Imagine standing in your kitchen, coffee beans freshly ground, the aroma filling the air, and you’re about to brew a perfect espresso. I’ve tested dozens of machines, and nothing beats the hands-on control of the Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine. Its integrated conical burr grinder and precise PID temperature control make every shot taste as good as at a café. The microfoam steam wand is a game-changer for latte art, and the intuitive grind size dial keeps everything straightforward.
After comparing this to other models, like the Breville Barista Touch or Bambino, I found the BES870XL’s perfect blend of features and reliability. It offers professional-level customization without the hefty price tag. If you want consistency, control, and barista-quality results every day, this machine really stands out—trust me, it’s worth every penny for serious coffee love.
Top Recommendation: Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine
Why We Recommend It: This model excels because it combines a built-in precision conical burr grinder with dose control, ensuring freshly ground coffee for every shot. Its digital PID temperature control guarantees optimal extraction, critical for rich flavor. The manual microfoam wand allows perfect milk texturing, and the intuitive grind size dial helps adapt to any bean roast. Compared to the other options, the BES870XL offers unmatched balance of performance, durability, and value—making it the best choice for home baristas who want professional results.
Best breville coffee machine: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine – Best for Espresso Enthusiasts
- Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control Coffee Maker with Grinder – Best with Built-in Grinder
- Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BSXL, Black – Best Value
- Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS – Best for Beginners
- Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Best Compact Option
Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine
- ✓ Built-in grinder for fresh beans
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Manual microfoam wand
- ✕ Small water reservoir
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Boiler Power | 1600 Watts |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 ounces (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 0.5 pounds (227 grams) |
| Grinding System | Integrated conical burr grinder with dose control |
| Temperature Control | Digital PID temperature regulation |
| Additional Features | Pre-infusion system, manual microfoam milk texturing, grind size dial |
That moment you finally get your hands on the Breville Barista Express has been a long time coming. You’ve heard so much about its all-in-one design, but seeing it in person, you immediately notice the sleek stainless steel finish and the compact footprint that doesn’t take up your entire countertop.
The integrated conical burr grinder is surprisingly quiet for a machine of this size, and the grind size dial feels smooth and precise. Filling the ½-pound hopper, you immediately appreciate how easy it is to adjust the grind, whether you’re using light or dark roasts.
The built-in tamper and the razor dose trimming tool make prep quick and mess-free, even when you’re in a rush.
Pulling your first shot, the digital PID temperature control keeps the water at that perfect brewing temp. The low-pressure pre-infusion gently expands the coffee bed, resulting in a richer, more balanced shot.
The steam wand, with its powerful performance, lets you craft microfoam for latte art with ease, making every cup feel special.
Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to included accessories like the brush and cleaning disc. Plus, the water filter helps maintain consistent performance over time.
It’s evident that Breville designed this machine with both beginner baristas and seasoned enthusiasts in mind.
While it’s mostly a joy to use, the slightly limited water tank (67 oz) means frequent refills if you’re making multiple drinks. Also, the machine’s price tag might be a stretch for casual coffee drinkers, but for those serious about their espresso, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control Coffee Maker with Grinder
- ✓ Great grind control
- ✓ Easy to use LCD display
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✕ Slightly bulky footprint
- ✕ Water tank refills needed often
| Water Tank Capacity | 60 oz / 12 cups |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 0.5 lb |
| Power Consumption | 1100 Watts |
| Voltage Range | 110-120 Volts |
| Grind Size Adjustment | Yes, customizable grind settings |
| Brew Strength Settings | 8 adjustable strength levels |
Many folks assume that a coffee machine with an integrated grinder is just a bulky, overly complicated gadget. But after using the Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control, I can tell you that it’s a sleek, thoughtful piece of equipment that actually simplifies your morning routine.
The first thing you’ll notice is its sturdy, brushed stainless steel exterior. It feels solid in your hands and looks sharp on the countertop.
The LCD display is clear and easy to read, showing grind size, grind time, and brew strength at a glance.
Using the grinder is surprisingly quiet for its size, and the adjustable settings make it simple to customize your beans. I loved that I could set the auto-start time the night before — no more rushing to brew in the mornings.
The steep and release technology really makes a difference. The coffee brews evenly into your chosen vessel, whether that’s a travel mug or a large carafe.
The flavor profile stays balanced, and you can really taste the freshness if you grind right before brewing.
Cleaning is straightforward, and the included accessories are a bonus. Overall, it delivers a consistent, flavorful cup without fuss.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants custom control but doesn’t want to deal with multiple devices or complicated settings.
One thing to keep in mind is the water tank capacity — it’s large enough for several cups, but refilling can be a little frequent if you drink multiple times a day. Still, the convenience outweighs that minor inconvenience.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BSXL, Black
- ✓ Excellent build quality
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Built-in grinder works smoothly
- ✕ Takes time to heat up
- ✕ Slightly bulky in size
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 0.5 lb (227 grams) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Power Consumption | 1600 Watts |
| Temperature Control | Digital PID temperature regulation |
| Grinder Type | Integrated conical burr grinder with grind size dial |
| Steam Wand | Manual microfoam milk texturing with powerful steam wand |
Imagine expecting a compact espresso machine, but then discovering it has a surprisingly hefty weight and a sturdy build that screams durability. That was my first surprise with the Breville Barista Express—it feels solid in your hands, and the weight gives it a premium feel that justifies its price.
The sleek black finish looks sharp on any countertop, and the intuitive interface makes it easy to get started. I loved how the integrated conical burr grinder grinds on demand, so my coffee was always fresh.
The grind size dial is straightforward, giving me control without overcomplicating things.
Pulling the lever to start the shot, I appreciated the digital PID temperature control—water was at just the right temp every single time. The pre-infusion feature gradually increases pressure, which really helps extract all the flavors evenly, resulting in a balanced shot that rivals my favorite coffee shop.
The steam wand is powerful, and I enjoyed hand-texturing milk for lattes. It’s surprisingly easy to create microfoam and even some latte art with a little practice.
Everything feels well-designed for home use, especially with accessories like the tamper and cleaning tools included.
One thing to keep in mind: it takes a few minutes to heat up, so it’s not instant. But once ready, the machine delivers a true third-wave experience at home—fresh, flavorful, and customizable.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ User-friendly touchscreen
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Pricey for casual users
| Power | 1680 Watts |
| Heating System | ThermoJet rapid heating technology (heats up in 3 seconds) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (2 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (approximately 227 grams) |
| Display | Touchscreen interface with customizable settings |
| Pump Pressure | Optimal water pressure with low pressure pre-infusion (exact pressure not specified, but typically around 9 bars for espresso machines) |
The first time I touched the Breville Barista Touch, I was struck by how sleek and intuitive it looked. Its clean stainless steel finish feels solid in your hand, and the touchscreen responds with a satisfying click when you tap.
I loaded fresh beans into the integrated grinder, and the quick, silent operation instantly made me feel like a pro barista.
Pulling a shot was surprisingly simple. The digital temperature control kept the water exactly at the right temperature, and the pre-infusion gently soaked the grounds before full pressure kicked in.
The milk texturing feature is a game-changer—auto steam wand delivering silky microfoam that’s perfect for latte art.
What I loved most is how fast it heats up—about three seconds, thanks to the ThermoJet system. That means I can go from zero to espresso in a flash, which is perfect for busy mornings.
The touch screen walks you through each step, and I appreciated being able to customize my coffee strength, temperature, and milk texture.
It feels like having a coffee shop in your kitchen. The machine’s consistency is impressive, and creating personalized favorites is a breeze.
The included accessories, from the stainless steel jug to the cleaning kit, make maintenance straightforward. Overall, it’s a solid investment for anyone serious about espresso at home.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Automatic microfoam wand
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited water reservoir
| Portafilter Size | 54mm |
| Coffee Dose | 19 grams |
| Heating System | Thermojet rapid heating system |
| Extraction Temperature Control | Digital PID temperature control |
| Steam Wand Type | Automatic microfoam milk texturing wand |
| Power | 1560 Watts |
There’s a common belief that achieving barista-level espresso at home requires complicated equipment and a steep learning curve. But after playing with the Breville Bambino, I can tell you that’s not entirely true.
The moment I turned it on, I was impressed by how quickly it heats up—just three seconds to reach the perfect extraction temperature. That thermojet system really lives up to its promise, so no more waiting around.
The 54mm portafilter feels solid in your hand, and loading it with 19 grams of coffee gives a rich, full flavor that rivals my favorite local café.
The automatic steam wand is a game-changer. You just dial in your preferred milk temperature and texture, and it takes care of microfoam effortlessly.
Creating latte art felt surprisingly easy, even for someone who isn’t a barista. Plus, the low pressure pre-infusion helps extract all those nuanced flavors, making every shot taste balanced and vibrant.
The digital PID control ensures water stays at just the right temperature, so your espresso isn’t under- or over-extracted. The controls are straightforward—one or two cups, plus adjustable settings for milk.
It’s compact but sturdy, fitting comfortably on my countertop without feeling bulky.
Overall, this machine delivers quick, consistent, and professional-quality espresso. The convenience of automation combined with precise manual controls makes it perfect whether you’re rushing in the morning or taking your time on weekends.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Breville Coffee Machines for Beginners?
The key features of the best Breville coffee machines for beginners include user-friendly design, precise temperature control, built-in grinding options, and customizable settings.
- User-friendly design
- Precise temperature control
- Built-in grinding options
- Customizable settings
- Quality of materials
- Size and capacity
- Maintenance and cleaning ease
The features listed above give a broad perspective on what beginners may seek in a coffee machine. Each characteristic plays a crucial role in enhancing the user experience, especially for those new to brewing coffee at home.
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User-friendly Design: A user-friendly design makes Breville coffee machines ideal for beginners. Intuitive controls and clear displays help new users navigate settings easily. Many models represent this with straightforward buttons and clear labeling. This fosters confidence among novice users, reducing the learning curve while enhancing the brewing experience. For example, the Breville Bambino Plus features a simple interface, allowing users to create café-quality drinks quickly.
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Precise Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is vital for making excellent coffee. Breville machines often integrate temperature stability technology, maintaining water temperatures between 195°F and 205°F (91°C to 96°C) for optimal extraction. According to a 2020 study by Coffee Research Institute, proper temperature management significantly affects flavor profiles. This feature ensures that beginners achieve consistent brewing results without trial and error.
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Built-in Grinding Options: Built-in grinding options provide convenience for beginners. Machines like the Breville Barista Express come with integrated grinders, allowing users to grind beans fresh just before brewing. This feature leads to improved flavor quality, as coffee grounds that are too old can lose essential oils. Freshly ground coffee maximizes the aromatic experience, as confirmed by professionals like James Hoffmann, a coffee expert.
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Customizable Settings: Customizable settings empower users to experiment with brewing preferences. Beginners can adjust variables like shot volume, temperature, and tamp pressure, which allows for personal exploration in taste. For example, the Breville Dual Boiler allows users to fine-tune multiple parameters, providing flexibility as they transition from basic to more advanced brewing techniques.
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Quality of Materials: The quality of materials influences durability and performance. Breville often uses stainless steel for construction, which offers robustness and resistance to corrosion. This ensures that appliances can withstand daily use while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Many users appreciate this design, stating their machines look good in their kitchens while lasting for years.
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Size and Capacity: The size and capacity of the machines cater to various kitchen spaces and user needs. Compact models like the Breville Mini Espresso Machine fit well in smaller kitchens. Meanwhile, others, like the Breville Oracle Touch, accommodate larger brewing capacity, supporting multiple cups at once. Plastic Fittings may vary, but models made with premium materials provide the balance of form and function for beginners.
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Maintenance and Cleaning Ease: Maintenance and cleaning ease are necessary for ensuring longevity and taste quality. Breville machines often come with self-cleaning features or easily removable components. This represents a crucial consideration for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by upkeep. Regular cleaning can enhance performance and flavor, as residues and oils can negatively impact the brewing process over time. Easy-to-follow guides and compatible cleaning products are often included with the machines.
Which Breville Coffee Machines Offer Barista-Quality Brewing for New Users?
The top Breville coffee machines for barista-quality brewing suitable for new users include the Breville Barista Express, Breville Bambino Plus, and Breville Oracle Touch.
- Breville Barista Express
- Breville Bambino Plus
- Breville Oracle Touch
Breville coffee machines that offer barista-quality brewing provide essential features for ease of use and superior quality.
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Breville Barista Express: The Breville Barista Express features an integrated conical burr grinder, which allows users to grind coffee beans fresh for each brew. This machine provides precise control over grind size and dose, essential for crafting espresso. Its steam wand delivers microfoam milk, perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.
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Breville Bambino Plus: The Breville Bambino Plus is designed for quick heat-up time. It reaches optimal temperature in just three seconds. Users appreciate its compact size, which is suitable for small kitchens. The powerful steam wand allows for easy milk texturing, enhancing the coffee experience.
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Breville Oracle Touch: The Breville Oracle Touch automates many processes, making it ideal for beginners. It features an intuitive touch screen for customizing beverages. With dual boilers, it brews espresso while steaming milk simultaneously. It simplifies the brewing process for users who want high-quality drinks with minimal effort.
How Do Breville Coffee Machines Compare to Other Brands for Beginners?
Breville coffee machines are often regarded as user-friendly and high-quality options for beginners. When comparing them to other brands like DeLonghi, Krups, and Cuisinart, several factors come into play:
| Brand | Key Features | Price Range | Warranty | Customer Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville | Intuitive controls, quality build, versatile options (espresso, drip, etc.) | $200 – $800 | 1-2 years | Excellent |
| DeLonghi | Compact designs, good entry-level machines, easy to use | $150 – $700 | 1 year | Good |
| Krups | Affordable machines, good for basic brewing, minimal features | $100 – $500 | 1 year | Fair |
| Cuisinart | Programmable features, high capacity, good for drip brewing | $100 – $300 | 3 years | Good |
Breville machines are generally more expensive but offer more advanced features and better durability, making them suitable for those who may want to expand their coffee-making skills over time.
What Should Beginners Know About Operating a Breville Coffee Machine?
Beginners should know several key aspects when operating a Breville coffee machine, including features, maintenance, and common practices for brewing quality coffee.
- Key Features
- Setup and Installation
- Coffee Grinding
- Brewing Process
- Cleaning and Maintenance
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
To understand these aspects better, let’s explore each one in detail.
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Key Features:
Key features of a Breville coffee machine include adjustable grind settings, water temperature control, and built-in milk frothers. These features allow users to customize their coffee experience. For instance, an adjustable grind setting enables users to achieve the perfect coffee grind size for their brew method, enhancing flavor extraction. -
Setup and Installation:
Setting up a Breville coffee machine involves assembling components like the water tank and portafilter. Users should place the machine on a stable surface and fill the water tank with fresh water. It is important to read the instruction manual for specific setup guidelines based on the model. -
Coffee Grinding:
Coffee grinding with a Breville machine offers various grind settings, which can affect the taste and strength of the brew. Coarse grinds are suitable for French press, while fine grinds are ideal for espresso. Beginners should experiment with different grind sizes to find their preferred flavor profile. -
Brewing Process:
The brewing process requires measuring coffee grounds accurately and using the right water-to-coffee ratio. Typically, a ratio of 1:15 is recommended for brewing coffee. For espresso, users should tamp the coffee grounds evenly in the portafilter for optimal extraction. Following the machine’s specific instructions is crucial for achieving the best results. -
Cleaning and Maintenance:
Regular cleaning and maintenance prolong the life of a Breville coffee machine. Users should clean the portafilter and the brew basket after each use, and perform a descaling process to remove mineral buildup every few months. Cleaning not only ensures better tasting coffee but also prevents operational issues. -
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
Common issues include weak coffee or machine error messages. Weak coffee may result from improper grind size or insufficient coffee grounds. If a machine displays an error, referring to the troubleshooting section of the user manual can provide solutions. Proper understanding of common issues helps beginners troubleshoot effectively.
How Can Beginners Enhance Their Coffee Skills Using a Breville Machine?
Beginners can enhance their coffee skills using a Breville machine by mastering extraction techniques, understanding grind settings, and experimenting with milk frothing methods.
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Extraction Techniques: Proper extraction is crucial for a well-balanced cup of coffee.
– Use fresh coffee beans for optimal flavor.
– Adjust brewing time based on the type of coffee. For instance, espresso typically requires 25-30 seconds.
– Monitor water temperature. Ideal espresso temperature is around 195°F to 205°F. -
Grind Settings: The grind size significantly affects the extraction quality.
– A coarse grind is suitable for French press, while a fine grind is best for espresso.
– The Breville machine often includes adjustable grind settings. Experimenting with these can lead to a more flavorful cup.
– Consistent grind size ensures uniform extraction. An uneven grind can lead to over or under-extraction. -
Milk Frothing Methods: Learning to froth milk creates drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.
– Start with cold milk and ensure the steam wand is clean.
– Dip the steam wand just below the surface of the milk to create microfoam.
– Practice swirling the milk to achieve a smooth texture and integrate it evenly into the espresso.
By focusing on these key areas, beginners can significantly improve their coffee-making skills using a Breville machine.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Beginners Keep Their Breville Coffee Machine in Top Condition?
The maintenance tips that can help beginners keep their Breville coffee machine in top condition include regular cleaning, proper descaling, timely water reservoir changes, and using good quality coffee beans.
- Regular Cleaning
- Proper Descaling
- Timely Water Reservoir Changes
- Using Good Quality Coffee Beans
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of a Breville coffee machine, each maintenance tip plays a crucial role.
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Regular Cleaning: Regular cleaning involves removing coffee grounds and oils from the brew basket, drip tray, and carafe. This practice prevents buildup that can affect taste and functionality. Breville recommends cleaning these components after each use. Use warm, soapy water or a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for coffee machines.
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Proper Descaling: Proper descaling is essential to remove mineral buildup caused by hard water. The process typically requires a descaling solution, which Breville often includes with their machines. Descaling should occur every 1-3 months, depending on water hardness. Neglecting this step can lead to scaling inside the machine, impacting performance and taste.
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Timely Water Reservoir Changes: Timely water reservoir changes refer to replacing the water in the machine to ensure freshness. Stale water can affect brewing quality. Users should empty the reservoir and refill with fresh, filtered water daily. This encourages optimal extraction and enhances the flavor profile of the coffee.
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Using Good Quality Coffee Beans: Using good quality coffee beans directly affects the taste and aroma of the brewed coffee. Freshly roasted beans offer a better flavor. Store beans in an airtight container away from direct sunlight to maintain their quality. Consider grinding beans just before brewing for the best taste and aroma.
By following these maintenance tips, beginners can enjoy high-quality coffee and prolong the lifespan of their Breville coffee machine.
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