Should You Buy the Breville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine? Honest Review Inside

Description

Design & Build Quality

The Breville BES840XL The Infuser Espresso Machine is a striking piece of equipment. Its stainless-steel finish exudes elegance, making it a centerpiece in my kitchen. It’s compact enough to fit snugly on my counter without hogging too much space, yet it feels robust and durable. The machine has this satisfying weight to it, which gives the impression that it’s not going to give up on you anytime soon. I’ve had my fair share of flimsy coffee makers, but this one is built like a tank.

The buttons and knobs feel tactile and responsive, and the pressure gauge on the front? Oh, it’s not just for show—it’s functional and helps monitor optimal extraction. I noticed some reviewers saying the drip tray might feel a bit lightweight compared to the rest of the machine, and I agree. While it’s not a dealbreaker, it could’ve been a tad sturdier to match the rest of the build quality.

Brewing Performance

This espresso machine doesn’t just look good; it performs like a champ. The pre-infusion function is a game-changer. It gently applies low pressure before the full-on extraction, ensuring the coffee grounds are evenly saturated. I tested this with both fresh and slightly older beans, and the difference in flavor clarity was noticeable.

The 1600W thermocoil heating system ensures consistent water temperature, which is crucial for espresso. I’ve tried brewing back-to-back shots, and the machine didn’t falter. It heats up quickly, too—ideal for those mornings when I’m running late but can’t skip my caffeine fix.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

Here’s where the Breville BES840XL truly shines for me. The steam wand is powerful, creating microfoam that’s perfect for latte art. My coworkers have started jokingly calling me a barista because of the drinks I bring to the office! The wand rotates 360 degrees, making it versatile and easy to use.

That said, there’s a bit of a learning curve if you’re new to frothing milk. The steam pressure is decent but not as intense as some higher-end models. I found that it took slightly longer to achieve the desired texture for cappuccinos. Still, once you get the hang of it, the results are worth the effort.

Water Tank & Capacity

The water tank holds 61 ounces, which is more than enough for my daily coffee needs and then some. It’s removable, making refilling a breeze. There’s even a handle, so you don’t feel like you’re playing a risky game of “don’t spill the water.”

One minor gripe is that the water level indicator isn’t the easiest to spot when the tank is in the machine. I found myself relying on the habit of checking every couple of days, just in case. But I’d rather deal with this than constantly refilling a smaller tank.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning this espresso machine is surprisingly hassle-free, and that’s coming from someone who dreads cleaning anything. The drip tray slides out easily, and there’s even a nifty indicator that pops up to let you know when it’s full. The included cleaning tools and tablets make maintaining the machine straightforward.

However, the steam wand does require regular attention to keep it functioning optimally. If you forget to purge it after each use, milk residue can build up. I learned this the hard way after a particularly lazy weekend.

Coffee Quality

The coffee quality from this machine has honestly spoiled me. Gone are the days of mediocre, lukewarm brews from generic coffee makers. The Breville BES840XL extracts rich, full-bodied espresso with a beautiful crema on top. I experimented with different grind sizes, and the machine’s consistency amazed me every single time.

One thing to note is that the quality of your espresso largely depends on the beans and grinder you use. I paired this machine with a mid-range burr grinder, and the results have been fantastic. If you’re using pre-ground coffee, you might not get the same stellar results, but it’s still leagues ahead of most machines in this price range.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

I was pleasantly surprised by how energy-efficient this coffee maker is. It automatically shuts off after a period of inactivity, which is great for someone like me who often forgets to turn things off.

As for noise levels, it’s not whisper-quiet, but it’s not obnoxiously loud either. The brewing process produces a satisfying hum, and the pump doesn’t sound like it’s about to launch into space. I’ve used louder machines in the past, and this one feels like a blessing in comparison.

Warranty & Support

Breville offers a one-year limited warranty on this product, which is standard for most appliances in this category. I haven’t had any issues that required customer support, but I did read that Breville’s service is generally helpful and responsive. Knowing that I have a safety net gives me peace of mind.

Good Points

• Compact and stylish stainless-steel design.
• Pre-infusion technology ensures even extraction.
• Creates rich, café-quality espresso with ease.
• Powerful steam wand for professional-level milk frothing.
• Removable, generously sized water tank for convenience.

Shortcomings

• Drip tray feels slightly flimsy compared to the rest of the machine.
• Water level indicator could be easier to view.
• Steam wand requires regular cleaning to maintain performance.

Direct Competitors

When comparing this espresso machine to similar options, the Gaggia Classic Pro and De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe come to mind. The Gaggia Classic Pro boasts a more traditional design and slightly better steam pressure, but it lacks the pre-infusion feature that makes the Breville BES840XL stand out. The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe, on the other hand, is more compact and budget-friendly but doesn’t deliver the same level of consistency in shot quality.

Where the Breville excels is the balance between performance and user-friendliness. It offers professional-grade features without overwhelming you. However, if you’re looking for something with a stronger steam wand or a more affordable price tag, the alternatives might be worth considering.

True Value

For its price, this espresso machine delivers exceptional performance and features. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the quality justifies the investment. If you’re serious about brewing espresso at home and want something reliable and versatile, this product offers fantastic value.

There are pricier machines with more advanced features, but this one strikes a sweet spot between affordability and performance, making it a smart buy for coffee enthusiasts who want café-quality results without breaking the bank.