If space is at a premium but you still crave high-quality espresso at home, choosing the right machine is essential. Breville offers several compact options that deliver professional results without sacrificing countertop real estate. In this roundup, we’ve selected the best Breville espresso machines suited for small counters, focusing on size, features, and value.
Our picks emphasize ease of use, quality espresso, and compact design, making them ideal for small kitchens or limited space settings. Each product is evaluated to help you find the perfect balance of performance and size.
Key Takeaways
| Compact Footprint | All selected models fit well in small spaces without sacrificing functionality. |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly features like pre-infusion and fast heat-up times simplify brewing. |
| Value for Money | Balanced features and quality at accessible price points. |
| Built-in Grinder | Some models include integrated grinders for fresh beans and convenience. |
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...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- ✔ Dimensions: 7.7 x 12.6 x 13 inches
- ✔ Weight: 10.4 lbs
- ✔ Heating System: ThermoJet
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Dimensions: 7.7 x 12.6 x 13 inches
- ✔ Weight: 10.4 lbs
- ✔ Heating System: ThermoJet
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Dimensions: 12.5 x 12.5 x 16 inches
- ✔ Weight: 23 lbs
- ✔ Grinder: Integrated conical burr
Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Buying Advice for Small Space Espresso Machines
When choosing an espresso machine for a small counter, consider the size and footprint first. Look for models that are compact yet still offer essential features like pre-infusion and fast heat-up times. Also, decide if you want a machine with an integrated grinder or if you’ll use pre-ground coffee.
Ease of use is crucial—machines with simple controls and quick setup make daily brewing more enjoyable. Lastly, evaluate your budget to find a model that balances performance with affordability.
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
- Size and Footprint: Ensure the machine fits comfortably on your countertop.
- Heating System: Fast heat-up systems like ThermoJet save time.
- Built-in Grinder: For convenience and fresher espresso, consider models with integrated grinders.
- Ease of Use: Simple controls and minimal setup are ideal for beginners.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
The Breville Bambino Plus (B07JVD78TT) stands out as the best overall choice for small counters, offering professional-quality espresso with a sleek, space-efficient design. Its ThermoJet heating system ensures quick warm-up, and the 54mm porta-filter with 19 grams of coffee delivers full flavor despite its small footprint.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Easy to operate with simple controls
- Consistent extraction thanks to pre-infusion
- Compact size fits small counters
Cons:
- Limited steam power for frothing thick milk
- No built-in grinder
Best for: Home baristas who want quick, quality espresso in a small space
Not ideal for: Users requiring high-volume or advanced steaming capabilities
Bottom line: Excellent all-around compact espresso machine with quick performance and consistent results.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus (B0CDLYFD9M) offers a straightforward espresso experience with a compact design, ideal for beginners or those with limited space. Its simple interface and quick heat-up make it easy to brew cafe-quality espresso at home without a lot of fuss.
Pros:
- Simple operation suitable for beginners
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact and stylish design
- Good value for budget-conscious buyers
Cons:
- Limited steaming power for complex milk-based drinks
- No integrated grinder
Best for: New espresso enthusiasts with small kitchens
Not ideal for: Advanced users wanting high-power steaming or grinder options
Bottom line: A beginner-friendly, space-efficient espresso machine with quick setup and decent performance.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express (B0GKQFHV6X) offers a more comprehensive experience for small-space enthusiasts who want an integrated grinder and precise control. While slightly larger than other compact models, its features are optimized for quality and convenience in limited spaces.
Pros:
- Integrated conical burr grinder
- Precise espresso extraction
- All-in-one design saves counter space
- Customizable grind and dose
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint
- More complex setup for beginners
Best for: Experienced users who want a compact all-in-one machine
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those with extremely tight spaces
Bottom line: Perfect for small kitchens wanting a versatile, all-in-one espresso solution with grinder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size should I look for in a small espresso machine?
Aim for models with dimensions under 13 inches in width and depth to ensure they fit comfortably in limited counter space.
Are compact espresso machines as good as larger ones?
High-quality compact machines like the Breville Bambino Plus deliver excellent espresso, though they may have fewer features like high-powered steaming or built-in grinders.
Is a built-in grinder necessary for small spaces?
Not always. A separate grinder or pre-ground coffee can work well, but a machine with an integrated grinder offers convenience and fresher espresso in a small footprint.
How important is the heat-up time?
Very important—machines with quick heat-up like ThermoJet allow you to brew espresso with minimal wait, ideal for busy mornings.
Small Space, Big Flavor: Find Your Perfect Breville Match
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine for small counters means balancing size, features, and ease of use. The Bambino Plus variants stand out for their compact design and reliable performance, making them top choices for space-conscious home baristas. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s a Breville model that fits your needs and countertop.
With the right machine, you can enjoy cafe-quality espresso every day, even in the tightest of spaces.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
