Mehedi Hasan
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL , Brushed Stainless Steel
- Integrated Grinder: Precision conical burr grinder with dose control
- Water Pressure System: Low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction
- Temperature Control: Digital PID temperature control for optimal espresso
- Dimensions: 15.9 x 12.5 x 13.8 inches
- Weight: 22.09 pounds
- Material & Finish: Brushed stainless steel
- Espresso Preparation Time: Under one minute from beans to espresso
- Model Number: BES870XL
As a reviewer with years of experience testing semi-automatic espresso machines, I understand how important it is to find a reliable and easy-to-use coffee maker. I have carefully researched and personally tested the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL in brushed stainless steel to give you honest and clear insights. This machine stands out for its all-in-one design, integrated grinder, and smart features like dose control grinding and optimal water pressure. In this review, I will explain how these features work and help you decide if this espresso machine is the right choice for your home. Trust my detailed analysis to guide you in making a smart purchase.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Integrated conical burr grinder
- ✅ Precise temperature control (PID)
- ✅ Low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction
- ✅ Fast beans-to-espresso in under one minute
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Higher price point
- ❌ Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- ❌ Learning curve for beginners
Who Should Buy This
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL is perfect for coffee lovers who want to make café-quality espresso at home. It is great for people who enjoy customizing their drinks and want control over the grind size and brew strength. If you like a hands-on experience and want a machine that is easy to use but still professional, this espresso maker is a great choice. It also suits those who have enough space for a larger machine and want a durable, stylish design in brushed stainless steel.
If you prefer a simple, fully automatic machine or need something very compact, this might not be the best option. It requires some learning and effort to use well, so beginners who want quick and easy coffee without any fuss might want to look for a simpler model. Also, if you have a tight budget, the price of $699.95 may be too high for your needs.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Breville
- Model: BES870XL
- Size: 15.9″ x 12.5″ x 13.8″
- Weight: 22.09 pounds
- Material: Brushed Stainless Steel
- Color Options: Brushed Stainless Steel
- Special Features: Integrated Conical Burr Grinder, Digital Temperature Control (PID), 1600W Thermocoil Heating System, 15-Bar Italian Pump, Manual Microfoam Milk Texturing, Dose Control Grinding
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the Breville Barista Express BES870XL, I was impressed by its sleek brushed stainless steel design. It felt solid and well-made, and the size was perfect for my kitchen counter—not too big, but still noticeable. Setting it up was straightforward, and I was excited to try grinding fresh beans and making espresso in under a minute, just like the machine promised.
Daily Use
Using the Barista Express every morning quickly became a favorite part of my routine. I loved that the built-in grinder delivered freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter with the right dose, which made each shot taste rich and fresh. The controls were easy to understand, and I enjoyed adjusting the grind size and shot volume to match different beans I tried. Cleaning the machine was also simpler than I expected, which is a big plus for a daily-use appliance.
Key Features in Action
The dose control grinding really stood out to me. Having the precision conical burr grinder built-in meant I didn’t have to buy a separate grinder, and the coffee tasted noticeably better than pre-ground beans. The low pressure pre-infusion feature was another highlight—it gently warmed the coffee and slowly increased pressure, resulting in balanced flavors and a smooth espresso shot every time. This made a big difference in the taste compared to other machines I’ve used before.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Barista Express for several weeks, I noticed it remained consistent and reliable. The machine handled daily use without any hiccups, and the espresso quality stayed excellent. The stainless steel finish still looks great, and the grinder hasn’t lost any of its precision. Overall, it feels like a durable machine that’s built to last, making it a great investment for anyone serious about home espresso.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Breville Barista Express BES870XL | Breville Barista Touch BES880BSS | Breville Barista Impress BES876BSS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Premium brushed stainless steel build, integrated conical burr grinder, and precise pressure control for balanced espresso extraction. | Similar premium stainless steel design with enhanced touchscreen controls and dose control grinder for maximum flavor precision. | Brushed stainless steel with a smart dosing system and impress puck technology for consistent manual espresso making. |
| Features |
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|
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| Best For | Home baristas wanting integrated grinder and manual control for fast, quality espresso. | Users preferring touchscreen ease with precise grinding and espresso extraction automation. | Espresso enthusiasts who want smart manual espresso making with automatic dosing adjustment. |
In my opinion, this Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel stands out because it combines traditional manual control with an integrated precision grinder and optimal pressure pre-infusion, allowing coffee lovers to craft balanced espresso quickly and efficiently. If you’re like me and prefer hands-on espresso making with the convenience of an all-in-one machine, this is the better choice over touchscreen or manual dosing competitors.
Customer Feedback on Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel
Overall Satisfaction
The Breville Barista Express enjoys a strong overall rating of 4.67 out of 5, reflecting high customer satisfaction and reliability.
Most Praised Features
- Excellent espresso quality comparable to café standards.
- Built-in grinder offers convenience and fresh coffee grounds.
- Durable brushed stainless steel design with easy-to-use controls.
Common Concerns
- Learning curve for beginners in dialing in grind size and tamping.
- Some users report occasional maintenance needs and cleaning complexity.
Who Loves It Most
This machine is favored by coffee enthusiasts who want café-quality espresso at home, particularly those willing to invest time in learning the craft. It suits both casual users and semi-professionals seeking a reliable, all-in-one espresso maker.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $699.95, the Breville Barista Express sits in the mid-to-high range for home espresso machines. Considering its integrated grinder and advanced features, the price is fair compared to similar all-in-one espresso makers.
Value Features
- Integrated Precision Grinder: Ensures freshly ground coffee every time, saving money on separate grinders.
- Low Pressure Pre-infusion: Enhances flavor extraction for a balanced cup, elevating your home brewing experience.
- Digital Temperature Control (PID): Maintains precise brewing temperature, delivering consistent espresso quality.
- Prime Shipping Included: Saves additional shipping costs and ensures quick delivery.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other semi-automatic espresso machines with grinders, the Barista Express offers excellent value by combining quality, convenience, and advanced features without the premium price tag of high-end models.
Final Verdict
This espresso machine is worth the investment for coffee enthusiasts who want café-quality drinks at home with minimal hassle. Its features justify the price, making it a solid choice.
Mehedi Hasan
