Choosing the right espresso machine can elevate your home coffee experience, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned barista. In this roundup, we’ve focused on some of Breville’s most popular and highly rated models for 2026, considering their features, value, and ease of use. Our selections highlight the best overall, best for beginners, and best value options to guide your decision.
All featured machines are designed to deliver third wave specialty coffee with consistent results, thanks to Breville’s advanced features like dose control grinding and optimal water pressure. Read on to find the perfect fit for your coffee journey.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- ✔ Dimensions: 12 x 7 x 12 inches
- ✔ Weight: 10 lbs
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- ✔ Weight: 23 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: 23 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville BES500BSS Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Delivers professional-quality espresso at home
- Fast, Compact Design: Part of Bambino Series for quick results
- Dose Control Grinding: Ensures consistent, balanced espresso
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When choosing a Breville espresso machine, consider your skill level, space, and desired features. Beginners will benefit from machines with integrated grinders and intuitive controls, while more experienced users might prioritize advanced steaming and customization options.
Pay attention to heating speed, water capacity, and whether the machine offers programmable settings. Budget also plays a key role—there are excellent options across different price ranges to suit your needs.
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Another important factor is the size and design, especially if you have limited counter space. Breville offers both compact and larger models, so measure your area before purchasing. Also, consider ongoing costs like filters and maintenance to ensure your investment remains worthwhile.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS offers a compact design combined with professional-grade features. Its ThermoJet heating system ensures quick heat-up, and the 54mm porta-filter with 19 grams of coffee provides cafe-quality espresso at home. Ideal for users seeking a balance of performance and ease of use.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Consistent extraction with low-pressure pre-infusion
- Easy to operate for beginners
- Compact footprint
Cons:
- Limited steam wand power
- No built-in grinder
Best for: Home users wanting professional results in a small package
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas needing advanced steaming features
Bottom line: A versatile and fast-heat espresso machine perfect for everyday home brewing.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL provides an all-in-one solution with a built-in conical burr grinder, making it perfect for beginners. Its intuitive controls and digital temperature regulation help new users master espresso making with minimal fuss, all while delivering quality beverages.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for fresh grounds
- User-friendly controls
- Consistent extraction
- Sturdy build quality
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Bulkier size
Best for: New espresso enthusiasts wanting a complete starter kit
Not ideal for: Advanced home baristas seeking customization
Bottom line: A user-friendly machine that simplifies espresso making for beginners.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR offers excellent value with its integrated grinder and precise extraction capabilities. It balances affordability and quality, making it suitable for those who want a feature-rich machine without exceeding their budget.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Integrated grinder for fresh grounds
- Reliable temperature control
- Good build quality
Cons:
- Requires some learning curve
- Bulkier than compact models
Best for: Budget-conscious users wanting quality espresso at home
Not ideal for: Those seeking a super-compact or ultra-simple machine
Bottom line: A high-value option that combines key features with affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Bambino Plus and Barista Express?
The Bambino Plus is more compact with a focus on quick heat-up and ease of use, ideal for beginners or small spaces. The Barista Express includes a built-in grinder and more manual controls, making it suitable for users who want more control and are willing to learn.
Do these machines come with a grinder?
Only the Barista Express models include a built-in grinder. The Bambino Plus does not have a grinder, so you will need to purchase a separate grinder if you want to grind beans fresh.
Are Breville espresso machines easy to maintain?
Yes, Breville machines are generally designed for ease of maintenance, with removable parts for cleaning, and many are equipped with descaling alerts. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Can I make milk-based drinks with these machines?
Yes, all these machines feature steam wands or frothers to prepare milk-based beverages like lattes and cappuccinos, though the power and control vary between models.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
