Should You Buy the Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine? Detailed Review

Description

Brewing Performance

Using the Breville RM-BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother has been a delightful experience in crafting coffee at home. I have to admit, the claim of a 3-second heat-up time had me skeptical at first, but it’s no exaggeration. The ThermoJet heating system kicks in almost instantly, allowing me to pull a shot of espresso on even the busiest mornings. The pre-infusion function is another standout feature. It gradually increases pressure at the beginning of the extraction, ensuring the coffee grounds are evenly saturated. This results in a balanced and full-bodied shot every time. I experimented with different grind levels and found that dialing it to my preferred setting was a breeze. Once I figured out the grind-to-water ratio that worked for me, my espresso game leveled up.

Design & Build Quality

The brushed stainless steel finish of this espresso machine is both sleek and modern, making it a centerpiece in my kitchen. It feels sturdy and well-built, with no flimsy parts. I’ve moved it around a couple of times while reorganizing my counter, and the weight (around 24.4 pounds) reassured me of its durability. The intuitive LCD display is another design win. It provides clear animations and progress indicators for grinding and extracting, which made the learning curve far less steep. However, I noticed that fingerprints can accumulate on the stainless steel surface, which means I keep a microfiber cloth handy to maintain its polished look.

Features

One of the most impressive aspects of this espresso machine is its all-in-one capability. It comes equipped with an integrated conical burr grinder that delivers fresh coffee grounds on demand. The dose control feature ensures the exact amount needed for each cup, which eliminates guesswork and reduces waste. The 1/2-pound bean hopper and 67-ounce water tank offer plenty of capacity, making it perfect for multiple servings without constant refilling. The inclusion of accessories like single and dual wall filter baskets, a milk jug, cleaning kit, and even a water filter demonstrates thoughtful attention to detail.

Positives

Here are a few favorable attributes I’ve discovered while using the machine:

• The ThermoJet heating system ensures almost instant readiness.
• The integrated grinder with dose control simplifies the entire brewing process.
• The LCD interface provides clear and helpful guidance for beginners.
• The sturdy build and brushed stainless steel design add an elegant touch to any kitchen.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

Frothing milk is where this machine really shines for those who enjoy cappuccinos or lattes. The manual steam wand allows for microfoam milk texturing, which not only enhances the flavor but also enables you to try your hand at latte art. I made several attempts at creating a heart shape, and while my results were laughable, the milk’s silky texture was undeniable. The wand is powerful and easy to control, but it does take some practice to master the technique.

Coffee Quality

The quality of coffee produced by this espresso machine is nothing short of café-worthy. Once I dialed in the right grind size and tamp pressure, the shots were consistently rich, with a velvety crema that made me feel like a professional barista. Whether I used a single or double-shot basket, the flavor was always well-extracted. However, I would advise using high-quality beans to truly unlock the machine’s potential. I tried both medium and dark roasts, and both delivered excellent results.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning this machine is relatively straightforward. The removable water tank and drip tray make it easy to clean up after each use. The included cleaning kit is a nice touch, as it provides everything you need to keep the machine running smoothly. However, the grinder can be a bit tricky to clean thoroughly, as coffee grounds have a way of sneaking into nooks and crannies. I found myself using a small brush to get into the tight spaces. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the machine in top condition, especially if you’re using it daily.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

One thing I appreciated about the Breville Barista Pro is its energy efficiency. The machine automatically enters standby mode after a period of inactivity, which helps save electricity. In terms of noise, the grinder does make a noticeable sound when in use, but it’s not overly intrusive. I’ve used louder machines in the past, and this one strikes a good balance between performance and noise level.

Water Tank & Capacity

The 67-ounce water tank is more than sufficient for my daily coffee needs. I’ve gone through multiple drinks without needing to refill, which is a huge plus during busy mornings. The tank is also removable, making it easy to clean and refill. However, I did notice that the plastic build of the water tank feels less robust compared to the rest of the machine. It hasn’t caused any issues so far, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Warranty & Support

As a certified remanufactured product, this machine comes with a 6-month warranty, which offers some peace of mind. I haven’t had to contact customer support yet, but knowing that the warranty is there gives me confidence in the product’s reliability. Some users have reported mixed experiences with remanufactured units, so it’s worth checking for any visible defects upon arrival.

Areas for Improvement

While I’m generally satisfied with this espresso machine, there are a few areas for improvement:

• The grinder can be somewhat messy, with coffee grounds scattering occasionally.
• The stainless steel surface is prone to smudges and fingerprints.
• The water tank material feels slightly flimsy compared to the rest of the build.

Rival Brands

When I compare this espresso machine to similar models, such as the De’Longhi La Specialista or the Gaggia Classic Pro, a few distinctions become evident. The Breville Barista Pro stands out for its rapid heating system and intuitive LCD interface, which make it more user-friendly for beginners. However, the Gaggia Classic Pro offers a more traditional espresso-making experience, which may appeal to purists. On the other hand, De’Longhi’s integrated tamping system and dual heating feature are noteworthy, but its design feels bulkier. Each machine has its strengths, but the Breville Barista Pro strikes a good balance between innovation and usability.

Price to Quality Ratio

For what it offers, this espresso machine provides excellent quality for its price. While it’s certainly an investment, the features and performance justify the cost. If you’re someone who enjoys specialty coffee drinks and wants the convenience of an all-in-one machine, it’s worth every penny. Compared to similar options on the market, it delivers a compelling balance of functionality, design, and performance.

Additional information