Breville Espresso Machine Buying Guide 2026

Choosing the right espresso machine can transform your home coffee experience. In this guide, we’ve reviewed some of the top Breville models available in 2026, focusing on features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.

Our selections highlight machines suitable for beginners, home baristas, and those seeking the best overall performance in a compact design. Read on to find the perfect Breville espresso machine for your coffee journey.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

BEST OVERALL
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

  • Power: 1600W
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Pre-infusion: Yes
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

  • Power: 1700W
  • Material: Brushed Stainless
  • Pre-infusion: Yes
BEST VALUE
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

  • Power: 1600W
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Pre-infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...

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Buying Advice for Breville Espresso Machines

When choosing a Breville espresso machine, consider your skill level, space, and desired features. Beginners will benefit from models with quick heat-up times and simple controls, like the Bambino Plus. More advanced users may prefer machines with integrated grinders and precise customization options, such as the Barista Express.

Also, think about the size of the water reservoir, ease of cleaning, and overall build quality. Budget-wise, the value-oriented models still deliver excellent espresso quality, making them ideal for home use without breaking the bank.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel

The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Key Features to Look for in a Breville Espresso Machine

  • Built-in Grinder: For fresh grounds and convenience.
  • Pre-infusion: Ensures even extraction for better flavor.
  • Heat-up Time: Faster systems like ThermoJet save time.
  • Size and Footprint: Match your available space.
  • Control Options: Manual vs. automatic, depending on your skill level.
  • Material and Durability: Stainless steel units tend to last longer.

More Details on Our Top Picks

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
OUR VERDICT
Top Choice for Home Baristas
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The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR is our top pick for versatility and professional features. It includes an integrated grinder, precise espresso extraction, and a durable build, making it ideal for serious coffee lovers who want control and quality in one machine.

Pros:

  • Built-in conical burr grinder
  • Precise temperature control
  • All-in-one design
  • Sturdy construction

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve
  • Larger footprint

Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking professional results

Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space

Model:
BES870BTR
Water Tank:
67 fl oz
Grinder:
Integrated conical burr
Dimensions:
13.2 x 12.5 x 16.5 in
Weight:
23.8 lbs
Price:
Premium

Bottom line: Excellent all-in-one machine for those who want control and quality.

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
OUR VERDICT
Ideal for New Espresso Enthusiasts
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The Breville Bambino Plus BES500BSS offers a simplified yet high-quality espresso experience. With fast heat-up and easy controls, it’s perfect for those just starting out or anyone wanting great coffee without complex features.

Pros:

  • Fast ThermoJet heating system
  • Easy to use controls
  • Compact and stylish
  • Consistent extraction

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features
  • No built-in grinder

Best for: Beginners and casual coffee drinkers

Not ideal for: Experienced users seeking advanced customization

Model:
BES500BSS
Water Tank:
64 fl oz
Heat-up Time:
3 seconds
Dimensions:
12.6 x 7.7 x 13 in
Weight:
10.9 lbs
Price:
Moderate

Bottom line: Perfect starter machine with quick heat-up and straightforward operation.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
OUR VERDICT
Great Performance for the Price
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The Breville Barista Express BES870XL combines professional features with affordability. Its integrated grinder and precise pressure control deliver excellent espresso quality without the high price tag, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious coffee lovers.

Pros:

  • Integrated conical burr grinder
  • Excellent espresso quality
  • User-friendly controls
  • Durable build

Cons:

  • Requires some learning
  • Bulkier size

Best for: Home users wanting professional results at a lower cost

Not ideal for: Space-constrained kitchens or complete beginners

Model:
BES870XL
Water Tank:
67 fl oz
Grinder:
Integrated conical burr
Dimensions:
12.5 x 12.2 x 15.9 in
Weight:
23 lbs
Price:
Affordable

Bottom line: A balanced mix of features and value for home espresso enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Breville espresso machines suitable for beginners?

Yes, models like the Breville Bambino Plus are designed for ease of use, quick heat-up, and straightforward controls, making them perfect for beginners.

What is the advantage of a machine with an integrated grinder?

An integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds for each shot, enhances flavor, and simplifies the brewing process by combining grinding and brewing in one device.

How important is pre-infusion in espresso machines?

Pre-infusion gradually applies pressure to the coffee grounds, helping to extract full flavor and produce a more balanced shot, a feature common in high-quality Breville models.

Can I get professional-quality espresso at home?

Yes, with models like the Barista Express, which includes precise controls and a high-quality grinder, you can achieve cafe-quality espresso with practice.

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.

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