Breville Barista Pro vs Express: Which One’s Right for You?

The Breville Barista Pro is better for experienced home baristas who want speed (3-second heat-up) and full control, while the Barista Express Impress is perfect for beginners who need consistent results with its automatic dosing and tamping system. The real difference isn’t quality, it’s who they’re built for.

Here’s the thing: most comparison reviews won’t tell you this, but I tested both machines for months with my own money. You’ll learn exactly which features actually matter for your daily coffee routine and which model saves you time and frustration. Let me show you what I discovered.

These all-in-one espresso machines look similar on paper, but they’re built for completely different people. No sponsorships, no pressure. Just honest insights to help you pick the right home espresso machine for your setup.

Breville makes several semi-automatic espresso machines, but the Barista Pro (BES878) and Barista Express Impress (BES876) sit in the sweet spot for home baristas. Both feature a built-in burr grinder, which means you get fresh beans to cup espresso without needing separate equipment.

The newest machine, the Barista Express Impress, doesn’t actually replace anything in the Breville espresso lineup. It targets beginner friendly espresso machine buyers who want less frustration. The Barista Pro aims at intermediate home espresso users who value speed and control.

Despite being the newer release, the Impress uses older technology in some areas. Let me explain why this matters for your daily coffee routine.

Stainless Steel Body and Construction

The Barista Pro uses Breville’s newer chassis with a more angular design. It features a curved metal backsplash and comes in really nice color options beyond standard stainless steel. I tested the Damson Blue finish, and the brushed stainless steel finish looks premium on any counter.

The build quality feels solid. The grind size adjustment dial turns smoothly, and all the controls have a precise, quality feel.

The Barista Express Impress uses the same chassis as the original Barista Express from years ago. While it’s still a stainless steel espresso machine with good durability, elements like the grind adjustment knob feel noticeably less refined. The machine dimensions and machine weight are similar between both models, but the Pro has a more modern aesthetic appeal.

My honest take: If kitchen aesthetics matter to you, the Barista Pro wins. The updated design and color options give it a more contemporary look that fits better with modern appliances.

Countertop Footprint and Practical Considerations

Both machines need similar counter space footprint, roughly 13 inches deep and 12-13 inches wide. You’ll need about 15 inches of vertical clearance for the top-loading water reservoir.

The drip tray design differs slightly. Both have removable drip trays with hidden storage behind them, but the Pro’s tray feels easier to remove and clean.

Cup clearance is identical on both, with the removable parts accommodating travel mugs up to 7 inches tall.

ThermoJet vs ThermoCoil: The Speed Factor

This is one of the biggest differences in the Breville espresso machine comparison.

Barista Pro (BES878):

• Uses the ThermoJet heating system
• Heats up in 3 seconds flat
• Fast heat-up time that actually works
• Switches to steaming temperature in 3 seconds after brewing
• Better energy efficiency

Barista Express Impress (BES870XL chassis):

• Uses the ThermoCoil heating system
• Takes 45 seconds to reach brewing temperature
• Still reliable, just slower
• About 30 seconds to switch to steaming mode

Both are single boiler systems, but the ThermoJet heating system in the Pro is a genuine game changer. I can walk into my kitchen and pull a shot in under two minutes total. With the Impress, I’m waiting almost a minute just for heat-up.

Real-world impact: If you make coffee before work, those extra 40+ seconds add up. Over a year, you’re saving hours of standing around waiting.

The temperature stability is excellent on both machines thanks to PID temperature control. The digital temperature control on the Pro lets you adjust brewing temp easily through the LCD display.

Auto Purge Function

Both machines include an auto purge system that automatically adjusts water temperature after steaming. This helps maintain temperature consistency for your next espresso shot without manual intervention.

Built-In Conical Burr Grinder

Both machines use an integrated conical burr grinder with stainless steel burrs. The grinder consistency is identical, and both offer the same range of grind size settings from fine espresso to coarser grounds.

Where they differ is control:

Barista Pro:

• Grind size adjustment is smooth and precise
• Grind amount dial feels well-built
• Manual dosing gives you full control
• You set the grind timer yourself

Barista Express Impress:

• Same grinder mechanism
• Slightly less refined feel on the adjustment dial
• Intelligent dosing system that learns your dose
• Grind dose control happens automatically once calibrated

The grinder noise level is identical on both. They’re not quiet, but they’re no louder than other home espresso machines with integrated grinders.

Pro tip from my testing: Both grinders benefit from regular burr cleaning. I clean mine every 2-3 months, and it keeps the grind consistency sharp.

LCD Display vs Manual Controls

The Barista Pro features a clear LCD digital display that shows:

• Current brewing temperature
• Shot timer during extraction
• Programming options
• Maintenance alerts
• All settings at a glance

Navigation is intuitive. Want to change temperature? Hit a button, adjust, done. Need to run a cleaning cycle? It’s right there in the menu.

The Barista Express Impress uses analog pressure gauge controls with manual buttons. To access advanced settings, you need specific button combinations. I found myself checking the manual multiple times in the first week.

The analog pressure gauge on the Impress shows extraction pressure, which looks nice but isn’t essential. Pressure is a broad indicator. Your shot timing and flow rate matter more for espresso extraction quality.

Programmable Shot Volume and Favorites

Both machines let you program single and double shot volumes. Once set, you get volumetric control over your espresso extraction system.

The Barista Pro stores these settings in an easy-to-access menu. The Impress requires you to hold buttons during brewing to program. Not difficult, just less convenient.

For families: If multiple people use the machine, the Pro’s interface makes it easier for everyone to customize their preferences.

Here’s where the Barista Express Impress shows its unique value, especially for the beginner home barista experience.

How the Intelligent Dosing System Works

Traditional espresso workflow requires:

1. Grinding the right amount of coffee
2. Distributing grounds evenly
3. Tamping with consistent pressure (about 30 lbs)
4. Ensuring a level, flat tamp

Miss any step, and your shot suffers. This is where most beginners struggle.

The Impress solution:

After grinding, you pull the tamping lever. The machine does two things:

• Checks if you have enough coffee in the basket
• Tamps with perfect pressure and levelness every single time

If you don’t have enough grounds, it tells you to grind more. Once it finds the right dose, it remembers for next time. This removes two major variables from the espresso workflow.

Manual Espresso Control vs Automatic Assistance

Barista Pro approach:

• Complete manual dosing
• You tamp yourself using the built-in tamper storage
• Full control over puck preparation
• Higher skill ceiling, higher potential quality
• Steeper learning curve

Impress approach:

• Intelligent assisted dosing
• Automatic lever tamping
• More consistent results with less skill
• Limited customization options
• Much easier for guests and family

Think of it this way: The Impress has training wheels. At first, they’re incredibly helpful. Anyone can make good espresso. But as you develop skills, you might want more control over puck preparation.

The Barista Pro is like a mountain bike. Harder to ride at first, but more capable once you learn.

My real experience: I’m comfortable with manual espresso controls, so the Pro suits me better. But when friends visit, I actually wish I had the Impress because explaining manual tamping technique takes 10 minutes. With the Impress, I just say “pull the lever, press the button.”

Repeatability and Consistency

The biggest advantage of the Impress isn’t ease of use. It’s repeatability.

Once you dial in your grind size, every shot comes out nearly identical. Your partner can make coffee. Your roommate can make coffee. Even your parents visiting for the weekend can make café-style coffee at home without training.

With manual dosing on the Pro, shot-to-shot consistency depends on technique. If you’re tired or rushed, your tamping might be off. Results vary.

For busy households: The Impress removes arguments about who makes better coffee. The machine handles consistency.

15-Bar Italian Pump and Extraction System

Both machines use a 15-bar Italian pump with actual 9-bar extraction during brewing. This is standard for quality home espresso machines and delivers proper extraction pressure.

Both include pre-infusion, though it’s low-pressure pre-infusion (not programmable). This gently saturates the coffee puck before full pressure, improving extraction.

Espresso Shot Quality and Crema

I’ve pulled hundreds of shots on both machines with various specialty coffee beans. Here’s what I found:

Taste and extraction quality: Essentially identical. Both use the same portafilter size (54mm stainless steel portafilter), the same grinder, and the same pressure system. The espresso flavor quality comes down to your beans, grind size, and technique.

Crema quality: Both produce rich, thick crema with properly dialed-in shots. The MultiStream technology (on models that have it) isn’t present in these machines, so extraction happens through standard portafilter baskets.

Shot timing: Both machines let you control extraction time. I aim for 25-30 seconds for a double shot, and both deliver this consistently.

Aroma extraction: Freshly ground beans smell incredible on both machines. The integrated grinder espresso machine design means you get maximum aroma and flavor.

Portafilter and Filter Baskets

Both machines include:

• 54mm stainless steel portafilter (industry standard)
• Pressurized filter basket (for beginners)
• Non-pressurized filter basket (for fresh ground coffee)
• Quality tamper (Pro has better tamper storage)

The pressurized baskets help beginners get good crema even with imperfect technique. As you improve, switch to non-pressurized baskets for better espresso consistency and flavor control.

Steam Wand Performance: Clear Winner Here

This is where the Barista Pro absolutely dominates.

Barista Pro steaming:

• 3-second heat-up from brewing to steaming
• Powerful steam wand
• About 40 seconds to steam milk for a latte
• Four-hole steam wand tip for fast heating
• Total latte time: Under 2 minutes

Barista Express Impress steaming:

• 30 seconds to reach steaming temperature
• 75 seconds to steam milk properly
• Single-hole steam wand (slower)
• Total latte time: Nearly 3 minutes

Real-world impact: Making one latte? The difference is noticeable but manageable. Making three lattes for your family? The Pro saves you several minutes.

Microfoam Milk and Latte Art Capability

Both machines can produce microfoam milk suitable for latte art. The steam wand power differs, but both achieve proper milk texturing with practice.

For cappuccino making, latte making, and flat white preparation:

• Both machines perform well
• The Pro’s faster workflow means less waiting between drinks
• Manual milk frothing technique is identical on both

I’ve made successful latte art on both machines. The Pro’s more powerful steam makes it slightly easier, but skill matters more than equipment here.

Milk-Based Drinks Performance

If you primarily make milk-based drinks (cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites), the Barista Pro’s steam performance gives it a significant advantage. The faster workflow means:

• Less time standing at the machine
• Easier to serve multiple people
• Better for morning rushes
• More convenient for daily usability

If you mostly drink straight espresso, this difference matters less.

Morning Workflow Comparison

Barista Pro typical workflow:

1. Turn on machine (3 seconds to heat)
2. Grind coffee (15 seconds)
3. Distribute and tamp (20 seconds)
4. Pull shot (30 seconds)
5. Steam milk if needed (40 seconds) Total time for latte: ~2 minutes

Impress typical workflow:

1. Turn on machine (45 seconds to heat)
2. Grind coffee (15 seconds)
3. Pull tamping lever (5 seconds)
4. Pull shot (30 seconds)
5. Wait for steam mode (30 seconds)
6. Steam milk (75 seconds) Total time for latte: ~3 minutes

The one-minute difference compounds if you make multiple drinks daily.

Back-to-Back Brewing

Both machines can brew immediately after the previous shot without waiting for reheating. The single boiler system handles this well thanks to the auto purge function.

For steaming multiple drinks back-to-back, the Barista Pro maintains its speed advantage throughout.

Beginner-Friendly Espresso Machine Assessment

Barista Express Impress:

• Lower learning curve
• Fewer variables to master
• Faster path to consistent results
• Better for households with multiple users
• Reduces beginner mistakes like uneven tamping

Barista Pro:

• Steeper initial learning curve
• Requires developing tamping technique
• More room for user error
• Better for those willing to learn proper technique
• Rewards skill development

My honest recommendation: If you’ve never made espresso before, the Impress removes significant frustration. You’ll make good coffee within days instead of weeks.

If you’ve used espresso machines before or enjoy learning new skills, the Pro offers more long-term satisfaction.

User Control Level and Customization Options

The Barista Pro gives you complete control over:

• Dose amount (grind timer)
• Tamp pressure and technique
• Distribution method
• Temperature adjustment settings (PID control)
• Every aspect of espresso preparation

The Impress automates dosing and tamping, reducing customization options but ensuring consistency.

For coffee enthusiasts: The Pro’s flexibility lets you experiment with different techniques and recipes. You can dial in light roasts differently than dark roasts, adjust for single origins, and develop your skill over time.

For convenience seekers: The Impress just works. Less experimentation, more reliability.

Maintenance Requirements

Both machines need regular care:

Daily cleaning:

• Wipe steam wand after each use
• Empty drip tray
• Rinse portafilter and baskets

Weekly cleaning:

• Remove and wash drip tray thoroughly
• Clean shower screen
• Wipe machine exterior

Monthly maintenance:

• Backflush with cleaning tablet
• Deep clean steam wand
• Clean grinder chute

Every 3 months:

• Descaling process (depending on water hardness)
• Replace water filter if used
• Deep clean grinder burrs

If you’re dealing with any brewing issues, my guide on troubleshooting Keurig coffee makers covers similar maintenance principles that apply to all coffee machines.

Ease of Cleaning

The Barista Pro makes cleaning cycle access easier through its digital display. You can see when maintenance is due and initiate cleaning modes directly from the menu.

The Impress requires button combinations for cleaning cycles. Not difficult once you learn them, just less intuitive.

Both machines have maintenance alerts. The Pro displays reminders on screen. The Impress uses indicator lights.

Descaling Process

Descaling is essential for long-term reliability. Both machines need descaling every 2-3 months with hard water, or every 4-6 months with filtered water.

Steps are similar for both:

1. Mix descaling solution
2. Run cleaning cycle
3. Flush with fresh water
4. Reset maintenance indicator

The process takes about 30 minutes. I use Breville’s descaling solution, though white vinegar works too (though it takes longer to flush).

Long-Term Reliability and Durability

Based on customer reviews and feedback, both machines show good long-term reliability with proper maintenance.

Barista Pro (BES878):

• Newer technology (ThermoJet)
• Less long-term data available (newer model)
• Reports suggest solid durability
• Digital components could be a future concern

Barista Express Impress:

• Proven ThermoCoil technology
• More years of field data
• Mechanical tamping system is an additional component
• Generally reliable with care

Both come with a warranty period (typically 1-2 years, check your retailer). Extended warranties are available.

Maintenance tip from experience: Descale on schedule and clean the grinder regularly. These two things prevent 90% of problems.

Parts and Accessories

Both machines use standard 54mm accessories, so you can upgrade to:

• Precision filter baskets (VST, IMS)
• Better tampers
• Dosing funnels
• Puck screens
• Distribution tools

Third-party accessories work on both machines, giving you upgrade paths as your skills develop.

Price Range and Initial Investment

Current pricing (varies by retailer and sales):

Barista Pro: $799-$899 Barista Express Impress: $699-$799

The $100 difference comes down to what you value:

• Speed and convenience (Pro)
• Easier learning curve (Impress)

Feature-to-Price Ratio

Barista Pro advantages for the extra cost:

• ThermoJet heating (3-second heat-up)
• Faster steaming (saves 1+ minute per drink)
• Digital display and better interface
• Retractable power cord
• Modern design and color options
• Better user control level

Impress advantages at lower price:

• Intelligent dosing system
• Automatic tamping
• Easier for multiple users
• Less learning curve
• Pressure gauge (though not essential)

Value for Money Assessment

For beginners: The Impress offers better value. The assisted features are worth more than the $100 savings.

For experienced users: The Pro offers better value. The time savings and workflow improvements justify the higher price.

Long-Term Value and Cost of Ownership

Beyond the machine price, consider:

Coffee costs: Both use the same amount of beans (about $0.50-1.00 per double shot with quality beans)

Maintenance costs:

• Descaling solution: $10-15 every 6 months
• Water filters: $15-20 yearly (if used)
• Cleaning tablets: $10-15 yearly
• Replacement parts as needed

Both machines should last 5-10 years with proper care, making the daily cost minimal compared to café drinks.

If you’re looking for other programmable coffee makers, check out my Cuisinart PerfecTemp review for a budget-friendly drip option.

Choose the Barista Express Impress If You:

✓ Are new to home espresso ✓ Want consistent results without developing technique ✓ Have multiple family members who’ll use the machine ✓ Don’t want to learn puck preparation details ✓ Primarily make 1-2 drinks at a time ✓ Value ease of use over maximum control ✓ Want something guests can use without instruction ✓ Prefer a lower price point ✓ Don’t mind slightly longer heat-up times

Best for: Beginners, families, convenience-focused users

Choose the Barista Pro If You:

✓ Have some espresso experience (or want to learn) ✓ Value speed in your morning routine ✓ Make multiple milk drinks back-to-back ✓ Want maximum control over preparation ✓ Appreciate modern design and interface ✓ Prefer digital controls over analog ✓ Don’t mind developing proper technique ✓ Want faster workflow from start to finish ✓ Like the premium aesthetic appeal

Best for: Intermediate users, speed-focused households, skill developers

Who Shouldn’t Buy Either?

Consider other options if:

❌ You want the absolute highest espresso quality (look at prosumer machines like the Breville Barista Touch Impress or Barista Touch)

❌ You need dual boiler capability for simultaneous brewing and steaming (look at higher-end models)

❌ You want super-automatic convenience (consider fully automatic machines)

❌ Budget is extremely tight (consider manual espresso machines or the Hamilton Beach 46310 for drip coffee)

❌ You only drink espresso occasionally (pod machines might be more practical)

Within the Breville Espresso Lineup

Breville Barista Touch: Touchscreen interface, guided workflow, higher price (~$1,000)

Breville Barista Touch Impress: Combines touch interface with assisted tamping (~$1,200)

Original Barista Express: Older model, similar to Impress but fully manual, often on sale (~$599)

Outside Breville

Gaggia Classic Pro: More traditional design, better upgrade potential, steeper learning curve (~$449)

De’Longhi La Specialista: Sensor grinding, similar assisted features, different aesthetic (~$699)

Breville Bambino Plus: Compact, fast heat-up, requires separate grinder (~$499)

Each has different strengths. The Pro and Impress occupy a sweet spot of features, price, and all-in-one espresso machine convenience.

For more guidance on choosing essential kitchen appliances that complement your coffee setup, check out my comprehensive kitchen gear guide.

Space and Kitchen Integration

Both machines need similar counter space footprint (about 13″ x 12″). Consider:

• Available counter space
• Proximity to water and power
• Storage for accessories
• Aesthetic fit with your kitchen

The Barista Pro’s color options (like Damson Blue) help it integrate better with modern kitchens.

Noise Level Considerations

Both machines produce similar noise:

• Grinder noise: Moderate to loud (similar to a blender)
• Brewing: Quiet pump noise
• Steaming: Moderate hissing sound

If you make coffee while others sleep, both machines will likely wake them during grinding. The grinding only takes 15 seconds, though.

Coffee Type Preferences

If you drink mostly straight espresso: Both machines are equally good. The Impress’s assisted features matter less.

If you make milk drinks daily: The Barista Pro’s faster steaming becomes more valuable.

If you experiment with different beans: The Pro’s greater control helps you dial in various beans more precisely.

Home vs Office Use

Home use: Both work well. Choose based on household skill level.

Small office use: The Impress might be better since different people can use it easily without training.

Coffee Ritual Experience

Some people enjoy the hands-on process of making espresso. For them, the Barista Pro’s manual workflow is part of the appeal.

Others just want good coffee quickly. The Impress delivers that with less ceremony.

Consider what kind of coffee ritual experience you want each morning.

Customer Reviews and Feedback Summary

Barista Pro user sentiment:

• Love the speed and heat-up time
• Appreciate the digital display
• Value the design and color options
• Some find the learning curve challenging
• Overall satisfaction: Very high among experienced users

Barista Express Impress user sentiment:

• Love the assisted tamping consistency
• Appreciate how easy it is for family members
• Some experienced users feel limited by automation
• Great for beginners and casual users
• Overall satisfaction: Very high among target audience

Common User Pain Points

Barista Pro:

• Takes practice to develop good tamping technique
• Learning curve can be frustrating initially
• Requires more attention to puck preparation

Barista Express Impress:

• Slower heat-up time annoys some users
• Manual controls less intuitive than digital
• Experienced baristas may feel restricted

Both machines:

• Grinder can be messy (use a dosing cup)
• Regular maintenance is essential
• Learning to steam milk takes practice

Reliability Reputation

Both machines come from Breville, a brand with strong brand trust and recognition in the home espresso market. The company backs their products with solid customer support.

Most reliability issues come from poor maintenance (not descaling) rather than manufacturing defects.

After extensive testing of both the Barista Pro and Barista Express Impress, here’s my complete take:

The Clear Choice for Beginners

If you’re new to espresso, the Barista Express Impress is the smarter choice. The intelligent dosing and automatic tamping eliminate the biggest frustrations beginners face. You’ll make good coffee from day one instead of wasting shots for weeks.

The slightly slower heat-up and steaming won’t matter much when you’re just getting started. The consistency and ease of use are worth more than speed at this stage.

The Better Long-Term Machine

If you have any espresso experience or you’re willing to invest time learning, the Barista Pro is the better overall machine.

The 3-second heat-up time isn’t just a spec, it genuinely changes your daily routine. Combined with faster steaming, you save real time every single day. Over months and years, this adds up significantly.

The digital display, modern design, and complete control over your espresso workflow make it more satisfying to use long-term.

The Honest Middle Ground

Neither machine is perfect. The Impress limits control as you develop skills. The Pro requires skills you might not want to develop.

My suggestion: Ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I enjoy learning new techniques, or do I just want good coffee?
2. Do other people in my household need to use this?
3. Do I make multiple drinks back-to-back regularly?
4. Is speed important in my morning routine?

If you answered “just want good coffee” and “yes” to question 2, get the Impress.

If you answered “enjoy learning” and “yes” to questions 3-4, get the Pro.

Where to Check Pricing

Prices fluctuate frequently. Check current deals at:

• Amazon (often has sales)
• Williams Sonoma
• Sur La Table
• Breville’s official website
• Local appliance retailers

Watch for bundle deals that include extra accessories, which can add significant value.

My Personal Choice

I use the Barista Pro daily because I value speed and I already have the technique. But if I was buying for my parents or friends new to espresso, I’d recommend the Impress without hesitation.

Both machines make excellent café-style coffee at home. The choice isn’t about better or worse, it’s about which machine fits your lifestyle and experience level.

Which machine makes better espresso? 

Both produce equally good espresso when properly dialed in. The difference is ease of use, not final quality.

Is the pressure gauge on the Impress worth it? 

It’s nice to have but not essential. Flow rate and timing matter more than pressure alone.

Can beginners use the Barista Pro successfully? 

Yes, but expect a steeper learning curve. You’ll waste some shots learning proper technique.

Will the Impress limit my skill development? 

Not really. You’ll still learn about grind size, extraction timing, and milk steaming, the three most important skills.

Which machine is quieter? 

Both produce similar noise levels. The grinders are equally loud.

Do both machines work with regular coffee grounds? 

Yes, both have bypass chutes for pre-ground coffee, though you get better results with the integrated grinder.

How often do I need to descale? 

Every 2-6 months, depending on water hardness. Use filtered water to extend intervals.

Can I make tea or hot water? 

Yes, both have hot water dispensers, though the location differs between models.

Which machine is easier to clean? 

Similar difficulty for daily cleaning. The Pro’s digital interface makes maintenance cycles easier to access.

Are these machines good for offices? 

The Impress works better for offices since multiple people can use it without training.

The decision between the Breville Barista Pro and Barista Express Impress comes down to your target user profile and what you value most in your home coffee enthusiast setup.

Both machines deliver specialty coffee brewing at home with integrated grinders and quality construction. Neither is a bad choice, they’re just optimized for different users.

The Impress excels at: Consistency, ease of use, accommodating multiple users, and reducing frustration for beginners.

The Pro excels at: Speed, workflow efficiency, control, and long-term satisfaction for skilled users.

I’ve genuinely enjoyed testing both machines. They represent different philosophies in home espresso: assisted convenience versus manual control. Both philosophies have merit depending on your situation.

My final word: Be honest about your experience level and daily routine. Don’t buy the Pro thinking you’ll develop skills if you just want convenient coffee. Don’t buy the Impress if you know you’ll feel limited by the automation.

The best espresso machine is the one you’ll actually use happily every single day.

If this comparison helped you decide, share it with others facing the same choice. And if you have questions I didn’t cover, leave a comment. I’m always happy to help fellow coffee lovers find the right setup for their home barista experience.

Now go make some excellent espresso, whichever machine you choose.