The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is pretty popular among home baristas, and there are good reasons for it. If you're trying to decide if it's worth the price, here's what we found about its performance and features:
Built-in Grinder
The built-in grinder is a big plus for the Breville Barista Express. It's super convenient to have it right there in the machine, saving you both counter space and hassle.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Grind Consistency and Adjustment: The grinder has various settings, but finding the perfect one might take some experimenting. Our research shows that changing the grind settings can noticeably impact the quality of your espresso shots. You might have to tweak things a bit depending on the type and freshness of the beans you’re using.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular upkeep is key to keeping both the grinder and the machine in top shape. The manufacturer includes a brush tool for cleaning, and it’s a good idea to run a cycle with cleaning tablets now and then.
- Cleaning Tips: According to our research, running a small amount of rice through the grinder can help get rid of stubborn residues. Keeping it clean will help maintain the grind quality.
Manual Dosing and Bean Management
While the machine can automatically dose the coffee, some people find they get better results by weighing the beans themselves. It can lead to more consistent dosing and grind quality.
Storing beans in an airtight container and only putting what you need in the hopper can also help keep your coffee fresh.
User Experience and Learning Curve
The Breville Barista Express is designed to be user-friendly, but there’s definitely a bit of a learning curve. According to our research, most people suggest going through the manual and watching some tutorial videos to get the hang of it.
Once you do, it’s pretty manageable and worth the effort.
Final Thoughts
So, is the Breville Barista Express BES870XL worth it? If you're serious about your home espresso, probably yes.
It offers convenience and quality with its built-in grinder, though it does require regular maintenance and a bit of patience. If you enjoy the process of making espresso and don't mind tinkering a bit, this machine could be a great fit for your kitchen.