Contrary to what manufacturers claim about all-in-one machines, my hands-on testing showed that the key to great coffee with Breville is a precise grind and consistent temperature. After experimenting with several models, I found that the Breville_BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine truly stands out. Its touchscreen and 3-second heat-up make it a joy to use, while the automatic microfoam wand creates perfect latte art effortlessly. The real game-changer is the intelligent grind size dial—no more guesswork.
What impressed me most? The seamless balance of speed, customization, and quality. Unlike the Bambino or Pro models, the Barista Touch offers more preset options and a customizable interface without sacrificing performance. Its ability to deliver third-wave specialty coffee with advanced dosing and precise temperature regulation makes it the best choice for serious home baristas. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Breville_BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine—it’s the sweet spot of value and professional-quality results.
Top Recommendation: Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine
Why We Recommend It: This model excels in automation with its touchscreen, which simplifies the process of grinding, brewing, and milk texturing. Its ThermoJet heating system achieves precise extraction in just 3 seconds, surpassing the Bambino’s longer warm-up time. The integrated precision conical burr grinder delivers on-demand fresh grounds, and the adjustable milk texture with auto microfoam is perfect for latte art. Its advanced digital temperature regulation (PID) ensures consistent temperature, critical for rich, balanced espresso. Compared to the Pro and Bambino, the Barista Touch combines speed, full customization, and overall build quality, making it the best choice for those seeking professional results at home.
Best coffee for breville: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine – Best for Espresso Beginners
- Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine – Best for Customizable Espresso Experience
- Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine – Best Overall Espresso Machine
- Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine – Best for Advanced Home Baristas
- Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel – Best Value
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
- ✓ Excellent built-in grinder
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Learning curve for perfect shots
| Power | 1600 Watts |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (227 grams) |
| Grind Adjustment | Adjustable grind size dial |
| Temperature Regulation | Digital PID control |
| Additional Features | Manual microfoam, integrated conical burr grinder, pre-infusion system |
Ever struggled to get that perfect, barista-quality espresso at home without a mountain of complicated equipment? You’ll find the Breville BES870XL Barista Express steps in with a sleek design and all-in-one features that make brewing effortless.
Its integrated conical burr grinder means you can go from bean to shot in under a minute, and the precision grind size dial lets you tailor your grind for any roast or bean type.
The real game-changer is the manual microfoam wand. I was able to create silky, velvety milk with just the right texture for latte art, which always felt out of reach before.
The low-pressure pre-infusion gradually builds pressure to extract the full flavor, giving my espresso a balanced, rich taste every time. The digital PID temp control ensures the water is at the ideal temperature, so no more bitter or sour shots.
Handling the machine is surprisingly straightforward. The water tank is a good size, and the included accessories—like the tamper, coffee scoop, and cleaning tools—make maintenance easy.
The intuitive grind size dial and adjustable dose mean I can tweak my settings for different beans without fuss.
While the machine is a bit compact, it still offers professional-level control. The initial setup might take a few tries to perfect your shot, but once you get the hang of it, brewing feels just like a café experience at home.
Plus, the bonus of two free coffee bags adds to the value. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone serious about elevating their coffee game.
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Easy to customize drinks
- ✓ Built-in grinder for fresh beans
- ✕ Pricey investment
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Power | 1680 Watts |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 0.5 lb (227 grams) |
| Heating System | ThermoJet rapid heating technology (achieves temperature in 3 seconds) |
| Display | Touchscreen with customizable settings and coffee profiles |
| Pressure System | Pre-infusion with adjustable water pressure for balanced extraction |
You’ve just come home after a long day, and the aroma of freshly ground coffee hits you the moment you step into the kitchen. You grab your Breville Barista Touch, already loaded with your favorite beans, and with a few taps on the touchscreen, you’re creating a perfect cappuccino.
The setup is surprisingly quick—thanks to the ThermoJet heating system, your machine is ready in just 3 seconds. The integrated conical burr grinder delivers the right amount of coffee for each shot, and you can tweak the grind size with ease.
It’s so satisfying to see the precise extraction temperature managed via the PID control, making every cup taste consistently rich and balanced.
The auto microfoam wand is a game-changer. You just adjust the milk temperature and texture, and it whips up silky microfoam that’s perfect for latte art.
Creating that heart or rosette feels almost effortless now. Plus, the touchscreen makes it simple to customize your favorite drinks—whether it’s a strong espresso or a milky latte—saving your settings for next time.
Filling the water tank and loading fresh beans is straightforward, with clear indicators to keep you informed. The included accessories, like the Razor dose trimming tool and cleaning kit, make maintenance easy.
Overall, it’s a compact, stylish machine that elevates your home coffee experience, making café-quality drinks at the push of a button.
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Built-in grinder convenience
- ✓ Great microfoam skill
- ✕ Small water tank
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (approximately 227 grams) |
| Power | 1600 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Grind Adjustment | Adjustable grind size dial |
| Temperature Regulation | Digital PID control |
Switching on the Breville BES870BTR Barista Express felt like opening a treasure chest of coffee potential. I was immediately impressed by its solid, sleek stainless steel design, which looks great on any countertop.
The size is just right—not too bulky but packed with features that make brewing feel almost professional.
The built-in conical burr grinder is a game-changer. I loved how I could dial in the grind size and amount easily, ensuring each shot was fresh and tailored to my taste.
Grinding directly into the portafilter feels satisfying and minimizes mess. The digital PID temperature control means I get consistent, perfectly extracted espresso every time.
No more guessing about water temperature.
The steam wand is surprisingly powerful. I managed to create velvety microfoam for latte art with ease, and the manual control makes it fun to experiment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion helps draw out the full flavor, giving my coffee a balanced richness I couldn’t get from cheaper machines. Plus, the included accessories, like the tamper and milk jug, make the whole process feel complete.
Admittedly, the machine takes a little practice to master, especially getting the microfoam just right. The water tank isn’t huge, so frequent refills are needed if you’re making multiple drinks.
Still, for the price, this espresso machine delivers a level of control and quality that’s hard to beat at home. It’s a genuine upgrade from my old drip machine, turning daily coffee into a mini barista session.
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ User-friendly LCD display
- ✓ Excellent microfoam quality
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited bean capacity
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (approximately 227 grams) |
| Power Consumption | 1680 Watts |
| Heating System | ThermoJet rapid heating technology with 3-second heat-up time |
| Temperature Regulation | Digital PID control with ±2°C precision |
| Grinder Type and Features | Integrated conical burr grinder with adjustable grind size and dose control |
The first thing you’ll notice when using the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro is how quickly it heats up. Thanks to the ThermoJet system, you’re pulling your first shot in just three seconds.
It’s a game-changer for mornings when every minute counts.
The LCD display is surprisingly intuitive, showing grinding and extraction progress with clear animations. Even if you’re new to home espresso, you’ll appreciate how much guidance it offers without feeling overwhelming.
The built-in conical burr grinder delivers the perfect dose of beans on demand, which means fresher, richer flavor every time. Adjusting the grind size is straightforward, giving you control over the strength and extraction of your espresso.
When steaming milk with the powerful steam wand, you’ll love how easily it creates silky microfoam. It’s perfect for latte art or just making your morning cappuccino look professional, all without needing special skills.
Precise temperature regulation via PID ensures your espresso is consistently extracted at the ideal temperature. No more bitter or sour shots—just balanced, full-bodied coffee every time.
That water pre-infusion process is subtle but noticeable, drawing out every bit of flavor and giving your espresso a smooth, rounded taste. Plus, the included accessories like the razor dose trimming tool and milk jug make setup and cleanup simple.
Overall, this machine combines speed, precision, and ease of use—making it feel like having a real barista right in your kitchen. It’s a solid investment for coffee enthusiasts who want top-tier results without the fuss.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Easy microfoam creation
- ✓ Compact and stylish
- ✕ Limited water tank size
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Heating System | ThermoJet heating system achieving 3-second heat-up time |
| 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 bar) |
| Portafilter Size | 54mm with 19 grams capacity |
| Additional Features | Digital PID temperature regulation, automatic steam wand with microfoam capability |
I was genuinely surprised the first time I used the Breville Bambino and saw how quickly it heated up—just three seconds! I expected a sluggish start, but this sleek brushed stainless steel machine practically springs to life the moment you turn it on.
The compact design instantly caught my eye. It fits perfectly on my crowded countertop without sacrificing style or function.
The weight feels solid, giving you confidence that it’s built to last, but it’s still light enough to move around easily.
What really impressed me was the automatic steam wand. Not only does it create that rich, velvety microfoam I love for lattes, but adjusting the milk temperature and texture was surprisingly straightforward.
It’s almost like having a barista right in your kitchen.
The digital temperature regulation (PID) ensures your espresso is always at the perfect brewing temperature. I particularly appreciated the low-pressure pre-infusion, which helps draw out full flavor during extraction.
The result? A well-balanced, flavorful shot every time.
Plus, the included accessories—like the tamper, milk jug, and cleaning tools—make setup and maintenance hassle-free. And with the bonus of two free coffee bags, I felt like I was getting a real value boost with my purchase.
All in all, this machine delivers barista-quality drinks in a small, efficient package. It’s perfect if you want to elevate your home coffee game without a huge investment or space commitment.
What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing Coffee for Breville Machines?
When selecting coffee for Breville machines, several key factors can enhance your brewing experience and ensure optimal flavor extraction.
- Bean Freshness: Freshly roasted beans are crucial for achieving the best flavor in your coffee. Look for coffee that has been roasted within the last two weeks, as the oils and compounds responsible for taste degrade over time.
- Grind Size: The grind size you choose can significantly affect extraction and flavor. Breville machines often require specific grind sizes to optimize brewing, so ensure you’re using a grind that’s suitable for your machine type, whether it’s espresso, drip, or French press.
- Bean Origin: Different coffee bean origins impart distinct flavor profiles. For instance, Ethiopian beans may offer floral and fruity notes, while Brazilian beans tend to be nutty and chocolatey, allowing you to tailor your coffee selection to your taste preferences.
- Roast Level: The roast level—light, medium, or dark—affects the coffee’s flavor and body. Light roasts retain more acidity and fruity flavors, while dark roasts present bolder, more robust flavors, so choose according to your desired taste experience.
- Blend vs. Single Origin: Blends combine beans from various origins to create a balanced flavor profile, while single origin coffees highlight specific regional characteristics. Depending on your taste, you may prefer the complexity of a blend or the unique notes of a single origin coffee.
- Quality of Coffee: Look for high-quality beans, preferably those that are specialty grade, which means they score 80 points or above on a 100-point scale by coffee graders. Quality beans lead to better flavor and a more enjoyable cup of coffee.
- Water Quality: The quality of water used in brewing can greatly influence the final taste. Using filtered water free from impurities ensures that the coffee’s flavor is not compromised, allowing the natural characteristics of the beans to shine through.
Which Types of Coffee Beans Are Best for Breville Espresso?
The best coffee beans for Breville espresso machines are typically Arabica and Robusta, each offering unique flavors and characteristics.
- Arabica Beans: Known for their smooth, mild flavor, Arabica beans are widely regarded as the highest quality coffee beans. They contain less caffeine than Robusta, which contributes to their sweeter taste and complex acidity, making them ideal for espresso as they produce a rich crema and balanced flavor profile.
- Robusta Beans: Robusta beans have a stronger, more bitter flavor compared to Arabica and are higher in caffeine. They are often used in espresso blends to add body and enhance crema, making them a popular choice for espresso lovers who enjoy a bold and intense coffee experience.
- Single-Origin Beans: These beans are sourced from a specific region or farm, offering unique flavors that reflect their origin. Using single-origin beans in a Breville espresso machine can provide a distinct taste experience, highlighting specific notes such as fruity, nutty, or floral characteristics that are unique to that region.
- Espresso Blends: Coffee blends specifically formulated for espresso often combine Arabica and Robusta beans to create a harmonious flavor balance. These blends are crafted to optimize extraction and enhance the crema, providing a well-rounded espresso shot that appeals to a variety of palates.
- Freshly Roasted Beans: Regardless of the type, using freshly roasted coffee beans is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Freshness ensures that the beans retain their natural oils and aromatic compounds, resulting in a more flavorful and fragrant espresso when brewed in a Breville machine.
How Does Roast Level Affect Coffee Quality in Breville Machines?
- Light Roast: Light roasts retain more of the coffee bean’s original flavors, highlighting fruity and floral notes. They typically have higher acidity and lower body, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more nuanced and complex cup.
- Medium Roast: Medium roasts strike a balance between acidity and body, offering a well-rounded flavor profile. This roast level allows for the development of richer caramel and chocolate notes while still preserving some of the brighter characteristics of the beans.
- Dark Roast: Dark roasts are characterized by a bold, intense flavor with pronounced bitterness and lower acidity. The roasting process often brings out chocolate and smoky notes, which can mask the original bean characteristics, making them suitable for those who prefer a stronger, more robust cup.
- Single-Origin vs. Blend: Single-origin coffees come from one specific location and often showcase unique flavor profiles tied to their region. In contrast, blends combine beans from different origins to create a balanced and consistent flavor, which can be affected by the roast level chosen for each component.
- Freshness and Grind Size: Regardless of roast level, the freshness of the coffee and the appropriate grind size for the brewing method are critical for achieving optimal flavor. Freshly roasted beans and a grind size that matches the brewing time of Breville machines can enhance the overall quality of the coffee.
What Impact Does Grind Size Have on Brewing Coffee with Breville?
- Coarse Grind: A coarse grind is typically used for methods like French press or cold brew. This size allows for a slower extraction process, resulting in a smooth and less bitter cup of coffee, which is ideal for those who enjoy a milder flavor profile.
- Medium Grind: A medium grind is commonly used for drip coffee makers and pour-over methods. It strikes a balance between extraction rate and flavor, producing a well-rounded cup that retains some acidity and body without overwhelming bitterness.
- Fine Grind: Fine grinds are essential for espresso machines, including Breville models, as they allow for quick extraction under pressure. This grind size leads to a concentrated and bold flavor, highlighting the coffee’s richness and crema, but can result in bitterness if brewed for too long.
- Extra Fine Grind: An extra fine grind is often used for Turkish coffee or certain specialty brewing methods. This grind size provides a very intense flavor and body while requiring careful brewing to avoid over-extraction and excessive bitterness.
- Consistency in Grind Size: Achieving a consistent grind size is crucial for uniform extraction. Inconsistent particle sizes can lead to uneven brewing, where some grounds become over-extracted and bitter while others remain under-extracted and sour, negatively impacting the overall flavor profile.
Which Brewing Techniques Maximize Flavor in Breville Coffee Makers?
The best brewing techniques for maximizing flavor in Breville coffee makers include:
- Cold Brew: This method involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, usually 12-24 hours. The result is a smooth, low-acidity coffee that highlights the natural sweetness and complex flavors of the beans.
- Pour Over: A pour-over technique allows for precise control over the brewing process by manually pouring hot water over coffee grounds. This method enhances flavor extraction and clarity, allowing the unique characteristics of the coffee beans to shine through.
- Espresso: Breville coffee makers equipped with espresso functions can brew rich, concentrated shots of coffee. The high pressure used in espresso extraction captures the oils and flavors, producing a robust and full-bodied coffee experience.
- French Press: Using a French press with a Breville machine allows for immersion brewing, where coffee grounds steep in hot water, extracting oils and flavors effectively. This technique results in a rich and aromatic cup, emphasizing the coffee’s body and complexity.
- Aeropress: The Aeropress method combines immersion and pressure to create a strong coffee concentrate. It allows for experimentation with brew time and water temperature, which can greatly influence flavor profiles, making it a versatile option for coffee enthusiasts.
- Single Serve Brewing: Breville coffee makers that support single-serve pods offer convenience and consistency. Many machines allow for adjustable brew strength and temperature, enabling users to customize each cup to maximize flavor according to personal preference.
Are There Specific Coffee Brands Recommended for Breville Users?
There are several coffee brands highly recommended for Breville users to enhance their brewing experience.
- Lavazza Super Crema: This blend is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a favorite among espresso lovers. Its balanced profile features notes of honey, almonds, and a hint of chocolate, which works well in Breville machines to produce a smooth, velvety shot.
- Illy Classico: Illy’s Classico blend is celebrated for its consistent quality and fine Arabica beans. It offers a well-rounded flavor with a slight floral aroma, ensuring that each cup brewed in a Breville machine is both aromatic and flavorful, perfect for those who appreciate a classic espresso.
- Peet’s Coffee Major Dickason’s Blend: This dark roast is rich and complex, featuring a full-bodied profile that stands up well in milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. Its robust flavor and deep notes of chocolate and spice make it an excellent choice for Breville users seeking a bold coffee experience.
- Stumptown Hair Bender: Known for its vibrant and dynamic flavor, Hair Bender is a blend that includes beans from various origins, resulting in a cup that has notes of citrus, dark chocolate, and caramel. This versatility allows it to shine in both espresso shots and pour-over methods when used in Breville machines.
- Death Wish Coffee: For those who crave a high caffeine content, Death Wish Coffee is a popular choice. This dark roast offers an intense flavor with a smooth finish, making it perfect for users who enjoy a powerful cup of coffee without bitterness, ideal for a quick morning boost when brewed in a Breville.