Explore the Breville 800ESXL Espresso Machine: Is It Worth the Investment? Review Inside!

Description

Design & Build Quality

The Breville 800ESXL Duo-Temp Espresso Machine immediately caught my eye with its sleek stainless steel housing. It has a modern, almost industrial vibe that feels right at home in a contemporary kitchen. The machine is heavy enough to feel solid but not so bulky that it dominates your countertop. I remember unboxing it with my cousin, who jokingly said, “This thing looks like it could survive the apocalypse.” The materials feel durable, and the buttons and dials have a satisfying tactile response. However, the drip tray feels a bit lightweight compared to the rest of the build, which might raise durability concerns over time.

Brewing Performance

I’ve been using this espresso machine daily, sometimes even multiple times a day, and the brewing performance has been remarkably consistent. The 15-bar Italian pump coupled with the thermo-block heating system ensures a quick and even extraction, which is perfect for impatient caffeine junkies like me. The pre-brew function is a nifty feature that pre-moistens the coffee grounds, enhancing the flavor profile of the espresso. One time, I tested it against my friend’s machine, and this one outperformed it in terms of flavor depth and consistency. That said, the lack of a three-way solenoid valve means the coffee puck stays wet, which can be a bit of a hassle to clean.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The swivel steam wand with its frothing attachment is versatile, though it does have a learning curve. I’ve managed to froth milk to a creamy microfoam for my lattes, but getting the perfect texture took some practice. My sister, who’s a latte art enthusiast, found the steam pressure a bit lacking compared to more premium machines. It works well for casual users, but serious baristas might find it limiting. Cleaning the steam wand is essential after every use, as milk residue can clog it quickly.

Water Tank & Capacity

The 75-ounce removable water tank is a lifesaver for someone like me who doesn’t want to refill constantly. I can go for days without needing to top it up, even with regular use. The front-fill design is convenient, making it easy to refill without moving the machine. However, the plastic back of the tank feels slightly out of place compared to the rest of the stainless steel design. My friend, who borrowed it for a weekend party, loved the capacity but commented on the tank feeling a tad flimsy.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning this espresso machine is a relatively straightforward process. The removable drip tray and water tank make it easy to keep things tidy. The included cleaning tools are handy, especially for the filters and frothing wand. However, the double-wall filters can be challenging to clean thoroughly, especially if coffee grounds get stuck between the walls. I once spent a good 10 minutes unclogging the filter after neglecting to clean it for a few days. Lesson learned.

Coffee Quality

The espresso shots pulled from this machine are rich, aromatic, and topped with a thick crema. I’ve experimented with various coffee beans, from store-bought to freshly roasted, and the machine does justice to all of them. One of my coworkers, who’s a self-proclaimed coffee snob, admitted that the espresso tasted almost as good as one made from his high-end machine. The crema system really shines, though purists might argue it’s not as authentic as single-wall filters.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

While the Breville 800ESXL isn’t the quietest machine, the noise level is tolerable and doesn’t wake up the entire household. It heats up quickly, which is great for my chaotic mornings. The auto-purge function is an excellent energy-saving feature, cooling down the machine after steaming to maintain optimal brewing temperature. However, the lack of a dedicated energy-saving mode is a small downside.

Warranty & Support

The one-year warranty is standard, though I wish it were longer considering the price point. Breville’s customer service has been responsive; I reached out to them once about cleaning tips, and they were helpful. However, I’ve read mixed reviews online about their support for more serious issues, which might be something to consider.

Advantages

• Sleek and durable stainless steel design
• Consistent brewing performance with 15-bar pump
• Generous 75-ounce water tank capacity
• Produces rich espresso with a thick crema
• Convenient pre-brew function for enhanced flavor

Negative Attributes

• Steam wand pressure could be better for advanced users
• Double-wall filters are difficult to clean thoroughly
• Plastic components like the water tank feel less premium
• No three-way solenoid valve, resulting in wet coffee pucks

Peer Products

Comparing this machine to others in its price range, such as the Gaggia Classic Pro and the De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe, the Breville 800ESXL Duo-Temp stands out for its design and ease of use. The Gaggia Classic Pro offers more robust steam pressure but lacks the modern aesthetic and user-friendly features of the Breville. Meanwhile, the De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe is more compact but doesn’t match the Breville in terms of tank capacity or build quality. If design and ease of use are your priorities, the Breville shines, though coffee aficionados might prefer the Gaggia for its performance.

Bang for the Buck

Considering its blend of design, functionality, and user-friendly features, the Breville 800ESXL offers decent value for its price. It’s not the cheapest espresso machine, but the quality of espresso and the convenience it provides make it worth considering. However, for those looking for absolute perfection in extraction and steaming, investing in a higher-end machine might be a better long-term option. For everyday users who want great espresso without breaking the bank, this machine hits a sweet spot.

Additional information