Uncover Why the Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine Review Stands Out

Description

Brewing Performance

Using the Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS has completely transformed my morning routine. The incorporation of an intelligent dosing system is a standout feature, automatically calculating the perfect amount of coffee for each shot. I experimented with various grind sizes and coffee beans to see how it impacted the extraction process. With its 25 grind settings, I found it easy to tweak the grind size until I achieved the ideal 30-second extraction time, which resulted in a rich crema and smooth espresso. The built-in pressure gauge was particularly helpful in ensuring I wasn’t over or under-extracting. However, the dosing system occasionally overfilled the portafilter, requiring me to use the Razor tool for adjustment—a minor hiccup but worth mentioning.

Design & Build Quality

This espresso machine’s brushed stainless steel finish immediately caught my eye. It looks sleek and modern on my kitchen counter, complementing other appliances perfectly. I’ve always been a fan of Breville’s knack for combining aesthetics with functionality, and this one is no exception. The machine feels sturdy, and the buttons have a satisfying click, giving me confidence in its durability. However, at 23.7 pounds, moving it around isn’t the easiest task, so you’ll want to find a permanent spot for it. Despite its bulk, the efficient layout of the controls and components ensures that nothing feels cramped.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

As someone who loves crafting lattes and cappuccinos, the powerful manual steam wand was a delight to use. It allowed me to create velvety microfoam that was perfect for latte art. While I’m no professional latte artist, the consistent texture made achieving a decent swirl much easier. That said, the steaming process can get a bit noisy, which startled my cat the first couple of times. I found that the milk jug provided was of excellent quality, although I occasionally wished it could hold a bit more milk for when I needed to make multiple drinks.

Water Tank & Capacity

The 2-liter water tank is another feature I appreciated. It only needed refilling every couple of days, even with my partner and me making two to three drinks daily. The tank is removable, making refills straightforward, though I did notice some slight sloshing if I wasn’t careful while carrying it. A low-water sensor would have been a fantastic addition, as I did accidentally let the machine run dry once. Thankfully, no lasting damage was done, but it’s something to watch out for.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning the Breville Barista Express Impress isn’t a chore, which is a blessing given how much I use it. The removable drip tray and built-in storage for maintenance tools, like the cleaning tablet and brush, make upkeep a breeze. Descaling the machine was straightforward, although I opted for generic cleaning tablets to save on costs. However, I noticed that the system prompts cleaning cycles more frequently than expected, which might be a result of my hard water area. It’s worth investing in filtered water to reduce the frequency of descaling.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

The Thermocoil heating system with PID control ensures the machine heats up quickly without drawing excessive power. I’ve noticed a slight reduction in my energy bill compared to my previous espresso machine, which seemed to guzzle electricity. The downside, however, is the noise. The grinder and steam wand are both quite loud, with the grinder in particular sounding like a mini jet engine. While the noise isn’t a dealbreaker for me, it’s something to consider if you value a quieter morning routine.

Warranty & Support

Breville offers a one-year limited warranty with this machine, which provides some peace of mind. I haven’t had a reason to contact customer support yet, but based on my past experiences with Breville, they tend to be helpful and responsive. It’s also comforting to know that replacement parts like the water filter and portafilter are readily available online. Still, I’d recommend registering your product as soon as you unbox it to ensure you’re covered.

Coffee Quality

The flavor profile of the espresso produced by this machine is unparalleled. I tested it with various coffee beans, from light roasts to dark Italian blends. The machine consistently highlighted the nuanced flavors, from fruity notes to rich, chocolatey undertones. The assisted tamping feature, which applies a consistent 10kg of pressure, ensures a polished and even puck, crucial for an excellent shot. After years of drinking coffee shop espresso, I can confidently say this machine brings barista-quality coffee to your home.

Features

This machine is packed with features that make it a joy for both beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts. The intelligent dosing system, assisted tamping, and built-in grinder with 25 settings all contribute to a seamless brewing experience. I particularly loved the customizable brew temperature and volumetric shot control, which allowed me to fine-tune my espresso to match my preferences. The included accessories, like the milk jug and cleaning tools, are thoughtful additions that enhance the overall package.

Positives

• Intelligent dosing system simplifies espresso preparation.
• 25 grind settings for precise customization.
• Consistent and powerful steam wand for milk frothing.
• Durable and aesthetically pleasing stainless steel design.
• Comprehensive cleaning accessories included.

Areas for Improvement

• No low-water sensor, risking accidental dry runs.
• Grinder and steam wand can be noisy during operation.
• Frequent cleaning cycle prompts may be inconvenient.

Competing Products

Compared to similar models like the Gaggia Classic Pro and De’Longhi La Specialista, the Barista Express Impress stands out for its innovative dosing and tamping system. While the Gaggia offers a more traditional espresso-making experience, it lacks the automation that makes the Breville user-friendly. De’Longhi’s La Specialista, on the other hand, provides a comparable experience but at a higher price point. The Breville machine strikes an excellent balance between ease of use, performance, and cost, making it a top contender for home baristas.

Value Proposition

Considering its features, build quality, and performance, this machine offers exceptional value for its price point. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the quality of espresso it produces justifies the investment. For anyone serious about coffee, this machine delivers a premium experience without requiring professional-level skills. It’s a smart spending choice for upgrading your home brewing setup.

Additional information