Finding a Breville espresso machine that fits small counters can be challenging, as many models are bulky or lack space-efficient features. The Breville BES870XL Barista Express remains a top choice for its balance of performance and size, but the Bambino Plus offers a more compact footprint for tight spaces. The main tradeoffs in this category involve balancing size without sacrificing brewing quality or features. Compact models tend to compromise on advanced controls or steam power, while larger ones provide more versatility. Continue reading for the full breakdown of these six top options, helping you choose the best fit for your limited kitchen space.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville espresso machine for small counters is the BES870XL, offering a strong balance of features and size.
- The Bambino Plus stands out for its ultra-compact design, ideal for very tight spaces, at the expense of some advanced customization.
- Premium models like the BES881BTR provide more automation and touch controls but are larger and more expensive.
- Manual control models favor users comfortable with dialing in espresso but can be less forgiving for beginners.
- Size is the primary factor, but users should also consider whether they want features like automatic milk frothing or manual operation.
| Breville BES876BTR Barista Express Impress, Black Truffle |  | Best for Professional-Quality Results in a Compact Form | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BTR Barista Touch Impress, Black Truffle |  | Best for Customization and Ease of Use with Touchscreen Control | Auto Steam Wand: Yes | Cold Brew Function: Yes | Alternative Milk Settings: 3 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Automatic Microfoam and User-Friendly Operation | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Compact Size and Quick Heat-Up | Weight: not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Small Kitchen Convenience and Easy Use | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 V | Water Heating System: ThermoJet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas with Limited Space | Capacity: 67 oz Water Tank | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lb | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| breville espresso machines for small counters guide 3 | Included Accessories | Power | Warranty | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES876BTR Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville BES881BTR Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 1680 Watts | 2 Years | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — | 1560 Watts | 2 Year Limited | 110-120 V |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Single Wall & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | 1560 Watts | 1 Year Limited | 110-120 V |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | 1 Year Limited | 120 Volts |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES876BTR Barista Express Impress, Black Truffle
This machine stands out for its combination of professional espresso-making features with a stylish design tailored for small spaces. Unlike the Breville BES870XL, which offers similar capabilities but lacks the auto tamping and intelligent dosing, this model simplifies operations with assisted tamping and auto correction features, making it more user-friendly for those seeking café-quality drinks without extensive barista skills. However, the setup can be complex for absolute beginners, and its size might be a concern for very tight kitchens. The built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings allows flavor customization, elevating its appeal for users who want both convenience and control. Its high price and relative bulk mean it’s better suited for serious enthusiasts rather than casual users or tiny kitchens.
Pros:- Professional-level espresso and milk frothing capabilities
- Intuitive features like auto dosing and assisted tamping
- Built-in conical burr grinder for flavor customization
Cons:- Complex setup can be intimidating for beginners
- Relatively high price point and bulky size
Best for: Home baristas who want professional-grade features and stylish design in a small footprint.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with extremely limited counter space or those on a tight budget, due to size and cost.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto correct dosing, assisted tamping, Thermocoil heating system, hot water functionality
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for serious home users who prioritize café-quality results and don’t mind a larger footprint and higher investment.”
Breville BES881BTR Barista Touch Impress, Black Truffle
This model excels for users who want a high level of personalization combined with ease of operation. Its touchscreen interface and assisted tamping make crafting drinks straightforward, contrasting with the more manual operation of the BES876BTR. The inclusion of advanced features like auto steam wand, cold brew function, and multiple milk options appeals to those who enjoy experimenting with specialty drinks. Yet, the machine’s complexity can pose a learning curve for newcomers, and its higher price might be a barrier for casual users. Compared to the BES880BTR, it offers more customization but might be overkill for someone seeking simplicity. It’s best suited for tech-savvy coffee lovers who enjoy fine-tuning their experience.
Pros:- Auto steam wand and assisted tamping for consistent results
- Touchscreen interface with customizable preset drinks
- Includes cold brew and multiple milk options
Cons:- Complex features may overwhelm new users
- High price point for casual coffee drinkers
Best for: Home baristas who value customization, touchscreen controls, and advanced features.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those on a strict budget, as it has a steep learning curve and premium price.
- Auto Steam Wand:Yes
- Cold Brew Function:Yes
- Alternative Milk Settings:3
- Barista Guidance:Yes
- Grinder:Baratza European precision conical burr, 30 grind settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for experienced home users seeking a versatile, customizable espresso experience with modern controls.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The BES880BTR shines for those who want automatic microfoam milk texturing combined with a touchscreen interface. It’s a step up from the Bambino Plus in terms of automation, offering faster heat-up thanks to ThermoJet technology and precise dose grinding. While the Bambino Plus is more compact, the BES880BTR adds advanced features and a slightly larger water tank, making it better suited for frequent home use with a focus on convenience. Its automatic milk texturing and customizable settings make it appealing for users who prefer minimal manual effort, but the higher price and complexity may deter beginners. Compared with the Bambino Plus, it offers more automation but at the expense of a slightly larger size and cost.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen for easy customization and operation
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
Cons:- Higher price point compared to more manual options
- Some features might require a learning curve
Best for: Home users who want quick, consistent results with minimal manual operation and enjoy automated features.
Not ideal for: Casual users on a tight budget or those preferring a manual espresso process for learning purposes.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is well-suited for those who prioritize convenience and consistency over manual control and lower cost.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus stands out for its compact design, making it ideal for small kitchens where space is limited. Its ThermoJet technology provides an incredibly quick heat-up time, and the automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing—perfect for users who want café-quality drinks without fuss. It compares favorably to larger models like the BES880BTR by fitting easily into tight spaces, but it’s limited to just one or two cups at a time, which may not suit households with multiple coffee drinkers or higher volume needs. While its simplicity benefits beginners, advanced users might find the manual operations and limited capacity restrictive. Overall, it’s a practical, space-efficient choice for small households that prioritize speed and ease.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on small countertops
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for consistent microfoam
Cons:- Limited capacity for multiple drinks at once
- Lack of detailed specs on water pressure and weight
Best for: Small households or individuals needing a compact, quick-heat machine with automatic milk texturing.
Not ideal for: Large families or those requiring multiple cups simultaneously or more advanced manual control.
- Weight:not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 V
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:not specified
- Number of Cups:1 or 2
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for space-conscious users who value quick operation and automatic features for daily espresso needs.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino offers a straightforward, space-efficient solution for home baristas who want quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss. Its ThermoJet technology heats the machine in just three seconds, and the automatic steam wand produces microfoam suitable for lattes and cappuccinos. Compared with the BES876BTR, it lacks the advanced features like assisted tamping and a built-in grinder, so it’s better suited to users who prefer manual control and a simpler interface. It’s a strong choice for those new to espresso making or with very limited counter space, but it may require some manual skill and doesn’t provide the same customization options as larger or more advanced models. It’s an affordable, compact option for everyday coffee routines.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Automatic milk texturing for easy use
Cons:- Manual operation for some functions
- Limited capacity for multiple drinks
Best for: Home users with limited space who want easy, quick espresso and milk drinks without complex features.
Not ideal for: Experienced enthusiasts seeking extensive customization or those needing larger capacity for multiple drinks.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 V
- Water Heating System:ThermoJet
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Single Wall & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is best for small kitchens and beginners who want quick, quality espresso with minimal complication.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL stands out for its combination of integrated grinding, precise temperature control, and manual steam wand, making it a versatile choice for enthusiasts who want cafe-quality drinks at home. Compared to the Bambino Plus, which offers a more streamlined, compact experience, the BES870XL’s built-in grinder and advanced controls deliver a more customizable espresso shot, though at a higher price point. Its compact design suits small kitchens, but the learning curve can be steep for beginners, especially since mastering the grind and tamping is key to good results. The 67 oz water tank is adequate for regular use but less suited for frequent large-volume brewing. The machine’s versatility in brewing and steaming makes it ideal for those willing to invest time to learn the process. However, its size and complexity may deter casual users who prefer simplicity and quick setup. Overall, this machine is perfect for dedicated home baristas who want quality and control despite limited space.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds and convenience
- Precise digital temperature control (PID) for consistent shots
- Manual microfoam steam wand ideal for latte art and milk texture
Cons:- Relatively high price compared to simpler machines like the Bambino
- Learning curve can be steep for beginners unfamiliar with espresso brewing
- Limited capacity for frequent large-volume brewing
Best for: Home users who want a balance of built-in grinding and manual control in a small footprint
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those seeking a super simple, plug-and-play espresso machine
- Capacity:67 oz Water Tank
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for espresso enthusiasts seeking a versatile, space-conscious machine with advanced features.”
How We Picked
These products were selected based on their dimensions, usability for small spaces, and overall value for espresso quality. We focused on models that are compact but still deliver consistent brewing performance, evaluating build quality, ease of use, and versatility. The ranking reflects a balance between size, functionality, and price, prioritizing options that maximize performance without overwhelming limited counter space. Our selection also considers user feedback and reputation for durability, ensuring these machines are practical choices for small kitchens.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville Espresso Machines For Small Counters Guide 3
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine for small counters involves balancing size, features, and budget. Smaller models often sacrifice some automation or power, but the right pick can still deliver quality espresso with minimal footprint. Consider what features matter most—manual control, automatic milk frothing, or programmability—and how much space you’re willing to allocate. This guide explores key factors that can influence your decision, helping you avoid common pitfalls like overspending on features you don’t need or selecting a machine that’s too large for your kitchen.Size and Footprint
Size is the most critical factor. Look for machines explicitly designed for small spaces, with compact dimensions and a slim profile. Even a small increase in size can make a big difference in tight kitchens. Pay attention to the machine’s width, depth, and height, and measure your available counter space carefully before purchasing. Some models are surprisingly small but still provide full-sized brewing capabilities, making them ideal for limited spaces.
Ease of Use and Automation
Consider how much control you want over the brewing process. Manual machines like the BES870XL require more skill but offer greater customization, while automatic or semi-automatic models like the Bambino Plus simplify operation with preset functions. For small counters, ease of use can save time and reduce clutter, especially if you prefer quick setup and cleanup. Be mindful that highly automated models might take up more space with additional components or controls.
Build Quality and Durability
In small spaces, a durable machine is especially important since there’s less room for replacements or repairs. Look for solid construction, reputable brand reputation, and positive user reviews. Stainless steel builds tend to last longer and resist wear, while plastic components might be less durable. Consider models with good warranty coverage for peace of mind, especially if space constraints mean you’ll use the machine frequently.
Features versus Price
More features often come with a higher price tag, but not all features are necessary for every user. For small counters, prioritize essential functions like a good steam wand, quick heat-up, and straightforward controls. Extra features such as programmable shots or automatic milk frothing are nice but may increase the machine’s footprint or complexity. Balance your desired functionality with your budget to avoid overpaying for features you won’t use.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Limited space can make cleaning more challenging, so choose a machine with accessible parts and straightforward maintenance routines. Machines with removable drip trays, water filters, and easy-access brew groups reduce clutter and simplify upkeep. Avoid overly complex systems that require extensive cleaning or disassembly, especially if your counter space is also used for storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a smaller Breville espresso machine still produce good espresso?
Yes, many compact Breville models are designed to deliver high-quality espresso despite their size. Brands like the Bambino Plus and BES870XL are known for their ability to brew rich, consistent shots. The key is to choose a model with a good-quality boiler, appropriate pressure, and a reliable steam wand. While they might lack some advanced features found in larger machines, these small models can still satisfy most home baristas with proper use and maintenance.
Are smaller Breville machines more difficult to operate?
Not necessarily. Some small models, like the Bambino Plus, are built with user-friendly interfaces and automated functions that make brewing straightforward. However, manual models like the BES870XL require more skill and attention to detail, which can be a challenge if you’re new to espresso making. If ease of operation is a priority, selecting a semi-automatic or automatic model will reduce complexity, even if it means a slightly larger footprint.
Can I get automatic milk frothing in a small Breville espresso machine?
Yes, some small Breville models like the Bambino Plus feature automatic or semi-automatic milk frothing, saving space and effort. This feature is especially beneficial if you want consistent microfoam without manual steam wand control. Keep in mind that automatic frothers may add to the machine’s size slightly and could increase the cost, but they make the process quicker and more convenient for small kitchens.
What should I prioritize: size or features?
It depends on your specific needs. If space is the most limited factor, prioritize compact dimensions and ease of placement. However, if you want more control, automation, or advanced brewing features, be prepared for a slightly larger machine. Striking a balance between size and features requires considering what aspects of espresso making are most important to you—whether that’s quick operation, customization, or space efficiency.
Are compact Breville machines durable enough for daily use?
Many Breville models designed for small spaces are built with durable materials and are rated for frequent use. Stainless steel components and reputable engineering contribute to longevity. However, they may have fewer heavy-duty parts than commercial models, so proper maintenance is essential. Regular descaling, cleaning, and careful handling will help ensure your small espresso machine remains reliable over time.
Conclusion
For those with limited kitchen space, the Breville BES870XL Barista Express offers a well-rounded balance of size and performance, making it ideal for most users looking for a versatile machine. The Bambino Plus is perfect for absolute minimalists who prioritize compactness and straightforward operation, though it sacrifices some advanced features. Budget-conscious buyers will find the Breville Bambino provides good value without overwhelming small counters. For beginners, models with automatic frothing and simple controls reduce the learning curve, while experienced home baristas may prefer manual or semi-automatic options for greater control. Ultimately, choosing the right machine hinges on your space constraints and desired functionality—match your needs to these recommendations to find the best fit.
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