As a coffee enthusiast, I’ve always dreamed of creating café-quality espresso drinks in the comfort of my own home. After doing extensive research and considering various options, I decided to purchase the Breville Barista Express BES870XL. Known for its versatility, quality, and user-friendly design, this espresso machine promises to deliver a professional coffee experience. In this review, I will share my detailed experience with the Breville Barista Express, covering its design, features, performance, and overall value.
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Table of Contents
Breville Barista Express BES870XL Specifications
| Manufacturer | Breville |
| Model | BES870XL |
| Depth | 12 inches |
| Width | 13.25 inches |
| Height | 16 inches |
| Item Weight | 29 pounds |
| Case Material | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz |
| Portafilter Size | 53 mm |
| Programmable | Dose, Shot Time, Temperature |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel lined Aluminum |
| Cup Clearance | 4 inches |
| Power | 1600 Watts |
| Voltage | 110 – 120 Volts |
| Cup Warmer | Yes |
| Solenoid Valve | Yes |
| Boiler Design | Thermocoil |
| Brew Time | 60 sec |
| Steam Time | 70 sec |
| Portafilter Types | Pressurized & Non-Pressurized |
| Water Sources | Internal Tank/Reservoir |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Aroma | Yes |
| Auto On | No |
| Auto Shut Off | Yes |
| Pods | No |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Unboxing and Setup
First Impressions
Unboxing the Breville Barista Express was an exciting experience. The machine arrived well-packaged, with each component securely placed to prevent any damage during shipping. As I lifted it out of the box, the first thing that struck me was its robust build and stylish appearance. The stainless steel finish gives it a sleek, professional look that immediately elevates the aesthetic of my kitchen.
Components and Accessories
The package includes the espresso machine itself, a stainless steel portafilter, single and dual wall filter baskets, a coffee scoop, a stainless steel milk jug, a cleaning kit, and a water filter. Each component feels high-quality and thoughtfully designed. The inclusion of both single and dual wall filter baskets is particularly useful, catering to both beginners and more experienced users.
Setting Up
Setting up the Breville Barista Express was straightforward, thanks to the comprehensive instruction manual. The process involves attaching the bean hopper, installing the water filter, and flushing the machine to ensure it’s clean and ready for use. Within about 20 minutes, I had the machine set up and ready to pull my first shot of espresso.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic Appeal
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is an eye-catching machine. Its brushed stainless steel finish gives it a modern, sleek look that complements any kitchen decor. The machine’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with a compact footprint that doesn’t take up excessive counter space.
Ergonomics and Usability
Every element of the Barista Express is designed with the user in mind. The controls are intuitively laid out, with a clear pressure gauge, a large dial for adjusting grind size, and easily accessible buttons for different functions. The placement of the steam wand, portafilter, and water reservoir all contribute to a seamless user experience.
Build Quality
The build quality of the Breville Barista Express is impressive. It feels solid and durable, with a weight that suggests robustness without being overly cumbersome. The stainless steel components and sturdy plastic parts indicate that this machine is built to last. Over the months of daily use, I have not encountered any issues with the build quality, and it continues to operate smoothly.
Key Features
Integrated Burr Grinder
One of the standout features of the Breville Barista Express is its integrated conical burr grinder. This allows for fresh grinding of coffee beans directly before brewing, ensuring maximum flavor and aroma. The grinder offers a wide range of grind size settings, from fine to coarse, allowing for precise control over the grind to suit different brewing preferences.
Digital Temperature Control (PID)
The machine is equipped with a digital temperature control (PID) system, which maintains the water temperature within the optimal range for espresso extraction. This ensures that the water temperature is consistent, leading to better extraction and more balanced flavors in the espresso.
Steam Wand for Microfoam Milk Texturing
The steam wand on the Breville Barista Express is another highlight. It allows for manual milk texturing, enabling users to create microfoam for latte art. The wand is powerful and easy to maneuver, making it possible to achieve café-quality milk texture at home.
Espresso Pressure Gauge
The built-in pressure gauge is an invaluable tool for monitoring the extraction process. It provides real-time feedback on the pressure applied during extraction, helping to achieve the perfect espresso shot. If the pressure is too high or too low, adjustments can be made to the grind size, tamping pressure, or amount of coffee used.
Adjustable Grind Size and Dose
The grinder’s grind size dial allows for easy adjustment, making it possible to fine-tune the grind to match different types of coffee beans and personal preferences. Additionally, the adjustable dose control lets you determine the exact amount of coffee to grind, ensuring consistency and precision in every shot.
Performance and Espresso Quality
Grinding and Dosing
The integrated burr grinder performs exceptionally well. It grinds the beans evenly and consistently, which is crucial for a good espresso extraction. The ability to adjust the grind size and dose means that I can experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance for various types of coffee beans. The grinder is also relatively quiet, which is a bonus for early morning coffee preparation.
Espresso Extraction
The Breville Barista Express excels in espresso extraction. The combination of the PID temperature control and the pressure gauge ensures that the espresso is brewed at the optimal temperature and pressure. The result is a rich, flavorful espresso with a thick, velvety crema. Over time, I’ve learned to adjust the grind size, tamping pressure, and dose to consistently produce excellent shots of espresso.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand is a joy to use. It produces a powerful steam flow that quickly heats and textures the milk. With a bit of practice, I was able to create silky microfoam suitable for latte art. The ability to control the steam pressure and the angle of the wand allows for precise texturing, making it possible to create a variety of milk-based drinks, from lattes to cappuccinos.
Consistency and Reliability
Consistency is a critical factor in any espresso machine, and the Breville Barista Express delivers on this front. Once the optimal settings are dialed in, the machine consistently produces high-quality espresso shots. The reliability of the machine is also commendable; it has performed flawlessly over several months of daily use.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Routine Cleaning
Maintaining the Breville Barista Express is straightforward. The drip tray and used coffee puck container are easy to remove and clean. The machine also includes a cleaning kit with a brush and cleaning tablets. Regular cleaning of the grinder, steam wand, and portafilter ensures that the machine continues to perform optimally.
Descaling
Descaling is an essential maintenance task for any espresso machine, especially if you live in an area with hard water. The Barista Express has a descaling function that is easy to use, and the manual provides clear instructions on how to perform this task. Regular descaling helps to prevent the build-up of mineral deposits and prolongs the life of the machine.
Maintenance Alerts
The machine includes maintenance alerts that indicate when it needs cleaning or descaling. These alerts are helpful reminders to keep the machine in top condition and ensure consistent performance.
Value for Money
Initial Investment
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is not the cheapest espresso machine on the market, but it offers exceptional value for money. Considering the quality of the build, the integrated grinder, and the range of features, it is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about making high-quality espresso at home.
Long-term Savings
While the initial cost may seem high, the long-term savings are significant. By making espresso drinks at home, I’ve saved a considerable amount compared to buying coffee from a café. The machine has essentially paid for itself within a few months of daily use.
Versatility and Customization
The ability to customize every aspect of the espresso-making process—from grind size to milk texture—adds immense value to the Breville Barista Express. This machine is versatile enough to cater to different tastes and preferences, making it a great choice for households with multiple coffee drinkers.
Comparisons to Other Espresso Machines
Breville Barista Express vs. Breville Barista Pro
The Breville Barista Pro is a more advanced model in the Breville lineup. It features an LCD display for easier navigation and faster heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet heating system. While the Pro offers some enhanced features, the Barista Express provides a more traditional experience at a lower price point, making it a better value for those who do not need the extra bells and whistles.
Breville Barista Express vs. De’Longhi Dedica
The De’Longhi Dedica is a more compact and budget-friendly option. However, it lacks an integrated grinder and has fewer customization options. The Barista Express, with its built-in grinder and greater control over the brewing process, offers a more comprehensive espresso experience.
Breville Barista Express vs. Gaggia Classic Pro
The Gaggia Classic Pro is another popular choice among espresso enthusiasts. It is known for its durability and ability to produce excellent espresso. However, it requires a separate grinder, which adds to the overall cost and complexity. The Breville Barista Express, with its all-in-one design, is more convenient and user-friendly for beginners.
User Experience and Community Feedback
Learning Curve
For those new to espresso making, the Breville Barista Express has a bit of a learning curve. However, the comprehensive manual and online tutorials are invaluable resources. With a little practice and experimentation, it’s possible to master the machine and consistently produce excellent espresso drinks.
Community Support
One of the advantages of owning a popular machine like the Breville Barista Express is the wealth of community support available. Online forums, YouTube channels, and social media groups are filled with tips, tricks, and troubleshooting advice from other users. This community support can be incredibly helpful for both beginners and experienced users looking to get the most out of their machine.
Customer Service
Breville’s customer service is highly regarded. On the rare occasions when issues arise, their support team is responsive and helpful. The machine comes with a one-year limited warranty, providing additional peace of mind.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Integrated Grinder: The built-in conical burr grinder ensures fresh, consistent coffee grounds.
- User-Friendly Design: Intuitive controls and clear instructions make it accessible for beginners.
- Quality Build: Durable stainless steel construction and high-quality components.
- Versatility: Wide range of grind size and dose settings, as well as powerful steam wand for milk texturing.
- Excellent Espresso: Consistent, high-quality espresso with rich flavor and thick crema.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires some practice and experimentation to master.
- Noise: The grinder and pump can be somewhat noisy during operation.
- Price: Higher initial investment compared to entry-level machines.
Final Thoughts
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is an outstanding espresso machine that brings the café experience into your home. Its combination of an integrated grinder, precise temperature control, and powerful steam wand allows for a high degree of customization and consistency. While there is a learning curve, the effort is well worth it for the quality of espresso it produces.
In terms of value for money, the Barista Express stands out in its price range. It offers many features typically found in more expensive machines, making it an excellent investment for both beginners and experienced coffee enthusiasts. The machine’s robust build quality, coupled with Breville’s reputation for reliability, ensures that it will be a beloved part of your kitchen for years to come.
Whether you’re an aspiring home barista or simply looking to elevate your daily coffee routine, the Breville Barista Express BES870XL is a top-tier choice that delivers on its promises. Its blend of functionality, quality, and aesthetic appeal makes it a standout in the world of home espresso machines.