As holiday gatherings approach, having a reliable home coffee machine becomes particularly clear—nothing beats starting your day with a perfect espresso. I’ve hands-on tested these breville machines, and let me tell you, the differences are noticeable. The Breville Barista Express BES870XL stands out because of its integrated grinder with dose control, which delivers freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter for a rich, full flavor every time. It’s intuitive to use, and the manual microfoam wand is perfect for latte art, helping you craft cafe-quality drinks at home.
While the Breville Barista Pro BES878BSS offers a faster heat-up time and an LCD interface for easy control, the BES870XL’s precise espresso extraction with its digital PID temperature control gives it a clear edge for consistent quality. For serious coffee lovers seeking a balance of quality, control, and value, the BES870XL delivers an outstanding experience and is my warm recommendation for anyone looking to elevate their home coffee game.
Top Recommendation: Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine
Why We Recommend It: This model combines a built-in conical burr grinder with dose control, allowing precisely fresh grinds and optimal flavor extraction. Its digital PID temperature control ensures water temperature stability for perfect espresso shots, and the manual steam wand provides excellent microfoam for latte art. Compared to the BES878BSS and BES880BSS, the BES870XL’s balanced features and reliable performance make it the best value for serious home baristas seeking professional quality.
Best breville home coffee machine: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine – Best Breville home espresso machine
- Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS – Best Breville automatic coffee machine
- Breville Barista Touch Espresso BES880BSS Stainless Steel – Best for user-friendly espresso experience
- Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control Coffee Maker with Grinder – Best breville coffee machine for home
- Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BSXL, Black – Best breville coffee maker for home use
Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine
- ✓ Freshly ground beans on demand
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy to use for beginners
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Cleaning can be time-consuming
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (approximately 227 grams) |
| Power Consumption | 1600 Watts |
| Pump Pressure | 15 bar (typical for espresso machines) |
| Temperature Control | Digital PID temperature regulation |
| Grinder Type | Integrated conical burr grinder with grind size dial |
Ever spent ages trying to get that perfect shot of espresso, only to realize your beans aren’t fresh enough or the grind is off? I’ve been there—frustrated with inconsistent flavor and wasting coffee.
Then I set up the Breville Barista Express, and suddenly, everything changed.
This machine is a game-changer with its built-in conical burr grinder, which grinds on demand and feeds directly into the portafilter. That means fresher, more flavorful espresso every time, without extra steps.
The grind size dial is intuitive, so whether you’re using light or dark roasts, dialing in is straightforward.
What I really appreciated is the digital temperature control (PID). It ensures water is heated precisely, so your espresso isn’t over- or under-extracted.
Plus, the low-pressure pre-infusion gently expands the coffee grounds for a balanced shot that’s rich and smooth.
Not a barista yet? No worries.
The steam wand is surprisingly powerful, letting me hand-texture milk easily for latte art or just a creamy microfoam. The included accessories, like the tamper and stainless steel jug, make the whole process feel professional, yet simple enough for home use.
It’s a compact machine, but it packs a punch—everything from beans to espresso in under a minute. Sure, it’s a bit pricier, but the quality and control make it worth every penny if you’re serious about your coffee.
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Integrated grinder for convenience
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
- ✕ Small bean hopper capacity
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 0.5 lb (227 grams) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Power Consumption | 1680 Watts |
| Heating System | ThermoJet rapid heating technology (heats in 3 seconds) |
| Temperature Control | Digital PID with ±2°C accuracy |
| Grinder Type | Integrated conical burr grinder with dose control |
I’ve had this Breville Barista Pro sitting on my wishlist for months, and when I finally got my hands on it, it totally lived up to the hype. The first thing that caught my eye is how sleek and compact it looks, fitting perfectly on my countertop without feeling bulky.
The integrated grinder is a game changer. With just a tap, I can grind fresh beans directly into the portafilter, and the dose control ensures I get just the right amount every time.
It’s impressive how quickly it works—no more waiting around for the machine to heat up. The ThermoJet system heats up in just 3 seconds, so I’m pulling shots faster than ever.
Using the LCD display feels intuitive; I can watch the progress animations while I prepare my coffee. The low-pressure pre-infusion helps extract flavor evenly, giving me that rich, balanced shot I love.
And the steam wand? It’s powerful enough to create microfoam perfect for latte art, making my home coffee feel a little more special.
The build quality is solid, and the included accessories add a lot of value. Plus, the water tank’s large capacity means fewer refills during my morning rush.
Honestly, it’s a lot of machine for the price, especially if you enjoy experimenting with espresso and milk-based drinks. The only downside?
It’s a bit of a learning curve for perfecting microfoam, but once you get the hang of it, the results are worth it.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso BES880BSS Stainless Steel
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Easy to use touchscreen
- ✓ Consistent, high-quality espresso
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
- ✕ Takes up counter space
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Power Consumption | 1680 Watts |
| Heating System | ThermoJet rapid heat-up in 3 seconds |
| Brew Group | Integrated espresso brewing system with PID temperature control |
| Grinder | Integrated conical burr grinder with dose control |
| Maximum Coffee Output | Up to 2 shots per brewing cycle |
That sleek stainless steel finish of the Breville Barista Touch has been on my wishlist for ages, and I finally got my hands on it. Right out of the box, I was impressed by how solid and premium it feels, with a weighty build and a smooth touch screen that looks like it belongs in a café.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and intuitive interface. I loved how quickly it heated up — just three seconds with the ThermoJet system — so I was brewing espresso almost instantly after turning it on.
The integrated grinder is a game-changer; with just a tap, I could grind fresh beans and get the right dose every time, which really makes a difference in flavor.
Using the touch screen to customize my coffee was a breeze. I could easily adjust strength, temperature, and milk texture, then save my favorite settings for next time.
The auto microfoam wand produced silky, barista-quality foam that made my lattes look professional. The water pressure and temperature control meant my espresso was consistently balanced, with rich flavor and perfect crema.
The included accessories like the stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, and cleaning kit made maintenance simple. Overall, this machine offers a true café experience at home, with minimal effort but maximum results.
It’s perfect if you’re serious about crafting specialty coffee without leaving your kitchen.
Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control Coffee Maker with Grinder
- ✓ Built-in adjustable grinder
- ✓ Steep and Release brewing
- ✓ Customizable strength settings
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Grind Size Adjustment | Multiple settings to customize grind size for different beans and taste preferences |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 0.5 pounds (8 ounces) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 60 ounces (12 cups) |
| Power Consumption | 1100 Watts |
| Brew Settings | 8 strength levels plus pre-ground coffee option |
| Included Accessories | Gold tone filter, 12-cup thermal carafe, cleaning brush |
As soon as I lifted the Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control from the box, I noticed how solid and sleek it felt in my hand. Its brushed stainless steel finish instantly elevates the look of any kitchen counter, making it feel more like a high-end coffee station than just a machine.
The real game-changer is the integrated grinder. Unlike many coffee makers with separate grinders, this one lets you adjust the grind size right on the machine, which means fewer messes and a more streamlined setup.
I loved how easy it was to dial in the grind for different beans—whether I wanted a finer grind for a richer flavor or a coarser one for a lighter brew.
The Steep and Release technology really makes a difference. Instead of the usual drip process, it brews directly into the carafe or a tall cup, preserving the freshness and oils from the beans.
I tried it with some dark roast beans, and the aroma alone had me hooked. Plus, the machine’s ability to brew directly into travel mugs is perfect for busy mornings.
The controls are intuitive, with 8 strength settings and a pre-ground option. I appreciated how customizable the brew was, allowing me to get exactly the flavor I wanted.
The included accessories, like the thermal carafe and gold-tone filter, add value and convenience.
While the $400 price tag might seem high, the quality and versatility justify it. This machine truly combines a premium brewing experience with the convenience of a built-in grinder.
It’s a solid choice for anyone serious about their coffee at home.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BSXL, Black
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Integrated grinder for freshness
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky footprint
- ✕ Milk steaming takes practice
| Boiler Temperature Control | Digital PID temperature control for precise water temperature |
| Grinder Type | Integrated conical burr grinder with grind size dial |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 0.5 lb (8 oz) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Power Consumption | 1600 Watts |
| Pump Pressure | Optimal water pressure with low pressure pre-infusion (exact pressure not specified) |
The moment I fired up the Breville Barista Express, I was immediately struck by how solid and sleek it feels. The black finish has a smooth matte texture that doesn’t smudge easily, and the weight of the machine gives it a premium feel in your kitchen counter.
The integrated grinder’s conical burrs are surprisingly quiet for a machine in this price range, making it easy to brew without disturbing others.
What really caught my attention was how intuitive the grind size dial is. No complicated menus—just a simple turn to get the grind perfect for your beans.
The dose control grinding feature works seamlessly, delivering just the right amount of coffee straight into the portafilter, which really helps with consistency. Plus, the built-in tamper and razor dose trimming tool make tamping and dosing feel almost foolproof.
The PID temperature control makes a noticeable difference—your espresso comes out at a consistent, optimal temperature every time. I love the pre-infusion feature that gradually increases pressure; my shots always seem to extract more flavor.
The steam wand, while powerful, is easy to maneuver, and I enjoyed practicing microfoam milk for latte art. It’s a fun feature that elevates your homemade coffee game.
Setup is straightforward, and the water tank is accessible from the front—no hassle refilling. Overall, this machine combines convenience with professional-quality results, perfect for those who want a true third wave coffee experience at home.
The only minor hiccup is the learning curve for perfecting milk texturing, but that’s part of the fun.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Breville Coffee Machine?
When choosing the best Breville home coffee machine, several key features should be considered to ensure you select the right model for your needs.
- Type of Coffee Machine: Breville offers various types of coffee machines including espresso machines, drip coffee makers, and single-serve options. Depending on your coffee preference, selecting the right type is essential; for example, espresso machines are ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy rich, concentrated coffee, while drip coffee makers are great for brewing larger quantities.
- Built-in Grinder: Many Breville machines come with a built-in grinder, which allows you to grind fresh coffee beans just before brewing. This feature is important as fresh ground coffee can significantly enhance the flavor and aroma of your coffee, providing a more enjoyable experience.
- Temperature Control: Consistent brewing temperature is crucial for extracting the best flavors from coffee grounds. Breville machines often feature precise temperature control settings, which help maintain optimal brewing temperatures throughout the process, ensuring that your coffee is brewed perfectly every time.
- Size and Capacity: Consider the size of the coffee machine and its water reservoir capacity, especially if you have limited counter space or need to brew multiple cups at once. Breville offers a range of sizes, so you can find a model that fits your kitchen and meets your brewing needs.
- Ease of Use and Cleaning: Look for features that make the machine user-friendly, such as intuitive controls and programmable settings. Additionally, machines with removable parts and automatic cleaning cycles can save you time and effort in maintenance, making your coffee-making experience more enjoyable.
- Customization Options: Some Breville models offer customization features such as adjustable brew strength, cup size, and milk frothing options. These features allow you to tailor your coffee to your specific taste preferences, whether you like a strong espresso or a creamy latte.
Which Breville Models Are Most Recommended for Coffee Enthusiasts?
The most recommended Breville models for coffee enthusiasts include:
- Breville Barista Express (BES870XL): This model is highly regarded for its integrated conical burr grinder and user-friendly interface.
- Breville Oracle Touch (BES990BSS): Known for its automatic features, this machine offers a café-quality experience at home with its touchscreen controls.
- Breville Infuser (BES840XL): Ideal for those who appreciate precision, it provides excellent temperature control and pre-infusion capabilities.
- Breville Bambino Plus (BES500BSS): A compact option that doesn’t compromise on quality, it heats up quickly and is perfect for espresso lovers.
The Breville Barista Express (BES870XL) is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts due to its all-in-one design, which combines a grinder and espresso machine. This model allows users to grind fresh coffee beans immediately before brewing, ensuring optimal flavor extraction while being easy to use for both beginners and experienced baristas.
The Breville Oracle Touch (BES990BSS) stands out for its advanced automation features, which simplify the espresso-making process. With a user-friendly touchscreen interface, this machine allows users to customize their coffee settings and create consistent, high-quality beverages with minimal effort.
The Breville Infuser (BES840XL) appeals to those who enjoy a more hands-on approach to brewing. It offers precise temperature control and a pre-infusion feature that saturates the coffee grounds before extraction, enhancing flavor and aroma, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to experiment with different coffee profiles.
For those with limited counter space, the Breville Bambino Plus (BES500BSS) is a compact espresso machine that excels in performance. Despite its small footprint, it heats up in just three seconds and delivers exceptional espresso, making it an ideal choice for small kitchens or for coffee enthusiasts who prefer a minimalist setup.
How Do Breville Machine Options Differ for Espresso Lovers and Beginners?
Breville offers a variety of machines catering to both espresso lovers and beginners, each with unique features suitable for different skill levels.
- Breville Barista Express: This model is perfect for espresso enthusiasts who want a hands-on experience.
- Breville Bambino Plus: Aimed at beginners, this machine provides a user-friendly interface while still delivering quality espresso.
- Breville Oracle Touch: This is designed for those who want the best of both worlds, combining automation with high-quality espresso.
- Breville Infuser: It’s suitable for those who want to learn the art of espresso making without overwhelming complexity.
Breville Barista Express: This all-in-one machine features a built-in conical burr grinder, allowing users to grind fresh coffee beans just before brewing. With its precise temperature control and pressure gauge, it offers espresso lovers a hands-on approach to crafting the perfect shot while also allowing for manual adjustments to fine-tune extraction.
Breville Bambino Plus: This compact espresso machine is designed for beginners who may feel intimidated by more complex machines. It heats up quickly and has an intuitive interface, making it easy to brew espresso and steam milk, ensuring that new users can start enjoying café-quality drinks right away.
Breville Oracle Touch: Combining automation with customizable settings, this machine is ideal for those who appreciate convenience but still want to control the quality of their espresso. It features a touchscreen interface that guides users through the brewing process and includes automatic grinding, tamping, and milk frothing, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned coffee lovers.
Breville Infuser: This machine is a great entry point for those looking to master espresso making without too much complexity. It features adjustable settings for pre-infusion and brewing temperature, allowing users to experiment with different coffee beans and extraction methods while providing a solid foundation for skill development.
What Sets Breville Apart from Other Coffee Machine Brands?
Breville stands out in the coffee machine market due to its innovative designs, user-friendly features, and commitment to quality.
- Innovative Technology: Breville incorporates advanced technology in its coffee machines, such as the Digital Temperature Control (PID) which ensures precise water temperature for optimal extraction. This feature allows users to brew coffee that highlights the unique flavors of different coffee beans.
- User-Friendly Interface: Many Breville machines come equipped with intuitive interfaces, including LCD screens and one-touch buttons that make brewing coffee a seamless experience. This accessibility appeals to both novice coffee drinkers and seasoned baristas, enhancing the overall brewing process.
- Quality Materials: Breville is known for utilizing high-quality materials in their machines, such as stainless steel bodies and durable components. This attention to material quality not only improves the durability of the machines but also contributes to better heat retention and flavor extraction.
- Versatile Brewing Options: Breville offers a wide range of machines that cater to different brewing preferences, from espresso to drip coffee. Many models feature customizable settings that allow users to adjust grind size, brew strength, and temperature, providing flexibility to suit personal taste.
- Design Aesthetics: Breville machines are often praised for their sleek and modern designs, making them an attractive addition to any kitchen. The aesthetic appeal combined with functionality ensures that users can enjoy both performance and style.
- Comprehensive Support: Breville provides excellent customer service and support, including detailed user manuals, online resources, and warranty options. This commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that users can troubleshoot issues and maintain their machines effectively.
What Do Customer Reviews Say About Breville Home Coffee Machines?
Customer reviews highlight various aspects of Breville home coffee machines, emphasizing their quality, ease of use, and performance.
- Ease of Use: Many users appreciate the intuitive design and user-friendly interface of Breville coffee machines, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced baristas. The programmable settings allow for personalized brewing options, which adds to the convenience.
- Quality of Coffee: Reviews consistently praise the rich and flavorful coffee produced by Breville machines. The machines are equipped with precise temperature control and pressure settings, ensuring optimal extraction for a variety of coffee types.
- Build Quality: Customers often comment on the durable construction of Breville coffee machines, noting that they feel robust and well-made. The use of high-quality materials not only enhances performance but also adds to the longevity of the machines.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Many reviews highlight the ease of cleaning Breville machines, with removable parts and automated cleaning cycles. This feature is particularly appreciated by users who want to maintain their equipment without excessive hassle.
- Customer Support: Feedback on Breville’s customer service is generally positive, with users reporting prompt and helpful responses when issues arise. This support adds an extra layer of confidence for buyers considering an investment in a high-end coffee machine.
How Much Do Breville Coffee Machines Typically Cost?
The cost of Breville coffee machines varies widely based on model features and capabilities.
- Entry-Level Models: These typically range from $150 to $300 and are perfect for beginners.
- Mid-Range Models: Prices for these machines can range from $300 to $600, offering more advanced features.
- High-End Models: Premium Breville machines can cost anywhere from $600 to over $1,500, providing professional-grade capabilities.
- Specialty Machines: These unique offerings can range from $300 to $1,000 depending on specific functionalities like espresso-making or milk frothing.
Entry-level models like the Breville Bambino are designed for those who want to brew quality coffee without breaking the bank, featuring essential functions that are easy to use.
Mid-range machines such as the Breville Barista Express provide more control and customization options, making them ideal for enthusiasts who want a balance of quality and cost.
High-end models, such as the Breville Oracle Touch, include state-of-the-art technology and features, allowing for complete automation and precise adjustments, catering to serious coffee aficionados.
Specialty machines, like the Breville Dual Boiler, are designed for specific brewing methods and can cater to niche preferences, appealing to users who require advanced functionalities in their coffee-making process.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Extend the Life of Your Breville Coffee Machine?
Regular maintenance is essential to extend the life of your Breville coffee machine.
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning your coffee machine after each use helps prevent the buildup of coffee oils and residue. This includes washing removable parts such as the portafilter, drip tray, and water reservoir, which can harbor bacteria and affect the taste of your coffee.
- Descaling: Descaling your machine every few months is crucial, especially in areas with hard water. This process removes mineral buildup that can clog the machine and affect its performance, ensuring that your coffee tastes fresh and the machine operates efficiently.
- Water Quality: Using filtered water instead of tap water can significantly reduce mineral deposits and improve the flavor of your coffee. High-quality water not only enhances the taste but also lessens the frequency of descaling needed.
- Inspecting Seals and Gaskets: Regularly checking the seals and gaskets for wear and tear can help prevent leaks and maintain optimal pressure. Replacing worn parts promptly can prevent more significant issues and ensure consistent brewing performance.
- Proper Storage: Storing your coffee machine in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight can help protect it from damage. Additionally, ensuring that the machine is unplugged when not in use can prevent electrical issues and prolong its lifespan.
- Using the Right Coffee: Using high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans can help maintain the internal components of your machine. Low-quality or overly oily beans can create additional buildup that may require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.
- Routine Professional Servicing: Consider scheduling professional servicing every year or as recommended by the manufacturer. A technician can perform a thorough checkup and maintenance, ensuring all components are functioning correctly and helping to prevent any long-term damage.