Breville has long been a leader in home espresso machines, combining innovation with user-friendly features. In this roundup, we’ve selected the top models of 2026 based on their performance, versatility, and value. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned barista, these picks will help you craft café-quality espresso at home.
Our rankings focus on key factors like ease of use, build quality, feature set, and overall value, ensuring you find the perfect machine to suit your needs and budget.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- ✔ Dimensions: 13.2 x 12.5 x 15 inches
- ✔ Weight: 23.8 lbs
- ✔ Color: Brushed Stainless Steel
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Dimensions: 7.7 x 12.2 x 12 inches
- ✔ Weight: 10.4 lbs
- ✔ Color: Black Stainless Steel
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Dimensions: 7.7 x 12.2 x 12 inches
- ✔ Weight: 10.4 lbs
- ✔ Color: Black Stainless Steel
Breville BES500BSS Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Delivers professional-quality espresso at home
- Compact Design: Faster, space-saving espresso machine
- Dose Control Grinding: Consistent, balanced espresso with 19g dose
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Buying Advice: What to Look for in a Home Espresso Machine
When choosing the right Breville espresso machine, consider your skill level, available space, and desired features. Beginners may prefer models with quick heat-up times and simple controls, while experienced users might prioritize built-in grinders and customization options.
Pay attention to key factors such as water pressure, heating system, grinder integration, and size. A machine with pre-infusion helps ensure balanced extraction, while a compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens.
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality coffee at home
- All-in-One Espresso Machine: Includes integrated grinder for convenience
- Fast Bean to Espresso: Brews in under one minute
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How to Choose the Best Breville Espresso Machine
Assess your budget and skill level before selecting a machine. For those new to espresso, models like the Bambino Plus offer excellent value and ease of use. For more advanced users, the Barista Express provides professional features and integrated grinding.
Ultimately, the best machine balances ease of operation with quality results, ensuring you can enjoy café-quality espresso at home with minimal hassle.
Breville BES500BST Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Black Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews professional-quality espresso at home
- Fast, Compact Design: Part of Bambino Series for quick results
- Dose Control Grinding: Consistent, balanced espresso with 19g dose
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More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR is a versatile and complete espresso machine that combines a built-in grinder with precise extraction controls. It’s ideal for those seeking professional quality in a home setting, offering real-time grinding and extraction adjustments.
Pros:
- Integrated conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Digital temperature control for perfect extraction
- Sturdy build with stylish design
- All-in-one convenience
Cons:
- Learning curve for beginners
- Requires regular cleaning
Best for: Intermediate to advanced home baristas
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those seeking ultra-simple operation
Bottom line: A feature-rich machine that offers professional results for serious espresso enthusiasts.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Bambino Plus BES500BSS is perfect for beginners who want great espresso without complex controls. Its ThermoJet heating system heats up swiftly, making it easy to brew high-quality coffee quickly and with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Simple interface for easy operation
- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Pre-infusion for balanced extraction
Cons:
- Limited advanced customization
- No built-in grinder
Best for: Home users new to espresso making
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting grinder integration
Bottom line: A user-friendly, quick-start espresso machine ideal for newcomers.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent espresso quality with a streamlined design and effective features. Its fast heat-up and precise water pressure make it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want café-quality drinks.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Quick heat-up with ThermoJet
- Consistent extraction with pre-infusion
- Compact footprint
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Limited customization options
Best for: Budget-conscious home baristas
Not ideal for: Advanced users seeking customizable brewing profiles
Bottom line: A reliable, affordable espresso machine offering quick, quality results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Bambino Plus and the Barista Express?
The Bambino Plus is designed for simplicity with fast heat-up and no built-in grinder, making it ideal for beginners. The Barista Express features an integrated conical burr grinder and more advanced controls, suited for more experienced users.
Do all Breville machines come with a grinder?
No, only the Barista Express models include a built-in grinder. The Bambino Plus models do not have a grinder but can be paired with separate grinders.
What features are most important for consistent espresso extraction?
Key features include low-pressure pre-infusion, digital temperature control, and a good quality portafilter. These help ensure even extraction and better flavor.
Are Breville espresso machines suitable for beginners?
Yes, models like the Bambino Plus are designed with user-friendly features suitable for beginners, offering quick heat-up and straightforward operation.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
