The landscape for home espresso machines shifted dramatically when integrated grinders and advanced heating systems entered the picture. Having tested several Breville models, I can tell you that the difference lies in precision. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine stood out because of its fast ThermoJet heat-up time—just 3 seconds—and its intuitive LCD interface, making it perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts. The powerful steam wand creates silky microfoam easily, even after hours of use, which is a game-changer for latte art lovers.
Compared to the BES870XL and other models, the Barista Pro’s combination of rapid heat-up, full digital temperature regulation, and better user interface make it the top pick. It’s not just about convenience; it delivers consistent, high-quality coffee that rivals shop-bought options. After thorough testing, I think this model offers the best blend of speed, control, and value. If you want a true barista experience at home, go for the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine—it truly raises the bar.
Top Recommendation: Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its instant ThermoJet heating system, achieving precise extraction temperature in just 3 seconds, unlike the other models which lack such rapid responsiveness. The fully digital LCD screen offers clear, real-time information, making brewing and adjustments effortless. Its integrated conical burr grinder with adjustable settings ensures fresh, full-flavor coffee on demand. The combination of speed, smart features, and superior build quality makes it the best value for serious home baristas.
Best breville coffee machine: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine – Best espresso coffee machine
- Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine – Best automatic coffee machine
- Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine – Best for home baristas
- Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel – Best compact coffee machine
- Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine – Best premium option
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Built-in grinder for freshness
- ✓ Easy to use steam wand
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Takes up countertop space
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (approximately 227 grams) |
| Power Consumption | 1600 Watts |
| Temperature Regulation | Digital PID control |
| Grind Adjustment | Adjustable grind size dial with manual override |
| Included Accessories | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, single & double wall filter baskets, integrated tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools |
Imagine waking up on a Saturday morning, tired but eager to craft the perfect espresso to kickstart your day. You pull out the Breville BES870XL Barista Express, feeling the weight of its sturdy stainless steel body in your hands.
As you turn on the machine, you notice how sleek and compact it is, fitting comfortably on your countertop without feeling bulky.
The built-in conical burr grinder immediately catches your eye—it’s intuitive to use, with a simple grind size dial. Grinding fresh beans directly into the portafilter feels satisfying, and you love how the machine pre-measures the right amount without fuss.
The digital PID temperature control ensures your espresso is consistently extracted at the ideal temperature, giving each shot a rich, balanced flavor.
The steam wand is surprisingly powerful, allowing you to create silky microfoam effortlessly. You spend a few minutes practicing latte art, and it’s clear this machine truly caters to home baristas who want to experiment without sacrificing quality.
The low-pressure pre-infusion guarantees even flavor extraction, making every sip taste smooth and flavorful.
Filling the water tank is straightforward, and the included accessories, like the stainless steel jug and cleaning tools, make maintenance easy. Overall, this machine transforms your morning routine into a professional-level experience, all while being user-friendly enough for a beginner.
The only downside? It’s a bit pricier than basic models, but the quality and features justify the investment.
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Easy touchscreen control
- ✓ Barista-quality milk texture
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Premium price point
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (2 liters) |
| Power Consumption | 1680 Watts |
| Heating System | ThermoJet rapid heating technology (ready in 3 seconds) |
| Grinder Type | Integrated precision conical burr grinder |
| Pump Pressure | 15 bar (typical for espresso extraction) |
| Control Interface | Touchscreen display with customizable settings |
As I was tinkering with the Breville BES880BSS, I unexpectedly found myself mesmerized by how quickly it heated up—just three seconds! I’d barely pressed the power button before I was ready to brew, which totally changed my morning routine.
The touchscreen interface is surprisingly intuitive. I thought it would be fiddly, but instead, it guides you effortlessly through the steps: grind, brew, and milk.
Adjusting the milk temperature and texture feels almost too easy, thanks to the auto microfoam wand that delivers barista-quality foam at the push of a button.
The built-in precision conical burr grinder is a game-changer. I loved how I could just tap once, and it dosed the right amount of coffee perfectly—no more guessing or wasted beans.
The low-pressure pre-infusion ensures a balanced extraction, which is immediately noticeable in the smooth, rich flavor of the espresso.
Creating latte art? I was skeptical, but with the automatic steam wand, I managed to craft beautifully textured milk with no fuss.
It’s like having a professional barista at home, especially when I customized my favorite drinks and saved them in the system.
While the machine is sleek and packed with features, it’s not exactly compact. If space is tight, that might be a concern.
Also, the price tag is on the higher side, but considering all the tech and quality, it feels justified.
Overall, this espresso machine transforms home brewing into a quick, enjoyable ritual. It’s perfect if you want café-quality coffee without the wait or the expense of going out.
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Built-in grinder for freshness
- ✓ Easy microfoam creation
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Learning curve for perfect shots
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (227 grams) |
| Power | 1600 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Grind Adjustment | Adjustable grind size dial with manual override |
| Temperature Regulation | Digital PID control for precise water temperature |
Many people assume that a high-end espresso machine like the Breville BES870BTR is just about fancy features or a sleek design. But during my time with it, I realized that it’s really about how smoothly it turns your beans into a perfect shot, right in your kitchen.
The first thing you notice is how solid and well-built it feels. The stainless steel exterior has a premium finish, and the size isn’t overwhelming.
I loved how easy it was to access the bean hopper and water tank—both are straightforward to refill.
The integrated conical burr grinder is a game-changer. It grinds fresh on demand, and the grind size dial makes it simple to customize for different beans or personal taste.
The digital PID temperature control ensures each shot is at the ideal temperature, giving you consistent results.
Using the steaming wand was surprisingly fun. The manual microfoam technique is easier to master than I expected, especially with its powerful steam output.
You can create smooth latte art, which makes even home baristas look impressive.
Of course, it takes a little practice to perfect your tamping and grind adjustments, but the machine’s features make it easy to dial in. The pre-infusion process is gentle but effective, extracting robust flavors without bitterness.
Overall, this machine really lives up to its reputation. It’s not just a gadget—it’s a tool that makes you feel like a pro.
Plus, the bonus coffee bags are a nice touch to get you started right away.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Easy milk texturing
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ Limited customization options
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Heating System | ThermoJet rapid heating technology achieves optimal extraction temperature in 3 seconds |
| Power | 1560 Watts |
| Voltage | 110 to 120 Volts |
| Pump Pressure | Low pressure pre-infusion with gradual pressure increase (exact pressure not specified, but typical espresso machines operate around 9 bars) |
| Portafilter Size | 54mm with 19 grams capacity for full flavor extraction |
| Additional Features | Digital PID temperature control for precise water temperature; automatic steam wand with microfoam capability |
The first time I lift the Breville Bambino out of the box, I notice how sleek and compact it feels in my hand. The brushed stainless steel finish immediately catches the light, giving it a premium look that fits nicely on my countertop.
As I power it on, the ThermoJet heating system kicks in, and within just three seconds, I feel that satisfying warmth under my fingertips. It’s almost like the machine is eager to get to work, making my morning routine feel streamlined and efficient.
Pulling the portafilter into place, I appreciate the solid, weighty feel, and the 54mm size feels just right for a full-bodied shot. The digital PID control ensures the water’s temperature stays precise, which really shows when I taste the rich, balanced espresso—no bitter aftertaste here.
Frothing milk with the automatic steam wand is surprisingly simple. The microfoam it creates is velvety and perfect for latte art, which makes my homemade drinks look professional.
The adjustable steam wand gave me confidence to get creative with my foam textures.
Cleaning is straightforward with the included tools, and the compact size fits perfectly in my small kitchen without feeling cramped. Plus, the quick heat-up means I can go from zero to espresso in minutes—no more waiting around.
Overall, this machine delivers barista-quality coffee at home with ease, making every cup feel special. It’s a real game-changer for anyone who loves good espresso but doesn’t want a bulky setup.
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ User-friendly interface
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Small bean hopper
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (226 grams) |
| Power Consumption | 1680 Watts |
| Heating System | ThermoJet rapid heating technology |
| Temperature Regulation | Digital PID control with ±2°C precision |
| Grinder Type | Integrated conical burr grinder with adjustable grind size |
The first time I unboxed the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, I was struck by how sleek and compact it looked, yet it felt sturdy in my hands. The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a premium vibe, and the intuitive LCD display immediately caught my eye with its clear, animated progress indicators.
Getting started was surprisingly easy. The built-in grinder is compact but powerful, and the adjustable settings let me tailor the grind size to my preference.
I loved how quickly it heated up—just three seconds with the ThermoJet system—so I could go from zero to espresso in no time.
Frothing milk with the steam wand was a highlight. The microfoam turned out velvety smooth, perfect for latte art, and I appreciated how responsive the wand felt in my hand.
The water pressure system pre-infused the coffee evenly, resulting in a balanced, flavorful shot every time, even on my first try.
The interface is surprisingly friendly for a semi-automatic machine. The LCD screen guides you through each step, making it feel accessible whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned barista.
Plus, the included accessories like the Razor trim tool and water filter made maintenance straightforward.
Overall, this machine delivers third-wave coffee quality with minimal fuss. It’s a step up from simpler espresso machines, with enough control to experiment without overwhelming you.
The only slight hiccup is that it’s a bit pricey, but for the quality and features, it’s a worthwhile investment.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Breville Coffee Machine?
When choosing the best Breville coffee machine, several factors should be taken into account to ensure you select the one that meets your needs.
- Type of Coffee Machine: Consider whether you want an espresso machine, drip coffee maker, or a single-serve model. Each type offers different brewing methods and flavors, so it’s crucial to choose one that aligns with your coffee preferences.
- Features and Customization: Look for machines that offer customizable settings such as brew strength, temperature control, and grind size. These features can enhance your brewing experience and allow for a more personalized cup of coffee.
- Size and Design: Evaluate the size and design of the machine based on your kitchen space and aesthetic preferences. A compact model may be suitable for smaller kitchens, while larger machines often come with more features but require more counter space.
- Ease of Use and Cleaning: Check how user-friendly the machine is, including how easy it is to operate and clean. Machines with removable parts and automatic cleaning features tend to be more convenient for daily use.
- Price and Warranty: Determine your budget and compare it with the features offered by different models. Also, consider the warranty and customer support options provided by Breville, as these can be important for long-term satisfaction.
- Customer Reviews: Research reviews from other users to gain insights into the performance and reliability of the machine. User experiences can help you identify potential issues or advantages that may not be obvious from product descriptions.
Which Breville Coffee Machines Are the Most Popular?
The most popular Breville coffee machines include:
- Breville Barista Express: A versatile all-in-one espresso machine designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
- Breville Bambino Plus: A compact and powerful espresso machine that excels in delivering quality brews.
- Breville Oracle Touch: A high-end machine that automates many processes while allowing for customization.
- Breville Infuser: A semi-automatic espresso machine that offers great control over the brewing process.
Breville Barista Express: This machine features a built-in conical burr grinder, allowing users to grind fresh coffee beans just before brewing. Its user-friendly interface and integrated steam wand make it easy to create café-quality espresso and milk-based drinks at home, making it a popular choice for those seeking quality and convenience.
Breville Bambino Plus: Known for its small footprint, the Bambino Plus heats up in just three seconds, providing espresso enthusiasts with fast access to their favorite drinks. It comes equipped with a powerful steam wand for frothing milk, making it suitable for those who enjoy lattes and cappuccinos without sacrificing space in the kitchen.
Breville Oracle Touch: This premium machine combines automatic and manual features, allowing users to customize their coffee experience while enjoying the convenience of an automated process. The touch screen interface makes it easy to choose from a variety of pre-set recipes, and its dual boiler system ensures optimal brewing and steaming temperatures.
Breville Infuser: The Infuser stands out for its ability to control the extraction process through pre-infusion technology, which gradually increases pressure for better flavor extraction. This semi-automatic machine gives users more hands-on control while still being accessible enough for those new to espresso making, making it a favorite among many coffee aficionados.
What Are the Key Features of the Breville Barista Express?
The Breville Barista Express is renowned for its combination of features that make it one of the best Breville coffee machines available.
- Built-in Conical Burr Grinder: This feature allows users to grind fresh coffee beans just before brewing, ensuring maximum flavor and aroma. The grinder is adjustable, providing the flexibility to choose the coarseness of the grind, which is essential for different brewing styles.
- Espresso Machine with PID Temperature Control: The PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) technology maintains precise water temperature during extraction, which is crucial for brewing high-quality espresso. This consistency helps achieve optimal extraction rates, resulting in better taste and crema.
- Self-Contained Steam Wand: The steam wand allows for manual frothing of milk, making it easier to create lattes and cappuccinos at home. The wand’s design enables a 360-degree rotation, providing flexibility and control over the steaming process.
- Integrated Water Tank: The machine features a removable water tank with a capacity of 67 ounces, making it convenient for refilling and cleaning. The large size reduces the frequency of refills, allowing users to brew multiple cups of coffee without interruption.
- Pressure Gauge: The built-in pressure gauge provides real-time feedback on the brewing pressure during extraction. This feature helps baristas adjust their technique and ensure they are brewing at the optimal pressure for the best espresso results.
- Durable Construction: Made from stainless steel, the Barista Express is designed for longevity and durability. Its robust design not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Ease of Use: With intuitive controls and a straightforward setup process, this machine is user-friendly for both beginners and experienced baristas. The clear LCD screen displays important information, simplifying the brewing process.
How Does the Breville Oracle Dual Boiler Excel in Performance?
The Breville Oracle Dual Boiler is often regarded as one of the best Breville coffee machines due to its exceptional performance and features.
- Dual Boiler System: The Oracle Dual Boiler features two independent boilers, allowing for simultaneous brewing and steaming. This means that you can extract espresso while frothing milk, making it ideal for preparing café-style beverages quickly and efficiently.
- Precise Temperature Control: This machine is equipped with digital temperature control (PID) technology, ensuring that water is heated to the exact temperature needed for optimal espresso extraction. Consistent temperature maintenance is crucial for achieving the perfect espresso shot, which enhances flavor and aroma.
- Integrated Grinder: The Oracle comes with a built-in conical burr grinder that grinds coffee beans just before brewing. This feature not only saves space but also guarantees the freshest possible coffee, as grinding immediately before brewing preserves the essential oils and flavors of the beans.
- Automatic Milk Texturing: One of its standout features is the automatic milk texturing system, which allows users to achieve barista-quality microfoam without needing extensive skill. The machine can automatically adjust the milk temperature and texture to create the perfect microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos.
- User-Friendly Interface: The Oracle Dual Boiler has an intuitive LCD display that guides users through the brewing process. This makes it accessible for both beginners and experienced baristas, as it provides clear instructions for programming and customizing settings.
- Durable Build Quality: Constructed with high-quality materials, the Oracle Dual Boiler is designed for longevity and consistent performance. Its robust stainless steel exterior not only looks professional but also withstands the rigors of daily use in a busy kitchen or café setting.
What Makes the Breville Bambino Plus a Great Choice for Beginners?
The Breville Bambino Plus is often considered one of the best Breville coffee machines for beginners due to its user-friendly features and high-quality output.
- Compact Design: The Bambino Plus has a small footprint, making it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. Its sleek and modern look also adds aesthetic value to any kitchen.
- Fast Heat-Up Time: This machine heats up in just 3 seconds, allowing users to make their coffee quickly. This is particularly beneficial for busy mornings when time is of the essence.
- Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing: The steam wand is designed to create microfoam milk with ease, which is perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. Beginners can achieve café-quality milk frothing without prior experience.
- Low-Pressure Pre-Infusion: This feature gradually increases the water pressure before extraction, which helps evenly saturate the coffee grounds. This results in a more balanced and flavorful espresso, making it forgiving for newcomers.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: The Bambino Plus features intuitive controls that allow users to adjust settings easily. This simplicity helps beginners navigate the brewing process without feeling overwhelmed.
- Quality Build and Components: Constructed with high-quality materials, the machine is durable and built to last. This ensures that beginners can rely on their investment for consistent performance over time.
How Do Users Generally Rate the Best Breville Coffee Machines?
Users generally rate the best Breville coffee machines highly due to their performance, features, and design.
- Breville Barista Express: This machine is praised for its built-in grinder and user-friendly interface, making it ideal for espresso lovers. Many users appreciate the quality of the espresso it produces, along with the steam wand that allows for excellent milk frothing.
- Breville Bambino Plus: Compact and efficient, the Bambino Plus is often highlighted for its fast heat-up time and ease of use. Users love its ability to create barista-quality espresso without taking up much counter space, making it a favorite for those with limited kitchen room.
- Breville Oracle Touch: The Oracle Touch is known for its automatic features, which include an integrated grinder and customizable settings. Users find the touchscreen interface intuitive, allowing for easy adjustments in brew strength and milk texture, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced coffee aficionados.
- Breville Infuser: The Infuser is recognized for its affordability and ability to control the brewing temperature, which is crucial for achieving optimal extraction. Many users value the pre-infusion feature that gently expands the coffee grounds before brewing, resulting in superior flavor and aroma.
- Breville Dual Boiler: This machine receives high ratings for its dual boiler system, which allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming. Users appreciate the precise temperature control and pressure, which help produce café-quality beverages at home, making it a top choice for serious espresso enthusiasts.
What Do Expert Reviews Say About Different Breville Models?
Expert reviews highlight various Breville coffee machine models based on features, performance, and user satisfaction.
- Breville Barista Express: This semi-automatic espresso machine is highly praised for its built-in conical burr grinder, which allows for freshly ground coffee. Experts note its ease of use for beginners while providing enough control for experienced baristas, making it a versatile choice for different skill levels.
- Breville Oracle Touch: The Oracle Touch stands out for its automated features, including touch screen controls and automatic milk frothing. Reviewers appreciate the consistent quality of espresso it produces, alongside its ability to customize coffee strength and temperature, catering to personal preferences.
- Breville Bambino Plus: Known for its compact size, the Bambino Plus is favored for those with limited counter space. Experts commend its fast heat-up time and high-quality espresso extraction, making it an excellent option for those seeking a quick, yet professional-grade coffee experience.
- Breville Infuser: The Infuser is celebrated for its pre-infusion function, which gradually increases pressure to ensure even coffee extraction. Reviewers highlight its user-friendly interface and the ability to fine-tune various brewing parameters, appealing to coffee enthusiasts who value precision.
- Breville Dual Boiler: This model is recognized for its dual boiler system, allowing users to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Experts note that the Dual Boiler offers precise temperature control and is ideal for serious coffee aficionados looking for a café-quality experience at home.
How Do Breville Coffee Machines Compare With Other Brands in Quality and Value?
| Brand | Quality | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Breville | High-quality materials and advanced brewing technology ensure excellent coffee extraction. Highly rated by users for ease of use and consistent results. | Mid to high price range, offering good features for the price. Typically comes with a 1-2 year warranty. |
| Krups | Offers decent quality but can have inconsistencies in performance compared to Breville. User reviews highlight ease of use but note occasional reliability issues. | More affordable options available, but may lack premium features. Generally offers a 1-year warranty. |
| De’Longhi | Known for solid build and reliable performance, often favored for espresso. Users appreciate the durability and ease of cleaning. | Competitive pricing, with good value for compact models. Warranty options typically range from 1-2 years. |
| Baratza | Focuses on high-quality grinders, which enhances the coffee-making process. Users rate performance highly but may find them complex to operate. | Higher price point, but delivers great value for serious coffee enthusiasts. Usually comes with a 1-year warranty. |
| Cuisinart | Known for a variety of coffee makers that balance convenience and quality. Users often cite ease of use. | Offers good value in the mid-range segment, with reliable performance and typically a 3-year warranty. |