The Best Breville Espresso Machines

Breville sells several espresso machine lines for home use. This roundup focuses on the best Breville espresso machine options, from entry-level models to feature-rich machines with built-in grinders and automatic milk steaming.

The list opens with our award picks. We ranked the remaining models by CML Score, calculated with the published method on our How We Review page.

Whether you are looking for a compact machine for small kitchens or a model with built-in grinding and automatic milk texturing, this guide covers the key differences between Breville’s lineup.

Our recommendations draw on published specifications, independent reviews, and Amazon owner ratings to help you find the right fit. For more on choosing an espresso machine, visit our Espresso Machines page.

How to Choose the Best Breville Espresso Machine

Note: Nespresso machines manufactured by Breville are not covered in this roundup. Those capsule machines are reviewed in our guide to best capsule espresso machines.

Built-in Grinder vs Separate Grinder

Some Breville models, such as the Barista Express and Barista Pro, include an integrated burr grinder, allowing you to grind fresh beans directly into the portafilter. This saves counter space and simplifies the workflow.

Other models like the Bambino and Bambino Plus require a separate grinder, which gives you more flexibility to choose a grinder that matches your preferences.

For a deeper look at machines with built-in grinders, see our guide to espresso machines with grinder.

If you already own a grinder or prefer to buy one separately, a machine without a built-in grinder may be a better choice.

The Bambino series is compact, which suits those who want a dedicated espresso machine without the extra bulk.

Milk Steaming: Manual vs Automatic

Breville offers both manual steam wands and automatic milk frothing systems. The Bambino Plus and Barista Touch feature automatic frothing, which heats and textures milk at the touch of a button, ideal for those who want consistent results without practice.

Manual steam wands, found on the Barista Express and Barista Pro, let you texture milk by hand and control its texture and temperature directly.

Consider how often you make milk-based drinks. If you regularly prepare lattes or cappuccinos, an automatic frother can save time and effort. For those who enjoy the direct process, a manual wand offers more versatility.

Control and Automation

The level of control varies across Breville’s lineup. The Barista Touch uses a touchscreen for adjusting coffee strength, milk texture, and temperature, and it can save up to 8 personalized coffees.

The Barista Pro and Barista Express let you adjust grind size and dose, using an LCD interface with buttons on the Barista Pro and a grind size dial on the Barista Express. The Bambino models offer a simpler button interface with 1 or 2 cup settings, and Breville describes both as simple enough for beginners to learn on.

Think about how much direct adjustment you want. More automated models can speed up the process, while manual controls let you fine-tune each shot.

Size and Counter Space

Breville espresso machines range from the compact Bambino, which takes up minimal counter space, to larger models like the Barista Touch with a built-in grinder.

Measure your available counter space and consider the height clearance for placing a cup under the group head. Machines with integrated grinders are taller and wider, so ensure you have enough room.

If counter space is limited, the Bambino or Bambino Plus fit best. For those with ample space, the Barista Pro or Barista Touch add a built-in grinder and more controls in a larger footprint.

Maintenance and Cleaning

All espresso machines require regular cleaning to maintain performance and flavor. The machines on this list ship with cleaning tools or a cleaning kit, and the Cafe Roma has a removable drip tray and water tank.

The Bambino Plus automatically purges its heating system after steaming, so it is ready for the next shot.

Consider how much time you are willing to spend on maintenance. Models with more automation often have additional components that need attention.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want a fully automatic machine that grinds, tamps, and brews at the push of a button without any manual steps, a super-automatic espresso machine might be a better fit. Our guide to best super-automatic espresso machines covers models that handle the entire process.

For those who prefer the simplicity of capsules, Nespresso machines offer convenience and consistency. As mentioned, Breville-made Nespresso machines are reviewed in our capsule guide.

Additionally, if you prefer a simpler, non-electric brewer, a manual espresso maker or stovetop moka pot could be an alternative, but those are not covered here.

Why You Should Trust Us

We do not conduct our own product trials. Our picks draw on published specifications, independent reviews, and Amazon owner ratings.

The CML Score is calculated with the published method on our How We Review page.

Affiliate commissions do not affect our rankings or scores.

Final Thoughts

Best Overall: Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine with Grinder: Combines a built-in grinder with fast heating and precise control, which suits most home baristas.

Best Value: Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine: Offers automatic milk frothing in a compact machine without a built-in grinder.

Best Premium: Breville Barista Touch BES880BSS Espresso Machine: Adds a touchscreen and automatic milk texturing to a machine with a built-in grinder.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I descale a Breville espresso machine?

Descaling removes mineral buildup from the internal water pathways. Breville machines typically have a descaling mode that you activate with a solution of water and descaling agent. Follow the instructions in your machine’s manual, and rinse thoroughly afterward.

Regular descaling helps maintain water flow and temperature stability.

What type of coffee should I use?

For best results, use freshly roasted whole beans and grind them just before brewing. Espresso requires a fine, consistent grind. If your machine has a built-in grinder, adjust the grind size to achieve the proper extraction time.

For machines without a grinder, purchase pre-ground espresso from a reputable roaster.

Can I use pre-ground coffee in a Breville machine with a grinder?

Yes, you can bypass the grinder and use the pressurized (dual-wall) basket or a separate dose of pre-ground coffee. However, the freshest flavor comes from grinding beans immediately before brewing. If you use pre-ground, ensure it is ground for espresso to avoid channeling or weak shots.

How do I clean the steam wand?

After each use, wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth and purge steam briefly to clear any milk residue. Periodically, clear the tip with the cleaning tool supplied with your machine to remove blockages.

Some models, like the Bambino Plus, automatically purge the heating system after steaming, so the next shot is extracted at the right temperature.

Which Breville model is best for milk drinks?

The Bambino Plus and Barista Touch have automatic milk frothing, making them ideal for lattes and cappuccinos with minimal effort. The Barista Pro and Barista Express have manual steam wands that give you control over milk texture once you master the technique.

What is the warranty on Breville espresso machines?

Breville offers a limited warranty on most espresso machines. Check the product documentation for details. Registering your machine can help with support.

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