Bravo Verdict
Head to head

Breville Barista Express vs Flair 58

Side by side comparison of two of the best espresso machines on the market. Same category, different priorities.

Breville Barista Express
Breville

Breville Barista Express

4.5 (12,483)
$599

The best all around home espresso machine for beginners who want to grow.

Check price on Amazon
Flair 58
Flair

Flair 58

4.6 (890)
$599

Manual lever espresso at commercial quality. No electricity required for brewing.

Check price on Amazon

How do the Breville Barista Express and Flair 58 compare, spec for spec?

Spec
Breville
Breville Barista Express
Flair
Flair 58
Price$599$599
Rating
4.5 (12,483)
4.6 (890)
Boiler typeSingle (thermocoil)None (manual lever)
Built in grinderYesNo
PID temp controlYesNo
Wattage1,600 W300 W
Water tank2L removableManual pour
Pros
  • Built in conical burr grinder
  • PID temperature control
  • 54mm commercial style portafilter
  • Easy to service
  • Full manual pressure profiling
  • 58mm portafilter
  • Portable, no plumbing
  • Silent
Cons
  • Single boiler, can't brew and steam at once
  • Plastic drip tray feels cheap
  • Grinder can clog with oily beans
  • No steam wand
  • Not a quick espresso machine
  • Requires physical technique

Should you buy the Breville Barista Express or the Flair 58?

Both are strong picks in the espresso machines category. Here's how to decide:

Get the Breville Barista Express if...

Integrated conical burr grinder, PID temperature control and a manual steam wand. Everything a beginner needs and everything an intermediate barista still uses.

Get the Flair 58 if...

Full 58mm commercial portafilter, pre heat controller and pure manual lever action. Total control over pressure profiling.