso lovers who want style and performance without extra frills.”
  3. Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Best for Ease of Use and Consistency

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Barista Touch offers a significant upgrade in user experience through its intuitive touchscreen interface, making brewing straightforward for users who want professional-quality espresso without manual fuss. It includes a stainless steel portafilter and a water filter, with a focus on consistent results and convenience. While it may lack detailed control over every parameter compared to the BES876BSS, its automated features simplify the process, and the durable stainless steel build ensures longevity. The main drawback is the limited information on specific brewing performance—some users may find it less customizable than manual machines. Its higher price reflects its focus on ease and consistency, making it ideal for those who prioritize simple operation over ultimate control.

    Pros:
    • User-friendly touchscreen interface simplifies brewing
    • Includes durable stainless steel construction
    • Consistent espresso quality with automation
    Cons:
    • Less manual control compared to semi-automatic machines like BES876BSS
    • No detailed brewing customization options
    • Higher price point for a fully automated device

    Best for: Home users who want high-quality espresso with minimal effort and a streamlined interface

    Not ideal for: Experienced baristas seeking full manual control or extensive customization

    • Portafilter Size:54mm
    • Water Capacity:480ml
    • Material:Stainless Steel
    Our verdict
    “This pick makes the most sense for users who value convenience and consistent results over manual finesse.”
  4. Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Precision and Advanced Features

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES876BSS impresses with its built-in conical burr grinder offering 25 grind settings, making it a top choice for those who want integrated precision. Its intelligent dosing system and assisted tamping streamline the espresso-making process, making it easier to achieve consistent results. The powerful steam wand enables microfoam and latte art, while the precise temperature control ensures optimal extraction. Compared with the BES870XL, it offers more automation and advanced features but requires a more complex setup, which could challenge beginners. Its larger footprint and higher price reflect its premium features, making it better suited for serious enthusiasts or small cafes at home.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings
    • Intelligent dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
    • Precise temperature control for perfect extraction
    • Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
    Cons:
    • Complex setup may be intimidating for newcomers
    • Larger footprint unsuitable for small kitchens
    • Higher price compared to basic espresso machines

    Best for: Experienced home baristas who want advanced automation and consistent quality

    Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space, due to its size and setup complexity

    • 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
    • Temperature Control:Adjustable
    • Pump Pressure:10kg tamp pressure
    Our verdict
    “This machine is ideal for serious espresso enthusiasts who want advanced automation and precision results at home.”
  5. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Compact Choice for Beginners

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Bambino Plus is designed with simplicity in mind, offering a compact footprint that fits well in small kitchens. Its automatic steam wand delivers microfoam easily, making it accessible for beginners who want quality milk drinks without manual learning curves. The fast heat-up time with the ThermoJet system means you can brew quickly, and its precise temperature control helps produce balanced espresso. Compared to larger, more manual machines like the BES870XL, it sacrifices some customization options for straightforward operation. The main tradeoff is that it still requires some learning to master, and its higher price may seem steep for casual users who won’t utilize all features.

    Pros:
    • Compact size fits easily on countertops
    • Automatic steam wand produces professional microfoam
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    • Precise temperature control for balanced extraction
    Cons:
    • Limited to small kitchen spaces
    • Requires some learning curve for optimal use
    • Higher price compared to entry-level models

    Best for: Home baristas wanting a small, easy-to-use espresso machine with automatic milk frothing

    Not ideal for: Experienced users seeking full manual control or extensive customization

    • Water Pressure:Pre-infusion
    • Porta-filter Size:54mm
    • Ground Coffee Capacity:19 grams
    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Dimensions:7.7 inches width
    • Warranty:2 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “This pick is great for beginners or those with limited space who want quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss.”
  6. Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Compact for Small Kitchens

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Bambino stands out for its ultra-quick heat-up thanks to the ThermoJet system, making it ideal for those who want a speedy espresso without sacrificing quality. Its automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam creation, which is often a challenge even for experienced users. Compared with larger, more feature-rich machines like the Barista Pro, this model offers a more straightforward, space-efficient option, but it sacrifices some customization and brewing control. Its small footprint makes it perfect for tiny kitchens or offices, though the tradeoff is that it’s less suitable for frequent, high-volume use. Manual skill is still needed to pull a perfect shot, and the price might be high for casual drinkers who rarely use espresso machines.

    Pros:
    • Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet for quick brewing
    • Automatic steam wand for microfoam and latte art
    • Compact size ideal for small kitchens
    • Precise temperature control for consistent extraction
    Cons:
    • Limited to home use, not suitable for high-volume environments
    • Requires manual skill for perfect espresso shots
    • Higher price point relative to basic machines

    Best for: Individuals with limited space who want quick, quality espresso at home

    Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking deep customization or commercial-grade durability

    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Included Accessories:Cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    • Bambino Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
    Our verdict
    “This machine is perfect for small-space dwellers who value speed and simplicity over extensive customization.”
  7. Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Best for Enthusiasts Seeking Control

    View on Amazon

    The Barista Express with its built-in conical burr grinder makes it a favorite for those who want fresh grounds and full control over the brewing process. Its precise temperature regulation and pre-infusion feature help achieve barista-quality shots, but this comes with a learning curve that can be daunting for beginners. Compared to the more automated models like the Barista Touch, it offers greater hands-on experience, which appeals to serious coffee lovers. However, its bulkier size requires a dedicated space, and mastering the grind and tamp technique takes practice. For users willing to invest time into perfecting their craft, the tradeoff is a highly customizable, high-quality espresso experience.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder for freshness
    • Precise temperature regulation for optimal extraction
    • Manual microfoam wand for latte art
    • Comprehensive accessories included
    Cons:
    • Higher price and larger footprint
    • Steeper learning curve for perfect shots
    • Requires regular maintenance and skill

    Best for: Home baristas who want control over their espresso and enjoy manual grinding

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space and patience for learning manual techniques

    • 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
    “Ideal for dedicated coffee enthusiasts eager to craft personalized, high-quality espresso at home, despite the complexity.”
  8. Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Convenience and Professional-Grade Quality

    View on Amazon

    The Barista Touch offers a balance between automation and quality, with features like a touchscreen interface that simplifies brewing and milk texturing. Its full stainless steel construction ensures durability and a sleek look, appealing to those who want a professional feel at home. Compared to manual machines like the BES870BTR, it provides a more intuitive, less labor-intensive process, but at a higher cost. Its setup can be complex for absolute beginners, and its price makes it less attractive to casual users. For those who value speed, consistency, and a polished appearance, this model delivers a convenient yet high-end experience.

    Pros:
    • High-quality stainless steel build
    • Intuitive touchscreen interface
    • Includes comprehensive accessories
    • Designed for consistent, professional-grade espresso
    Cons:
    • Expensive for casual or infrequent use
    • Setup and initial learning curve can be complex
    • Heavier and larger footprint

    Best for: Home users seeking a semi-automated machine with professional style and ease of use

    Not ideal for: Entry-level users or those with a tight budget who prefer manual control over every shot

    • Included Accessories:54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test Strip
    Our verdict
    “Perfect for those who prioritize convenience and a premium look, willing to pay a premium for a semi-automatic experience.”
  9. Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Versatile Home Brewing

    View on Amazon

    The Barista Pro is designed for users wanting versatile, high-quality espresso with a sleek look. Its stainless steel construction and comprehensive accessories support a range of brewing styles, making it well-suited for home baristas who want to experiment. While its detailed controls and integrated grinder provide a more customizable experience than simpler models, the lack of specific features or detailed specs may leave some users uncertain about its full capabilities. Compared to the fully automatic Barista Touch, it demands more manual input, but for those who enjoy adjusting parameters, it offers a satisfying balance of control and convenience. Its price is reasonable given its features, but it may lack some of the advanced automation seen in higher-end models.

    Pros:
    • Durable stainless steel design
    • Includes essential accessories for varied brewing
    • Supports manual and semi-automatic operation
    • Good balance of control and convenience
    Cons:
    • Lack of detailed specifications makes full comparison difficult
    • No clear automation features or preset options
    • Price may be higher than entry-level machines

    Best for: Home baristas who want a stylish, versatile machine capable of manual and semi-automatic brewing

    Not ideal for: Beginners seeking straightforward operation or users with limited space

    • Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
    Our verdict
    “Suitable for experienced home users who appreciate manual control alongside modern aesthetics, despite some uncertainty about specific features.”
  10. Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine

    Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine

    Best Fully Automatic with Touchscreen

    View on Amazon

    The BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress combines automation with advanced features, including a touchscreen interface that guides users through every step. Its rapid heat-up (just 3 seconds with ThermoJet) and automatic milk frothing make it ideal for busy households or those who want barista-quality drinks with minimal effort. Compared to semi-automatic models like the BES870BTR, it offers a more streamlined experience but at a higher price. Its built-in grinder and preset options appeal to users who value convenience, yet the machine’s weight and size could be a concern for small kitchens. The complexity of features may require some initial learning, but it ultimately provides a highly consistent, customizable, and quick brewing process.

    Pros:
    • Touchscreen interface simplifies operation
    • Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
    • Automatic milk frothing for latte art
    • Built-in grinder with multiple preset options
    Cons:
    • Heavy and large, not ideal for small kitchens
    • Premium price point may be prohibitive
    • Advanced features may require a learning curve

    Best for: Tech-savvy home users seeking quick, automated, and customizable espresso drinks

    Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer manual control over every shot

    • Operation Mode:Fully Automatic
    • Wattage:1750 watts
    • Voltage:120V
    • Input Type:beans
    • Capacity:67.6 fluid ounces
    • Dimensions:13.4″D x 14.2″W x 16.3″H
    • Weight:24.2 pounds
    Our verdict
    “Best suited for users wanting fast, automated, and customizable espresso with minimal fuss, despite its size and cost.”
Breville
What makes a great Breville
1
Skill Level and Ease of Use
If you’re new to espresso making, models with automation and user-friendly interfaces reduce the learning curve.
2
Features and Automation
Breville offers a range of features like integrated grinders, steam wands, touchscreen controls, and programmable settings.
3
Build Quality and Durability
The materials used in construction influence both the long-term durability and aesthetic appeal of your espresso machine.
4
Size and Kitchen Fit
Espresso machines vary significantly in size, from compact models ideal for small kitchens to larger units with more features.
How to choose your Breville
1
How we picked
These Breville models were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value.
2
Skill Level and Ease of Use
If you’re new to espresso making, models with automation and user-friendly interfaces reduce the learning curve.
3
Features and Automation
Breville offers a range of features like integrated grinders, steam wands, touchscreen controls, and programmable settin
4
Build Quality and Durability
The materials used in construction influence both the long-term durability and aesthetic appeal of your espresso machine
5
Size and Kitchen Fit
Espresso machines vary significantly in size, from compact models ideal for small kitchens to larger units with more fea
Vetted Breville ·
The best Breville, compared
★ Winner Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Best Overall for Home Baristas
10compared

How We Picked

These Breville models were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We considered the variety of features offered, from manual control to automation, to suit different user preferences. Ease of maintenance and reliability were also key factors, ensuring the machines can withstand regular use. Our ranking reflects a balance between price and performance, aiming to help buyers find the best machine for their specific needs. While all models are reputable, the list highlights those that excel in delivering consistent espresso quality with user-friendly designs.
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which Breville fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville

When choosing a Breville espresso machine, it’s important to evaluate several factors beyond just features. Consider your skill level, how much control you want over the brewing process, and your budget. Understanding these will help you avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features or buying a machine that’s too complex for your needs. The right choice balances performance, ease of use, and longevity, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.

Skill Level and Ease of Use

If you’re new to espresso making, models with automation and user-friendly interfaces reduce the learning curve. Conversely, experienced users may prefer manual machines that allow for precise control over brewing variables. Consider whether you want a machine that guides you through the process or one that lets you experiment with settings. A simpler machine might save money and frustration, but a more advanced model can produce higher-quality shots if you’re willing to learn.

Features and Automation

Breville offers a range of features like integrated grinders, steam wands, touchscreen controls, and programmable settings. Decide which features matter most—if you value speed and convenience, automation is key. For those who enjoy customizing every shot, manual controls offer more flexibility. Beware of paying for features you won’t use; focus on what enhances your brewing experience without overcomplicating the machine.

Build Quality and Durability

The materials used in construction influence both the long-term durability and aesthetic appeal of your espresso machine. Stainless steel models tend to last longer and look more premium, but often come at a higher price. Cheaper plastic components may save money initially but can wear out faster. Consider how much use you’ll give your machine and whether investing in a sturdier build is worthwhile for your situation.

Size and Kitchen Fit

Espresso machines vary significantly in size, from compact models ideal for small kitchens to larger units with more features. Measure your available space carefully before purchasing. Larger models often include more features and stability, but might not fit on a compact countertop. Conversely, smaller machines may lack certain functionalities but are more convenient for limited spaces.

Price and Value

While higher-priced models tend to offer more features and better build quality, they aren’t always necessary for every user. Evaluate how much you’re willing to spend relative to the features you want. Sometimes, paying a premium results in better durability and performance, but in other cases, a mid-range machine provides excellent value. Balance your budget with your expectations for daily use and long-term reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a fully automatic Breville machine worth the extra cost?

Fully automatic Breville machines like the Barista Touch simplify the brewing process with features such as touchscreen controls and automatic milk frothing. If convenience and consistency matter most to you, these machines can be a worthwhile investment. However, they come at a higher price point, and some enthusiasts prefer manual control for more personalized shots. Consider how much you value ease of use versus control when making your decision.

Can I get professional-quality espresso at home with Breville?

Many Breville models are capable of producing cafe-quality espresso when used correctly, especially the higher-end or semi-automatic options. However, achieving professional results also depends on your skill, grind consistency, and tamping technique. These machines provide the tools, but consistent quality still requires practice. For most home users, Breville offers a solid balance of performance and usability that rivals commercial machines.

Are Breville machines easy to maintain?

Breville machines are generally designed with user convenience in mind, featuring removable drip trays, water filters, and accessible components for cleaning. Regular descaling and cleaning of the milk frothing system are essential for longevity. Advanced models with more features may require a bit more upkeep, but overall, they are straightforward to maintain if you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Proper maintenance ensures your machine continues to perform well over time.

Should I prioritize a built-in grinder or a separate grinder?

Many Breville machines come with integrated grinders, which save counter space and streamline the process. However, dedicated grinders often provide better grind consistency and more customization options, which can improve the quality of your espresso. If you prefer convenience and minimal setup, a machine with a built-in grinder suffices. But for those seeking maximum control over grind size and freshness, investing in a separate high-quality grinder makes more sense.

Is it better to buy a more expensive Breville or a cheaper alternative?

Higher-priced Breville models typically offer more features, better build quality, and greater durability, which can translate into a more satisfying brewing experience and longer lifespan. Cheaper options may be suitable for casual users or those testing the waters of home espresso making. However, they might lack consistency or require more frequent maintenance. Your choice should reflect your commitment level, budget, and desire for features versus simplicity.

Conclusion

For those new to espresso or seeking straightforward operation, the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent value with easy setup and good results. Coffee enthusiasts wanting a balance of control and convenience should consider the Breville Barista Express as the best overall pick. For users craving automation and premium features, the Breville Barista Touch stands out as the top choice, despite a higher price. Budget-conscious buyers can find capable options in the lower-tier models, while serious hobbyists should look at the more advanced or durable options for long-term investment. Matching your skill level, space, and budget ensures a satisfying espresso experience.

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