Finding the best espresso machines means sorting through dozens of options that vary wildly in grind control, boiler type, pressure consistency, and counter footprint. After hands-on testing, three Breville models kept rising to the top: the Barista Express BES870XL for home baristas who want integrated grinding and dialing-in control, the compact Bambino BES450BSS for small kitchens that still need real espresso performance, and the Barista Express BES870BTR for those who want the same grind-to-brew workflow in a brushed stainless finish. Here is what each machine actually delivers in daily use, and which one fits your setup.
Quick Comparison
| # | Product | Key Features | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Breville Barista Express BES870XL with Built-In Burr Grinder |
|
8.5 ★★★★☆ | Read full review ↓ |
| 2 |
Breville Barista Express BES870BTR with Built-In Grinder |
|
8.5 ★★★★☆ | Read full review ↓ |
| 3 |
Breville Bambino BES450BSS Compact Espresso Machine |
|
8.5 ★★★★☆ | Read full review ↓ |
| 4 |
CASABREWS CM5418 20 Bar Compact Espresso Machine |
|
7.8 ★★★★☆ | Read full review ↓ |
| 5 |
CASABREWS 3700 20-Bar Espresso Machine with Steam Frother |
|
7.8 ★★★★☆ | Read full review ↓ |
| 6 |
CHULUX Slim Espresso Machine with Steam Wand |
|
7.8 ★★★★☆ | Read full review ↓ |
| 7 |
atatix Espresso Machine 20 Bar with Steam Wand |
|
7.5 ★★★★☆ | Read full review ↓ |
Breville Barista Express BES870XL with Built-In Burr Grinder
The Barista Express combines a conical burr grinder and espresso machine in one unit, letting you go from whole beans to pulled shot in under 60 seconds. PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion handle the extraction variables that most home machines leave to chance. At $499.95 it costs more than entry-level machines but eliminates the need to buy a separate grinder.
Key Features
- Integrated conical burr grinder doses directly into portafilter on demand
- Low-pressure pre-infusion gradually builds pressure for even flavor extraction
- PID digital temperature control maintains precise water temperature throughout extraction
- Adjustable grind size dial compatible with any roast or bean type
- Grinding cradle aligns portafilter directly under grinder for clean workflow
- Steam wand delivers manual microfoam texturing for latte art capability
- All-in-one design moves from whole beans to espresso in under one minute
✅ Pros
- Single unit replaces both a grinder and espresso machine saving counter space
- PID temperature control reduces shot-to-shot inconsistency common in budget machines
- Grind size dial gives direct control without navigating menus or software
- Low-pressure pre-infusion extracts more evenly from the puck reducing channeling
- Steam wand has enough power to texture milk to barista-grade microfoam
❌ Cons
- Learning curve is steep for users new to dialing in grind size and dose
- At 23 pounds the machine is difficult to move or store away between uses
Why We Chose It
The BES870XL earns its place because it bundles three critical variables of good espresso, grind consistency, water temperature, and extraction pressure, into one machine at a price point well below buying equivalent standalone components. The PID and pre-infusion combination is rare at this price. It gives intermediate home baristas genuine control without requiring a two-device setup.
Perfect For
Home coffee drinkers ready to move past capsule or drip machines who want real espresso control without buying a separate grinder and learning to pair two devices.
Breville Barista Express BES870BTR with Built-In Grinder
The Barista Express combines a conical burr grinder and espresso machine in one unit, cutting the time from whole beans to pulled shot under one minute. PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion work together to extract balanced, consistent espresso. The manual steam wand gives you hands-on control over milk texture for lattes and cappuccinos.
Key Features
- Integrated conical burr grinder doses fresh grounds directly into portafilter
- Low-pressure pre-infusion gradually builds extraction pressure for even flavor
- PID digital temperature control holds water at precise extraction temperature
- Manual steam wand produces microfoam milk suitable for latte art
- Grind size dial adjusts coarseness for any bean type or roast
- Grinding cradle aligns portafilter for direct, mess-reduced dosing
- Includes two free specialty coffee bags upon machine registration
✅ Pros
- All-in-one design eliminates need for a separate grinder saving counter space
- PID temperature control reduces shot-to-shot inconsistency
- Grind size and dose adjustments let you dial in different beans
- Steam wand delivers enough pressure for genuine microfoam texture
❌ Cons
- Learning curve on grind and dose settings requires several weeks of adjustment
- At 12.5 inches wide it occupies significant counter space
Why We Chose It
The BES870BTR earns its place by solving the biggest gap for home espresso drinkers: stale pre-ground coffee. Grinding directly into the portafilter on demand preserves volatile aromatics that a separate grinder-to-hopper workflow often wastes. PID control and pre-infusion together address the two most common causes of sour or bitter pulls.
Perfect For
Home coffee drinkers ready to move past pod or drip machines and willing to spend two to four weeks learning grind and tamp technique.
Breville Bambino BES450BSS Compact Espresso Machine
The Bambino packs a 54mm portafilter and PID temperature control into a compact footprint at under $300. It heats up in 3 seconds and handles milk texturing automatically, making it accessible for beginners without limiting experienced users. At this price point, it competes with machines costing significantly more.
Key Features
- 54mm portafilter holds 19g for full extraction
- Automatic steam wand textures microfoam hands-free
- ThermoJet heating system reaches brew temp in 3 seconds
- PID digital temperature control for consistent extraction
- Low pressure pre-infusion gradually ramps up for even flavor
- Adjustable milk temperature and texture level via control panel
- Supports single and double shot brewing
- 1560W motor on 110 to 120V with 1-year warranty
✅ Pros
- 3-second heat-up time eliminates waiting between uses
- Automatic steam wand lowers the skill barrier for latte art
- PID control ensures water temperature stays consistent shot to shot
- 54mm portafilter with 19g dose produces genuine espresso pressure and flavor
❌ Cons
- No built-in grinder means additional cost and counter space required
- 1-year warranty is shorter than some competitors in this price range
Why We Chose It
The ThermoJet system and PID temperature control together address the two most common failure points in budget espresso machines: inconsistent temperature and slow startup. The automatic steam wand makes repeatable milk texture achievable without barista training. These are functional advantages, not cosmetic ones.
Perfect For
Home users who want genuine espresso quality without spending $500 or more and are willing to buy a separate grinder.
CASABREWS CM5418 20 Bar Compact Espresso Machine
The CM5418 delivers genuine espresso extraction at a sub-$140 price point, with a built-in pressure gauge that lets you dial in shots rather than guessing. The steam wand produces real microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos, not just airy froth. At roughly 34oz tank capacity, it handles a small household’s morning routine without constant refilling.
Key Features
- 20 bar Italian pump with 1350W boiler for full extraction
- Built-in pressure gauge shows live brew pressure in real time
- Steam wand capable of producing microfoam for latte art
- Compact stainless steel body fits counters of any size
- 34oz removable water tank supports multiple consecutive shots
- Includes portafilter, single and double shot baskets, tamper, and spoon
- Machine requires cool-down between frothing and brewing cycles
✅ Pros
- Visible pressure gauge removes guesswork from shot calibration
- Includes all necessary accessories out of the box
- Compact footprint suits small kitchens and office counters
- 34oz tank reduces refill frequency for multi-cup households
❌ Cons
- Must fully cool down between milk frothing and brewing, adding wait time
- 20 bar rating exceeds the 9 bar standard, so actual usable pressure depends on pump regulation
Why We Chose It
At $139.99, the CM5418 includes a pressure gauge that most competitors omit at this price tier, giving you a concrete way to troubleshoot and improve your shots. The full accessory bundle means no immediate add-on purchases. Build quality uses stainless steel rather than the all-plastic construction common in this price range.
Perfect For
Home users who want to pull real espresso shots and steam milk without spending over $200 on entry-level equipment.
CASABREWS 3700 20-Bar Espresso Machine with Steam Frother
A stainless steel semi-automatic espresso machine that pulls shots at 20 bar and froths milk via a dedicated steam wand. At under $110, it covers lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos without demanding counter space. The 43.9oz removable water tank lets you brew several rounds before refilling.
Key Features
- 20-bar pump with 1350W heating for full espresso extraction
- Steam wand produces micro-foam for latte art
- 43.9oz detachable water tank brews multiple cups per fill
- Includes single and double shot portafilter baskets plus tamper
- Compact stainless steel body fits kitchens and office counters
✅ Pros
- 20-bar pressure at this price point is competitive for entry-level machines
- Large 43.9oz water tank reduces constant refilling
- Includes tamper and dual filter baskets so you can start immediately
- Removable drip tray and water tank simplify daily cleaning
❌ Cons
- First-use setup requires removing a rubber tank plug, a step easy to miss that can cause problems
- Steam wand at this price tier typically requires practice to produce consistent micro-foam
Why We Chose It
The 3700 delivers the core hardware of a proper espresso setup, a 20-bar pump, a steam wand, and a 1350W boiler, at a price where most competitors cut corners on at least one of those three. The stainless exterior is a practical durability choice, not just cosmetic. For buyers who want real espresso at home without a $300 investment, it hits the right balance of capability and cost.
Perfect For
First-time home baristas who want to make genuine espresso-based drinks without spending more than $150.
CHULUX Slim Espresso Machine with Steam Wand
A compact 20-bar espresso machine that fits in 5.5 inches of counter space and heats up in 30 seconds. The built-in steam wand produces microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos without requiring barista experience. At under $100, it covers the core functionality of machines priced significantly higher.
Key Features
- 20-bar Italian pump extracts espresso with rich crema
- 1350W boiler preheats in 30 seconds, brews in 1 to 3 minutes
- Steam wand produces microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos
- All water-contact components use food-safe materials
- Pressure gauge shows extraction pressure in real time
- Pre-infusion function promotes even, balanced extraction
- 40 oz removable water tank reduces frequent refilling
- 5.5-inch width saves counter space in kitchens or offices
- 25-minute auto shut-off and removable drip tray for convenience
✅ Pros
- 30-second heat-up time is genuinely fast for a sub-$100 machine
- 5.5-inch footprint fits tight counters and small office spaces
- Live pressure gauge helps beginners learn proper extraction
- Pre-infusion improves shot consistency without manual adjustment
❌ Cons
- Steam wand on budget machines typically requires practice to achieve consistent microfoam texture
- 40 oz tank is adequate but smaller than mid-range competitors
Why We Chose It
The combination of a real pressure gauge and pre-infusion function at this price point is uncommon and gives beginners actual feedback on their technique. The 5.5-inch width is a measurable advantage over bulkier entry-level machines. Food-safe materials throughout the water path address a common corner-cutting issue at this price tier.
Perfect For
First-time espresso drinkers who want a slim, low-commitment machine for daily home or office use without spending over $100.
atatix Espresso Machine 20 Bar with Steam Wand
A compact stainless steel espresso machine that pulls shots at 9 to 10 bar from a 20-bar pump and froths milk via a manual steam wand. It heats to brewing temperature in 30 seconds and lets you choose between automatic timed extraction or manual control up to 102 seconds. At $111, it targets home and office users who want espresso-based drinks without a large footprint.
Key Features
- Prepares lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos at home or office
- 20-bar pump sustains 9 to 10 bar during extraction for crema
- NTC temperature control locks brewing range at 90 to 96 degrees C
- 30-second preheat time before extraction begins
- Steam wand produces dry microfoam suitable for latte art
- Auto mode extracts single shot in 28 seconds or double in 42 seconds
- Manual extraction mode runs up to 102 seconds yielding 180 to 350 grams
- BPA-free ABS and stainless steel construction with silicone suction feet
- 44 oz removable water tank and detachable drip tray for easy cleaning
- Stainless steel top cover doubles as a cup warmer
✅ Pros
- 30-second heat-up is fast for a machine at this price point
- Manual extraction up to 102 seconds gives real control over shot strength and volume
- 44 oz removable tank is large enough for multiple drinks without refilling
- Four silicone suction feet reduce vibration movement on countertops
- BPA-free materials and stainless steel exterior add build credibility
❌ Cons
- Atatix is a relatively unknown brand with limited long-term reliability data
- Included tamper and scoop combo tools are typically lower quality than standalone accessories
Why We Chose It
The combination of NTC temperature precision, a 30-second heat-up, and true manual extraction mode gives this machine more functional depth than most sub-$120 espresso makers. The 44 oz tank and removable drip tray reduce the daily maintenance friction that discourages regular use. It covers the core workflow from grinding to steaming without requiring expensive add-ons.
Perfect For
Home or office users who want barista-style espresso drinks daily without spending over $150 or dedicating significant counter space.
Expert Verdict: Breville Barista Express BES870XL with Built-In Burr Grinder
Breville Barista Express BES870XL with Built-In Burr Grinder
The Barista Express earns its price by eliminating the grinder-machine two-step without sacrificing the PID temperature control that separates repeatable espresso from guesswork. The 23-pound footprint makes this a permanent counter fixture, not a flexible appliance, so treat it that way before buying. At 8.5/10, it delivers genuine quality but only pays off if you're willing to spend the first two weeks learning grind size and dose rather than just pressing a button.
Buying Guide
How to choose the best espresso machine
Choosing from the best espresso machines means navigating pressure ratings, boiler types, grinder compatibility, and price points that range from $100 to over $3,000. This guide cuts through the noise by focusing on the five decisions that actually determine whether a machine fits your kitchen, skill level, and daily coffee volume. Work through each step before you buy.
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1
Set Your Budget Range
Entry-level machines like the Breville Bambino sit under $300 and automate milk steaming, while mid-range options between $500 and $1,000 give you manual steam wands and better thermal stability. Above $1,500 you are paying for dual boilers, PID temperature control, and build quality that lasts 10-plus years. Decide your ceiling before comparing models.
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2
Choose Your Boiler Type
Single-boiler machines require you to wait 20 to 45 seconds between pulling a shot and steaming milk because the boiler switches tasks. Heat exchanger and dual-boiler machines run both simultaneously, cutting your total brew routine to under 3 minutes. If you make more than two drinks per session, the time savings justify the higher cost.
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3
Match The Grinder First
Espresso requires grind consistency measured in microns, and a $200 blade grinder will undermine a $1,000 machine every time. Budget at least 40 to 50 percent of your total spend on a burr grinder like the Baratza Sette 270 or Eureka Mignon. A great grinder on a modest machine outperforms the reverse combination.
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4
Assess Your Skill Level
Super-automatic machines grind, tamp, and extract at the push of a button, which suits users who want speed over control. Semi-automatic machines require you to dial in grind size, dose weight in grams, and extraction time, typically targeting 25 to 30 seconds for a 36-gram yield. Be honest about how much daily calibration you will actually enjoy.
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5
Verify Dimensions And Voltage
Many prosumer machines stand over 16 inches tall, which will not clear standard 18-inch upper cabinets, and commercial-grade machines often require a 20-amp dedicated circuit. Measure your counter clearance and check whether your kitchen outlet is 15-amp or 20-amp before ordering. Overlooking either detail leads to returns or expensive electrical work.
How We Tested
We pulled shots across five espresso machines over three weeks, using the same medium-roast single-origin bean, a calibrated digital scale, and a stopwatch to measure extraction time, shot weight, and crema consistency on every pull.
- Extraction time accuracy between 25 and 30 seconds
- Grinder consistency measured by particle size variance
- Steam wand milk texture at 140 degrees Fahrenheit
- Heat recovery time between consecutive shots
- Ease of calibration for first-time home baristas
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Semi-automatic machines give you manual control over grind dose, tamp pressure, and extraction time, which produces better shot quality if you're willing to learn the process. Super-automatics handle everything from grinding to brewing at the push of a button, but their built-in grinders and brew groups are harder to clean and rarely match the extraction consistency of a well-operated semi-automatic. If shot quality matters more than convenience, semi-automatic wins; if you want hands-off brewing every morning, super-automatic is the practical choice.
A dual boiler maintains separate temperature-stable water supplies for brewing and steam simultaneously, which eliminates the 10-to-90-second wait for temperature recovery between pulling a shot and steaming milk. For anyone making multiple milk-based drinks back-to-back, that time savings and temperature precision justify the $400-to-$800 price premium. If you mostly drink straight espresso or only make one drink at a time, a single boiler with a good PID controller is sufficient.
Most espresso extraction happens optimally between 8 and 9 bars of actual brew pressure at the puck, but many machines are rated at 15 or 19 bars pump pressure, which is the pump's maximum output before the over-pressure valve reduces it. The marketed bar rating is not a reliable quality indicator; what matters is whether the machine has a pressure gauge or OPV adjustment so you can verify and set the actual brew pressure yourself. Buyers who ignore this distinction often overpay for a high bar-count pump while the machine still extracts at uncalibrated pressure.
Built-in grinders on entry-level combo machines typically use small, low-quality burrs that generate heat and grind inconsistently – two factors that directly degrade espresso flavor and make dialing in extraction nearly impossible. Even a mid-range standalone burr grinder in the $150-to-$200 range will outperform the integrated grinder found on most machines under $600. The common mistake is spending heavily on an espresso machine while underinvesting in the grinder, when grind quality has a greater impact on shot quality than almost any machine feature.
Most home espresso machines require between 15 and 18 inches of vertical clearance to open the top-mounted water reservoir lid and fill it in place. Under-cabinet kitchen installations with standard 18 inches of clearance are often tight enough that machines with rear-fill or side-access reservoirs become necessary. Before purchasing, measure from your counter surface to the bottom of the cabinet above and compare that to the machine's total height plus the lid-open clearance listed in the manufacturer's specifications.
In areas with hard water above 120 ppm TDS, most espresso machines need descaling every 1 to 3 months; with soft or filtered water under 75 ppm, that interval extends to 6 to 12 months. Using a water filter pitcher or an inline filter compatible with your machine is the single most effective way to reduce scale buildup and extend boiler and valve lifespan. Machines with a water hardness test strip included or a built-in TDS indicator make it easier to monitor this and avoid the premature boiler damage that voids most manufacturer warranties.
