Overview
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is arguably the most popular entry-level espresso machine in the world, and for good reason. This all-in-one unit combines a capable semi-automatic espresso machine with a built-in conical burr grinder, offering a complete bean-to-cup experience without requiring a separate grinder purchase. The integrated grinder features dose-control technology that automatically delivers the right amount of freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter, making the workflow remarkably straightforward for beginners. Under the hood, the Barista Express uses a thermoblock heating system with digital PID temperature control, ensuring consistent water temperature for balanced extraction. The machine includes a pre-infusion feature that gently soaks the grounds before full pressure is applied, helping to reduce channeling and improve shot quality. The 54mm portafilter is smaller than commercial 58mm standards but produces excellent results with the included single and dual-wall filter baskets. A manual steam wand allows you to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos, and with practice, you can produce quality microfoam suitable for latte art. The overall build quality is solid, with a brushed stainless steel housing that looks great on any kitchen counter.
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL comes equipped with PID temperature control for precise brewing, pre-infusion for even extraction. It features a thermoblock boiler system made of stainless steel. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.
Priced at $700, the Breville Barista Express BES870XL is designed for serious home baristas who want café-quality espresso. As a semi-automatic machine, it gives you control over the brewing process while handling pressure and temperature automatically.
In terms of build quality, the Breville Barista Express BES870XL is a substantial machine, weighing in at 12.4 kg, manufactured in Australia, drawing 1600W of power. With dimensions of 330 x 310 x 400 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 2000 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction temperature shot after shot
- Pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee puck before full pressure, improving extraction evenness
- Stainless steel boiler is corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain
- Built-in cup warmer keeps your cups at optimal temperature
Cons
- Thermoblock heating may not match the temperature stability of traditional boiler designs
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
- Non-standard 54mm portafilter limits third-party basket and accessory options
Full Specifications
| Brand | Breville |
|---|---|
| Model | Breville Barista Express BES870XL |
| Category | Semi-Auto |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Australia |
| Year Introduced | 2013 |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | Yes |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | 54mm Breville |
| Portafilter Diameter | 54 mm |
| Steam Wand | Commercial |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 2000 ml |
| Cup Warmer | Yes |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 330 x 310 x 400 mm |
| Weight | 12.4 kg (27.3 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1600 W |
| Voltage | 120V |
| MSRP | $700 |
Our Verdict
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL from Breville is a capable machine in its category. In the mid-range segment, it competes well on features and build quality. Consider your workflow needs (straight espresso vs. milk drinks), counter space, and grinder pairing when making your final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Breville Barista Express BES870XL suitable for home baristas?
Absolutely. The Breville Barista Express BES870XL at $700 is aimed at intermediate to advanced home baristas. It offers enough features to grow with your skills while being manageable for committed beginners willing to learn.
How often does the Breville Barista Express BES870XL need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder pairs well with the Breville Barista Express BES870XL?
For a machine at this level, consider mid-range to premium grinders: Eureka Mignon Specialita ($400), Niche Zero ($600), or DF64 ($400-$500). These grinders will do justice to the machine's capabilities without being the bottleneck in your setup.
Is the Breville Barista Express BES870XL worth $700?
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL's value depends on your commitment to espresso. If you drink espresso daily, a quality machine pays for itself vs. cafe purchases within 6-12 months. The Breville Barista Express BES870XL offers PID temperature control at its price point, making it a sound investment for regular espresso drinkers.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Breville Barista Express BES870XL
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level: