Breville BES870XL Barista Express Review: Superior Espresso Brewing At Home
When you crave that barista-quality espresso without stepping out, an all-in-one espresso machine makes life so much easier. Whether you’re an espresso newbie or a coffee connoisseur, you want rich flavors, ease of use, and a machine that doesn’t require a master’s degree in coffee brewing.
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine checks all the right boxes. This compact, feature-packed machine takes you from whole beans to smooth espresso in under a minute. Let’s break down what makes this machine a standout, why it’s a must-have for espresso lovers, and a few areas where it might fall short.
Product Details – Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
- Dimensions: 13.8″D x 12.5″W x 15.9″H
- Weight: 22.1 pounds
- Wattage: 1600 watts
- Material: Stainless steel
- Water Tank Capacity: 67 ounces
- Coffee Grinder: Integrated conical burr grinder with 16 settings
- Special Feature: Manual milk texturing with steam wand
- Breville BES870XL Barista Express customer review: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Pros of Breville BES870XL Barista Express
- ✅ Integrated grinder takes beans to espresso in under a minute
- ✅ Optimal water pressure ensures balanced extraction
- ✅ Manual milk frother for coffee art enthusiasts
- ✅ Durable stainless steel design that looks premium
- ✅ Customizable grind size for all types of coffee beans
Cons of Breville BES870XL Barista Express
- ❗ Water tank needs frequent refills
- ❗ Can be a bit noisy during use
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine has received mostly positive reviews for its rich espresso flavor and ease of use. Users love its built-in grinder and customizable settings.
In-Depth Review of the Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
Barista-Level Espresso at Home
For espresso enthusiasts, the Breville BES870XL is a dream come true. This machine is packed with features designed to make your coffee-making experience as smooth as possible. The best part? You get third-wave coffee quality without leaving your kitchen.
Dose Control Grinding
The built-in conical burr grinder ensures you get the right amount of freshly ground coffee with every shot. With 16 precision grind settings, the Breville BES870XL offers plenty of customization. Whether you’re using a light roast or a darker blend, this machine gives you complete control over grind size and extraction.
Optimal Pressure and Temperature Control
One of the standout features of this machine is its optimal water pressure, which is crucial for extracting balanced flavors. The low-pressure pre-infusion system gradually builds pressure, ensuring the coffee grounds are evenly saturated for a full-bodied shot of espresso.
Additionally, the digital temperature control (PID) ensures that water is delivered at just the right temperature, preventing any bitterness or sourness in your cup.
Manual Milk Texturing
If you’re a fan of creamy lattes or cappuccinos, the Breville BES870XL delivers in spades. The powerful steam wand allows for manual microfoam texturing, which not only enhances flavor but also gives you the opportunity to try your hand at latte art. It’s perfect for those who enjoy adding a personal touch to their morning coffee ritual.
Built-In Coffee Grinder
The integrated grinder is a game-changer. Grinding your beans just before brewing ensures you capture all the rich, aromatic oils locked inside. The cradle design lets you grind directly into the portafilter, streamlining the process and reducing mess. You don’t need to be a coffee pro to enjoy this feature—it’s intuitive and user-friendly.
Ease of Maintenance
Like all high-performance machines, regular maintenance is key to keeping the Breville BES870XL running smoothly. Cleaning the grinder, wiping down the steam wand, and changing the water filter periodically will ensure that you get consistently excellent coffee. The machine even includes a “clean me” light to remind you when it’s time for a deep clean.
Who Is the Breville BES870XL Barista Express Perfect For?
✅ Espresso lovers who appreciate freshly ground coffee
✅ Home baristas who want control over grind size and extraction
✅ Those who enjoy frothing milk and creating latte art
✅ Busy individuals who need coffee in under a minute
✅ People who want a durable, long-lasting espresso machine
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
✅ If you’re looking for an ultra-quiet machine, you might find this one a bit noisy.
Customer Experiences with the Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
We’ve gathered honest customer feedback to give you a clearer picture of what to expect with the Breville BES870XL.
- ✅ Quality of Espresso: Users rave about the rich, flavorful espresso shots. The optimal pressure and temperature control deliver a full-bodied shot every time.
- ✅ Ease of Use: Most customers found the machine user-friendly, even if they were new to espresso-making. The intuitive controls, especially the grind size dial, make customizing your coffee a breeze.
- ✅ Built-in Grinder: Customers loved the convenience of the integrated grinder. It eliminates the need for a separate grinder, saving counter space and time.
- ✅ Milk Frothing: Users who love lattes and cappuccinos appreciated the steam wand’s ability to froth milk to perfection.
- ? Noise Level: Some users mentioned that the grinder can be a bit noisy during use. If you’re making coffee early in the morning, this might be a consideration.
Value Analysis of the Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
The Breville BES870XL is an investment, but one that offers significant value for coffee enthusiasts who take their espresso seriously. With a robust feature set and high-quality construction, this machine will satisfy both casual coffee drinkers and aspiring home baristas.
Key Strengths
- Customization: The grind size dial and dose control grinder give you full control over your coffee-making process.
- Durability: Made from brushed stainless steel, this machine is built to last, giving you years of quality espresso.
- Versatility: Whether you’re in the mood for an espresso, latte, or cappuccino, the BES870XL offers the flexibility to create a variety of drinks with ease.
- Design: The sleek design makes it a stylish addition to any kitchen, and its compact size ensures it fits well on most countertops.
Considerations
- Water Tank Capacity: With a 67-ounce capacity, the water tank needs frequent refilling if you’re making multiple drinks.
- Noise: While not a dealbreaker for most, the grinder can be somewhat noisy, especially in quiet environments.
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine is a solid investment for those who want quality espresso at home. With its customizable settings and durable construction, it’s a great choice for coffee enthusiasts.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine Bes870xl
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Features Of Breville Bes870xl?
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express offers a built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee grounds. It features precise espresso extraction with a digital temperature control. Additionally, the steam wand allows for textured milk, perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. Its compact design makes it ideal for home use.
How Easy Is It To Clean The Breville Barista Express?
Cleaning the Breville Barista Express is straightforward and user-friendly. The removable drip tray and bean hopper make maintenance simple. The machine also has a cleaning alert feature to remind you when it’s time to descale. Regular cleaning enhances performance and longevity of the espresso machine.
Is The Breville Bes870xl Worth The Price?
Yes, the Breville BES870XL is often considered worth the investment. It combines quality construction with advanced features, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced baristas. The built-in grinder saves counter space and enhances flavor. Its performance typically justifies the price for coffee enthusiasts.
Can You Brew Coffee And Espresso Simultaneously?
No, the Breville BES870XL cannot brew coffee and espresso at the same time. It is designed primarily for espresso extraction. However, you can brew a shot of espresso quickly, then prepare your coffee afterward. This versatility still allows for a variety of coffee beverages.
How Does The Steam Wand Perform?
The steam wand on the Breville BES870XL performs exceptionally well. It creates microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos with ease. The adjustable angle allows for better maneuverability. Users appreciate the quick heating time and consistent steam pressure, making it ideal for frothing milk.
Conclusion
The breville barista express espresso machine bes870xl is a standout choice for coffee lovers. Its brushed stainless steel design offers elegance and durability. This machine excels in delivering rich, flavorful espresso with minimal effort. Users appreciate the integrated grinder, which ensures fresh grounds every time.
The precise temperature control is a game-changer, enhancing the overall brewing experience. Moreover, the steam wand allows for barista-quality frothing, perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. Many reviews highlight its user-friendly interface, making it accessible for beginners and experienced baristas alike.
While it may require a bit of maintenance, the results are well worth the effort. Investing in the barista express can elevate your home coffee experience. Overall, this espresso machine combines functionality and style seamlessly, making it a must-have for any coffee enthusiast.
Embrace the art of coffee making with the breville barista express and enjoy café-quality beverages at home.