Breville Espresso Machine Buying Guide 2026

Choosing the right espresso machine can be daunting with so many options available. In this guide, we’ve reviewed some of the best Breville models in 2026, focusing on their features, usability, and value to help you find the perfect fit for your home brewing needs.

Our selections highlight machines suitable for various experience levels, from beginners to seasoned baristas, ensuring you get professional-quality espresso at home.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

BEST OVERALL
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

  • Weight: 20 lbs
  • Power: 1600W
  • Warranty: 1 Year
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

  • Weight: 20 lbs
  • Power: 1600W
  • Warranty: 1 Year
BEST VALUE
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR

  • Weight: 23 lbs
  • Power: 1600W
  • Warranty: 1 Year
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 selecting a Breville espresso machine, consider your experience level, space, and desired features. For beginners, simplicity and quick heat-up are key, while advanced users may want more control and customization options. The size and price are also important factors to ensure the machine fits your kitchen and budget.

Look for features like pre-infusion for smooth extraction, a quality portafilter, and a reliable heating system. If you want convenience, models with integrated grinders and all-in-one designs provide excellent value.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR, Black Truffle

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR, Black Truffle

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 Consider

  • Ease of Use: User-friendly interfaces and quick setup are ideal for beginners.
  • Build Quality: Durable materials like stainless steel ensure longevity.
  • Size & Footprint: Compact models fit small kitchens, while larger machines often include more features.
  • Water Capacity: Larger reservoirs reduce refilling frequency.
  • Additional Features: Milk frothing, integrated grinders, and digital controls enhance versatility.

More Details on Our Top Picks

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
OUR VERDICT
Top Pick for Versatility and Quality
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The Breville Bambino Plus BES500BSS offers a perfect balance of ease of use, speed, and professional results. Its ThermoJet heating system ensures quick heat-up, making it ideal for daily use. With precise dose control and pre-infusion, it produces consistently flavorful espresso.

Pros:

  • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
  • Compact design fits small spaces
  • Consistent extraction with pre-infusion
  • Easy to use for beginners

Cons:

  • Limited steam power for frothing
  • No integrated grinder

Best for: Home users seeking quality espresso without complexity

Not ideal for: Heavy steaming or milk-based drinks for advanced users

Color:
Brushed Stainless Steel
Size:
Compact
Water Tank:
64 oz
Heating System:
ThermoJet
Porta-filter:
54mm, 19 grams
Pre-infusion:
Yes

Bottom line: A great all-around espresso machine for beginners and casual drinkers.

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
OUR VERDICT
Ideal for New Espresso Enthusiasts
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The Bambino Plus BES500BSS is designed for those new to espresso making, offering straightforward operation and quick results. Its intuitive interface and fast heat-up make it easy to learn and enjoy quality coffee at home.

Pros:

  • User-friendly controls
  • Fast warm-up
  • Compact size
  • Good value for money

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features
  • Fewer customization options

Best for: Beginners wanting to learn espresso making

Not ideal for: Experienced baristas seeking advanced features

Color:
Brushed Stainless Steel
Size:
Compact
Water Tank:
64 oz
Heating System:
ThermoJet
Porta-filter:
54mm, 19 grams
Pre-infusion:
Yes

Bottom line: Perfect for beginners looking for quality and simplicity.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
OUR VERDICT
Best Budget-Friendly All-in-One
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The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR combines a built-in grinder with espresso extraction, offering a complete brewing experience at a competitive price. Its integrated conical burr grinder ensures fresh grounds for every shot, making it great for those who want more control.

Pros:

  • Built-in grinder
  • All-in-one design
  • Precise espresso control
  • Good build quality

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve
  • Bulkier size

Best for: Home baristas wanting a versatile, budget-friendly machine

Not ideal for: Small spaces or users preferring minimal setup

Color:
Black Truffle
Size:
Medium
Water Tank:
67 oz
Grinder:
Integrated conical burr
Pre-infusion:
Yes
Digital Temperature:
Yes

Bottom line: Great value for those seeking an all-in-one espresso solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between semi-automatic and all-in-one espresso machines?

Semi-automatic machines require you to grind, dose, and tamp the coffee manually but often offer more control. All-in-one machines include a grinder and often automate the brewing process, making them easier for beginners.

Is a built-in grinder necessary?

A built-in grinder provides fresh grounds for each shot and saves counter space, but external grinders can offer more grinding precision. It depends on your preference and budget.

How important is pre-infusion?

Pre-infusion gradually increases water pressure during extraction, helping to produce a more even and flavorful espresso shot. Most quality Breville machines include this feature.

Can I make milk-based drinks with these machines?

Yes, all three models have steam wands suitable for frothing milk, though the Bambino Plus models are more streamlined for espresso and may have less powerful steam for large milk drinks.

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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