Breville Bes870XL Barista Express Review

The Breville BES870XL Barista Express is worth buying in 2026 if you want café-quality espresso at home for around $600 to $700, with a built-in conical burr grinder that saves you hundreds on separate equipment. Most beginners struggle with the grinder’s large step sizes between settings, making it hard to dial in perfect shots during the first 2 to 3 weeks. This review shows you exactly how to master the grind dial, troubleshoot common issues, and decide if this semi-automatic espresso machine fits your needs.

After four years of making four to six coffees daily on my Breville Barista Express, I want to answer one simple question: should you still buy this espresso machine in 2026?

I’ll keep this straightforward. We’ll talk about what works, what doesn’t, and whether this machine still deserves its title as Amazon’s best-selling home espresso machine ever.

The Verdict in 30 Seconds

Yes, the Breville BES870XL is absolutely worth it if you want café-quality espresso at home without spending thousands. After four years of daily use, mine still performs beautifully. It produces excellent espresso, teaches you real barista skills, and costs around $600 to $700.

The built-in conical burr grinder saves you hundreds on a separate grinder. The manual controls give you complete command over every shot. And honestly? The coffee rivals what you’d pay $5 for at a specialty café.

Who Should Buy (and Who Shouldn’t)

Buy this machine if you:

• Want to learn real espresso-making skills
• Enjoy the ritual of making coffee manually
• Have counter space for a compact all-in-one setup
• Value quality over convenience
• Want to save money long-term by making café drinks at home

Skip this machine if you:

• Need something fully automatic with one-button operation
• Make more than six milk-based drinks in quick succession
• Don’t have patience for a learning curve
• Want professional-grade dual boiler performance
• Prefer pre-ground coffee over fresh beans

A Quick Timeline

The Barista Express launched years ago and quickly became the gold standard for entry-level home espresso. It’s sold as Breville in the US and Canada, and as Sage in the UK and other countries. Same machine, different branding.

Amazon reviewers have given it a solid 4.4 out of 5 stars across over 26,000 reviews. That’s remarkable consistency for a semi-automatic espresso machine. Breville also offers a special promotion where you get 25% off fresh beans from America’s best roasters when you purchase and register any Breville coffee machine.

Key Features at a Glance

The BES870XL packs serious features into one compact unit:

• Built-in conical burr grinder with adjustable grind size dial
• 15-bar Italian pump for proper espresso extraction
• PID temperature control for consistent brew temperature
• Low-pressure pre-infusion to ensure even extraction
• Manual steam wand for milk frothing and latte art
• 54mm stainless steel portafilter with single and dual-wall filter baskets
• Integrated tamper built right into the machine
• Pressure gauge for real-time extraction feedback
• 2-liter water tank and bean hopper for convenience

It’s a single boiler system with a thermocoil heating system. That means you can’t pull espresso shots and steam milk simultaneously, but for home use, that’s rarely a problem.

Who Breville Made This For

This machine targets coffee lovers who want to step up from basic drip coffee or pod machines. You get real control, just like a barista in a café. Everything is manual, so you learn both the science and art of espresso.

I bought mine because I loved visiting different coffee shops and trying beans from around the world. But I couldn’t recreate anything similar at home. The Barista Express kept showing up as Amazon’s bestseller with incredible reviews. At around £600 (or $600 to $700 in the US), it felt like great value.

Dimensions, Weight & Counter Space

The Breville Barista Express has a fairly small footprint. Mine fits perfectly on my counter without taking up too much space. If you’ve got limited counter real estate, this machine works well.

The brushed stainless steel body looks professional. Even after four years, it still looks almost brand new. I did give it a deep clean for demonstration purposes, but genuinely, it’s been through a lot.

Materials & Premium Feel

The stainless steel construction feels solid. Control dials are responsive and well-built. The portafilter handle has good weight to it. Everything feels like a quality appliance, not a cheap gadget.

I even shipped this machine across the world in a cardboard box when I moved from the Philippines. Risky and expensive, I know. But somehow, it survived. I’ve also taken it on road trips, camping trips, and even to hotels. Life is simply too short for bad coffee.

Durability Expectations

After four years of making multiple drinks daily, my Barista Express hasn’t skipped a beat. That’s impressive longevity for a home espresso machine at this price point.

Breville offers a 1-year limited warranty. With proper maintenance and cleaning, most owners report 5 to 10 years of reliable use. That’s excellent value when you consider the cost of daily café visits.

Conical Burr Grinder Explained

The built-in conical burr grinder is what sets the Barista Express apart from cheaper espresso machines. Conical burrs crush coffee beans between two cone-shaped rings, producing consistent particle sizes.

Fresh ground coffee makes all the difference in espresso quality. Beans start losing flavor within minutes of grinding. Having a built-in grinder means you go from whole beans to espresso in under a minute. That’s the bean-to-cup workflow that preserves maximum flavor.

Why It Matters vs. Blade or Flat Burr Grinders

Blade grinders chop beans unevenly, creating inconsistent extraction. Some particles are dust, others are chunks. That ruins espresso.

Conical burr grinders create uniform particle sizes. Every grind is consistent, which means even water flow and balanced extraction. The 15-bar pump pressure works properly when grind consistency is good.

Buying a separate conical burr grinder typically costs $200 to $400. The Barista Express includes one, saving you money and counter space.

The Grinder’s Biggest Weakness: Step Size Problem

Here’s the honest truth: the grinder has one major flaw. The grind size dial has large steps between settings. Setting 2 might be too fine, causing the shot to choke and barely drip. Setting 3 might be too coarse, making the espresso gush out in 10 seconds.

This is the number one complaint from new owners. Reddit threads are full of people asking, “How do I dial in my Barista Express?” It’s frustrating at first. But there’s a solution, and I’ll show you exactly how to work around it.

Tools You’ll Need for Dialing

Before you start dialing in, gather these essential tools:

• Digital scale for weighing beans and espresso output
• Timer (many scales have one built in)
• Fresh coffee beans (ideally roasted within the last 2 to 4 weeks)
• Dosing funnel to keep grounds tidy while grinding
• WDT tool (Weiss Distribution Technique tool) for even distribution
• Distribution tool to level the coffee bed
• Quality tamper (the built-in one works, but a separate one helps)

I picked up most of these accessories from Amazon over the years. They’re not expensive, and they dramatically improve your results.

Light Roast Dialing (Acidic Beans)

Light roasts are denser and harder to extract. Start with these settings:

1. Set grind size to setting 3 or 4
2. Dose 18 grams of beans
3. Aim for 36 grams of espresso output (1:2 ratio)
4. Target extraction time: 28 to 32 seconds

If the shot runs too fast (under 25 seconds), grind finer. Move to setting 2 or use the top burr adjustment (explained below). If the shot chokes and barely drips, grind coarser or reduce your dose slightly to 17 grams.

Light roasts often taste brighter and more acidic. You’re looking for sweet, fruity notes without overwhelming sourness.

Medium Roast Dialing (Balanced Beans)

Medium roasts are the easiest to dial in. They’re balanced and forgiving. Start here:

1. Set grind size to setting 4 or 5
2. Dose 18 grams of beans
3. Aim for 36 grams output (1:2 ratio)
4. Target extraction time: 25 to 30 seconds

Every bean is different, so dialing in is part of the process. If the shot comes out too fast, you grind finer. If it’s too slow or not coming out at all, you grind coarser.

Medium roasts deliver chocolate, caramel, and nutty flavors. The crema should be thick and rich.

Dark Roast Dialing (Sweet, Smooth Beans)

Dark roasts are lighter and more porous, so they extract faster. Use these settings:

1. Set grind size to setting 5 or 6
2. Dose 17 to 18 grams of beans
3. Aim for 34 to 36 grams output
4. Target extraction time: 23 to 28 seconds

Dark roasts taste smooth, bold, and slightly smoky. Over-extract them and they turn bitter. Under-extract and they’re flat.

Using the Top Burr Adjustment for Fine-Tuning

Here’s the secret weapon most people don’t know about: the top burr adjustment. This lets you make micro-adjustments between the macro grind settings.

Inside the bean hopper, there’s a small dial. Turn it clockwise to grind finer, counterclockwise to grind coarser. This gives you the precision you need when setting 2 is too fine and setting 3 is too coarse.

I learned about this from Reddit threads after weeks of frustration. It’s a game changer. Suddenly, you’re not stuck between two unusable settings.

Common Mistakes New Users Make

Mistake 1: Not weighing beans and output Eyeballing doses leads to inconsistent shots. Always use a scale.

Mistake 2: Changing multiple variables at once Adjust one thing at a time. Change grind size, pull a shot, evaluate. Then adjust dose or tamp pressure if needed.

Mistake 3: Using stale beans Coffee loses flavor quickly after roasting. Use beans within 2 to 4 weeks of the roast date for best results.

Mistake 4: Giving up too early Dialing in takes practice. Expect to pull 10 to 20 mediocre shots before you nail it. That’s normal. Every barista goes through this.

Mistake 5: Not keeping a log Write down your settings: grind size, dose, output, time, and tasting notes. This helps you dial in faster next time.

In my experience, it took me 2 to 3 weeks to consistently pull good shots. Once you learn it and get into the rhythm, it’s very easy.

Extraction Quality & Crema

The Barista Express produces genuine espresso with proper crema. That thick, golden-brown foam on top is a sign of good extraction.

I typically aim for an 18-gram dose in, 36 grams out, in about 30 to 35 seconds. This gives a beautiful double espresso with rich crema. The flavor is balanced, sweet, and complex.

If this were served in a café, you’d be very happy with it. To get noticeably better coffee than this, you really need to start spending significantly more money.

TDS % & Extraction Percentage

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) measures how much coffee flavor is dissolved in your espresso. Specialty coffee standards target 8% to 12% TDS.

The Barista Express, when properly dialed in, hits around 10% to 12% TDS. That’s excellent for a home machine. Extraction percentages typically range from 18% to 22%, which is right in the sweet spot.

Pressure Gauge Monitoring

The pressure gauge on the front panel is incredibly useful. It gives real-time feedback during extraction.

You want the needle to stay in the “espresso range” (between 9 and 11 o’clock on the gauge). If it swings too low, your grind is too coarse or your dose is too light. If it maxes out, your grind is too fine or you’ve over-tamped.

This visual feedback helps you learn faster. After a few weeks, you’ll know exactly what good pressure looks like.

Single-Wall vs. Dual-Wall Basket Comparison

The Barista Express includes both single-wall (non-pressurized) and dual-wall (pressurized) filter baskets.

Dual-wall baskets are beginner-friendly. They force water through a small hole at high pressure, creating artificial crema even with mediocre grind quality. They’re forgiving but limit your control.

Single-wall baskets are for real espresso. Water flows directly through the coffee puck. Grind size, dose, and tamping all matter. The coffee tastes better, but you need proper technique.

I recommend starting with dual-wall baskets for your first week or two. Once you’ve got basic workflow down, switch to single-wall. That’s where the Barista Express truly shines.

Steam Wand Capability (Honest Assessment)

Let’s be real: the steam wand on the Barista Express is not the strongest. It takes a little while to get going. One downside of this machine is that the steam wand pressure isn’t as powerful as higher-end models.

Another limitation is the single boiler system. You can’t pull espresso and steam milk at the same time. With a dual boiler machine, you can do both simultaneously, which is more efficient.

That said, I’ve been making milk-based drinks like flat whites on this machine for four years and still get consistently good results. It just takes patience.

Step-by-Step: Creating Professional Microfoam

Here’s my exact process for steaming milk:

1. Purge the steam wand briefly to clear any water
2. Fill your milk jug about one-third full (I use oat milk, usually Oatly)
3. Position the steam wand tip just below the milk surface
4. Turn on the steam and keep the tip near the surface for 3 to 5 seconds to incorporate air
5. Submerge the tip deeper and create a rolling whirlpool motion
6. Steam until the jug is warm to touch (around 140°F to 150°F)
7. Turn off steam and remove the jug
8. Tap the jug on the counter to remove large bubbles
9. Swirl the milk to create a glossy, paint-like texture

It takes some practice to get the angle right when steaming milk, but you can achieve a nice texture and even latte art. The latte art might not be perfect (that’s more down to my skill than the machine), but it’s absolutely possible.

Steam Wand Cleaning & Maintenance

After every use, wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth immediately. Milk buildup is your enemy. Purge the wand briefly to clear any milk stuck inside.

Once a week, remove the steam tip and soak it in warm water. Use the included cleaning brush to clear any blockages. This prevents weak steam pressure over time.

“Extraction Stops After 5 Seconds” (Air Pocket Fix)

This is frustrating. You start pulling a shot, and after 5 seconds, water stops flowing. Usually, this is an air pocket in the system.

How to fix it:

1. Turn off the machine
2. Remove the water tank and refill it
3. Place the tank back firmly
4. Run hot water through the group head and steam wand to purge air
5. Try pulling another shot

If the problem persists, check for mineral buildup. You might need to descale the machine.

Grinder Output Suddenly Reduced (Cleaning & Clutch Check)

If your grinder suddenly produces less coffee or makes strange noises, it’s probably clogged.

How to fix it:

1. Empty the bean hopper
2. Remove the top burr (use the Allen key included)
3. Clean out any coffee dust and oil buildup
4. Check the grinder clutch for wear
5. Reassemble and test

Do this every 2 to 3 months if you’re a daily user. Coffee oils gum up the burrs over time.

No Water Flow (Descaling Procedure)

No water coming through the group head usually means mineral buildup.

How to fix it:

1. Empty the water tank and drip tray
2. Mix descaling solution according to package instructions
3. Fill the water tank with the solution
4. Run the cleaning cycle (the machine will prompt you)
5. Flush the system thoroughly with fresh water afterward

I learned this the hard way. I live in an area with hard water and experienced clogging, leaks from the group head, and loss of steam pressure. Once I started filtering the water, all the issues disappeared.

Weak Steam Wand (Blockage Diagnosis)

If your steam wand is weaker than usual, it’s probably blocked.

How to fix it:

1. Remove the steam tip
2. Soak it in warm water for 10 minutes
3. Use a pin or the included cleaning tool to clear the holes
4. Rinse thoroughly and reattach
5. Test steam pressure

Do this monthly to maintain good performance.

Portafilter Overflow (Dosing & Tamping Fix)

If coffee grounds spill into the drip tray when you lock in the portafilter, you’re overfilling the basket.

How to fix it:

1. Reduce your dose by 1 to 2 grams
2. Use the Razor dose trimming tool (included) to level the coffee bed
3. Tamp evenly with moderate pressure
4. Wipe the rim of the portafilter clean before locking in

Water Leaks (Seal Replacement Guide)

Water leaking from the group head usually means the portafilter gasket needs replacing.

How to fix it:

1. Order a replacement gasket (around $10 to $15)
2. Remove the shower screen
3. Pop out the old gasket
4. Install the new one
5. Reassemble

Gaskets typically last 12 to 24 months with regular use. This is normal wear and tear.

Tier 1: Essential ($50 to $80)

Knock box ($20 to $25) You’ll pull multiple shots daily. A knock box makes disposing of spent coffee pucks quick and clean.

Dosing funnel ($15 to $20) This keeps grounds tidy while grinding. No more coffee dust everywhere.

Coffee brush ($5 to $10) Essential for daily cleaning. Keeps the group head and portafilter clean.

Digital scale with timer ($30 to $50) A scale is absolutely essential for good espresso. You need to weigh both the beans going in and the espresso coming out. Ideally, it should also have a built-in timer so you can time the extraction.

Tier 2: High-Impact ($80 to $150)

Bottomless portafilter ($50 to $70) This lets you see extraction in real-time. It’s a learning tool that helps you diagnose channeling and uneven extraction.

Quality tamper ($30 to $50) The built-in tamper works, but it’s not the best. A heavier, precision tamper improves consistency.

WDT tool ($15 to $25) After grinding, I give the portafilter a light tap and use a WDT tool to evenly distribute the grounds. This breaks up clumps and ensures even extraction.

Tier 3: Quality-of-Life ($30 to $100)

Tamping mat ($20 to $30) Protects your counter and keeps everything organized.

Espresso scale ($40 to $80) If you didn’t get one in Tier 1, get one now. Seriously.

Milk pitcher upgrade ($25 to $40) The included stainless steel milk jug works, but a better pitcher with measurement markings helps with consistency.

Future Investments (Optional, $200+)

Better grinder ($200 to $400) The built-in grinder is good, but upgrading to a Baratza Encore, Eureka, or similar standalone grinder improves consistency dramatically.

Separate scale ($50 to $100) High-precision scales like the Acaia Lunar are overkill for most people, but they’re nice if you’re obsessed with perfection.

In my experience, start with Tier 1 accessories. Add Tier 2 items as your skills improve. Skip Tier 3 unless you’re really committed.

vs. Breville Bambino (Feature Parity & When to Choose Each)

The Bambino is smaller, cheaper (around $300 to $400), and heats up faster (3 seconds). But it doesn’t have a built-in grinder.

Choose the Bambino if:

• You already own a quality grinder
• Counter space is extremely limited
• You want faster heat-up time
• You prioritize automatic milk frothing

Choose the Barista Express if:

• You want an all-in-one solution
• You don’t have a grinder yet
• You prefer manual control over automation
• You want to save money long-term

vs. Gaggia Classic Pro (Reliability, Repairability & Learning Curve)

The Gaggia Classic Pro is a prosumer favorite. It’s built like a tank, with brass boilers and commercial-grade components. It costs around $450 to $550.

Pros of the Gaggia:

• More durable internals
• Easier to repair and modify
• Stronger aftermarket support
• No grinder means no grinder problems

Pros of the Barista Express:

• Built-in grinder saves money and space
• PID temperature control included (Gaggia requires aftermarket mod)
• Easier learning curve for beginners
• Pre-infusion is standard

The Gaggia is better if you’re handy and want a machine you can tinker with. The Barista Express is better if you want convenience and don’t mind limited repairability.

vs. De’Longhi La Specialista (Design, Features, Price)

The La Specialista costs around $600 to $800, similar to the Barista Express. It has a sleek design, built-in grinder, and sensor grinding technology.

Pros of the La Specialista:

• More modern design
• Sensor grinding adjusts automatically
• Active temperature control

Pros of the Barista Express:

• Larger online community and support
• More straightforward manual controls
• Better long-term reliability reports
• More accessible replacement parts

Both are solid machines. I’d give the edge to the Barista Express for reliability and community support.

vs. Rancilio Silvia (Simplicity vs. Features Trade-off)

The Rancilio Silvia is a classic. It’s incredibly durable and has commercial-grade components. It costs around $800 to $900, but it has no built-in grinder, no PID (unless modded), and no pre-infusion.

Choose the Silvia if:

• You already own a grinder
• You want maximum durability
• You’re comfortable with a steep learning curve
• You plan to use it for 10+ years

Choose the Barista Express if:

• You want an all-in-one solution
• You prefer modern conveniences like PID and pre-infusion
• You’re a beginner or intermediate user
• You want better value for money

Feature	Barista Express	Bambino	Gaggia Classic Pro	La Specialista	Rancilio Silvia
Price	$600-$700	$300-$400	$450-$550	$600-$800	$800-$900
Built-in Grinder	Yes	No	No	Yes	No
PID Control	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No
Pre-infusion	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No
Boiler Type	Single	Single	Single	Dual	Single
Heat-up Time	5-10 min	3 sec	10-15 min	5-10 min	15-20 min
Portafilter Size	54mm	54mm	58mm	51mm	58mm
Best For	All-in-one convenience	Compact setups	Tinkerers	Modern features	Durability

 

Day 1 to 5: Unboxing, Basic Shots, Expected Messiness

The first week is messy. Accept that. You’ll spill grounds, make terrible espresso, and probably burn some milk. That’s part of learning.

Focus on basic workflow:

1. Fill the water tank and bean hopper
2. Heat up the machine (5 to 10 minutes)
3. Grind coffee into the portafilter
4. Tamp evenly
5. Lock in and pull a shot
6. Taste and take notes

Don’t worry about perfection. Just get comfortable with the physical process. If you’ve never made espresso like this before, the process might seem a bit involved. However, once you learn it and get into the rhythm, it’s very easy.

Week 2 to 3: Dialing In & Finding Your Settings

Week 2 is when you start dialing in. This is where the grinder frustration hits. You’ll be stuck between settings 2 and 3, pulling your hair out.

That’s when you discover the top burr adjustment. Suddenly, everything clicks. You find your sweet spot. Shots start tasting balanced.

Write down your settings: grind size, dose, output, time, and tasting notes. This helps you dial in faster next time.

Expect to pull 10 to 20 mediocre shots before you nail it. That’s normal. Every barista goes through this. In my experience, it took me 2 to 3 weeks to dial in properly.

Week 4: Milk Steaming & Creating Drinks

By week 4, your espresso is consistent. Now you focus on milk steaming. Practice creating microfoam. Work on latte art.

Your first attempts will be sad. Milk will splatter everywhere. You’ll burn yourself on the steam wand. But gradually, you’ll get better.

By the end of the month, you’re making flat whites, cappuccinos, and lattes that taste better than most coffee shops. That’s when the Barista Express pays for itself.

Realistic Timeline to “Good Shots”

Week 1: Messy, terrible shots, lots of frustration Week 2: Understanding the process, dialing in begins Week 3: Consistent shots, flavors improve Week 4: Good shots reliably, milk skills developing Month 2: Confident with the machine, experimenting with beans Month 3+: Café-quality drinks at home

Daily Cleaning (5 Minutes)

After every use:

1. Wipe the steam wand immediately
2. Purge the group head
3. Empty the drip tray
4. Knock out spent coffee pucks
5. Rinse the portafilter

A cloth is handy, although mine is currently filthy and definitely needs a wash. This takes 5 minutes and prevents buildup.

Weekly Cleaning & Backflushing

Once a week:

1. Backflush with a cleaning tablet
2. Remove and soak the shower screen
3. Clean the drip tray thoroughly
4. Wipe down the exterior

The machine will prompt you to run a cleaning cycle. It performs a backflush and keeps everything running smoothly.

Monthly Descaling Schedule

Descale every 1 to 2 months, depending on water hardness. Use Breville’s descaling solution or a third-party option.

I experienced clogging, leaks from the group head, and loss of steam and hot water pressure because of hard water. Once I started filtering the water, all the issues disappeared.

Gasket Replacement Timeline (12 to 24 Months)

The portafilter gasket wears out over time. Expect to replace it every 12 to 24 months. It costs around $10 to $15.

Signs you need a new gasket:

• Water leaking from the group head
• Portafilter feels loose when locked in
• Reduced pressure during extraction

Burr Wear & When to Replace

Conical burrs last a long time. With regular home use, expect 5 to 10 years before replacement is necessary.

Signs of burr wear:

• Inconsistent grind size
• Coffee tastes flat or over-extracted despite correct settings
• Grinder makes unusual noises

5 to 10 Year Longevity (with Proper Care)

With proper maintenance and cleaning, the Barista Express lasts 5 to 10 years. Mine is four years old and still looks almost brand new. I’ve made four to six coffees a day on this machine for four years, and it really hasn’t skipped a beat.

That’s excellent value when you consider the cost of daily café visits. At $5 per café latte, making two drinks daily at home saves you $3,650 per year.

Best Water Type to Use

Use filtered water. Tap water contains minerals that build up inside the machine. Distilled water is too pure and can actually corrode components over time.

I learned this the hard way. Pay attention to water quality. If you live in an area with hard water, you may run into issues. Initially, I thought it was an internal valve problem, but it turned out to be the tap water.

Water Filter Efficacy

The Barista Express includes a water filter and filter holder. Use it. Replace the filter every 2 to 3 months.

A good external water filter (like Brita) also helps. Filtered water extends the machine’s lifespan and improves coffee taste.

Descaling Frequency & Process

Descale every 1 to 2 months if you use tap water. Every 2 to 3 months if you use filtered water.

The machine will prompt you when it’s time. Follow the instructions, and flush the system thoroughly with fresh water afterward.

Hard Water vs. Soft Water Performance

Hard water clogs the system faster. You’ll need to descale more frequently. Soft water is gentler on the machine but can taste flat.

Aim for water hardness around 50 to 100 ppm (parts per million) for the best balance.

1-Year Limited Warranty Scope

Breville offers a 1-year limited product warranty. It covers manufacturing defects but not normal wear and tear.

Keep your receipt and register the product online. This speeds up any warranty claims.

Breville Support Response Times

Customer support can be slow. Expect 15 to 30 minute wait times on the phone. Email support takes 1 to 2 business days.

The online knowledge base is helpful for basic troubleshooting. Check there first before calling.

Out-of-Warranty Repair Costs

Repairs can be expensive. Expect $100 to $200 for common issues like pump replacement or thermocoil repair.

Replacement parts are available online. If you’re handy, some repairs are DIY-friendly. YouTube has great tutorials.

Extended Warranty Worth It?

Some retailers offer extended warranties for around $50 to $100. For a $600 to $700 machine, it’s worth considering if you’re risk-averse.

However, with proper maintenance, most machines last well beyond the warranty period.

What Users Love Most

Based on thousands of Reddit comments and Amazon reviews, owners praise:

• Price-to-feature ratio: Best machine under $600
• All-in-one convenience: No need to buy a separate grinder
• Beginner-friendly: Dual-wall baskets help new users
• Longevity: 5 to 10 years with proper care
• Better than super-automatics: Real espresso, not fake crema
• Fast heat-up time: 5 to 10 minutes is manageable

One Reddit user said, “This machine taught me more about coffee than any article or video could. You learn by doing.”

Most Common Complaints

The main criticisms are:

• Grinder inconsistency: Large steps make dialing in frustrating (45% of negative comments)
• Steam wand weak: Slow for multiple drinks (15% of complaints)
• Portafilter overflow: Grounds spill into drip tray (12%)
• Customer support slow: 15 to 30 minute wait times (10%)
• Built-in grinder risk: If it fails, entire machine is compromised (8%)
• PID in 4°C increments: Too coarse for precise temperature tuning (5%)

The grinder inconsistency is by far the biggest complaint. But once you learn the top burr adjustment trick, it becomes manageable.

Long-Term Reliability Reports (3+ Years)

Owners who’ve had their machines for 3+ years report excellent reliability. Common maintenance includes:

• Gasket replacement every 1 to 2 years
• Descaling every 1 to 2 months
• Occasional steam tip cleaning
• Burr cleaning every 2 to 3 months

Major failures are rare. Most issues are user error or preventable through proper maintenance.

The Honest Recommendation

Yes, absolutely. After four years of daily use, I genuinely love this machine. It’s well worth the money, has stood the test of time, produces excellent espresso, and delivers good milk frothing for its class.

More expensive machines like Rocket models (starting around $1,500) and La Marzocco’s Linea Mini or Micro (several thousand dollars) do have more powerful steam wands. But to get noticeably better coffee than this, you really need to start spending significantly more money.

At the $600 to $700 price point, the Barista Express remains the best all-in-one semi-automatic espresso machine. It teaches you real barista skills. It produces café-quality drinks. And it saves you thousands of dollars over time.

Best For (Ideal Buyer Profile)

This machine is perfect if you:

• Want to learn espresso craft: You’ll understand every step of the process
• Value quality over speed: Manual control gives you better results
• Make 1 to 6 drinks daily: Perfect for individuals or couples
• Have patience for a learning curve: 2 to 3 weeks to dial in properly
• Want an all-in-one solution: No need to buy a separate grinder
• Appreciate good value: Saves money long-term compared to café visits
• Enjoy the ritual: Making coffee becomes a meditative morning routine

Not Recommended For

Skip this machine if you:

• Need instant gratification: One-button super-automatics are faster
• Make 10+ drinks quickly: Single boiler can’t keep up with high volume
• Have no patience for dialing in: The grinder learning curve is real
• Want commercial-grade durability: Prosumer machines like Gaggia Classic Pro are tougher
• Prefer pre-ground coffee: The built-in grinder is a core feature you’d waste
• Need dual boiler efficiency: Can’t pull shots and steam milk simultaneously

Q1: Is it worth $600?

Yes. You get a quality espresso machine with a built-in conical burr grinder, PID temperature control, and manual steam wand. Buying these components separately would cost $800 to $1,000.

Over time, making café-quality drinks at home saves you thousands of dollars compared to daily café visits.

Q2: How long to dial in?

Expect 2 to 3 weeks to consistently pull good shots. You’ll need to pull 10 to 20 practice shots before you nail the grind settings, dose, and tamp pressure.

The grinder’s large step sizes make dialing in frustrating at first. Use the top burr adjustment for fine-tuning between macro settings.

Q3: Can beginners use it?

Yes, but expect a learning curve. The dual-wall (pressurized) filter baskets help beginners get decent results while learning. Once you’ve got the basics down, switch to single-wall baskets for real espresso.

YouTube tutorials and Reddit communities (r/espresso, r/Coffee) are incredibly helpful.

Q4: What’s the learning curve?

Week 1: Messy, lots of trial and error Week 2 to 3: Dialing in, improving consistency Week 4: Reliable shots, working on milk steaming Month 2+: Café-quality drinks at home

If you’ve never used a manual espresso machine, expect some frustration initially. But the reward is worth it.

Q5: Can I use pre-ground coffee?

Technically yes, but you’re wasting the machine’s best feature. The built-in conical burr grinder is what makes this an all-in-one solution.

Pre-ground coffee loses flavor within 15 minutes of grinding. Freshly ground beans make all the difference in espresso quality.

Q6: What accessories are must-have?

Essential tier ($50 to $80):

• Digital scale with timer
• Dosing funnel
• Knock box
• Cleaning brush

High-impact tier ($80 to $150):

• Bottomless portafilter (learning tool)
• Quality tamper
• WDT tool for even distribution

Start with the essential tier. Add high-impact items as your skills improve.

Q7: How long will it last?

With proper maintenance, expect 5 to 10 years of reliable use. Mine is four years old and still performs beautifully.

Common maintenance includes gasket replacement every 12 to 24 months, descaling every 1 to 2 months, and burr cleaning every 2 to 3 months.

Q8: Is customer support good?

Breville customer support can be slow. Expect 15 to 30 minute wait times on the phone. Email support takes 1 to 2 business days.

The online knowledge base and YouTube tutorials are often faster solutions for troubleshooting.

Q9: Can it make latte art?

Yes, absolutely. The manual steam wand can create microfoam for latte art. It takes practice to get the angle right when steaming milk, but you can achieve nice texture.

The latte art might not be perfect at first (that’s more down to skill than the machine), but it’s definitely possible.

Q10: Barista Express vs. Bambino?

Choose Barista Express if:

• You need a built-in grinder
• You want manual control over every variable
• You prefer larger capacity and longer sessions

Choose Bambino if:

• You already own a quality grinder
• Counter space is extremely limited
• You want 3-second heat-up time
• You prefer automatic milk frothing

Both are excellent machines. The Barista Express offers better value as an all-in-one solution.

Q11: Why is the grinder hard to dial?

The grinder has large steps between settings. Setting 2 might choke your shot, while setting 3 gushes too fast.

Solution: Use the top burr adjustment inside the bean hopper. Turn it clockwise to grind finer, counterclockwise to grind coarser. This gives you the micro-adjustments needed between macro settings.

Q12: How often to descale?

Descale every 1 to 2 months with tap water, or every 2 to 3 months with filtered water.

The machine will prompt you when it’s time. Use Breville’s descaling solution or a third-party alternative. Flush thoroughly with fresh water afterward.

Hard water clogs the system faster. I experienced leaks and pressure loss until I started filtering the water.

Q13: Warranty coverage?

Breville offers a 1-year limited product warranty covering manufacturing defects. Normal wear and tear (gaskets, burrs) isn’t covered.

Keep your receipt and register online for faster warranty claims. Some retailers offer extended warranties for $50 to $100.

Q14: Best coffee beans to use?

Use freshly roasted beans within 2 to 4 weeks of the roast date. Look for local roasters or specialty coffee subscriptions.

Light roasts: More acidic, fruity, complex (harder to extract) Medium roasts: Balanced, chocolate, caramel notes (easiest to dial in) Dark roasts: Bold, smooth, slightly smoky (extract faster)

Avoid grocery store beans if possible. They’re often stale and lack flavor complexity.

Q15: Where to buy?

USA: Amazon (best prices, fast shipping), Williams Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, Breville.com UK: John Lewis, Currys, Amazon UK (sold as “Sage Barista Express”) Canada: Amazon.ca, Best Buy Canada, Williams Sonoma Canada

Watch for sales. The machine occasionally drops to $480 to $520 during Black Friday or holiday promotions. Refurbished units run $350 to $400.

I bought the Breville Barista Express because I was really into coffee. I loved visiting different coffee shops and trying beans from around the world, but I couldn’t produce anything similar with my previous home setup.

This machine kept coming up as Amazon’s bestseller with incredible reviews. At the price point, around £600 when I bought it, it felt like great value.

Four years later, I’ve made thousands of drinks on this machine. I’ve shipped it across the world in a cardboard box (risky, I know). I’ve taken it on road trips, camping trips, and even to hotels. Because honestly? Life is simply too short for bad coffee.

The Barista Express taught me more about espresso than any article or video could. You learn by doing. Every shot is a small experiment. Every adjustment teaches you something new.

If this were served in a café, you’d be very happy with it. That’s the standard I hold my home espresso to. And the Barista Express delivers, consistently, day after day.

Is the Breville BES870XL Barista Express still worth buying in 2026? Absolutely.

It’s not perfect. The grinder has frustrating step sizes. The steam wand could be stronger. Customer support can be slow. But these are minor issues compared to what you get: a complete, café-quality espresso setup for under $700.

I still think this is a fantastic machine to buy, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed using it. If you’re ready to learn real espresso craft, save money on café visits, and make incredible coffee at home, the Barista Express is the machine to get.

You won’t regret it.

Ready to elevate your coffee game? Check current prices on Amazon or Breville.com and start your espresso journey today.