Bravo Verdict
Head to head

Breville Barista Express vs Rancilio Silvia

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.

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Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio

Rancilio Silvia

4.5 (2,140)
$795

Commercial grade internals in a home footprint. A modder's dream.

Check price on Amazon

How do the Breville Barista Express and Rancilio Silvia compare, spec for spec?

Spec
Breville
Breville Barista Express
Rancilio
Rancilio Silvia
Price$599$795
Rating
4.5 (12,483)
4.5 (2,140)
Boiler typeSingle (thermocoil)Single (brass)
Built in grinderYesNo
PID temp controlYesNo
Wattage1,600 W1,100 W
Water tank2L removable2L removable
Pros
  • Built in conical burr grinder
  • PID temperature control
  • 54mm commercial style portafilter
  • Easy to service
  • Brass boiler holds temperature beautifully
  • Commercial 58mm group
  • Endless parts availability
  • Mature mod ecosystem
Cons
  • Single boiler, can't brew and steam at once
  • Plastic drip tray feels cheap
  • Grinder can clog with oily beans
  • No PID stock
  • Steam wand is slow to recover
  • Higher price than Gaggia

Should you buy the Breville Barista Express or the Rancilio Silvia?

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 Rancilio Silvia if...

The Silvia's cult following is earned. Brass boiler, commercial group and the same body design for over 20 years.