For those seeking the best Breville espresso machines, this ranking offers a clear picture of the top options in 2026. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall for its combination of performance and ease of use. The Breville Bambino Plus is ideal for smaller spaces and quick brewing, while the Barista Touch offers advanced features for experienced users. Buyers often face the tradeoff between investing in premium features versus simplicity and value. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each model and what makes them the top picks.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked models balance user-friendly features with high-quality espresso output.
- Many picks excel in automatic milk frothing, but this can come at a higher price point.
- Size and footprint vary significantly; compact options are better for small kitchens.
- Build quality and material durability are consistent across all models, but premium models often offer better longevity.
- Performance consistency and ease of maintenance are key factors distinguishing the best picks from lower-tier options.
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Serious Coffee Enthusiasts | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Space-Conscious Beginners and Casual Drinkers | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 Volts | Water Pressure: Pre-infusion with low pressure, high pressure extraction | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Semi-Automatic Control with Built-In Grinder | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Traditional Manual Control with Built-In Grinder | Capacity: 67 oz Water Tank | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Entry-Level Compact Espresso Machine | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: Not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Home Baristas | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| breville espresso machines top picks ranking | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110 to 120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120 V | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro stands out for its combination of professional-grade features and user-friendly design. Its ThermoJet heating system delivers a 3-second heat-up, making it ideal for those who want quick access to quality espresso without sacrificing precision. The built-in conical burr grinder with adjustable settings offers freshness and customization, surpassing simpler machines like the Bambino Plus, which lacks a grinder. While its price point reflects its advanced capabilities, this can be a barrier for casual users or beginners. Compared to the Barista Express Impress, it offers a more streamlined interface but less built-in assistive tamping. This machine makes the most sense for dedicated coffee lovers who value speed, precision, and customization but are prepared for a steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Precise PID temperature control for optimal extraction
- Built-in conical burr grinder with adjustable settings
- Includes versatile accessories for diverse coffee styles
Cons:- High price may be prohibitive for casual users
- Complex setup and operation can intimidate beginners
Best for: Serious home baristas who want a fast, customizable, café-quality experience
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer a simpler, more affordable setup
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Features:ThermoJet heating system, PID temperature control, LCD display, adjustable grind settings
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for passionate coffee enthusiasts who prioritize speed and customization over ease of use.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus offers a compelling blend of compact size and ease of use, making it perfect for smaller kitchens and newcomers to espresso. Its automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing, a feature that sets it apart from manual wand models like the BES870XL, which require more skill. Its fast heat-up with ThermoJet means you can enjoy espresso in minutes, but its limited size means it may not accommodate larger cups or frequent larger batches. Compared to the Barista Express Impress, it lacks a built-in grinder, which might be a drawback for those wanting a more integrated experience. This pick makes the most sense for users who want quick, quality drinks with minimal fuss, but aren’t interested in extensive customization or grinding options.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Automatic steam wand for consistent microfoam
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control for balanced flavor
Cons:- Limited space restricts larger drink sizes
- Requires some learning curve for optimal use
- Higher price compared to basic machines
Best for: Small-space dwellers and newcomers seeking straightforward, high-quality espresso
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those who want integrated grinding capabilities
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 Volts
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion with low pressure, high pressure extraction
- Size:7.7 inches wide
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for casual users who value quick setup and quality espresso in a small footprint.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress emphasizes automation without sacrificing control. Its built-in conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings enables precise customization, and its intelligent dosing and assisted tamping bring professional consistency to home brewing. Compared to the BES870XL, it offers more integrated features for those who want fewer manual steps but still crave control over grind and dose. Its larger footprint can be a challenge for small kitchens, and its price is on the higher side for users seeking simplicity. This machine is best suited for intermediate users who appreciate some automation but still want to fine-tune their espresso experience.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with 25 grind settings for customization
- Intelligent dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Good balance of automation and control
Cons:- Setup can be complicated for newcomers
- Relatively large size restricts small kitchens
- Higher price point for a semi-automatic machine
Best for: Home baristas looking for a semi-automatic machine with integrated grinding and tamping assistance
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those with limited space who prefer simpler, manual machines
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This model suits users who want semi-automatic control with helpful automation features for consistent results.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES870XL offers a classic semi-automatic experience with the convenience of a built-in conical burr grinder. Its PID temperature control ensures stable extraction, making it a favorite for users who want more hands-on control than the Bambino Plus provides. Compared to the BES876BSS, it has a simpler interface but less automation assistance. Its relatively high price can be a barrier for casual users, and its setup can be intimidating for newcomers. This machine is perfect for those who want to master manual espresso brewing while enjoying integrated grinding and steaming, but it’s less suited to tight budgets or complete beginners.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Steam wand capable of microfoam and latte art
- Adjustable grind size and dose for customization
Cons:- Higher price may deter casual users
- Complex setup and operation
- Limited capacity for frequent use
Best for: Enthusiasts eager to develop barista skills with manual control and integrated grinding
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or users seeking an easy, set-and-forget machine
- Capacity:67 oz Water Tank
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
Our verdict“This machine is best for dedicated hobbyists who want a manual espresso experience with integrated grinding.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino offers a straightforward path to good espresso in a compact form factor, ideal for small kitchens or minimalists. Its fast heat-up with ThermoJet means you can brew quickly, while the automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing for creamy microfoam. Unlike the BES878BSS, it does not include a built-in grinder, so users must buy separate or pre-ground beans. Its price is generally more affordable than higher-end models, but the limited features and water capacity might leave more advanced users wanting. This pick makes the most sense for beginners or those with limited space who want to dip into espresso making without a large investment.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good for small kitchens and apartments
Cons:- No built-in grinder, requiring separate purchase
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
- Price not specified may vary
Best for: Beginners seeking an affordable, space-saving espresso machine with quick setup
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting integrated grinding and advanced features
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for newcomers who want quick, quality espresso without a large footprint or complex setup.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out for its touchscreen interface, which simplifies the process of customizing espresso drinks, making it more accessible than the more manual Barista Express. Compared to traditional semi-automatic machines, this model offers automatic microfoam milk texturing and precise control, which helps achieve café-quality results without professional skills. However, the high price and limited voltage compatibility may be hurdles for some. Its fast heat-up time and intuitive controls make it ideal for tech-savvy users who want consistency and ease of use, though beginners might find the interface a bit overwhelming at first.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface simplifies operation and customization
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing enables latte art
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick coffee prep
- Precise temperature control enhances espresso quality
Cons:- High purchase price may be prohibitive for some
- Limited to 110-120V supply, restricting international use
- Complex features can overwhelm beginners
Best for: Home baristas who appreciate advanced features and automation, and are comfortable with digital interfaces.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those in regions with 220V power, as this model is designed for 110-120V and carries a premium price.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, cleaning kit
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This pick is best for tech-savvy home users seeking a combination of automation and customization, despite its higher cost and complexity.”
How We Picked
Each espresso machine was evaluated based on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance, and value for money. We compared features like boiler type, user interface, automation level, and customization options. Our rankings emphasize how well each model balances these factors for different types of users—whether beginners, casual drinkers, or seasoned baristas. We prioritized models that deliver reliable espresso quality while being accessible and easy to operate. Tradeoffs like price versus feature set also influenced the order, ensuring each pick fills a specific role in the market.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville Espresso Machines Top Picks Rankings
Selecting the right Breville espresso machine involves understanding several key factors beyond just features. It’s important to consider your skill level, space constraints, and how much automation you want. The ideal machine should fit your routine and expectations, whether that means simple operation or advanced customization. Being aware of common mistakes like overpaying for features you won’t use or choosing a size incompatible with your kitchen can save you time and money.Performance and Espresso Quality
Ultimately, the core reason for choosing an espresso machine is the quality of the coffee it produces. Look for machines with precise temperature control, good pressure consistency, and the ability to produce rich crema. More advanced models often include PID temperature regulation, which ensures stable brewing temperatures. Consider whether the machine can handle different beans and roast types for versatility in your coffee experience.
Ease of Use and Automation
If you’re new to espresso, a machine with automation features like automatic milk frothing and pre-programmed shot sizes can simplify the process. However, these conveniences often come with a higher price. Manual controls give more customization but require learning and skill. Think about how much effort you want to invest in daily brewing versus quick, consistent results with minimal fuss.
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Espresso machines vary from compact models perfect for small kitchens to larger units that sit prominently on your counter. Measure your available space before buying to avoid clutter or the need for rearrangements. Compact machines may lack some advanced features but are easier to fit into tight spots, while larger models often come with more features and sturdiness.
Durability and Build Quality
Investing in a machine with durable materials like stainless steel can extend its lifespan. Cheaper plastics might save money upfront but could lead to quicker wear and tear. Consider the quality of internal components such as boilers and pumps, which directly impact performance and maintenance costs over time. A well-built machine reduces the need for repairs and replacements.
Value and Long-Term Investment
Beyond initial price, evaluate what the machine offers in terms of longevity, ease of maintenance, and upgrade potential. Sometimes paying more upfront results in better performance and fewer headaches later. Look for models with accessible parts, good warranty coverage, and positive user reviews on durability. Avoid cheap models that may require frequent repairs or replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a more expensive Breville espresso machine worth the investment?
Higher-priced Breville models often come with advanced features like precise temperature control, automatic milk frothing, and larger boilers, which can improve espresso quality and ease of use. If you’re serious about coffee or want a machine that can handle more complex drinks, investing in a premium model makes sense. However, for casual use or beginners, mid-range options can deliver excellent results without the higher cost.
How important is automatic milk frothing in choosing a Breville espresso machine?
Automatic milk frothing offers convenience, especially for those who prefer quick, consistent results without manual effort. It can be a real time-saver and help achieve professional-looking drinks with minimal skill. On the other hand, manual frothing allows more control and customization, which some experienced users prefer. Your choice depends on your skill level, desired involvement, and how often you make milk-based drinks.
Can I use any coffee beans with a Breville espresso machine?
Most Breville machines are versatile enough to handle a wide range of beans, but for optimal flavor, use freshly roasted beans ground to the right consistency. Consistency in grind size and tamping pressure is key to good espresso. Some models with built-in grinders or precise dose control can better handle different beans, while manual models require more attention to grind and tamping. Experimenting with different beans can also help you find your preferred flavor profile.
What maintenance is required to keep my Breville espresso machine in good condition?
Regular cleaning of the portafilter, drip tray, and milk frothing components is essential. Descaling the machine periodically prevents mineral buildup, especially if you use hard water. Many models include automatic cleaning cycles, but manual upkeep is still necessary for longevity. Using filtered water can reduce scale formation and improve flavor. Proper maintenance helps ensure consistent performance and extends the machine’s lifespan.
Is a built-in grinder necessary in a Breville espresso machine?
Having a built-in grinder offers the convenience of grinding fresh beans right before brewing, which can significantly enhance flavor. However, dedicated grinders often provide more control over grind size and consistency. If you want maximum flexibility and higher-quality grounds, pairing a separate grinder with a manual machine might be better. Built-in grinders are ideal for those who value simplicity and space-saving design, but they may not match the performance of dedicated coffee grinders.
Conclusion
For casual drinkers or those new to espresso, the Breville Bambino Plus provides excellent value with simplicity and quick operation. Serious home baristas or those wanting advanced customization should consider the Barista Touch for its automation and control features. If space is limited, a compact model like the Bambino makes sense, but if you’re after durability and professional results, investing in the Barista Pro will pay off. Each buyer should match their choice to their skill level, space, and how much they’re willing to invest in their coffee routine.
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