Espresso Machines
Our verdict on the Breville Barista Express
- Buy it if
- You want café-style espresso and milk drinks with an all-in-one machine.
- Skip it if
- You want one-touch drinks with no learning curve.
- Best for
- First espresso machine
- Key feature
- Built-in conical grinder
- Typical price
- $600–$750
Key specifications
| Grinder | Built-in conical burr |
|---|---|
| Water tank | About 2 L |
Who should buy it, and who should skip it
A good fit if you
- Drink espresso or lattes daily
- Want an all-in-one machine
- Enjoy learning a craft
Skip it if you
- Want one-touch drinks
- Drink mostly very light roasts
Pros and cons
Pros
- Built-in grinder
- Good steam wand
- Great value for an all-in-one
Cons
- Learning curve
- Grinder is basic for light roasts
Product overview
An all-in-one semi-automatic espresso machine with a conical burr grinder and steam wand.
Learning curve
Expect a few days of adjusting grind size and dose. After that, results are consistent.
Running costs
Fresh beans cost far less per cup than café drinks; descaling and cleaning are the main upkeep.
Final buying considerations
Read our best espresso machines list to see how it compares with the alternatives.
Alternatives worth considering
Espresso Machines
Buy
Breville Barista Pro
Pros
- Very fast heat-up
- Clear display
Cons
- Pricier
- Still a learning curve
Check current price Paid link
Espresso Machines
Consider
De’Longhi Dinamica Plus
Pros
- One-touch milk drinks
- Easy to clean milk system
Cons
- Expensive
- Less control over flavour
Check current price Paid link
Frequently asked questions
Is the Breville Barista Express worth it?
Yes for anyone starting home espresso. The built-in grinder and steam wand make café-style drinks possible at home, with a learning curve that pays off.
Who should skip the Breville Barista Express?
Skip it if you want one-touch drinks.