6 models in this file
Breville Espresso Machines: Bambino to Barista Touch
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Breville has earned a respected standing in the home coffee world by translating commercial espresso standards into accessible countertop appliances. Rather than relying on pre-packaged pods or simplified drip methods, the company designs its machinery around the four keys formula for specialty coffee: optimal dose sizing, precise water temperature regulation, steady extraction pressure, and true microfoam texturing. For travelers setting up an extended-stay residence, outfitting a mobile tiny home, or furnishing a compact kitchen, finding a versatile breville coffee and espresso maker means securing café-quality drinks without leaving the counter.
While every model in this lineup utilizes low-pressure pre-infusion and dedicated steam components, they differ sharply in heating mechanisms, milk texturing automation, user interfaces, and whether a conical burr grinder is integrated into the chassis. Deciding which breville espresso machine to buy depends entirely on your available counter space and whether you prefer an all-in-one workstation or a compact standalone brewer.
The line-up at a glance
Breville Espresso Machines Compared
| Model | Heating System | Grinder Integration | Milk Texturing | Dimensions (D x W x H) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express | Digital PID regulation | Integrated conical burr | Manual steam wand | 13.8″D x 12.5″W x 15.9″H |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch | ThermoJet (3-second heat-up) | Integrated conical burr | Automatic microfoam wand | 12.7″D x 15.5″W x 16″H |
| Breville BES450BSS Bambino | ThermoJet (3-second heat-up) | Not listed (ground coffee input) | Steam wand | Not listed |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express | Digital PID regulation | Integrated conical burr | Manual steam wand | 13.8″D x 12.5″W x 15.9″H |
| Breville BES500BSS Bambino Plus | ThermoJet (3-second heat-up) | Not listed (ground coffee input) | Automatic steam wand | 7.6″D x 12.5″W x 12.2″H |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | ThermoJet (3-second heat-up) | Integrated conical burr | Manual steam wand | Not listed |
No. 1 of 6 · Breville
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine for Traditional Hands-On Control
4.9 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Hands-on baristas wanting an all-in-one station
What the listing says
- MANUAL HAND-TEXTURED MICROFOAM The powerful steam wand on this cappuccino maker and latte machine is designed to quickly turn…
- PRECISE DOSE GRINDING Integrated precision conical burr grinder on bean-to-cup espresso machine grinds on demand to deliver correct amount…
- WATER PRESSURE Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and draws out all the flavors evenly…
- RECEIVE 2 FREE BAGS OF SPECIALTY COFFEE: Included when you purchase and register any Breville coffee…
- PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION Digital temperature regulation (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, so espresso coffee maker allows…
- GRIND SIZE DIAL INCLUDED Coffee machine includes a grind size dial that's both simple and intuitive, giving you flexibility to…
Pros
- Integrated precision conical burr grinder
- PID digital temperature regulation
- Manual steam wand for microfoam
Cons
- Slower warm-up than ThermoJet models
- Commands substantial counter footprint
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine is Breville’s quintessential all-in-one manual workstation, built for home baristas who appreciate direct tactile input at every step. Built with a 1600-watt heating system on standard 120-volt power, this model integrates an on-demand conical burr grinder that deposits freshly ground coffee straight into the portafilter cradle. An intuitive grind size dial lets you adjust burr spacing to handle light, medium, or dark roasts. To maximize extraction quality, low-pressure pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee bed before full pump pressure is applied, while digital temperature regulation (PID) ensures water is delivered at an exact brewing temperature.
For crafting lattes and cappuccinos, the machine includes a dedicated high-powered steam wand designed for manual hand-textured microfoam. This setup allows you to manually incorporate air and texture milk to the velvety consistency needed for pouring latte art. With physical dimensions of 13.8 inches deep, 12.5 inches wide, and 15.9 inches tall, it requires a permanent spot on your counter alongside its single-cup capacity portafilter setup and reusable filter hardware.
This machine is ideally suited for espresso purists and remote workers who want complete control over dosing, grinding, and milk stretching in a single chassis. However, those outfitting small recreational vehicles, secondary kitchenettes, or spaces with minimal clearance will find the bulky frame restrictive and may prefer the substantially smaller Bambino series.
No. 2 of 6 · Breville
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine for Automated Café Favorites
4.3 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Households wanting automated touchscreen drinks
What the listing says
- AUTOMATIC MICROFOAM MILK TEXTURING Auto steam wand allows you to adjust milk temperature and texture, delivering barista-quality microfoam; Create latte…
- PRECISE DOSE GRINDING With a single touch, the integrated precision conical burr grinder on bean-to-cup espresso machine delivers the…
- WATER PRESSURE Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and draws out all the flavors evenly…
- RECEIVE 2 FREE BAGS OF SPECIALTY COFFEE: Included when you purchase and register any Breville coffee…
- FASTER HEAT UP TIME Semi-automatic espresso machine includes innovative ThermoJet heating system that achieves precise extraction temperature in 3 seconds;…
- PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION Digital temperature regulation (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, so home coffee machine allows…
Pros
- Automated milk temperature and texture
- Fast three-second ThermoJet heat-up
- Saves eight personalized coffee presets
Cons
- Higher 1680W power requirement
- Bulky machine dimensions
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine modernizes the espresso-making routine by adding an interactive color touchscreen that guides you through the coffee-making process in three straightforward steps: grind, brew, and milk. Internally, a 1680-watt ThermoJet heating system reaches ideal extraction temperature in just three seconds, bypassing the pre-heat delays common to traditional boilers. Whole beans are ground on demand using a single-touch integrated conical burr grinder, while PID digital temperature regulation and low-pressure pre-infusion deliver balanced, consistent espresso shots.
Where this fully automatic operation shines is its hands-free milk handling. The automated steam wand monitors milk temperature and texture, frothing to your exact specifications before automatically purging itself clean when lowered. The interface lets users adjust coffee strength, milk temperature, and froth density, storing up to eight personalized beverage presets under custom names. The unit measures 12.7 inches deep, 15.5 inches wide, and 16 inches tall, with a 4.2-pound bean capacity and reusable filter assembly.
This model is built for busy households and mobile professionals who want specialty milk drinks without having to learn manual milk frothing techniques. If you appreciate touchscreen automation but want to see how Breville’s platform compares to other kitchen solutions, exploring a detailed guide to the breville coffee machine family provides broader context on automated versus mechanical platforms.
No. 3 of 6 · Breville
Breville BES450BSS Bambino Espresso Machine for Compact Kitchens and Travel Counters
4.8 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Small kitchens and travel countertops
What the listing says
- MICROFOAM MILK TEXTURING Cappuccino maker and latte machine has an automatic steam wand allowing you to adjust milk temperature…
- FASTER HEAT UP TIME Espresso maker includes innovative ThermoJet heating system that achieves optimum extraction temperature in 3 seconds; Make…
- BALANCED-TASTING CUP Manual espresso machine features low pressure pre infusion that gradually increases pressure at the start; All…
- RECEIVE 2 FREE BAGS OF SPECIALTY COFFEE: Included when you purchase and register any Breville coffee…
- HOME ESPRESSO MACHINE WITH PRECISE EXTRACTION: Digital temperature regulation (PID) delivers water at precisely the right…
- COMPACT DESIGN The Bambino is a small espresso machine designed for comfortable use in compact home kitchens; Fits…
Pros
- Rapid three-second ThermoJet ready time
- Ultra-compact countertop footprint
- Includes single and dual-wall baskets
Cons
- Lacks integrated coffee grinder
- Manual milk frothing workflow
The Breville BES450BSS Bambino Espresso Machine pares down the espresso setup into an ultra-compact, space-saving format that fits comfortably into tight living quarters. Operating at 1560 watts on 110 volts, the Bambino incorporates Breville’s ThermoJet heating block to reach optimal extraction heat in three seconds. It uses a 54mm portafilter designed for a full 19-gram dose of ground coffee, relying on digital PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion to draw out balanced flavors without bitterness.
Despite its small profile, the listing highlights a comprehensive accessory package, including single-wall and dual-wall filter baskets for single and double shots, a stainless steel milk jug, a tamper, a steam wand cleaning tool, and descaling powder. The machine features a 47-fluid-ounce water reservoir and push-button controls for straightforward shot pulling. While the listing does not specify external dimensions in inches, it is explicitly engineered as a small espresso machine for compact home kitchens and office settings.
The Bambino is an excellent match for travel nurses, secondary residences, and minimalists who already own a favorite grinder or use quality pre-ground coffee. However, users who desire automated hands-free milk texturing or a built-in bean hopper will find more capability in the Bambino Plus or the larger Barista series.
No. 4 of 6 · Breville
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine for Modern Matte Aesthetics
4.3 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Coffee lovers wanting modern dark kitchen styling
What the listing says
- MANUAL HAND-TEXTURED MICROFOAM The powerful steam wand on this cappuccino maker and latte machine is designed to quickly turn…
- PRECISE DOSE GRINDING Integrated precision conical burr grinder on bean-to-cup espresso machine grinds on demand to deliver correct amount…
- WATER PRESSURE Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and draws out all the flavors evenly…
- RECEIVE 2 FREE BAGS OF SPECIALTY COFFEE: Included when you purchase and register any Breville coffee…
- PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION Digital temperature regulation (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, so espresso coffee maker allows…
- GRIND SIZE DIAL INCLUDED Coffee machine includes a grind size dial that's both simple and intuitive, giving you flexibility to…
Pros
- Distinctive Black Truffle exterior
- Generous 67-ounce water capacity
- Integrated burr grinder with dosing cradle
Cons
- Lacks instant ThermoJet heating
- Requires manual milk steaming skill
The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine packs the mechanical capabilities of the original Barista Express into a distinctive Black Truffle finish. Engineered to match dark stone worktops, contemporary cabins, or travel trailer interiors, this 1600-watt machine features an integrated precision conical burr grinder with direct-to-portafilter dosing. The built-in grind size dial provides manual calibration for grinding any whole bean variety down to the exact particle size required for espresso.
Its water delivery relies on gradual low-pressure pre-infusion followed by PID digital temperature regulation, ensuring steady thermal stability throughout brewing. A permanent filter and a generous 67-fluid-ounce water tank support extended brewing sessions without frequent refills. The manual steam wand provides commercial-style steam pressure, enabling you to hand-texture dense microfoam for flat whites and cappuccinos. The unit measures 13.8 inches deep, 12.5 inches wide, and 15.9 inches tall.
This machine suits aesthetics-focused coffee lovers who want a complete bean-to-cup station without stainless steel glare. It yields its place to the Barista Pro if you demand faster heat-up times, or to a travel-friendly option like a nespresso portable coffee maker if your primary need is ultra-light portability rather than full espresso machinery.
No. 5 of 6 · Breville
Breville BES500BSS Bambino Plus Espresso Machine for Automated Microfoam in Small Spaces
4.6 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Compact counters needing automated milk texturing
What the listing says
- MICROFOAM MILK TEXTURING Cappuccino maker and latte machine has an automatic steam wand allowing you to adjust milk temperature…
- PRECISE DOSE GRINDING This semi-automatic espresso machine allows you to achieve a consistent and balanced espresso using the right…
- WATER PRESSURE Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and draws out all flavors evenly during…
- RECEIVE 2 FREE BAGS OF SPECIALTY COFFEE: Included when you purchase and register any Breville coffee…
- FASTER HEAT UP TIME Coffee maker includes innovative ThermoJet heating system that achieves extraction temperature in 3 seconds; Make your…
- ESPRESSO MAKER WITH PRECISE EXTRACTION Digital temperature regulation (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, allowing for even espresso extraction,…
Pros
- Slim 7.7-inch width profile
- Automated hands-free microfoam wand
- Automatic heat purge after steaming
Cons
- Requires separate standalone grinder
- Small four-pound water capacity listed
The Breville BES500BSS Bambino Plus Espresso Machine takes the space-saving footprint of the compact series and introduces hands-free milk automation. Measuring 7.6 inches deep, 12.5 inches wide, and 12.2 inches tall with a narrow 7.7-inch width profile and an 11-pound weight, this semi-automatic unit is tailored for compact living spaces. Powered by a 1560-watt ThermoJet heating system on 120 volts, it reaches extraction temperature in three seconds, utilizing low-pressure pre-infusion and PID regulation through a 54mm portafilter designed for a 19-gram coffee dose.
The standout feature of the Bambino Plus is its automatic milk steam wand. By placing the included milk jug on the temperature sensor in the drip tray, you can select from three milk temperatures and three foam textures. The machine steams milk automatically and runs an auto-purge cycle immediately after steaming to clear residual milk and reset internal temperatures for your next espresso extraction.
This model is the premier choice for latte and flat white drinkers living in studio apartments, mobile homes, or shared offices where counter space is limited. Because it utilizes ground coffee inputs exclusively, shoppers wanting an all-in-one grinder and brewer combination will need to step up to the Barista series.
No. 6 of 6 · Breville
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine for Real-Time Feedback and Rapid Speed
4.6 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Home baristas wanting visual extraction feedback
What the listing says
- MANUAL HAND-TEXTURED MICROFOAM Powerful steam wand included with espresso maker is designed to turn milk into smooth, flavorful microfoam;…
- PRECISE DOSE GRINDING With a single touch, the integrated precision conical burr grinder on bean-to-cup espresso machine delivers the…
- WATER PRESSURE Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and draws out all the flavors evenly…
- RECEIVE 2 FREE BAGS OF SPECIALTY COFFEE: Included when you purchase and register any Breville coffee…
- FASTER HEAT UP TIME ThermoJet heating system achieves precise extraction temperature in 3 seconds with instantaneous transition from espresso to…
- COFFEE MAKER WITH PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION: Digital temperature regulation (PID) delivers water at precisely the right…
Pros
- Animated LCD grinding and extraction display
- Three-second ThermoJet heating system
- PID temperature control to +/- 2°C
Cons
- Requires manual milk texturing
- Large footprint for small counters
The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine upgrades the manual espresso experience with modernized electronics and accelerated thermal delivery. Drawing 1680 watts, it combines an integrated precision conical burr grinder with Breville’s ThermoJet heating system. The machine reaches brewing temperature in three seconds and transitions instantaneously from pulling espresso to delivering steam for milk texturing.
A high-contrast LCD screen serves as the operational center, displaying animated progress bars for grind dosing and shot extraction timing. Digital temperature regulation (PID) manages water temperature within plus or minus two degrees Celsius, giving baristas precise control over extraction variables. The manual steam wand produces fast, high-volume steam to create microfoam, and the unit includes a spacious two-liter water tank, reusable filter, and programmable button inputs. While external dimensions are not specified in the listing, it occupies a full-sized counter footprint typical of bean-to-cup machines.
The Barista Pro is ideal for home coffee enthusiasts who want data-driven feedback on their grind and extraction times while retaining full manual control over milk texturing. If someone in your home prefers standard drip brews from appliances like a ninja coffee maker, the intuitive LCD animations make learning the espresso process much more approachable.
Before you choose
How to Choose the Right Breville Espresso Machine
Selecting the best model from this lineup requires balancing your available counter space, desired drink types, and preferred level of hands-on involvement. Performing a breville espresso machine comparison comes down to three key hardware differences across the models.
First, evaluate whether you need a built-in grinder. The breville barista express, Barista Pro, and breville barista touch include precision conical burr grinders that grind whole beans directly into the portafilter. This design creates a complete bean-to-cup coffee station but requires significant countertop room. Conversely, the breville bambino and breville bambino plus accept ground coffee only. Skipping the integrated grinder makes the Bambino footprint remarkably small, ideal for travelers or small apartment kitchens where you may already own a travel grinder.
Second, consider heating speeds. Models equipped with the ThermoJet system—the Bambino, Bambino Plus, Barista Pro, and Barista Touch—reach extraction temperature in three seconds. The classic Barista Express relies on a traditional PID-regulated thermocoil heating block, which takes slightly longer to reach stable brewing temperatures and switch over to steam.
Finally, examine milk texturing preferences. If you want to learn the physical technique of creating microfoam for latte art, the manual steam wands on the Barista Express, Barista Pro, and base Bambino give you total physical control. If you prioritize automated convenience, the Bambino Plus and the breville barista touch automate milk aeration and temperature sensing entirely, allowing you to walk away while your milk foams to the exact texture you selected.
Questions people ask
FAQ
What makes the Bambino different from the Bambino Plus?
The primary distinction lies in milk texturing and cleaning convenience. While both models feature a compact design and three-second ThermoJet heating, the Bambino Plus includes an automatic milk wand with customizable temperature and texture sensors, as well as an auto-purge function that clears the wand after frothing. The base Bambino uses a simpler manual steaming workflow.
Do all Breville espresso machines grind whole beans?
No. Only the Barista Series machines—the Barista Express, Barista Touch, and Barista Pro—include built-in conical burr grinders. The Bambino and Bambino Plus do not have grinding components; they take pre-ground coffee in their filter baskets or require a separate grinder.
How fast is the ThermoJet heating system?
The ThermoJet heating system reaches optimal espresso extraction temperature in three seconds. In this lineup, it is featured on the Bambino, Bambino Plus, Barista Pro, and Barista Touch, enabling near-instant brewing and rapid switching between espresso extraction and milk steaming.
Can I save customized coffee settings on these machines?
The Barista Touch is uniquely equipped with a touchscreen interface that lets you program and store up to eight personalized beverage recipes, saving custom grind times, brew lengths, milk temperatures, and foam textures. The Barista Pro and Barista Express feature programmable shot volumes via physical buttons, but do not offer multi-step beverage recipe storage.
Which Breville model is best for small kitchens or mobile living?
The Bambino and Bambino Plus are the most space-efficient models. The Bambino Plus measures only 7.6 inches deep and 12.5 inches wide, weighing 11 pounds. Its slim profile allows it to fit onto narrow counters, recreational vehicle surfaces, and small office nooks where a full-sized bean-to-cup machine would be impractical.
Prices, specifications and the feature lines above are read from the product listing and can change without notice. Every score is the average rating Amazon buyers left for that item; nothing on this page is written from handling the product.
