Breville Barista Express Review - Best Beginner Espresso Machine 2026
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The Breville Barista Express has become one of the most popular entry-level espresso machines for home baristas. Combining an integrated grinder with a semi-automatic espresso machine, it offers exceptional value for those starting their espresso journey. After extensive testing, we've found it delivers consistent shots with a reasonable learning curve.
Pros
- Integrated grinder saves space and ensures freshness
- Excellent espresso quality for the price
- Solid build quality with premium materials
- Powerful steam wand for milk drinks
- PID temperature control for consistency
- Good value compared to separate machine and grinder
Cons
- Learning curve for beginners
- 54mm portafilter limits accessory options
- Grinder could be quieter
- Single boiler means wait time between espresso and steaming
Design and Build Quality
The Barista Express features a brushed stainless steel exterior that looks premium and professional. The build quality is solid, with all components feeling durable and well-made. The integrated grinder is a key feature that saves counter space and ensures fresh grounds for each shot.
Espresso Performance
After dialing in the grinder, the Barista Express produces excellent espresso shots with rich crema. The 15-bar Italian pump delivers consistent pressure, and the PID temperature control maintains stability. Extraction quality rivals machines costing hundreds more.
Ease of Use
While there's a learning curve for espresso beginners, the Barista Express is more forgiving than many competitors. The integrated grinder with dose control makes it easier to achieve consistency. Manual controls give you room to grow your skills.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand produces excellent microfoam for latte art. It has enough power for professional-quality milk texture, though it requires practice to master. The 360-degree swivel makes positioning convenient for different cup sizes.
Who This Is Best For
- Espresso beginners ready to learn proper technique
- Home baristas wanting quality without breaking the bank
- Those with limited counter space
- Coffee enthusiasts who value freshly ground beans
Specifications
General
| Brand | Breville |
| Model | BES870XL |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
Espresso System
| Boiler | Thermocoil Heating System |
| Pump | 15 Bar Italian Pump |
| Portafilter Size | 54mm |
| Temperature Control | PID |
Grinder
| Grinder Type | Conical Burr |
| Grind Settings | 16 Levels |
| Bean Hopper | 250g |
Dimensions
| Width | 13.2 inches |
| Height | 16 inches |
| Depth | 12.5 inches |
| Weight | 23 lbs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Breville Barista Express good for beginners?
Yes, the Barista Express is an excellent choice for beginners willing to learn proper espresso technique. While it has a learning curve, it's more forgiving than many manual machines and the integrated grinder simplifies the workflow.
How long does it take to heat up?
The machine heats up in approximately 3 minutes from cold start. The PID temperature control helps maintain consistent brewing temperature once warmed up.
Can you make multiple drinks in a row?
Yes, but there's a wait time between brewing espresso and steaming milk due to the single boiler design. You'll need to wait 30-60 seconds for the machine to reach steaming temperature after pulling a shot.
Is the built-in grinder good enough?
The integrated conical burr grinder is surprisingly capable for the price point. While dedicated grinders may offer more precision, the built-in grinder is more than adequate for home use and ensures fresh grounds for each shot.
Breville Barista Express
Key Specs
- Boiler Type:Thermocoil
- Grinder:Built-in Conical Burr
- Portafilter:54mm
- Water Tank:2L Removable