Breville Barista Express BES870XL Review: Features, Pros, Cons & Buying Guide

# Breville Barista Express BES870XL Review: Is It Right for Your Home Coffee Setup?

The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed for people who want to prepare espresso-based drinks at home with greater control over the brewing process. It combines an integrated conical burr grinder, adjustable grind settings, temperature control, and a manual steam wand in one countertop appliance.

## Integrated Grinding and Espresso Preparation

One of the main features of the Barista Express is its built-in conical burr grinder. With 16 grind settings, users can adjust the grind to suit their coffee beans and preparation preferences. Grinding directly into the portafilter keeps the grinding and espresso preparation steps together in one setup.

## Temperature Control and Extraction

The machine includes PID temperature control, a Thermocoil heating system, and low-pressure pre-infusion. These features are designed to support controlled espresso extraction. The final result also depends on factors such as bean freshness, grind size, coffee dose, tamping, and preparation technique.

## Making Milk-Based Coffee Drinks

The manual steam wand allows users to texture milk for drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos. It provides hands-on control but requires practice. People who prefer automatic milk preparation may want to compare this model with machines that include automatic milk systems.

## Main Features and Benefits

– Integrated conical burr grinder
– 16 grind settings
– PID temperature control
– Low-pressure pre-infusion
– 54 mm portafilter
– Manual steam wand for milk texturing
– Single- and double-shot preparation options
– Included accessories for espresso preparation and maintenance

## Pros and Cons

### Pros
– Combines a grinder and espresso machine in one appliance
– Offers adjustable grind settings
– Provides hands-on control over espresso preparation
– Includes a manual steam wand for milk-based drinks
– Suitable for users interested in developing home barista skills

### Cons
– Requires practice to achieve consistent results
– Milk steaming is manual rather than fully automatic
– Needs regular cleaning and maintenance
– Requires sufficient countertop space
– May not suit people who want one-touch coffee preparation

## Who Should Consider the Breville Barista Express?

The BES870XL may suit coffee enthusiasts who enjoy adjusting their grind and learning the steps involved in making espresso. It may be less suitable for people who prioritize maximum convenience or want a fully automatic machine with minimal preparation.

## Buying Considerations

Before purchasing, compare the current price, seller, included accessories, warranty, and return policy. Check the machine’s dimensions and countertop requirements as well. The North American model is rated for 110–120V, so buyers outside North America should confirm electrical compatibility before use.

## Final Verdict

The Breville Barista Express BES870XL brings several important espresso-making tools together in one machine. Its integrated grinder, adjustable settings, temperature control, and manual steam wand make it worth considering for a hands-on home coffee setup. However, its manual workflow requires practice and routine maintenance.

Review the current listing and seller details before deciding whether this machine fits your coffee preferences, available space, and budget.

**Check the current listing for the latest price and availability before purchasing.**