When it comes to home espresso, Breville stands out as a trusted brand known for quality and innovation. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro is often regarded as the best overall choice, thanks to its advanced features and user-friendly interface. The Bambino Espresso Machine offers a compact, more affordable alternative for smaller kitchens, while the Oracle Jet targets enthusiasts seeking professional-grade performance. As you compare these options, you’ll find tradeoffs between price, complexity, and features—more advanced machines tend to be pricier and require more learning, but offer greater control. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each model to find your perfect fit.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models balance ease of use with professional-grade features, with the Barista Pro leading in overall versatility.
- Price varies significantly; more premium models like the Oracle Jet offer advanced automation but at a higher cost.
- Size and design matter—compact options like the Bambino suit limited spaces but may lack advanced features.
- Build quality across all models remains high, but maintenance and usability differ depending on complexity.
- Choosing the right Breville depends heavily on your skill level and how much control you want over brewing details.
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas | Weight: Not specified | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Small Spaces and Quick Results | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: Not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Enthusiasts Who Value Speed and Interface | Capacity: 67 oz Water Tank | Bean Hopper: 1/2 lb | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Wanting Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Traditional Manual Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall for Tech-Savvy Home Baristas | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Stylish, Easy-Clean Experience | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Beginners | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Dedicated Home Baristas and Coffee Connoisseurs | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Portafilter Size: 58mm | Burrs: Baratza European Precision Burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Style and Precision for Enthusiasts | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Capacity | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES876BSS 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 Bambino Espresso Mach | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | 1560 Watts | — | 110-120 Volts |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Filter baskets, Razor Dose, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1680 Watts | 67 oz Water Tank | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | — | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, single and double wall filter baskets, 480ml stainless steel jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, water test strip | 1680 Watts | — | 110-120V |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | — | 1680 Watts | — | 110-120V |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | — | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | 2 free bags of specialty coffee | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its integrated conical burr grinder with 25 adjustable settings, allowing users to fine-tune flavor extraction unlike many competitors like the Breville BES870BTR, which lacks a built-in grinder. The Impress offers a balance of manual control and smart features, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Its microfoam steam wand produces professional-quality milk textures, but the complex setup might challenge those new to espresso machines. Price is on the higher side, reflecting its advanced capabilities, which could be a barrier for casual users seeking simplicity. Compared to the Barista Pro, it sacrifices some speed and capacity for a more approachable entry into espresso making, but it remains a highly flexible choice.
Pros:- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings for optimal flavor control
- Manual microfoam steam wand for professional-quality milk textures
- Intelligent dosing system ensures consistent espresso shots
Cons:- No specific weight information, making it less portable
- Setup complexity could be intimidating for complete beginners
- Higher price point may deter casual users
Best for: Home baristas who want a versatile machine that balances customization and ease of use.
Not ideal for: Casual users seeking a straightforward, no-fuss espresso machine on a budget.
- Weight:Not specified
- 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
- Material:Brushed stainless steel
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for dedicated home baristas who want both precision and flexibility in espresso crafting.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino excels in delivering barista-quality espresso with its near-instant ThermoJet heating system, which heats up in just 3 seconds, surpassing traditional machines like the BES870BTR in speed. Its compact design is perfect for small kitchens or offices, but it lacks an integrated grinder or advanced customization options, meaning users must manually operate and fine-tune their extraction. While easy to use for quick espresso shots, it requires manual milk texturing, which could be less consistent for beginners. Compared to the Barista Pro, it trades off some control and capacity for portability and simplicity, making it a solid choice for those prioritizing speed and space.
Pros:- Rapid ThermoJet heating system for quick start-up
- Compact size fits small kitchens or offices
- Manual steam wand allows for milk frothing control
Cons:- Limited water capacity details, potentially limiting longer sessions
- No built-in grinder or auto-frothing features
- Requires manual operation, which may impact consistency
Best for: Individuals who want quick, high-quality espresso in small kitchens or offices without extensive features.
Not ideal for: Experienced home baristas seeking advanced customization or integrated grinding features.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Brew Group:54mm portafilter
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine makes sense for space-conscious users who want quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro combines fast heat-up with its ThermoJet system and an intuitive LCD interface, making it a strong choice for users who want quick setup and straightforward operation. Its built-in conical burr grinder with dose control provides a level of precision similar to the BES876BSS but with a more modern, user-friendly display. The powerful steam wand delivers excellent microfoam, but its high price and somewhat limited water capacity might be drawbacks for those who want a more straightforward machine. Compared with the BES880 series, it offers more direct feedback and easier adjustments, ideal for users who appreciate a more tech-forward experience.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Intuitive LCD interface for easy operation
- Built-in conical burr grinder with dose control
Cons:- Premium price point may be restrictive for some
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
- Complexity might overwhelm absolute beginners
Best for: Intermediate to advanced home baristas looking for a blend of speed, control, and modern interface.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a simple, low-cost espresso machine or those with small kitchen space constraints.
- Capacity:67 oz Water Tank
- Bean Hopper:1/2 lb
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Filter baskets, Razor Dose, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for users who want a fast, feature-rich experience without sacrificing quality.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch Impress introduces a touchscreen interface with customizable drinks, auto milk frothing, and additional features like cold brew, making it ideal for users who prioritize convenience and variety. Its rapid 3-second heat-up rivals other ThermoJet models like the BES878BSS but adds the benefit of step-by-step guidance, which can be invaluable for less experienced users. However, the setup process and price point may deter casual consumers. Compared to manual machines like the BES870BTR, it sacrifices some manual control for automation and ease, but it excels in delivering consistent results with minimal effort.
Pros:- Touchscreen display with customizable drink options
- Auto milk frothing with alternative milk settings
- Rapid 3-second heat-up for quick use
Cons:- Setup can be complex for newcomers
- Higher price might limit casual buyers
- No specific weight or dimension details provided
Best for: Tech-savvy coffee lovers who want personalized drinks and auto-frothing at home.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users or traditionalists who prefer manual control over every shot.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs
- Grind Settings:30
- Display:Touchscreen
- Preset Drinks:8
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for users seeking a combination of automation, customization, and modern tech features.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Express combines a built-in conical burr grinder with digital temperature control, offering a classic manual espresso experience. Its intuitive design and powerful steam wand make it suitable for users who prefer hands-on operation, similar to the BES876BSS but with a more traditional aesthetic and slightly less advanced features. The 1/2 lb bean hopper and 67 oz water capacity are practical for regular home use, but the machine’s size and complexity may challenge absolute beginners. Compared to the more automated BES880 series, it emphasizes manual skill, which can be rewarding but requires practice.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam milk
Cons:- May be complex for users new to espresso machines
- Relatively bulky for small kitchens
- Higher price compared to entry-level models
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy manual control and a traditional espresso-making process.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a more automated, space-saving solution.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Warrant:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine suits traditionalists who want hands-on control and quality results, willing to invest time in mastering the process.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR stands out for its combination of advanced technology and ease of use. Its touchscreen interface and integrated conical burr grinder make it simple to craft personalized coffee drinks, rivaling the ease of the BES880BSS but with a sleek, black truffle finish for style. The ThermoJet system ensures rapid heat-up, and adjustable milk temperature and texture allow for creative latte art. However, its high price and limited bean hopper capacity might be a barrier for casual users or those with limited space. Compared with the BES880BSS, this model offers more customization but requires a steeper learning curve for newcomers. This pick makes the most sense for experienced home baristas who want a fully connected, customizable experience.Pros:- User-friendly touchscreen interface for seamless operation
- Integrated precision conical burr grinder with dose control
- Adjustable milk temperature and texture for latte art
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Limited bean hopper capacity
- Complex features may require a learning curve
Best for: Tech-savvy coffee enthusiasts who want a premium, customizable machine with a touchscreen interface.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those on a tight budget who might find the complex features overwhelming or cost-prohibitive.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, single and double wall filter baskets, 480ml stainless steel jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, water test strip
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Display:Touchscreen
- Pre-Programmed Settings:5 cafe favorites
- Custom Settings:8
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for experienced users seeking a highly customizable and stylish espresso station.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Brushed Stainless Steel version of the Barista Touch emphasizes durability and sleek design, making it a natural choice for modern kitchens. Its touchscreen interface simplifies operation, and the automatic microfoam milk texturing rivals more expensive models like the BES985BSS but with a more approachable price point. The fast ThermoJet heating system ensures quick setup, and the included accessories add versatility. However, its higher price and larger size may not suit every kitchen, and some users might find the automatic features limit hands-on control. Compared to the Black Truffle model, this version offers a slightly more traditional aesthetic and broader color options, but requires more space. This machine works best for style-conscious users who want convenience without sacrificing quality.Pros:- User-friendly touchscreen for easy customization
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Includes versatile accessories
Cons:- Higher price may deter budget buyers
- Bulkier size limits placement options
- Features may be complex for beginners
Best for: Design-conscious home baristas who value ease of use and quick setup with a premium look.
Not ideal for: Small kitchen owners or budget-conscious buyers who prefer manual control and simpler machines.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Features:Touchscreen display, programmable settings, integrated grinder, automatic milk texturing
Our verdict“This machine suits stylish kitchens where convenience and modern design are priorities.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express offers a compelling all-in-one package for those new to espresso making, with its built-in conical burr grinder and digital PID temperature control providing consistent results. Its manual steam wand allows for microfoam milk texturing, giving a barista-level experience for less than more advanced models like the BES985BSS. Compared with the more automated options, this machine requires more hands-on skill and regular maintenance but rewards users with immediate control over each shot. Its compact size suits smaller kitchens, but the learning curve can be steep for absolute beginners who need more guidance. For those willing to invest time in learning, this machine delivers excellent value.Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise digital temperature control (PID)
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam
- Compact design suitable for small kitchens
Cons:- Relatively high price for a beginner machine
- Steep learning curve for newcomers
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Entry-level home baristas eager to learn manual espresso craft without a hefty price tag.
Not ideal for: Those looking for a set-and-forget machine or minimal maintenance, as it demands ongoing cleaning and skill development.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
Our verdict“Ideal for novices committed to developing barista skills who want a cost-effective all-in-one machine.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES985BSS Oracle Jet elevates home espresso to professional levels with features like automatic grinding, dosing, tamping, and milk frothing, which makes it stand out from semi-automatic options. Its 58mm portafilter and Baratza European burrs ensure rich extraction, while the ThermoJet system guarantees rapid heating. The machine’s versatility, including cold brew and cold espresso options, caters to sophisticated tastes, yet its high price and complexity may be overwhelming for casual users. Compared to the simpler BES870XL, this model offers far more automation but at the cost of size and learning curve. It’s tailored for those who want a true café experience at home and are willing to invest the time and money.Pros:- Automated grinding, dosing, tamping, and milk frothing
- Precise temperature control with ThermoJet
- Versatile with cold brew and cold espresso options
- Professional 58mm portafilter for rich flavor
Cons:- High price point may deter casual buyers
- Complex features require a learning curve
- Bulkier size suitable for dedicated space
Best for: Serious home baristas who desire a semi-automatic with high automation for convenience and professional results.
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or those with limited space and budget, who might find the complexity and cost prohibitive.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Portafilter Size:58mm
- Burrs:Baratza European Precision Burrs
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grind Settings:45
- Milk Frothing:Auto microfoam with adjustable textures and temperatures
- Included Accessories:2 free bags of specialty coffee
Our verdict“Best for dedicated enthusiasts seeking a high-end, fully automated espresso experience at home.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Damson Blue BES876DBL combines professional features with a distinctive color, appealing to users who want both performance and aesthetic appeal. Its assisted tamping system and 25 grind settings provide a level of control that appeals to both beginners and experienced home baristas. The built-in conical burr grinder and intelligent dosing system promote consistency, while the manual microfoam wand offers flexibility. Its size and higher price might deter those with limited space or tight budgets, but for those who value precision and style, this machine delivers. Compared to the more automation-heavy BES985BSS, this model emphasizes hands-on control paired with a unique look, making it suitable for dedicated coffee lovers.Pros:- Professional-quality espresso and milk texturing
- Intelligent dosing with auto-correct system
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- Distinctive damson blue color
Cons:- High price point
- Setup can be complex for absolute beginners
- Size may require substantial counter space
Best for: Aficionados seeking a stylish, feature-rich machine with manual control options.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer straightforward, plug-and-play solutions.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
- Tamping System:Assisted tamping with 7° barista twist and 10kg pressure
Our verdict“Perfect for dedicated enthusiasts who want a stylish, feature-rich machine with manual control options.”
How We Picked
This lineup was selected based on a combination of performance, build quality, usability, and value. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso quality and considered how user-friendly they are for both beginners and seasoned baristas. Maintenance ease and feature sets also played a critical role, especially when comparing automation versus manual control. The ranking reflects a balanced view of these factors, aiming to recommend options suitable for different budgets and skill levels, from entry-level to professional-grade espresso machines.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing a Breville espresso machine involves more than just looking at features. It’s important to consider how each machine’s design and capabilities match your brewing skill, space, and desired automation level. Understanding these factors can prevent common pitfalls like overpaying for features you won’t use or buying a machine that’s too complex to operate daily. Here are key considerations to guide your decision:Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Some Breville models, like the Bambino, are designed for simplicity, ideal for beginners or those with limited time. Others, such as the Oracle Jet, offer extensive manual controls for enthusiasts willing to learn. Think about how comfortable you are with espresso brewing—more automation can save time but may limit customization, while manual machines offer more control at the cost of a longer learning curve.
Automation and Features
Automation features like integrated grinders, programmable shot volumes, and automatic steaming can significantly streamline brewing. However, they tend to increase price and complexity. Decide if you prefer a machine that handles most tasks automatically or one that allows for detailed adjustments, especially if you’re interested in experimenting with brewing parameters.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Breville machines range from compact options like the Bambino to larger, more feature-rich models. Measure your available counter space carefully, and consider whether aesthetics matter—some models come in vibrant colors or sleek designs. Remember, larger machines may offer more features but require more space and potentially more maintenance.
Build Quality and Durability
All Breville machines are built to last, but materials and component quality vary. Look for models with sturdy stainless steel construction if longevity matters most. Cheaper or smaller machines might sacrifice some durability or advanced features, which could lead to more frequent repairs or replacements over time.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Set your budget early, but also consider the long-term value. Spending more on a premium model like the Oracle Jet can provide a better brewing experience and durability, but it might be unnecessary if you only brew occasionally. Conversely, investing in a more affordable machine can be sensible for casual users but might lack features appreciated by more serious enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a fully automatic Breville machine worth the extra cost?
Fully automatic Breville machines tend to offer greater convenience, with features like integrated grinders and programmable settings. They are particularly valuable for those who want consistent results with minimal effort, making them a good choice for busy mornings or users less interested in manual control. However, this convenience comes at a higher price, and some enthusiasts may prefer semi-automatic models for more hands-on brewing and customization.
Can I use any coffee grind with Breville machines?
While many Breville models have built-in grinders or are compatible with pre-ground coffee, the grind size significantly impacts espresso quality. For machines with integrated grinders, using the correct grind setting is crucial. Pre-ground coffee should be fresh and fine enough for espresso, but not too fine to cause clogging. Investing in a good grinder can enhance your espresso experience regardless of the machine chosen.
Are higher-end Breville models more durable?
Generally, higher-end models like the Oracle Jet feature premium materials and more robust components, which can translate to greater durability and longevity. However, all Breville machines are designed with quality in mind. Proper maintenance, regular cleaning, and using high-quality coffee beans are essential, regardless of price, to ensure your machine remains in good shape over time.
What features should I prioritize if I’m a beginner?
Beginners should look for models that offer straightforward operation, such as the Bambino or Barista Express, which balance ease of use with good espresso quality. Features like automatic milk frothing, simple interface, and clear instructions can help build confidence. Avoid overly complex machines with extensive manual controls unless you’re willing to invest time in learning the craft.
How important is water filtration in Breville espresso machines?
Water quality greatly influences espresso flavor and machine longevity. Many Breville models include built-in water filters or recommend using filtered water. Using filtered water reduces mineral buildup and scale, extending the life of your machine and maintaining consistent taste. This simple addition can save money on repairs and improve the overall quality of your brews.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville Barista Pro strikes a balance between advanced features and user-friendliness, making it suitable for most home baristas. Budget-conscious buyers or beginners will appreciate the Bambino for its simplicity and affordability, while enthusiasts aiming for professional-level control should consider the Oracle Jet. Finally, if space and aesthetics matter, models like the Barista Express Impress or Damson Blue add style without sacrificing performance. Your ideal choice depends on your skill level, desired features, and how much you’re willing to invest in your espresso setup.Halloween Picks
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