Uncover How the Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine Enhances Your Coffee Experience Review

Description

Maintenance & Cleaning

Using the Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS has been a breeze for me when it comes to keeping it clean. The drip tray comes with a handy “Empty Me!” indicator that pops up when full, saving me from unexpected spills. The included cleaning kit makes descaling and maintaining the machine straightforward. I appreciate that the grinder chute can be easily accessed for cleaning, preventing any coffee buildup. However, I noticed that the steam wand does require prompt cleaning after every use, as dried milk can be stubborn to remove if left for too long. It’s a small price to pay for consistently creamy lattes, though!

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The milk frothing is where this machine shines. I’ve been practicing my latte art, and thanks to the powerful steam wand, it’s actually achievable! The manual microfoam texturing allows for precise control, giving me that silky milk texture essential for cappuccinos and lattes. My cousin, who’s a coffee aficionado, was impressed with the frothing capability during a family brunch. However, it does take a bit of practice to get the hang of it. The steam wand is responsive and heats milk quickly, but I did find it spitting a bit of water at first, which is something to keep in mind.

Features

One of my favorite aspects of this espresso machine is the integrated conical burr grinder. It allows me to grind fresh coffee beans directly into the portafilter with adjustable grind size and dose control. The LCD display is intuitive, showing animations for grinding, brewing, and steaming progress. It’s easy to program and adjust the settings to suit my preferences, whether I’m in the mood for a single shot or a double. A bonus is the ThermoJet heating system, which heats up in just 3 seconds. I can go from bean to cup in under a minute, making my mornings a lot smoother.

Design & Build Quality

The brushed stainless steel finish on this machine lends a premium look and feel, blending seamlessly with my kitchen décor. It’s compact yet sturdy, and the magnetic tamper holder is a thoughtful touch that keeps things organized. At 19.5 pounds, it’s heavy enough to feel stable but not impossible to move if needed. However, I wish the water tank design made it easier to see the water level without removing it. Despite this minor gripe, the build quality overall feels robust and dependable.

Brewing Performance

The Breville Barista Pro excels at delivering consistent espresso shots. With low-pressure pre-infusion and precise temperature control (PID), my shots consistently have rich crema and balanced flavor. I’ve experimented with various beans, including some dark roasts and lighter blends, and the results have been consistently delightful. The pre-infusion feature ensures an even extraction, and the shot timer is a nice addition for dialing in the perfect brew.

Water Tank & Capacity

The water tank holds 67 ounces, which is sufficient for several drinks before needing a refill. I find the removable design convenient, especially when cleaning or refilling it. The included water filter is a bonus, improving the taste of my espresso while reducing scale buildup. On busy mornings, I’ve appreciated not having to refill it frequently, even after making a few rounds of coffee for visiting friends.

Coffee Quality

After testing countless cups, I’m genuinely impressed by the flavor profile this espresso machine is capable of producing. Whether it’s a robust espresso or a smooth americano, the taste is consistently rich and aromatic. I’ve even managed to replicate the quality of my favorite coffee shop drinks at home. My coworkers couldn’t believe I made their cappuccinos myself during a recent work-from-home coffee break.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

The energy efficiency of this machine is commendable. It automatically powers down after a set period of inactivity, which is great for someone like me who occasionally forgets to turn things off. Noise levels are moderate; the grinder is notably louder than the brewing process, but it’s not unbearable. My early-morning coffee routine doesn’t wake anyone in the household, so that’s a definite win.

Warranty & Support

The two-year limited warranty gives me peace of mind, especially for a machine in this price range. Breville’s customer support has been responsive and helpful when I had questions about initial setup. Registering the product online was straightforward, and knowing that I have access to support if needed adds to the overall value of this espresso machine.

Boons

• Exceptional milk frothing capability for latte art.
• Compact design with high-quality stainless steel finish.
• Integrated grinder with adjustable grind size and dose control.
• Precise temperature control ensures great-tasting espresso.

Critiques

• Steam wand initially spits water before producing steam.
• Water tank visibility could be better for quick refills.
• Grinder is a bit noisy, especially in quieter settings.

Peer Products

I’ve compared this machine to the Gaggia Classic Pro, which is another popular choice for espresso enthusiasts. While the Gaggia offers excellent extraction quality, it lacks the integrated grinder and rapid heat-up time that make the Barista Pro so convenient. The De’Longhi Dedica can be a more budget-friendly alternative, but it doesn’t match the Barista Pro’s milk frothing performance or build quality. For those looking for a more automated experience, the Breville Barista Touch offers touchscreen controls but at a significantly higher price point.

Quality for Price

Considering its features and performance, this espresso machine offers excellent quality for its price. It combines the flexibility of manual espresso making with the convenience of modern technology, making it a solid investment for any coffee lover. While there are pricier options with more advanced features, the balance of functionality and affordability here makes this machine a standout choice in its category.

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