Choosing the right espresso machine can transform your home coffee experience. In this roundup, we’ve selected the top Breville models based on features, usability, and value to help you find the perfect fit for your brewing needs.
These picks are tailored to different preferences, from beginners seeking ease of use to enthusiasts wanting professional-grade espresso at home.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- ✔ User Interface: Simple push buttons
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Low pressure
- ✔ Milk Frothing: Automatic steam wand
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- ✔ Grind On Demand: Yes
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
- ✔ Milk Frothing: Steam wand
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Grind Adjustments: Yes
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
- ✔ Steam Wand: Active
Breville BES500BSS Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Coffee Quality: Delivers professional-grade espresso at home
- Compact Design: Part of the Bambino Series for space-saving use
- Dose Control Grinding: Ensures consistent, balanced espresso with 19g dose
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
buying-advice heading
When choosing a Breville espresso machine, consider factors like ease of use, built-in grinder, and customization options. Think about your daily brewing habits and how much control you want over the espresso extraction process.
Also, check the machine’s size and water capacity to ensure it fits your kitchen space and meets your brewing volume needs.
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Coffee at Home: Brews specialty coffee quickly
- All-in-One Espresso Machine: Includes integrated grinder
- Dose Control Grinding: Precise grinding for perfect flavor
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
buying-advice heading
Durability and maintenance are key—select a machine with quality construction and accessible parts for cleaning. If you’re new to espresso making, models with automatic features and guided controls can help you learn faster.
For enthusiasts, advanced features like temperature control, grind adjustment, and pressure profiling can elevate your brewing experience.
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
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
The Breville Bambino Plus (BES500BSS) offers a perfect balance of performance and ease of use. Its third wave specialty coffee capability and fast ThermoJet heating make it ideal for those seeking cafe-quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Consistent shot quality
- Compact design
- Includes dose control grinder
Cons:
- Limited customization
- No built-in grinder adjustment
Best for: Home baristas wanting professional results with convenience
Not ideal for: Users seeking extensive customization or built-in grinder adjustments
Bottom line: A versatile, quick-heating espresso machine perfect for daily use.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is perfect for beginners who want an all-in-one machine. Its integrated grinder and straightforward controls make it easy to learn espresso making at home.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- User-friendly interface
- Sturdy construction
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Longer warm-up time
- Less customization compared to higher-end models
Best for: Beginners looking to learn espresso craft with a single appliance
Not ideal for: Experienced users wanting extensive customization
Bottom line: A user-friendly espresso machine that simplifies the learning curve.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR blends professional features with user-friendly controls, offering a true barista experience at home. Its precision conical burr grinder and digital temperature control ensure optimal extraction.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder with dose control
- Precise temperature management
- Sturdy and durable build
- Customizable coffee settings
Cons:
- Requires more learning curve
- Bulkier than compact models
Best for: Home baristas seeking professional-level control and quality
Not ideal for: Casual users preferring simplicity and compactness
Bottom line: A feature-rich machine for serious espresso enthusiasts ready to master their craft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between these Breville models?
The Bambino Plus models focus on quick, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss, ideal for beginners and casual users. The Barista Express offers a built-in grinder and more control, suited for those who want to learn and experiment. The higher-end BES870BTR provides professional features for serious enthusiasts.
Do Breville machines require special maintenance?
Regular cleaning of the portafilter, drip tray, and steam wand is recommended. The machines are designed for ease of maintenance, with removable parts and accessible components.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with these machines?
Yes, the Bambino Plus models can use pre-ground coffee, but the Barista Express with its integrated grinder is best suited for freshly ground beans for optimal flavor.
Are Breville espresso machines suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Models like the Bambino Plus and Barista Express are user-friendly and come with features that help beginners learn espresso making while still offering room to grow.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
