Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL Review: Your All-in-One Home Barista Solution
After weeks of putting the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, in its sleek brushed stainless steel finish, through its paces, I can confidently say this isn’t just another appliance on your counter; it’s a gateway to genuine home barista craftsmanship. From its integrated grinder to its intuitive controls, the BES870XL promises café-quality espresso without the steep learning curve often associated with professional machines. Is it the right choice for your morning ritual? Let’s dive in.
Design and First Impressions
Unboxing the Breville Barista Express BES870XL, the first thing that strikes you is its robust build quality. The brushed stainless steel exudes a premium feel, sitting comfortably on the counter with a relatively compact footprint for an all-in-one unit. Setup was surprisingly straightforward. After a quick wash of the parts and a run-through of the initial priming cycle, I was ready to start my espresso journey. It felt less like setting up a complicated piece of machinery and more like welcoming a reliable new companion into the kitchen.
Key Features in Action
The true brilliance of the Breville Barista Express lies in how its features seamlessly integrate to simplify the espresso-making process.
Integrated Conical Burr Grinder for Optimal Grind Consistency
The star of the show for convenience is undoubtedly the integrated grinder. With 16 grind settings, it provides impressive grind consistency, which is absolutely critical for excellent espresso quality. For weeks, I’ve relied on this grinder, and the ability to go from whole bean to perfectly dosed grounds with a single press is a huge time-saver. On a particularly busy Monday morning, that one-touch grind and dose feature was a real lifesaver, allowing me to skip an entire step and get to my caffeine fix faster. This feature alone justifies its value for anyone short on counter space or who simply doesn’t want to invest in a separate, often expensive, dedicated espresso grinder.
Precision Temperature Control with PID
The ThermoCoil heating system coupled with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control ensures that your water is delivered at the exact right temperature for optimal extraction. This level of temperature stability is often found in much more expensive machines and directly translates to a consistently delicious shot of espresso, minimizing the risk of under or over-extraction.
15-Bar Italian Pump and Pressure Gauge
The 15-bar Italian pump delivers the ideal pressure for extracting rich, full-bodied espresso with a beautiful crema. The included pressure gauge is an invaluable tool, especially for beginners. It provides real-time feedback, helping you understand if your grind size, dose, and tamp pressure are just right. Monitoring that needle ensures you’re getting the most out of your beans, contributing significantly to pump longevity by preventing unnecessary strain.
Powerful Steam Wand for Microfoam Mastery
The manual steam wand is a joy once you get the hang of it. It produces powerful, dry steam, essential for creating silky microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. I was initially a bit intimidated by manual frothing, having only used automatic frothers before. But after a few practice runs, I was surprised by how quickly I started producing decent microfoam. Now, mastering latte art is my personal challenge, and the Breville Barista Express makes it achievable. This feature empowers you to go beyond basic coffee and truly craft café-style drinks.
Performance Review
After extensive use, the Breville Barista Express BES870XL consistently delivers on its promises.
Espresso Quality
The espresso quality is remarkably high for a machine in this price range. With fresh beans and proper technique, I’ve pulled shots with rich, complex flavors and a thick, persistent crema that rivals many café offerings. The combination of precise grind consistency from the integrated grinder and the PID controlled temperature makes a tangible difference in every cup. It easily stands head and shoulders above many entry-level machines from brands like De’Longhi and offers a fantastic all-in-one alternative to more modular setups like some Gaggia models.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand, while requiring a learning curve, is excellent. It generates enough power to create glossy, pourable microfoam, perfect for mixing into espresso or even attempting some basic latte art. The consistency of the steam is reliable, allowing for repeatable results once you hone your technique.
Reliability and Durability
Over several weeks of daily use, the Breville Barista Express has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. The components feel solid, and the brushed stainless steel finish is easy to clean and maintain. I’ve heard stories of these machines lasting for years with proper care, and based on my experience, I believe it.
Maintenance
Maintenance is straightforward. The drip tray is easy to empty and clean, and the porta-filter purges quickly. Descaling is a crucial part of maintenance for any espresso machine to ensure pump longevity and consistent performance, and Breville makes the process relatively simple with clear instructions and indicator lights. Regular cleaning of the steam wand is also a must to prevent blockages.
Who Should Buy This?
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is ideal for:
Aspiring Home Baristas: Those ready to move beyond pod machines or basic espresso makers and genuinely learn the art of espresso.
Convenience Seekers: People who want an all-in-one solution with an integrated grinder and minimal counter clutter.
Value-Conscious Buyers: Individuals looking for a durable, reliable machine that offers exceptional espresso quality and advanced features without breaking the bank.
Daily Coffee Drinkers: Anyone who values a fresh, high-quality espresso or milk-based drink every day.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent Espresso Quality & Crema | Manual steam wand has a learning curve |
| Integrated Conical Burr Grinder (Grind Consistency) | Water tank could be larger for heavy users |
| PID Temperature Control for Stability | Regular descaling is essential (as with any machine) |
| Durable Brushed Stainless Steel Build | Can be noisy when grinding and extracting |
| User-Friendly Interface with Pressure Gauge | Only one heating element for brew/steam |
| Good Value for an All-in-One Solution | Porta-filter can be messy if not careful |
Verdict
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL stands out as an exceptional choice for anyone serious about making great espresso at home without the complexity or expense of a professional setup. Its seamless integration of a quality grinder, precise temperature control, and a capable steam wand delivers an experience that genuinely elevates your daily coffee routine. While there’s a slight learning curve, the rewards are consistently delicious, café-quality beverages. For its reliability, durability, and the sheer value it offers, the Breville Barista Express is an investment that truly pays off in every rich, aromatic cup.
I am a passionate recipe developer and food enthusiast specializing in heart-warming traditional dishes and simple, everyday meals. My goal is to inspire you to find joy and confidence in the kitchen through my easy-to-follow recipes.