Breville Barista Express vs DeLonghi Magnifica S: Best Coffee Machine for Australia
Updated 2026-06-12
The Breville Barista Express and DeLonghi Magnifica S are the two most popular home espresso machines in Australia. Both are widely available through Amazon AU, JB Hi-Fi, and Harvey Norman. The Breville is a semi-automatic that gives you barista-level control, while the DeLonghi is a fully automatic bean-to-cup machine built for convenience. This comparison helps you decide which suits your morning routine.
Breville
Breville Barista Express BES870
See price on Amazon
DeLonghi
DeLonghi Magnifica S ECAM22.110.B
See price on Amazon
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Breville Barista Express BES870 | DeLonghi Magnifica S ECAM22.110.B |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-automatic | Fully automatic |
| Grinder | Built-in conical burr | Built-in conical burr |
| Pump Pressure | 15 bar | 15 bar |
| Milk Frothing | Manual steam wand | Manual frother (Panarello) |
| Water Tank | 2L | 1.8L |
| Bean Hopper | 250g | 250g |
| Dimensions | 33 x 31 x 40 cm | 24 x 43 x 35 cm |
Pros & Cons
Breville Barista Express BES870
Pros
- Integrated conical burr grinder with dose control
- Manual steam wand for latte art quality
- PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Strong espresso with full crema
- Australian-designed — excellent local warranty support
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Manual milk frothing takes practice
- Grinder can be messy during dosing
- No one-touch cappuccino option
DeLonghi Magnifica S ECAM22.110.B
Pros
- One-touch espresso — press and walk away
- Compact footprint fits smaller Australian kitchens
- Adjustable coffee strength and volume
- Easy to clean with removable brew group
- Lower price point than Breville
Cons
- Panarello frother produces less microfoam than Breville
- Less control over extraction variables
- Espresso can taste slightly less nuanced
- Smaller water tank needs more frequent refills
Our Verdict
For Australians who enjoy the ritual of making coffee and want barista-quality espresso at home, the Breville Barista Express is the clear winner. Its manual steam wand and PID temperature control produce noticeably better coffee. However, if you want a reliable espresso with zero fuss — press one button and go — the DeLonghi Magnifica S delivers consistent results at a lower price in a more compact body. It is the better choice for busy households that prioritise convenience over craft.
Best for Budget
DeLonghi Magnifica S ECAM22.110.B
Best for Features
Breville Barista Express BES870
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