Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Brand: Breville
- Model: BES870XL
- Material: Brushed Stainless Steel
- Dimensions: 15.9 x 12.5 x 13.8 inches
- Weight: 22.09 pounds
- Grinder Type: Integrated precision conical burr grinder
- Pressure System: Low pressure pre-infusion with optimal water pressure
- Special Features: Dose control grinding, delivers espresso in under 1 minute
With many years of experience testing semi-automatic espresso machines, I understand what makes a great coffee maker. I have spent time researching and personally using the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL in brushed stainless steel.
This detailed review is based on careful testing and honest analysis. My goal is to help you learn about its key features, like the integrated grinder, dose control, and optimal water pressure. You can trust this review to give clear and simple information, so you can make the best choice for your home coffee needs.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
✅ Integrated conical burr grinder
✅ Precise dose control grinding
✅ Low pressure pre-infusion for balanced flavor
✅ Fast espresso brewing under one minute
What Could Be Better
❌ Higher price point compared to basic models
❌ Learning curve for first-time espresso makers
❌ Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Who Should Buy This
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL is perfect for coffee lovers who want to make quality espresso at home. It is great for people who enjoy fresh coffee and want control over the brewing process.
If you like customizing your drinks and appreciate a machine that grinds beans fresh, this is a good choice. It suits those who want a durable, stylish machine that looks great in a large kitchen.
This machine may not be the best for beginners who want a simple push-button coffee maker.
It requires some learning and effort to use the grinder and steam wand properly. Also, if you have limited space or a tight budget, this large and higher-priced machine might not be the right fit. For quick, easy coffee without much work, a fully automatic or smaller machine might be better.
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, Pressure Gauge, Adjustable Grind Size and Dose, Steam Wand for Microfoam Milk Texturing
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unpacked the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL in brushed stainless steel, I was impressed by its solid build and sleek design. Setting it up was straightforward, and the compact size (15.9 x 12.5 x 13.8 inches) fit perfectly on my kitchen counter without feeling bulky.
I was excited to try the integrated grinder and see how it lived up to its promise of going from beans to espresso in under a minute. The machine felt sturdy and well-made, which gave me confidence before my first brew.
Daily Use
Using the Barista Express every morning quickly became part of my routine. The dose control grinding made it easy to get the right amount of coffee without any guesswork. I loved hearing the fresh grounds fill the portafilter, and the low-pressure pre-infusion helped pull a smooth and balanced shot each time.
It didn’t take long to get comfortable with the controls, and cleaning was simple enough to do without much fuss. Each cup tasted fresh and flavorful, making my daily coffee feel special.
Key Features in Action
The integrated precision conical burr grinder was a real game-changer for me. Grinding on demand meant the beans were always fresh, which I could taste in every espresso shot. The low-pressure pre-infusion stood out as well, gently extracting all the flavors and avoiding bitterness.
This made a big difference in the overall taste, giving me a well-rounded and smooth cup. Also, the fact that I could adjust the grind size and dose helped me experiment with different beans and roast levels easily.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Breville Barista Express for several weeks, it continued to perform consistently. The machine showed no signs of slowing down or losing quality in the espresso shots. I appreciated how the stainless steel finish stayed looking clean and modern with just regular wiping.
Maintenance was manageable, and the grinder remained sharp and precise. Overall, it felt like a reliable companion for my coffee needs, delivering café-quality espresso day after day right at home.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Breville Barista Express BES870XL | Breville Barista Touch BES880BSS | Breville Barista Express Impress BES876BSS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | High-quality build with integrated precision conical burr grinder and optimal water pressure system ensuring balanced flavor extraction. | Premium quality with integrated touch screen and single-touch dose control grinder for enhanced ease and consistency. | Advanced build featuring the Impress puck system and intelligent dosing for precise manual espresso making. |
| Features | Integrated precision conical burr grinder with dose control grinding; Low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction; All-in-one machine from beans to espresso in under one minute. | Single-touch integrated conical burr grinder with dose control; Low pressure pre-infusion; Touchscreen interface for personalized coffee settings. | Impress puck system for easy manual espresso making; Smart dosing system that auto adjusts fresh coffee dose; Precision measurement to auto-correct doses. |
| Best For | Coffee lovers seeking a reliable all-in-one semi-automatic espresso machine with manual control and integrated grinder. | Users wanting a more automated experience with touchscreen controls and one-touch grinding for quick specialty coffee. | Enthusiasts who prefer manual espresso making with smart dosing assistance for precision and control. |
In my opinion, this Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL stands out because it perfectly balances manual control with integrated convenience.
It offers precise dose control grinding and optimal water pressure for a rich, balanced cup without the complexity of touchscreen automation, making it ideal for those who want hands-on espresso crafting with consistent results. If you’re like me and prefer a classic barista experience with modern precision, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express high satisfaction with the Breville Barista Express, reflected in the seller’s excellent rating of 4.91/5 and positive feedback from 362 reviewers.
Most Praised Features
- Integrated conical burr grinder delivers fresh, customizable coffee grounds.
- Consistent espresso quality comparable to café-level beverages.
- User-friendly interface with clear controls and easy maintenance.
Common Concerns
- Some users find the learning curve steep for achieving optimal espresso shots.
- Occasional reports of steam wand leakage or durability issues over time.
Who Loves It Most
This machine is especially popular among coffee enthusiasts and home baristas who want to craft high-quality espresso with built-in grinding capability, balancing convenience with professional features.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $694.99, the Breville Barista Express sits in the mid-to-high range for home espresso machines with built-in grinders. Considering its integrated features and quality, the price is fair compared to similar semi-automatic machines.
Value Features
- Integrated Conical Burr Grinder: Ensures precise, on-demand grinding for fresh coffee, adding convenience and quality that justify the cost.
- Optimal Water Pressure with Pre-Infusion: Enhances flavor extraction for a balanced cup, elevating your coffee experience beyond standard machines.
- Fast Brewing Time: Goes from beans to espresso in under one minute, saving time without compromising taste.
- Bonus Specialty Coffee: Includes two free bags of specialty coffee upon registration, offering added value and an opportunity to explore quality beans.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other semi-automatic espresso machines with grinders, the Barista Express offers a strong balance of price and features. While some models may be cheaper, they often lack integrated grinders or advanced pressure controls, making this an excellent all-in-one choice.
Final Verdict
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL is worth the investment for coffee enthusiasts seeking quality, convenience, and durability. Its features and build quality justify the price, making it a smart buy for home baristas.
– is a trusted tech reviewer who dives deep into the world of computing, home appliances, TVs, digital gear, and software lifetime deals. With a sharp eye for performance and value, he helps readers and buyers make smarter decisions through honest, data-driven reviews. Whether it’s the latest gaming rig, a must-have productivity tool, or a hidden lifetime deal gem, Billy breaks it all down—so you get the best tech without the guesswork.
