Breville BES870XL Barista Express Review: Cafe-Quality Espresso at Home
The Breville Barista Express is an all-in-one espresso machine designed for home baristas who want to craft cafe-quality espresso drinks without leaving their kitchen. With its built-in conical burr grinder and customizable settings, it offers a complete bean-to-cup experience for espresso enthusiasts.
Quick Summary
| Rating | 4.5/5 |
| Price Range | $600-$700 |
| Key Features | Built-in grinder, Precise espresso extraction, Powerful steam wand |
Key Takeaways
- All-in-one espresso machine with built-in grinder
- Customizable grind size and dosage control
- Digital temperature control for optimal extraction
Detailed Features and Specifications
The Breville Barista Express comes packed with features designed to help you create cafe-quality espresso at home:
| Grinder | Integrated conical burr grinder with dose control |
| Water Tank | 2L removable tank with handle |
| Pressure | 15 bar Italian pump and 9 bar extraction pressure |
| Heating System | Thermocoil heating system |
| Steam Wand | 360-degree swivel action steam wand |
| Dimensions | 13.25″ x 12.5″ x 15.75″ |
Our Testing Process
We tested the Breville Barista Express over a period of four weeks, making various espresso-based drinks daily. We evaluated its performance across different coffee beans, grind sizes, and milk types. We also assessed its ease of use, consistency of results, and overall value for money.
Performance Analysis
The Breville Barista Express consistently delivered high-quality espresso shots with rich crema. Its built-in grinder performed well, offering 18 grind settings to dial in the perfect extraction. The steam wand produced silky microfoam, although it took some practice to master.
Pros
- All-in-one design saves counter space
- Consistent espresso quality
- User-friendly interface
Cons
- Learning curve for beginners
- Single boiler limits simultaneous brewing and steaming
- Grinder can be messy at times
User Experience
The Barista Express offers a good balance between automation and manual control. While it may intimidate absolute beginners, most users find it intuitive after a short learning period. The machine’s compact design and all-in-one functionality make it a convenient choice for home use.
Comparison with Similar Products
We compared the Breville Barista Express with other popular semi-automatic espresso machines in its price range:
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Gaggia Classic Pro | Rancilio Silvia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No | No |
| Pressure Gauge | Yes | No | No |
| PID Temperature Control | Yes | No | No (available as mod) |
Gaggia Classic Pro
Rancilio Silvia
Breville Bambino Plus
Value for Money
The Breville Barista Express offers excellent value for money, especially considering its built-in grinder and comprehensive feature set. While it’s pricier than entry-level machines, it provides capabilities that would cost significantly more if purchased as separate components.
Who Might Choose This Product
The Breville Barista Express is ideal for:
- Home baristas looking for an all-in-one espresso solution
- Coffee enthusiasts who want to learn the art of espresso-making
- Those who appreciate customization in their coffee preparation
Who Might Consider Alternatives
The Breville Barista Express might not be the best fit for:
- Those who prefer fully automatic machines
- Users who need to make multiple milk-based drinks quickly
- People with very limited counterspace
FAQs
Is the Breville Barista Express good for beginners?
Yes, the Barista Express is suitable for beginners, but it does have a learning curve. It offers a good balance of automatic features and manual control, allowing users to develop their barista skills over time.
How long does the Breville Barista Express last?
With proper care and maintenance, the Breville Barista Express can last 5-10 years. Regular cleaning and descaling are crucial for longevity.
Can the Breville Barista Express make regular coffee?
The Barista Express is primarily designed for espresso. While you can make an Americano by adding hot water to espresso, it doesn’t brew drip coffee like a standard coffee maker.
Conclusion
The Breville Barista Express stands out as an excellent semi-automatic espresso machine for home use. It offers a compelling combination of built-in grinding, customizable settings, and consistent performance. While it requires some learning and practice, it rewards users with cafe-quality espresso drinks. The all-in-one design and mid-range price point make it an attractive option for those serious about their home espresso game. However, those needing to make multiple milk drinks quickly or preferring fully automatic operation may want to consider alternatives. Overall, for its price range, the Barista Express delivers exceptional value and is a solid choice for aspiring home baristas.
