Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine Review
Want café style espresso at home? The Breville BES870XL Barista Express promises just that. It grinds, tamps, and brews all in one machine.
This espresso maker comes with a built in burr grinder. You get fresh coffee grounds for every single shot. No separate grinder needed.
The 15 bar Italian pump works with 9 bar pre infusion. This combo pulls rich, balanced shots every time. Your espresso tastes smooth and full bodied.
Milk lovers will enjoy the steam wand too. It creates creamy microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. You get barista quality drinks right in your kitchen.
This machine suits anyone who wants a serious upgrade from basic coffee makers. It also works great for beginners ready to learn manual espresso skills.
We tested the BES870XL to see how it performs daily. This review covers real pros, honest cons, and helpful tips. You will learn if this machine fits your morning routine.
Ready to see if the Barista Express deserves a spot on your counter? Let’s jump right in.
In a Nutshell
Here’s the quick rundown before you dive deeper into this review.
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Fresh grinding meets fast brewing. The built in grinder means you get freshly ground beans in every cup. No separate grinder needed on your counter.
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Pre-infusion technology helps extract balanced flavors from your coffee grounds. This step often makes a real difference in taste.
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The auto cleaning cycle sends helpful reminders. This feature keeps maintenance simple for busy mornings.
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Expect some mess during grinding. Coffee grounds can scatter around the machine if you’re not careful.
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This machine rewards practice and patience. Getting perfect shots takes some manual skill and technique.
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Some owners report mixed results over time. Long term reliability seems to vary between units.
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Overall, it’s a solid pick for anyone ready to learn real espresso making at home. Just be prepared for a learning curve.
Build Quality and Design
The BES870XL shows solid construction from top to bottom. Breville uses stainless steel for the portafilter and key components. This material choice means the machine handles daily use without falling apart quickly.
The body sits at 13.8 inches deep, 12.5 inches wide, and 15.9 inches tall. It fits most kitchen counters without dominating the space. The footprint feels compact for a machine that does so much.
The integrated burr grinder lives on the left side of the unit. This all in one design saves counter space. However, the grinder creates visible mess during operation. Grounds scatter onto the surrounding area. You’ll want to place a mat underneath or clean up after each use.
The portafilter uses a 54mm stainless steel design. It comes with both single and dual wall baskets. The metal construction feels premium in your hand. The basket seats firmly into the group head without wobbling.
The water tank holds 25 shots worth of water. It sits at the rear and lifts out easily for refilling. The tank design feels sturdy, though some users report cracks after extended use. Regular inspection helps catch problems early.
The steam wand attaches to the right side of the machine. It’s positioned somewhat awkwardly for milk steaming. Taller cups can bump against the frame. You’ll need to angle your pitcher carefully during use. Practice improves technique here.
The hot water tap sits below the steam wand. Its placement feels cramped and inconvenient. Reaching it while holding a cup takes adjustment. Many users find this feature harder to access than on competing models.
The overall build quality feels respectable for the category. Materials don’t feel cheap or flimsy. Buttons respond consistently. The dial for grind adjustment turns smoothly. Long term durability shows mixed results across user reviews. Some machines run perfectly for years. Others develop issues sooner. Proper maintenance and careful operation help extend the machine’s lifespan significantly.
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Last update on 2026-09-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Integrated Grinder and Espresso Performance
The integrated grinder on the BES870XL sets this machine apart from single-purpose espresso makers. You grind fresh beans and brew in one compact unit, which means no separate equipment cluttering your kitchen.
The grinder uses burrs instead of blades. Burr grinders crush beans evenly, which matters for espresso extraction. This consistency helps you pull shots with balanced flavor and proper body. You adjust the grind size with a dial on the front, giving you control over how fine or coarse your grounds become.
Here’s what happens when you grind and brew together. The 15-bar Italian pump delivers power to extract espresso from your grounds. The 9-bar pre-infusion phase comes first. Pre-infusion slowly saturates your coffee bed before full pressure hits. This step reduces channeling, which is when water rushes through weak spots in the puck. Better saturation means better flavor extraction and fewer sour or bitter shots.
The 54mm stainless steel portafilter accepts both single and double wall baskets. Single wall baskets demand more skill because they show every mistake in your technique. Double wall baskets forgive minor errors, making them great for learning. Most beginners start with double wall baskets and graduate to single wall once they develop consistent tamping.
Grinding integrated into the machine creates one real drawback: mess. Grounds scatter around the burr chamber during grinding. You’ll find coffee dust on your counter and inside the unit. Regular cleaning helps prevent buildup, but the mess never fully disappears. Some owners use a small brush or vacuum to manage this.
The espresso performance reflects solid engineering for home use. You can produce shots that rival café quality once you master your technique. The machine doesn’t do the work for you, though. Success depends on your grind size, tamping pressure, and timing. Expect a learning curve of several weeks before shots become consistently good.
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Learning to use the BES870XL takes time, but the machine guides you through the basics. The learning curve sits somewhere between beginner-friendly and intermediate. You won’t master espresso on day one, yet the machine doesn’t punish you for mistakes.
The biggest challenge comes from manual operation. You control the grind size, how much coffee you load, and how hard you tamp. Each decision affects your shot. This hands-on approach means you actually learn espresso instead of just pushing a button.
Grinding and dosing require the most attention early on. The built-in grinder gives you immediate feedback. You grind directly into the portafilter, which saves time but demands care. Dialing in the grind takes practice. Too coarse and water rushes through. Too fine and the shot chokes. Most users find their sweet spot within a week or two of regular use.
The steam wand presents another learning phase. Frothing milk feels awkward at first. Your wrist angle matters. Water temperature matters. Patience matters most. Expect thin foam on attempt one. By attempt twenty, you’ll notice real improvement. The machine doesn’t do this work for you, which builds genuine skill.
Breville included helpful touches that ease the journey. The auto cleaning cycle runs automatically and sends reminders. You don’t need to memorize descaling schedules. The 9-bar pre-infusion technology does some of the extraction work for you. This safety net prevents totally ruined shots when your technique isn’t perfect yet.
The portafilter design helps too. The dual and single wall baskets let you experiment. Single wall baskets show your technique directly in the shot quality. This feedback loop accelerates learning.
Most owners report feeling confident within two to three weeks. You won’t produce café-quality drinks immediately, but competent home espresso becomes realistic fast. The machine rewards attention and practice. Casual button pushers will feel frustrated. Coffee enthusiasts willing to invest effort will feel engaged and excited. That’s the real story with ease of use here. The BES870XL respects your intelligence and effort.
Top 3 Alternatives
Gaggia Classic Pro
- Solid Steel Housing, Made in Italy
- 9 Bar Espresso Extractions
Last update on 2026-09-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Gaggia Classic Pro gives you manual control over your espresso shots. You steam milk with a traditional wand that requires practice to master. This machine heats up quickly and produces solid crema on your drinks.
The portafilter is commercial-style, so you can use third-party baskets and accessories. Many coffee lovers appreciate the simplicity here—fewer electronics mean fewer things break. You’ll need to learn proper tamping technique to get consistent results.
Roka Espresso Machine
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Last update on 2026-08-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Roka machines focus on ease and consistency. They use automatic pressure control, which means your shots come out similar each time. The steam wand heats milk efficiently without requiring expert technique.
These machines are compact and fit well on small counters. They heat up faster than many competitors. The build quality feels solid, and the design looks modern in any kitchen space.
DeLonghi Dedica
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The DeLonghi Dedica combines compact size with practical features. It includes both a portafilter and a bean hopper, so you can switch between pre-ground coffee and whole beans easily. The steam wand produces decent microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos.
This machine occupies minimal counter space while delivering reliable performance. Temperature stability is good, and cleanup happens quickly. The automatic milk frother option (on some models) saves time if you make milk drinks regularly.
Each option offers different strengths. The Gaggia appeals to hands-on enthusiasts. Roka suits people who want consistency without learning curves. DeLonghi works best for those seeking compact convenience with solid results.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Keeping your BES870XL clean keeps it running smoothly. Breville built this machine with maintenance in mind, and the auto cleaning cycle makes the job easier than you’d expect.
The machine sends you helpful reminders when it’s time to clean. You’ll see notifications on the display telling you exactly what to do. This takes the guesswork out of upkeep and helps prevent buildup inside the group head and portafilter.
Running the cleaning cycle takes just a few minutes. You insert the cleaning basket into the portafilter, add Breville’s cleaning powder, and lock it into the group head. The machine then runs water through the cycle automatically. This flushes out old coffee oils and residue that can affect your espresso taste.
Descaling happens separately from daily cleaning. Breville recommends descaling every three months, depending on your water hardness. The machine guides you through this process with on screen prompts. You’ll fill the water tank with a descaling solution, then run it through the system. The whole process takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
The portafilter and baskets need hand washing after each use. Remove them from the machine and rinse under hot water. Wipe away any remaining grounds or dried coffee. This prevents old coffee from affecting your next shot’s flavor.
The integrated grinder requires special attention. Coffee oils build up inside the burr chamber over time. Breville includes a cleaning brush specifically for this area. Use it weekly to sweep out residual grounds and keep the burrs performing at their best.
The steam wand demands immediate cleaning after steaming milk. Milk dries quickly on the metal surface and becomes difficult to remove later. Purge steam through the wand first, then wipe it with a damp cloth right away. This simple habit prevents milk buildup and keeps your wand functioning properly.
Water quality matters too. If you live in a hard water area, mineral deposits accumulate faster inside the machine. Using filtered water reduces descaling frequency and extends the machine’s lifespan. Your espresso quality improves as a bonus.
Milk Frothing Capability
The steam wand on the BES870XL sits on the right side of the machine, positioned for easy access during milk frothing. This dual function wand both steams and dispenses hot water, giving you flexibility for different drinks.
Frothing performance depends heavily on your technique. The machine delivers consistent steam pressure, but you control the milk pitcher angle and depth. Most users find the learning curve steep at first. You’ll need to position the wand tip just below the milk surface to create that spinning vortex that builds microfoam.
The steam wand produces quality milk foam once you master the motion. Many owners report café-style results within a few weeks of practice. The key is understanding how deep to submerge the wand and when to lower the pitcher as the milk expands. This manual control actually gives you more precision than fully automatic systems.
Immediate cleaning matters most after steaming. Milk residue hardens quickly inside the wand, which can block steam flow. Breville recommends purging steam right after frothing, then wiping the exterior with a damp cloth. Weekly deep cleaning prevents buildup inside the internal channels. Neglecting this step causes performance problems faster than any other maintenance issue.
The wand’s positioning below the hot water tap creates a practical advantage. You can rest your milk pitcher on the drip tray while steaming. This setup keeps your work area organized and prevents spills on your counter.
Steam power on this machine sits at 15 bars, which matches the espresso pressure rating. This balanced design means you get robust steam for thick, velvety microfoam without overwhelming the milk. The pressure feels consistent from the first shot of the day through the last.
One real limitation appears in the wand’s fixed angle. Unlike some premium machines with articulating wands, this one stays in one position. You adapt your pitcher movement instead. This actually teaches better technique faster, though it requires more active participation during the frothing process.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Built in grinder means you get everything in one machine without buying separate equipment
- Produces authentic espresso shots and quality milk foam once you develop your technique
- Auto cleaning and descaling cycles run automatically with helpful reminders so maintenance stays simple
- Excellent entry point for serious home espresso enthusiasts who want to learn proper skills
- 54mm stainless steel portafilter accepts both single and double wall baskets for flexibility
Cons
- Integrated grinder creates significant mess as grounds scatter during grinding and dosing
- Requires manual technique and skill to operate well, meaning a steep learning curve at first
- Hot water tap positioning sits awkwardly above the steam wand, making access inconvenient
- Mixed user reviews on long term reliability raise questions about durability beyond the first few years
Who Should Buy It
The Breville BES870XL works best for coffee lovers ready to invest time in learning. You should consider this machine if you want hands on control over every step of espresso making.
This machine suits people who enjoy the learning process. You’ll need patience during your first weeks. The grinder, tamping, and milk frothing all require practice. If you want instant café quality drinks without effort, this isn’t your match.
Home baristas with basic equipment experience do well here. You’ve probably used a regular coffee maker before. You understand water temperature matters. You know that technique affects results. These people jump into the BES870XL more smoothly than complete beginners.
Serious espresso enthusiasts find real value here. You appreciate the built in grinder that eliminates one extra purchase. You don’t mind the learning curve because you want authentic skills. You’re willing to spend time perfecting your craft each morning.
People living in smaller spaces benefit from the all in one design. The machine combines grinder and espresso maker into one footprint. You won’t need separate counter space for a grinder elsewhere. This compact approach matters when kitchen room is limited.
The BES870XL suits you if you enjoy tinkering and adjusting. You like experimenting with different beans. You want to dial in your grind size yourself. You appreciate having manual control rather than automatic buttons doing everything.
Skip this machine if you need consistency without thinking. You want the same drink every single morning without variation. You prefer simple push button operation. You have limited patience for technique development.
Also reconsider if you dislike cleaning equipment regularly. The integrated grinder creates mess. The steam wand needs immediate attention after frothing. Daily maintenance is part of ownership here. You must commit to regular descaling and cleaning cycles.
The BES870XL rewards dedicated users. You get authentic espresso results once you develop your skills. The machine supports your growth as a home barista. You become capable of making drinks that match your favorite coffee shop. This machine works for people who view espresso making as a hobby, not just a morning routine.
Final Verdict
The Breville BES870XL earns its reputation as a solid all in one espresso machine. It combines a grinder, pump, and steam wand into one unit. This setup works well for people who want everything in a single package.
You should buy this machine if you value control over convenience. The manual approach means you shape every shot yourself. This appeals to users who enjoy hands on brewing.
Think of this machine like learning to drive a manual transmission car. It takes more effort upfront, but you gain skills that stick with you. Automatic machines never teach you these fundamentals.
Long term reliability remains a valid concern for some buyers. Mixed reviews suggest the machine performs differently across various households. Your maintenance habits likely influence how long it lasts.
Regular cleaning extends the life of this machine significantly. Users who skip maintenance steps often report more issues. Those who follow the cleaning cycle tend to have better experiences.
The grinder mess remains a real tradeoff you accept with this model. You get integrated convenience, but you also get scattered grounds. Wiping down your counter becomes part of your daily routine.
This machine fits a specific type of coffee drinker well. You need patience to learn proper technique. You also need willingness to clean and maintain the unit regularly.
Compare this to simpler pod based machines that require zero learning curve. Those machines sacrifice flavor quality for ease of use. The BES870XL sacrifices ease of use for authentic espresso flavor.
Your final decision depends on what you prioritize most. If you want genuine espresso shop quality at home, this machine delivers that experience. If you want zero effort mornings, look elsewhere.
The Breville BES870XL rewards commitment with genuinely good coffee. It asks for your time and attention in return. Most serious home baristas find that trade worthwhile.
This machine works best as a long term investment in your coffee skills. You grow more confident with each shot you pull. That growth becomes part of the reward itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-ground coffee with the BES870XL?
Yes, you can. The machine has a bypass doser on the side of the grinder. You simply pour your pre-ground coffee directly into the portafilter and skip the grinder. This option works well if you want to avoid the mess that comes with the integrated burr grinder.
However, fresh grinding produces better espresso. The built-in grinder lets you control grind size right before brewing. Most users find this feature worth learning, even if it takes practice.
How difficult is the learning curve?
Expect a moderate to steep learning curve. The BES870XL requires manual technique. You adjust tamping pressure, grind size, and water temperature yourself. Beginners often need 20 to 30 shots before dialing in consistently good results.
The machine does not automate these decisions for you. This manual control is actually a strength if you enjoy the learning process. If you prefer simplicity and consistency without thinking, this machine may frustrate you.
What about the grinder mess everyone mentions?
The integrated grinder scatters grounds during operation. Bits fly onto your counter and floor. This is a real downside many owners experience. You can minimize mess by using a catch cup or mat underneath, but you won’t eliminate it completely.
Some users accept this tradeoff gladly. Others find it annoying enough to consider a separate grinder setup instead.
How often do I need to clean and descale?
Regular cleaning keeps this machine running smoothly. The BES870XL has automatic descaling cycles with helpful reminders. You should descale every 60 to 120 shots, depending on your water hardness.
Daily cleaning of the portafilter and group head takes just a few minutes. Users who skip maintenance steps often report problems sooner. Consistent care extends the machine’s lifespan significantly.
Sanji brings years of expertise in kitchen equipment evaluation, combining practical testing with in-depth research to deliver reliable recommendations. His mission is to simplify kitchen shopping decisions through comprehensive reviews and expert comparisons.
