Explore the Breville BES860XL Barista Express Espresso Machine Review: Is It Worth It?

Description

Design & Build Quality

The Breville BES860XL Barista Express Espresso Machine with Grinder immediately stands out with its sleek stainless steel casing, giving it a timeless and professional look. It feels robust and well-built, with no-slip feet ensuring it stays firmly in place, even when the burr grinder is in use. This feature is particularly helpful when I’m half-awake in the morning and don’t want my espresso machine skidding across the counter. The magnetic tamper storage is a thoughtful touch, though I sometimes fumble a bit to put it back in its slot. The design exudes quality, but there are a few plastic components that might not be as durable as the rest of the machine. My coworker commented that it looked like a piece of professional café equipment, and I have to agree—it’s a beauty to have on the kitchen counter.

Brewing Performance

The 15-bar Italian pump and thermocoil heating system deliver consistent brewing performance. I’ve tested this machine daily for months, and it reliably pulls espresso shots with excellent pressure. The espresso pressure gauge has been a lifesaver, providing feedback on whether I’ve got the grind size and tamping just right. However, I noticed that achieving the perfect shot involves a learning curve. When my sister tried it for the first time, she ended up with a watery espresso, but after a little coaching and experimenting with the grind size and tamping pressure, she nailed it. This machine is forgiving enough for beginners while offering precision for experienced baristas.

Coffee Quality

The integrated burr grinder makes a noticeable difference in coffee quality. Freshly ground beans result in a rich, full-bodied espresso with a thick crema layer that rivals café-quality drinks. Using Lavazza Super Crema beans, I achieved shots with a beautiful tri-level finish—dark at the bottom, a milder middle layer, and caramel-colored crema on top. My mornings have transformed into a café-like experience, and I no longer dread the overpriced coffee shop visits. However, consistency can sometimes be tricky; if the grind size or amount isn’t dialed in perfectly, the espresso can taste slightly off.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The 360-degree swivel-action steam wand is a mixed bag. On the one hand, it produces creamy, frothy milk that’s excellent for lattes and cappuccinos. I’ve even managed to create some basic latte art, much to the amusement of my friends. On the other hand, I wish the steam pressure were adjustable. The frothing wand works well but isn’t as intuitive for beginners. My nephew, attempting to froth milk for the first time, ended up with a mess of bubbles rather than a velvety texture. With practice, though, it becomes easier to master.

Water Tank & Capacity

The 67 fl. oz. removable water tank is generous, minimizing the need for frequent refills. It’s top-fill, which I find convenient, and it includes a replaceable water filter to ensure the coffee tastes pure. However, I’ve noticed that the water tank can be a bit tricky to reattach properly if I’m not paying attention. My partner once struggled with it for a good five minutes before realizing it wasn’t aligned correctly. A simple design tweak could solve this minor inconvenience.

Maintenance & Cleaning

I appreciate the “Clean Me” light that indicates when a cleaning cycle is required—it’s a helpful reminder for forgetful folks like me. The cleaning process isn’t overly complicated, but it does require regular upkeep. The hidden storage compartment for the cleaning tools is a great touch, keeping everything organized. However, the machine needs frequent descaling and cleaning, especially if you’re a daily user like me. I’ve had to purchase extra cleaning tablets and water filters, which adds to the maintenance costs.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

Energy efficiency isn’t a standout feature, but it’s decent for a machine of this caliber. It powers down after a period of inactivity, which is a nice touch. The noise level, especially when grinding beans, is noticeable but not excessive. I’ve had quieter mornings, but the sound is a small price to pay for freshly ground espresso. My dog, however, seems to think otherwise—he bolts out of the kitchen every time I hit the grind button.

Warranty & Support

Breville offers a one-year limited warranty, which is reassuring but not exceptional. I haven’t had to contact customer support yet, but based on other reviews, reaching them can sometimes be a challenge. My friend had a minor issue with a different Breville model and mentioned that the response time was slower than expected. It’s worth keeping in mind if you’re considering this machine.

Winning Points

• Integrated burr grinder ensures fresh coffee for every shot.
• Sleek stainless steel design adds a professional touch to any kitchen.
• Versatile for beginners and experienced users with dual-wall and single-wall filters.
• Excellent espresso pressure gauge for brewing precision.
• Generous water tank capacity reduces refilling frequency.

Areas for Improvement

• Steam pressure isn’t adjustable, limiting frothing control.
• Cleaning and maintenance requirements can feel frequent and costly.
• Some plastic components may not match the durability of the stainless steel parts.
• Water temperature isn’t always consistent, according to some user reviews.
• Customer support might not be as responsive as desired.

Product Comparisons

Compared to other machines in its range, such as the Gaggia Classic Pro and the De’Longhi Dedica, the Breville BES860XL offers a unique all-in-one solution with its built-in grinder. While the Gaggia Classic Pro is known for its durability and commercial-grade features, it lacks the convenience of an integrated grinder, making the Breville more user-friendly for home baristas. On the flip side, the De’Longhi Dedica is more compact and budget-friendly but doesn’t deliver the same level of control over grind size and espresso pressure. The Breville strikes a balance between convenience and performance, though it may not be the best choice for those seeking ultimate precision or long-term durability.

Cost Efficiency

Considering the built-in grinder and the quality of espresso it produces, this machine offers good value for money. While the upfront cost is higher than some entry-level machines, it eliminates the need for a separate grinder, which can easily cost a few hundred dollars. Over time, the savings from skipping daily coffee shop visits make it a worthwhile investment. However, the ongoing costs for filters, cleaning tablets, and maintenance should be factored in. For me, the joy of crafting café-quality drinks at home outweighs these minor expenses.

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