Breville offers a wide range of espresso machines that cater to both beginner and expert baristas. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall for its combination of performance and ease of use. For those seeking a more compact option, the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent quality in a smaller footprint. Meanwhile, the Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet is ideal for enthusiasts who want advanced features and precision brewing. As with any category, tradeoffs include price versus features and simplicity versus customization. Keep reading for a full breakdown to find the perfect fit for your brewing ambitions.
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Key Takeaways
- The best overall Breville is the BES878BSS Barista Pro, balancing performance and user-friendly features.
- The Bambino Plus offers a compact design without sacrificing quality, making it ideal for small kitchens.
- Premium models like the Oracle Jet provide advanced features but come at a higher price point.
- Entry-level options are available for beginners, but they tend to lack some customization options of higher-end models.
- Price often correlates with feature set; more expensive models typically offer better control and durability.
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Compact Home Espresso | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 Volts | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Enthusiasts Seeking Speed and Precision | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Beginners Wanting Manual Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precision and Consistency in Home Brewing | 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 Advanced Home Baristas Needing Automation | Capacity: 250g bean hopper | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Advanced Home Baristas | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Burr Type: Baratza European Precision Burrs | Grind Settings: 45 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Beginners and Home Baristas | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Beginners and Enthusiasts Who Value Manual Control | 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 BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Easy, Customizable Home Barista Experience | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical, 30 settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact Entry-Level Espresso Machine | Weight: not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Portafilter Size | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1 cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder | 1560 Watts | 54mm | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1680 Watts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | — | 1600 Watts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 54mm | 250g bean hopper |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | Stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 54mm | 250g bean hopper |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — | — | 58mm | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip | 1680 Watts | 54mm | — |
| Breville BES876DBL 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 BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — | 1560 Watts | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino stands out for its rapid heat-up with the ThermoJet system, making it ideal for quick espresso pulls in small kitchens. Its automatic steam wand simplifies creating microfoam for lattes, a feature not as streamlined on the Barista Express. While it excels in speed and size, it’s limited to home use and lacks the manual control some enthusiasts desire. The price may seem high for casual drinkers who only want occasional espresso, but those seeking a reliable, space-saving machine will appreciate its balance of quality and convenience.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Compact size ideal for small kitchens
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
Cons:- Limited to home use, not suitable for high-volume brewing
- Requires manual operation for espresso extraction
- Price may be high for casual users
Best for: Small kitchen owners or singles who want quick, quality espresso without extensive setup
Not ideal for: Coffee connoisseurs who want full manual control or commercial-grade durability
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 Volts
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:1 cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
- Features:ThermoJet rapid heating, PID temperature regulation, automatic steam wand, compact design
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for those who want quick, high-quality espresso in limited space without the need for advanced barista skills.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro is tailored for those who want café-quality espresso at home with quick turnaround. Its fast ThermoJet heating system and digital LCD interface make it accessible for beginners while offering enough control for more experienced users. Compared with the Barista Express, it provides a more modern, user-friendly experience and better temperature stability, but it consumes more power and may require a learning curve for full feature access. This model balances speed and control, making it suitable for committed home baristas who value convenience without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Digital LCD interface for intuitive control
- Built-in conical burr grinder with adjustable settings
- Includes accessories for convenience
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Complex interface may require some learning
- Higher price point for casual users
Best for: Home baristas who want fast brewing and a modern interface for consistent espresso
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers who prefer simple machines or minimal setup
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for those who want quick, precise espresso with modern tech features and are comfortable with a learning curve.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Express balances manual operation with built-in features, making it ideal for newcomers eager to learn espresso craft. Its conical burr grinder delivers fresh grounds, and the PID temperature control helps achieve consistent results. Compared with the Barista Pro, it offers a more hands-on experience, but it involves a steeper learning curve and requires regular maintenance. This machine suits those who want to develop barista skills at home without sacrificing the core elements of espresso quality, though it’s less automated than some newer models.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact design suitable for home use
Cons:- Learning curve for mastering manual operation
- Relatively high price considering its features
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Beginners interested in learning manual espresso brewing at home
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those seeking quick, push-button operation
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners who want to grow their barista skills with a reliable, feature-rich machine, despite the initial complexity.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress takes automated features further with its assisted tamping and precise temperature control, making it suitable for those who value consistency. Its integrated grinder with 25 settings allows for tailored grounds, and the powerful steam wand helps create microfoam for latte art. Compared to the BES870, it offers more automation, but the larger size and complex setup can challenge beginners. This model appeals to enthusiasts seeking professional results without the complexity of manual operation, though it comes at a higher price point.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping for uniform puck preparation
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
- Precise temperature control for optimal flavor
Cons:- Complex setup may deter beginners
- Larger size requires ample space
- Higher price compared to basic models
Best for: Home baristas who prioritize consistency and are comfortable with a more involved setup
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited counter space due to its larger footprint
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Designed for dedicated enthusiasts seeking consistent, professional-style espresso with automation benefits, despite a steeper learning curve.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES876BSS stands out for its combination of automation and customization. Its 25 grind settings, intelligent dosing, and assisted tamping aim to produce consistent results with minimal fuss. The powerful steam wand and precise temperature control support craft-quality microfoam and extraction. Compared with the BES876BST, it offers similar features but with slightly different aesthetics and possibly a broader set of accessories. It’s a strong choice for those who want professional results at home but are wary of overly complex setups, although its size and price may be barriers for casual users.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping and intelligent dosing
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
- Precise temperature control with Thermocoil system
Cons:- Setup can be complex for newcomers
- Size may not suit small kitchens
- Higher cost for casual users
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking a semi-automatic with automation features for consistency
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space or budget, due to size and complexity
- 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 suits serious enthusiasts aiming for professional-level results with automation, despite its complexity and price.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet stands out for its fully automatic operation, combining grinding, dosing, and tamping into a seamless process that rivals commercial machines. Its customizable temperature control and fast heat-up with ThermoJet make it ideal for those who want quick, café-quality espresso with minimal fuss. Compared to the Barista Touch, it offers even more automation, but this comes with a higher price and a complex setup that might challenge beginners. Its ability to make cold brew adds versatility, making it a strong choice for serious enthusiasts who value precision and speed. The tradeoff is that the machine’s advanced features may require a learning curve and a substantial investment.
Pros:- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping for consistent espresso shots
- Precise temperature adjustment for optimal extraction
- Quick heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Versatile with cold brew capability
Cons:- Complex setup may be intimidating for newcomers
- High purchase price limits accessibility for casual users
- Water reservoir capacity not specified, affecting refill planning
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want a fully automatic, versatile espresso machine with professional features
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or beginners who prefer simpler machines without extensive setup or high cost
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Burr Type:Baratza European Precision Burrs
- Grind Settings:45
- Portafilter Size:58mm
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Temperature Adjustment:+/- 1 degree
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for dedicated enthusiasts seeking a premium, fully automated espresso experience.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Touch combines ease of use with advanced features, making it ideal for users who want café-quality drinks without extensive barista skills. Its touchscreen interface and automatic microfoam milk texturing simplify the process, especially for those new to espresso. Compared to the Bambino Plus, the Touch offers more customization options and a built-in grinder, but its higher price and larger size might be drawbacks for small kitchens. The machine’s step-by-step guidance and preset options help users learn while delivering consistent results. However, its complex features could overwhelm absolute beginners or those seeking a straightforward machine with fewer functions.
Pros:- User-friendly touchscreen with customizable presets
- Automatic milk texturing ensures professional-quality microfoam
- Built-in grinder with 30 grind settings
- Fast ThermoJet heating for quick brewing
Cons:- Higher price may limit access for casual users
- Features could be overwhelming for first-time espresso makers
- Size may be large for small kitchens
Best for: Home users who value intuitive operation and want barista-quality drinks with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Users seeking a simple, entry-level espresso machine or those with limited countertop space
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip
- Features:Touchscreen, Adjustable Grind, Programmable Milk Temp & Texture, 8 Custom Settings
Our verdict“Ideal for tech-savvy beginners who want an intuitive machine that produces professional drinks quickly.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville Barista Express Impress offers a compelling balance of professional features and approachable operation, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned home baristas. Its manual microfoam wand and assisted tamping system help craft high-quality milk drinks with less effort, while the built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings provides fresh grounds for each shot. Compared to the more automated Oracle Jet, it demands more hands-on involvement, which can be rewarding or frustrating depending on skill level. Its size and high price might be limiting for small kitchens or casual users. Still, for those wanting control without sacrificing quality, it’s a strong option.
Pros:- Professional-grade features suitable for beginners and pros
- Built-in conical burr grinder with multiple settings
- Manual microfoam wand for high-quality milk textures
- Intelligent dosing with auto-correct system
Cons:- Setup can be complex for complete beginners
- Relatively high cost might deter casual buyers
- Size may be large for small kitchens
Best for: Home users who want a semi-automatic machine with manual control and built-in grinding
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with very limited counter space seeking a simple, plug-and-play device
- 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
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
- Tamping:Assisted tamping with 7° barista twist, 10kg pressure
Our verdict“A versatile choice for those seeking hands-on control with professional results in a home setting.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS combines user-friendly features with customization, making it ideal for those who want step-by-step guidance while still having control over their drinks. Its touchscreen interface and automatic milk texturing streamline the process, while the built-in grinder and multiple presets help users achieve consistent, barista-quality results. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it offers more advanced customization and guidance, but its larger footprint and price might be drawbacks for smaller kitchens or budget-conscious buyers. It strikes a balance between ease of use and control, but some features may require a learning curve.
Pros:- Touchscreen with 8 presets simplifies operation
- Automatic milk texturing with adjustable temperature and texture
- Built-in grinder with 30 grind settings
- Step-by-step guidance for brewing
Cons:- Premium price might be high for casual users
- Complex features can require some learning
- Size may be large for small kitchens
Best for: Home users who want an intuitive, customizable machine with guided operation
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those with very limited space seeking a straightforward, basic espresso machine
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical, 30 settings
- Tamping:Assisted 22 lb tamping
- Display:Touchscreen with 8 presets
- Additional Features:Cold brew, alternative milk settings, included coffee beans
Our verdict“Perfect for users who want a combination of guidance and customization for high-quality drinks at home.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus offers a compact, straightforward option for those new to home espresso, prioritizing quick setup and consistent results. Its automatic steam wand makes microfoam easily, and the fast ThermoJet heating system means you can brew in just a few minutes. Compared to higher-end models like the BES880, it sacrifices some customization and advanced features but remains highly accessible. Its small footprint makes it ideal for limited counter space, though the lack of a built-in grinder means you need to buy one separately if you want fresh grounds. This pick is perfect for casual users or small kitchens, but not for those seeking extensive control or multiple drink options.
Pros:- Automatic steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Compact size fits easily on small countertops
- Consistent temperature regulation
Cons:- Water tank capacity details are not specified
- No built-in grinder included
- Limited customization options compared to higher-end models
Best for: Small kitchens or beginners seeking a simple, quick espresso solution
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting detailed control over brewing parameters
- Weight:not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 V
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for small spaces and beginners who want quick, reliable espresso without fuss or extensive features.”
How We Picked
To evaluate these Breville machines, I focused on key factors that influence everyday usability and long-term value. Performance was assessed through brewing consistency and heat stability, while usability considered ease of operation, cleaning, and maintenance. Build quality and durability played a central role, especially for models with more complex features. Price-to-value ratio was also critical, ensuring that more expensive options offered meaningful benefits over lower-cost alternatives. The ranking reflects a balance between features, performance, and price, with a clear distinction between beginner-friendly options and professional-grade machines.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves more than just looking at features. Consider how much space you have, how much you’re willing to spend, and whether you prefer automation or manual control. Understanding these factors helps ensure you select a machine that fits your brewing style and lifestyle, avoiding common pitfalls like overspending on unnecessary features or buying a machine too simple for your skill level.Performance and Brew Quality
Look for machines with stable temperature control and pressure consistency, which are essential for good espresso. Higher-end models often include PID temperature control, ensuring precise heat management. Cheaper or entry-level machines may produce inconsistent shots, so if you value quality espresso regularly, investing in a machine with better temperature stability pays off in the long run.
Ease of Use and Automation
If you prefer a quick, straightforward brewing process, consider machines with pre-programmed settings or automatic milk frothing. Manual machines offer more control but require skill and practice. Decide whether you want to focus on brewing or enjoy the process, as this influences which features are worth the extra cost.
Build Quality and Durability
Stainless steel construction generally indicates better durability and a higher-end feel. Check reviews for longevity, especially if you plan to use the machine daily. Cheaper plastics might save money initially but could lead to quicker wear or breakage, especially with frequent use.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Some Breville models are compact and perfect for small kitchens, while others are larger and more suited for dedicated brewing spaces. Measure your counter space carefully before purchasing to avoid disappointment. Compact models may lack some advanced features, but they still deliver quality espresso in a smaller footprint.
Price and Value
Higher-priced models often include advanced features like PID temperature control, integrated grinders, or automatic milk frothing. Determine which features are essential for your brewing style to avoid paying for extras you won’t use. Conversely, investing more upfront can save money long-term if it means fewer repairs and better results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a built-in grinder necessary for good espresso?
While a built-in grinder can simplify the process and ensure fresh grounds, it isn’t strictly necessary for good espresso. Many baristas prefer using separate grinders for better control over grind size and freshness. If you’re a beginner, a machine with a decent pre-ground espresso option can be sufficient, but for more consistent results, a quality grinder is recommended.
How important is the steaming capability in an espresso machine?
Steaming capability is essential if you want to create milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. Machines with powerful steam wands produce better microfoam and save time. If you mainly drink straight espresso, this feature might be less critical, allowing you to prioritize other factors like size or ease of use.
Should I choose a manual or automatic espresso machine?
Manual machines give you more control over every shot, which appeals to enthusiasts willing to learn and practice. Automatic models, especially semi-automatic or fully automated ones, offer convenience and consistency, making them ideal for busy mornings. Your choice depends on how much hands-on involvement you want in your brewing process.
Are higher-end Breville models worth the extra cost?
Higher-end models like the Oracle Jet or Barista Touch offer advanced features and greater control, which can improve shot quality and ease of use. If you’re serious about espresso and plan to brew frequently, these models can be a good investment. However, if you’re only an occasional drinker, a more affordable option may meet your needs without overspending.
How much maintenance is involved with Breville espresso machines?
Regular cleaning and descaling are necessary to keep your Breville machine performing well. Machines with automatic cleaning cycles or removable brew groups tend to be easier to maintain. Proper upkeep extends the lifespan of your machine and maintains consistent flavor, making it worth investing time in routine care.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro offers a balanced mix of features, performance, and ease of use. Budget-conscious buyers or beginners will appreciate the Bambino Plus for its simplicity and compact size. Enthusiasts who demand precision and advanced controls should consider the Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet. Finally, if you want a machine that combines automation with professional results, these selections cover a range of needs, making it easier to find the perfect Breville for your brewing journey in 2026.
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