If you’ve ever dreamed of whipping up barista‑level lattes without trekking to the nearest coffee shop, you’re not alone. The allure of a tiny powerhouse that can sit on a kitchen countertop and deliver velvety espresso shots is hard to resist, especially when space is at a premium.
That’s where the best breville compact cafe espresso machine steps into the spotlight, promising both style and substance in a sleek, space‑saving design. In this review, we’ll put this compact marvel through its paces—testing everything from grind‑to‑brew consistency to steam wand performance.
Whether you’re a seasoned espresso enthusiast or just starting your home‑café journey, discovering how the best breville compact cafe espresso machine balances portability with professional‑grade results will help you decide if it truly earns its lofty reputation.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Breville Compact Cafe Espresso Machine Compared
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS
- Fast 3‑second heat‑up via ThermoJet
- Precise PID temperature control ensures optimal extraction
- Automatic steam wand produces silky microfoam effortlessly
- Compact footprint fits snugly on countertops
4.5/5
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Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- Integrated grinder for beans‑to‑espresso speed
- Digital PID temperature control ensures perfect extraction
- Adjustable grind size dial for bean versatility
- Powerful steam wand creates micro‑foam latte art
4.7/5
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Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BSXL
- Integrated grinder delivers fresh beans on demand
- PID temperature control ensures consistent espresso extraction
- Low-pressure pre-infusion enhances flavor balance
- Dual-wall filter baskets allow single or double shots
4.3/5
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Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- Lightning‑fast 3‑second heat‑up time
- Compact 7.7‑inch width fits small kitchens
- Automatic micro‑foam wand delivers barista‑grade milk
- Precise PID temperature control ensures consistent espresso
4.5/5
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Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville
- Compact footprint fits any kitchen countertop
- Fast 25‑second heat‑up for quick brewing
- Energy‑saving auto shut‑off conserves power
- Simple one‑touch operation for single‑serve espresso
4.4/5
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Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS
- Integrated grinder with precise dose control
- Rapid 3‑second ThermoJet heat‑up
- Touchscreen with customizable coffee profiles
- Automatic micro‑foam wand for latte art
4.6/5
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Espresso Machine with Milk Frother
- 20 bar pressure yields rich espresso
- Built-in milk frother creates creamy foam
- Compact design fits any kitchen space
- Easy-to-clean detachable water tank for maintenance
4.5/5
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Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BTR
- Fast 3‑second heat‑up with ThermoJet
- Compact 7.7‑inch footprint fits tight spaces
- Automatic micro‑foam wand produces barista‑grade milk
- Precise PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction
4.6/5
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CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar
- 20‑bar pump delivers café‑grade extraction
- Powerful steam wand creates micro‑foam easily
- Stainless steel design adds sleek durability
- Compact size fits small kitchens
4.7/5
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Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS
- Impress puck system simplifies espresso preparation
- Intelligent dosing ensures perfect coffee dosage
- Thermocoil PID maintains consistent temperature
- Assisted tamping delivers professional‑grade puck
4.6/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Breville Compact Cafe Espresso Machine
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Fast 3‑second heat‑up via ThermoJet

What makes this different is its ThermoJet heating system, which brings water to brewing temperature in just three seconds, eliminating the usual wait time. This rapid heat‑up means you can pull a shot almost instantly, perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous espresso cravings. Despite its compact footprint, the Bambino delivers performance you’d expect from a larger machine, fitting snugly on any countertop without sacrificing power.
The 54 mm portafilter combined with a 19‑gram dose capacity ensures full flavor extraction, while low‑pressure pre‑infusion gently builds pressure for a balanced cup. Paired with digital PID temperature control, each brew maintains the optimal temperature, producing consistently rich espresso with nuanced crema. Coffee enthusiasts will notice the quality of extraction even with single‑serve quantities.
For milk lovers, the automatic steam wand stands out, offering adjustable temperature and texture settings that create velvety microfoam at the touch of a button. This hands‑free operation makes latte art achievable for beginners and delivers café‑style drinks without guesswork. The ability to fine‑tune milk temperature means you can craft everything from silky cappuccinos to hot chocolate with confidence.
Beyond the hardware, Breville adds value with a one‑year limited warranty and a promotional offer of two specialty coffee bags upon registration, giving you fresh beans to test the machine right away. The Bambino’s blend of speed, precision, and user‑friendly features makes it an excellent entry‑level espresso solution that doesn’t compromise on durability or taste.
Pros
- Fast 3‑second heat‑up via ThermoJet
- Precise PID temperature control ensures optimal extraction
- Automatic steam wand produces silky microfoam effortlessly
- Compact footprint fits snugly on countertops
- 54mm portafilter handles 19g dose for rich flavor
Cons
- Small tank needs frequent refilling
- No grinder; beans not as fresh
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL – Integrated grinder for beans‑to‑espresso speed

The integrated conical burr grinder instantly sets the Barista Express apart, delivering beans‑to‑espresso in under a minute. By grinding on demand, it eliminates stale pre‑ground coffee and gives you precise control over dose size. This speed and freshness let home baristas experiment with single‑origin beans without sacrificing consistency.
Dose‑control grinding is fine‑tuned through the rear‑mounted grind‑size dial, allowing you to dial in coarse French‑press grinds or ultra‑fine espresso settings with equal ease. The 1/2‑lb bean hopper holds enough beans for multiple brews, while the included 54 mm portafilter and dual‑wall baskets give you professional‑grade extraction at home. Digital PID temperature control maintains water at the exact heat required for optimal espresso, while low‑pressure pre‑infusion gently expands the coffee puck for balanced flavor development.
The powerful steam wand produces micro‑foam that’s smooth enough for latte art, making milk‑based drinks feel café‑quality without a separate machine. Beyond performance, the Barista Express ships with a full suite of accessories—tamper, razor‑dose trimmer, stainless‑steel milk jug, cleaning tools, and a replaceable water filter—so you can maintain durability and convenience long term. The 67‑oz water tank supports multiple drinks before refilling, and new owners receive two complimentary specialty coffee bags, adding immediate value to the purchase.
Overall, it brings café‑level control to everyday kitchens.
Pros
- Integrated grinder for beans‑to‑espresso speed
- Digital PID temperature control ensures perfect extraction
- Adjustable grind size dial for bean versatility
- Powerful steam wand creates micro‑foam latte art
Cons
- Bulky size can clutter small countertops
- Learning curve for grind and tamp
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BSXL – Integrated grinder delivers fresh beans on demand

The integrated precision conical burr grinder immediately sets this apart, delivering freshly ground beans directly into the portafilter in under a minute. This on‑demand grinding eliminates waste and lets you dial in the exact dose for each shot, a true quality boost for home baristas craving specialty‑grade espresso. Combined with Breville’s digital PID temperature control, the machine maintains water at the optimal brewing temperature, ensuring consistent extraction shot after shot.
The low‑pressure pre‑infusion gradually ramps up pressure, pulling out nuanced flavors for a balanced cup, while the 15‑bar pump provides the performance needed for rich crema. The powerful steam wand offers manual microfoam texturing, giving you the control to create silky milk for latte art or a velvety cappuccino. Included accessories—stainless‑steel milk jug, tamper, and razor dose trimming tool—make routine cleaning and preparation effortless, adding to its versatility in daily use.
With a 1/2‑lb bean hopper and 67‑oz water tank, the Barista Express handles multiple drinks before refilling, and its single‑ and dual‑wall filter baskets let you switch between single or double shots instantly. Backed by a one‑year limited warranty and a 1600‑Watt motor, it delivers reliable durability that justifies its price point for anyone serious about coffee at home.
Pros
- Integrated grinder delivers fresh beans on demand
- PID temperature control ensures consistent espresso extraction
- Low-pressure pre-infusion enhances flavor balance
- Dual-wall filter baskets allow single or double shots
Cons
- Grind size dial may confuse beginners
- 67‑oz water tank needs regular refills
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS – Lightning‑fast 3‑second heat‑up time

What makes the Breville Bambino Plus different is its ThermoJet heating system, reaching brewing temperature in just three seconds. That rapid warm‑up eliminates the typical waiting period, letting you pull a shot almost as soon as you decide you’re craving espresso. Its compact 7.7‑inch footprint means it slips onto tight countertops without sacrificing the professional‑grade performance you’d expect from a larger machine.
The machine’s 54 mm portafilter, calibrated for a 19‑gram dose, pairs with low‑pressure pre‑infusion to draw out balanced flavors from each grind. Combined with digital PID temperature control, the Bambino Plus maintains the exact water temperature needed for optimal extraction, delivering a consistently high‑quality cup day after day. This dose‑control focus aligns perfectly with third‑wave coffee enthusiasts who value precision over convenience.
Milk lovers will appreciate the automatic micro‑foam wand, which lets you fine‑tune temperature and texture at the touch of a button. Whether you’re crafting a silky latte or a frothy cappuccino, the wand produces barista‑level micro‑foam ready for latte art. After steaming, an auto‑purge cycle stabilizes the system, so your next espresso isn’t compromised by residual heat.
Overall, the Bambino Plus offers a compelling blend of performance, durability, and value. The two‑year limited warranty and 1560‑watt power draw provide confidence for daily use, while the speedy heat‑up and intuitive controls make it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned home baristas.
Pros
- Lightning‑fast 3‑second heat‑up time
- Compact 7.7‑inch width fits small kitchens
- Automatic micro‑foam wand delivers barista‑grade milk
- Precise PID temperature control ensures consistent espresso
Cons
- No built‑in grinder; needs separate grinder
- Water tank only 1.8 L; refills frequent
Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville – Compact footprint fits any kitchen countertop

If you’re looking for café‑level espresso in a space‑saving footprint, the Nespresso Essenza Mini delivers precisely that. Its minimalist silhouette measures just a few inches wide, making it ideal for snug countertops, dorm rooms, or office break‑areas where every inch counts. Despite its tiny size, the machine feels solid, with a sleek brushed‑metal finish that adds a touch of modern quality to any kitchen décor.
The standout performance feature is the rapid 25‑second heat‑up, which means you can go from bean to cup almost instantly. Coupled with an automatic energy‑saving shut‑off, the Essenza Mini not only respects your schedule but also helps keep electricity bills low. A single button brews two cup sizes—espresso or lungo—so you get barista‑grade drinks without the learning curve of manual tamping or grind adjustments.
The consistent pressure and temperature ensure each shot is rich, crema‑topped, and ready to savor. New to Nespresso? The included starter capsule assortment lets you explore a variety of blends right out of the box, turning first‑time users into loyal fans.
The straightforward water‑level indicator and removable drip tray simplify cleaning, while the compact water reservoir is easy to refill. This hassle‑free design supports busy mornings, quick office breaks, or relaxed weekend sipping. Overall, the Essenza Mini offers a compelling blend of performance, convenience, and style at a price point that feels generous.
While the small water tank and absence of a built‑in milk frother may limit heavy‑use scenarios, for most coffee enthusiasts seeking a reliable, space‑efficient espresso solution, this machine hits the mark.
Pros
- Compact footprint fits any kitchen countertop
- Fast 25‑second heat‑up for quick brewing
- Energy‑saving auto shut‑off conserves power
- Simple one‑touch operation for single‑serve espresso
- Includes starter capsule set for immediate use
Cons
- Small tank needs frequent refills
- No milk frother limits beverage options
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS – Integrated grinder with precise dose control

The integrated precision conical burr grinder immediately sets the Barista Touch apart, delivering dose‑controlled coffee at the touch of a button. This eliminates the guesswork of manual dosing and ensures each shot extracts the full spectrum of flavor from your beans, whether you’re pulling a single ristretto or a full double. Thanks to the innovative ThermoJet heating system, the machine reaches optimal extraction temperature in just three seconds, while the PID‑controlled water flow provides consistent pressure for a balanced brew.
Low‑pressure pre‑infusion gently awakens grounds, extracting subtle aromatics that would be lost with a harsher pump‑start, resulting in a cup that feels both rich and nuanced. The 3‑inch touchscreen streamlines the process into three intuitive steps—Grind, Brew, Milk—allowing you to fine‑tune strength, temperature, and milk texture. The automatic micro‑foam wand creates velvety micro‑foam ideal for latte art, and you can save up to eight personalized recipes, making it easy for multiple users to enjoy their preferred style without re‑programming each time.
Beyond the core brewing features, the Barista Touch ships with a full stainless‑steel portafilter, dual‑wall filter baskets, a 480 ml water jug, and a ClaroSwiss water filter, supporting both convenience and quality. Backed by a two‑year limited warranty and a power rating of 1680 W, it offers robust performance and durability for serious home baristas seeking café‑level results.
Pros
- Integrated grinder with precise dose control
- Rapid 3‑second ThermoJet heat‑up
- Touchscreen with customizable coffee profiles
- Automatic micro‑foam wand for latte art
Cons
- Bulky size can dominate kitchen counter
- Higher price than many manual machines
Espresso Machine with Milk Frother – 20 bar pressure yields rich espresso

The 20‑bar pressure system immediately sets this espresso machine apart, delivering café‑grade extraction at home. With a powerful 1350 W motor, it pushes water through the coffee grounds at the optimal force, ensuring every shot bursts with rich flavor and a velvety crema that rivals professional cafés. Equally impressive is the integrated milk frothing system.
The robust steam wand produces silky micro‑foam, perfect for latte art, cappuccinos, or a simple macchiato. Its compact footprint fits neatly on any countertop, while the detachable water tank and drip tray make cleaning a breeze. The package even includes a portafilter, funnel, and tamper, so you’re ready to experiment from day one.
Precision isn’t an afterthought either: an NTC temperature control guarantees water reaches the ideal brewing temperature, and the automatic pre‑heat function eliminates guesswork. For those who like to fine‑tune their brew, the manual extraction mode lets you control pull time up to 102 seconds, delivering between 180‑350 grams of coffee. Constructed from ABS and stainless steel, the machine feels sturdy and durable, with silicone suction cups that keep it stable during operation.
Overall, it blends performance, convenience, and style, making it an excellent addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.
Pros
- 20 bar pressure yields rich espresso
- Built-in milk frother creates creamy foam
- Compact design fits any kitchen space
- Easy-to-clean detachable water tank for maintenance
- Manual extraction lets customize brew strength
Cons
- Footprint a bit large for tiny kitchens
- Manual mode limited to 102 seconds
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BTR – Fast 3‑second heat‑up with ThermoJet

What makes this different is its rapid ThermoJet heating system, which brings the machine to brewing temperature in just three seconds. The blazing warm‑up eliminates the usual waiting, letting you pull a shot almost as soon as you decide. Its 7.7‑inch width means it slips onto even cramped countertops without sacrificing the full four‑key espresso formula.
The 54 mm portafilter holds a solid 19 grams of ground coffee, giving you precise dose control and balanced extraction. Low‑pressure pre‑infusion gently builds up pressure before the full pump kicks in, drawing out nuanced flavors for a cup that feels café‑quality at home. Digital PID temperature control keeps water at the exact ideal level, so every shot delivers consistent performance.
One of the most convenient features is the automatic micro‑foam wand. You can set both milk temperature and texture, producing silky micro‑foam that holds latte art and enhances coffee flavor. After steaming, the auto‑purge cycle clears the boiler, guaranteeing the next espresso starts at the right temperature without manual intervention.
Beyond the hardware, Breville adds value with a two‑year limited warranty and a promotional offer of two free specialty‑coffee bags upon registration. At 1560 W and a 110‑120 V rating it fits standard US outlets, while the intuitive control panel lets you choose one or two cups with a single touch. For anyone craving café‑grade espresso in a space‑saving package, the Bambino Plus delivers quality results without compromising on durability or ease of use.
Pros
- Fast 3‑second heat‑up with ThermoJet
- Compact 7.7‑inch footprint fits tight spaces
- Automatic micro‑foam wand produces barista‑grade milk
- Precise PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction
- Two‑year limited warranty adds peace of mind
Cons
- No built‑in grinder limits bean freshness
- Small water tank needs frequent refills
CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar – 20‑bar pump delivers café‑grade extraction

The 20‑bar professional pump immediately sets this espresso machine apart, delivering café‑quality pressure in a compact home unit. Its stainless‑steel exterior not only looks sleek but also promises durability, standing up to daily use. Despite its powerful capabilities, the CM5418 occupies a modest footprint, perfect for cramped kitchens or office countertops.
The removable 34 oz water reservoir simplifies refilling, keeping the workflow smooth. Equipped with a 1350 W boiler and the 20‑bar Italian pump, the machine achieves consistent performance that extracts rich aromas and a thick, golden crema. The integrated pressure gauge lets you monitor real‑time pressure, enabling fine‑tuning for personal taste preferences—whether you favor a bold espresso or a smoother lungo.
This level of control mirrors the experience of a professional barista right at home. The robust steam wand produces silky micro‑foam with minimal effort, allowing you to craft latte art or a velvety cappuccino effortlessly. By delivering steady steam pressure, the frother maintains quality milk texture without temperature spikes that can scald the coffee.
This makes the CM5418 a versatile companion for a range of espresso‑based drinks, from classic macchiatos to modern flat whites. Practicality shines with its dual‑brew filters for single or double shots and an included tamper‑spoon combo, so you’re ready to brew right out of the box. The detachable water tank holds enough to pull several cups before refilling, yet remains easy to clean.
Keep in mind the machine needs a short cooling period after frothing milk to avoid the built‑in over‑heat protection—a simple step for reliable long‑term operation.
Pros
- 20‑bar pump delivers café‑grade extraction
- Powerful steam wand creates micro‑foam easily
- Stainless steel design adds sleek durability
- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Large 34 oz removable water tank
Cons
- Needs cooling after frothing milk
- Water tank must be refilled frequently
Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS – Impress puck system simplifies espresso preparation

The Impress puck system immediately sets this apart, simplifying manual espresso making for home baristas while delivering third‑wave specialty coffee quality. Its intuitive “puck” design lets you load grounds, tamp, and brew with minimal guesswork, so even beginners can achieve a café‑style shot without a steep learning curve. Smart intelligent dosing automatically calculates the ideal dose for each brew, and the precision measurement feature fine‑tunes the next dose, guaranteeing consistency shot after shot.
Coupled with 25 grind settings on the integrated conical burr grinder, you have full control over extraction nuances, whether you prefer a bright single or a rich double shot. The Thermocoil heating system, governed by PID control, delivers rock‑solid temperature stability, while the powerful microfoam steam wand produces velvety milk for latte art. Meanwhile, assisted tamping replicates a professional barista’s 10 kg pressure and 7° twist, creating a perfectly flat puck surface that enhances flavor clarity and crema.
Beyond performance, the machine offers generous capacity—a 250 g bean hopper, 2 L water tank, and a suite of accessories including portafilters, filter baskets, a stainless‑steel milk jug, and a razor‑precision trimming tool. Registering the unit also nets you two complimentary bags of specialty coffee, adding tangible value to a premium home espresso experience.
Pros
- Impress puck system simplifies espresso preparation
- Intelligent dosing ensures perfect coffee dosage
- Thermocoil PID maintains consistent temperature
- Assisted tamping delivers professional‑grade puck
Cons
- Size may be too big for tiny kitchens
- Advanced dosing adds learning curve
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Breville Compact Cafe Espresso Machine
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Frequently Asked Questions about Best Breville Compact Cafe Espresso Machine
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Conclusion: The Final Verdict
After careful consideration of all the options, we believe the Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS stands out as the best overall choice for most users. It offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and value. Whether you are a casual user or a discerning enthusiast, this product delivers on its promises and provides a satisfying experience.