Breville has established itself as a leader in home espresso machines, offering a range of models that cater to different needs and skill levels. In this roundup, we focus on the most relevant models for 2026, highlighting their features, performance, and value. Our selections are based on overall functionality, ease of use, and customer satisfaction to help you find the perfect machine.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy-to-use espresso machine or a serious coffee enthusiast seeking professional-quality results, our curated list covers the best options available today.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 oz
- ✔ Weight: 13 lbs
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 oz
- ✔ Weight: 13 lbs
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 oz
- ✔ Weight: 23 lbs
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Buying Advice: What to Look for in an Espresso Machine
When choosing the best Breville espresso machine for your needs, consider factors such as ease of use, built-in features, and whether you want an all-in-one unit or a machine that allows for more customization. Look for fast heat-up times, quality of the espresso, and whether the machine includes a grinder or if you’ll need to purchase one separately.
Also, think about the machine’s size and whether it will fit comfortably in your kitchen space. For beginners, user-friendly controls and automatic features are beneficial, while experienced baristas may prefer more manual control and adjustable settings.
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Buying Advice: Features That Matter
Key features to consider include a reliable heating system (like Breville’s ThermoJet), a quality grinder (built-in or separate), and adjustable dose controls for consistency. Pre-infusion technology helps extract full flavor, and a steam wand is essential for frothing milk to make lattes and cappuccinos. Durability and ease of cleaning also contribute to long-term satisfaction with your machine.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
The Bambino Plus is ideal for coffee lovers who want high-quality espresso without cluttering their kitchen. Its ThermoJet heating system ensures fast warm-up times, and the dose control grinding delivers fresh, consistent grounds for each shot. It balances ease of use with advanced features, making it a top choice for most users.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Easy to use interface
- Consistent extraction
- Compact design
Cons:
- Limited to basic features
- No built-in grinder
Best for: Home baristas seeking quick, professional-quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Those wanting a fully integrated grinder or more advanced controls.
Bottom line: A versatile, quick-heat espresso machine perfect for most users.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
Designed for those new to espresso, the Bambino Plus provides a great balance of quality and simplicity. Its pre-infusion technology and fast heat-up time make brewing straightforward, while still delivering cafe-quality drinks at home. It’s an excellent entry point into the world of espresso.
Pros:
- Simple to operate
- Fast heat-up
- Great for beginners
- Compact size
Cons:
- Limited customization
- No grinder included
Best for: New espresso enthusiasts wanting quality without complexity.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting advanced customization.
Bottom line: Ideal for beginners seeking ease and quality in one machine.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
For serious home baristas, the Barista Express offers an all-in-one solution with a built-in conical burr grinder. It allows precise control over grind size and dose, ensuring optimal extraction. Its digital temperature control and manual steam wand give you professional-grade espresso and froth at home.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder
- Customizable settings
- High-quality espresso
- Durable build
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- More complex to operate
Best for: Experienced users wanting full control over their coffee brewing.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those seeking a straightforward machine.
Bottom line: A comprehensive machine for those who want to master espresso crafting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a semi-automatic and an all-in-one espresso machine?
Semi-automatic machines, like the Breville Barista Express, have built-in grinders and allow manual control over extraction, giving you more customization. All-in-one machines, such as the Bambino Plus, are more automated, focusing on ease of use and faster setup, ideal for beginners.
Do I need a separate grinder with Breville espresso machines?
It depends on the model. The Breville Barista Express has an integrated grinder, providing convenience and control. The Bambino Plus does not include a grinder, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you want freshly ground beans.
How important is the water tank size?
A larger water tank reduces the frequency of refilling, which is helpful if you brew multiple drinks daily. However, larger tanks also increase the machine’s overall size, so consider your kitchen space and usage habits.
Can these machines make milk-based drinks?
Yes, all the featured machines have steam wands for frothing milk, allowing you to create lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based beverages with professional quality.
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