Starting your espresso journey at home can be exciting, but choosing the right machine is crucial, especially for beginners. Breville is renowned for its user-friendly yet professional-grade espresso machines, making them an excellent choice for newcomers. In this roundup, we focus on the most accessible models from Breville, considering ease of use, affordability, and quality results.
We’ve carefully selected the top options based on their features, customer feedback, and how well they cater to those new to espresso making. Whether you’re looking for simplicity, value, or a bit more control, these picks will help you find the best fit for your home setup.
Key Takeaways
| Ease of Use | All selected models are designed with beginners in mind, offering straightforward operation and minimal learning curve. |
| Value for Money | These machines balance cost and features, providing great quality without overwhelming complexity. |
| Compact Design | Ideal for small kitchens, these machines are compact yet packed with essential features for quality espresso. |
| Built-in Grinding Options | Some models include integrated grinders, simplifying the process from beans to espresso. |
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Delivers professional-quality coffee at home
- Fast, Compact Design: Part of Bambino Series for quick results
- Dose Control Grinding: Ensures consistent, balanced espresso
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- ✔ Ease of Use: Very high
- ✔ Price Range: $500-$600
- ✔ Ideal User: Newcomers
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- ✔ Ease of Use: Moderate
- ✔ Price Range: $700-$800
- ✔ Ideal User: Aspiring home baristas
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Ease of Use: Moderate
- ✔ Price Range: $800-$900
- ✔ Ideal User: Tech-savvy beginners
Buying Advice for Your First Breville Espresso Machine
Choosing the right espresso machine as a beginner involves balancing ease of use, features, size, and budget. For most newcomers, a machine with a straightforward interface and minimal setup is ideal. The Breville Bambino Plus excels here, with its quick heat-up time and simple operation, making it the perfect entry point.
On the other hand, if you’re eager to learn and want more control over your brew, models like the Breville Barista Express BES870XL and BES870BTR offer integrated grinders and digital controls that can help you develop your skills. They’re slightly more complex but provide a richer experience as you grow more confident.
Size matters—measure your kitchen space before choosing a model. Compact options like the Bambino Plus fit well in small kitchens, while larger all-in-one systems require more counter space. Budget is also key; the Bambino Plus is budget-friendly, whereas the BES870BTR offers more features at a higher price point. Ultimately, select a machine that matches your enthusiasm level and available space to ensure a rewarding brewing journey.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
The Breville Bambino Plus (BES500BSS) stands out as the best choice for newcomers, thanks to its simple interface and fast heat-up time. It delivers third wave specialty coffee with minimal fuss, making it perfect for those just starting out.
Pros:
- Fast ThermoJet heating system
- Compact design
- Pre-infusion for balanced extraction
- Includes free coffee bags
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- No built-in grinder
- Requires manual tamping
Best for: Beginners seeking quick, quality espresso with easy setup
Not ideal for: Advanced users wanting extensive control or built-in grinders
Bottom line: A user-friendly, fast-heating espresso machine perfect for beginners.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL offers a more comprehensive experience, including an integrated grinder, making it ideal for beginners ready to explore more control over their coffee. Its all-in-one design simplifies the process from beans to espresso.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Precise espresso extraction
- Adjustable grind size
- Durable stainless steel construction
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve
- Size may be large for small kitchens
- Requires regular cleaning
Best for: Beginners wanting more control and variety in brewing
Not ideal for: Those preferring a plug-and-play experience without learning curves
Bottom line: Best for beginners ready to learn and control more of their espresso process.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR is a top-tier choice for those who want everything in one machine. Its integrated grinder and digital controls give beginners a lot of room to grow while producing café-quality espresso.
Pros:
- All-in-one grinder and espresso system
- Digital temperature control
- Pre-infusion and pressure gauge
- Sturdy build
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- More expensive
- Requires learning to master features
Best for: Beginners interested in a versatile, feature-rich machine
Not ideal for: Those preferring a simpler, more compact machine
Bottom line: A feature-packed machine for beginners who want a complete setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should a beginner espresso machine have?
A beginner espresso machine should have easy operation, quick heat-up time, consistent brewing, and minimal maintenance. Features like pre-infusion help improve flavor extraction, and a straightforward interface ensures learning is smooth.
Is a built-in grinder necessary for beginners?
While not essential, a built-in grinder simplifies the process from beans to espresso and reduces the need for additional equipment. It’s especially helpful for beginners who want to start right away without extra steps.
How much should I expect to spend on a good beginner espresso machine?
Entry-level models like the Breville Bambino Plus typically range from $500 to $600, offering excellent quality for beginners. More advanced all-in-one machines can go up to $900 but provide additional features and control.
Can I make milk-based drinks with these machines?
Yes, all three selected models have steam wands or milk frothing capabilities, allowing you to prepare lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based beverages with ease.
Start Your Espresso Adventure with Confidence
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine for beginners sets the foundation for your home coffee journey. Whether you opt for the simplicity of the Bambino Plus or the versatility of the Barista Express models, each offers a path to delicious, café-quality espresso. Focus on your space, budget, and how much control you want to learn over your brewing process to find the perfect fit. With the right machine, you’ll be brewing expert-level espresso in no time—happy brewing!
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
