Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine Review: Quick Buying Guide
If you love espressos-at-home and espresso-based drinks and want to make them at home with fresh beans and customized settings, you might be interested in the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine. This is a popular and versatile semi-automatic espresso machine that allows you to grind, brew, and froth like a pro.
In this review, we will provide an informative and comprehensive evaluation of this product based on its features, performance, ease of use, and value. We will also compare it to other similar products on the market and share some user feedback and ratings. By the end of this review, you will have a clear idea of whether this machine is right for you and where to buy it.
Table of Contents
Key Features
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine has a number of key features that make it stand out from the competition. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- Built-in grinder: This machine has a stainless steel conical burr grinder that can grind fresh beans on demand, saving you space and money. You can adjust the grind size and dose to suit your preference and the type of beans you use.
- PID temperature control: This feature ensures that the water temperature is consistent and optimal for espresso extraction. You can also adjust the temperature to suit different roasts and flavors.
- Pre-infusion function: This function applies low pressure water to the coffee grounds before the high pressure extraction, enhancing the flavor and aroma of the espresso.
- Pressure gauge: This feature helps you monitor the pressure of the espresso extraction, which affects the quality and taste of the coffee. You can use it to fine-tune your settings and technique.
- Other features: This machine also has a 15-bar pump pressure, a 67 oz water tank, a 54 mm portafilter, a hot water dispenser, an auto-purge feature, and a cleaning cycle.
Performance
One of the most important aspects of any espresso machine is its performance. How well does the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine deliver on its promise of making cafe-quality coffee at home? Let’s find out.
The first thing to note is that this machine uses fresh beans and grinds them right before brewing, which is essential for getting the best flavor and aroma from your coffee. You can adjust the grind size and dose to suit your preference and the type of beans you use. The machine also has a PID temperature control that ensures that the water temperature is consistent and optimal for espresso extraction. You can also adjust the temperature to suit different roasts and flavors.
The machine has a pre-infusion function that applies low pressure water to the coffee grounds before the high pressure extraction, enhancing the flavor and aroma of the espresso. The machine also has a pressure gauge that helps you monitor the pressure of the espresso extraction, which affects the quality and taste of the coffee. You can use it to fine-tune your settings and technique.
The machine can brew a single or double shot of espresso in about 30 seconds, which is very fast and convenient. The quality of the espresso is excellent, with a rich crema, balanced flavor, and full-bodied aroma. The machine can also make Americano or tea using the hot water dispenser.
Overall, the performance of this machine is impressive, as it can make espresso and froth milk with speed and consistency, while giving you precise control over the brewing process.
Ease of Use
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine has a user-friendly design and features that make it easy to operate and clean. It has an intuitive interface with clear indicators for power, heating, and cleaning, and also has a removable drip tray that can accommodate tall cups and has an indicator for when it’s full. The machine also has easy-to-clean components, such as the portafilter, the filter baskets, the water tank, and the steam wand.
The machine also has some automatic or convenient functions that make it easier to use. For example, the machine has an auto-purge feature that adjusts the water temperature after steaming, ensuring that the next espresso shot is not too hot or bitter. It also has a hot water dispenser that can be used for making Americano or tea, and also has a cleaning cycle that alerts users when it’s time to descale or clean the machine.
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine does have a learning curve that may require some trial and error to master, but it’s not too difficult to become proficient with it. The machine comes with a detailed instruction manual and a DVD that show users how to set up, use, and maintain the machine. The machine also comes with some accessories, such as a tamper, a razor dose trimming tool, a stainless steel milk jug, and a cleaning kit. Overall, the ease of use of this machine is good, as it has a user-friendly design and features that make it easy to operate and clean, as well as some automatic or convenient functions that make it easier to use.
Milk Frothing
A key feature of any espresso machine is its ability to froth milk for making drinks like latte, cappuccino, or macchiato. How well does the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine froth milk? Let’s find out.
The machine has a 360-degree swivel steam wand that allows users to create microfoam for latte art or creamy foam for cappuccino. The steam wand has a powerful and consistent steam pressure that can heat and froth milk in about 30 seconds. The machine also has a stainless steel milk jug that can hold up to 16 oz of milk.
The quality of the milk frothing is very good, as the machine can produce smooth, silky, and glossy milk foam with fine bubbles. The machine can also achieve different milk textures, such as wet foam for latte, dry foam for cappuccino, or stiff foam for macchiato. The machine can also create different milk temperatures, such as warm, hot, or extra hot.
There are some tips and tricks for getting the best results from the milk frothing. For example, users should use cold fresh milk, preferably whole or 2% fat, as it produces better foam than skim or non-dairy milk. Users should also purge the steam wand before and after use by turning it on briefly to release any water or milk residue. Users should also tilt and swirl the milk pitcher to create a whirlpool effect that helps distribute the heat and air evenly.
Overall, the milk frothing of this machine is excellent, as it can create high-quality milk foam with different textures and temperatures, while giving users control over the steaming process.
Who Is It For?
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a great choice for anyone who loves espresso-based drinks and wants to make them at home with fresh beans and customized settings. But who exactly is the target audience and user profile for this machine? Let’s find out.
This Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is suitable for people who value convenience, flexibility, and style. This machine offers convenience by having a built-in grinder that saves space and money, as well as some automatic or convenient functions that make it easier to use. The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine offers flexibility by allowing users to adjust the grind size, dose, temperature, pressure, and extraction time to suit their preference and the type of beans they use, and also offers style by having a sleek and elegant design that looks great in any kitchen.
he Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is ideal for scenarios where users want to make espresso-based drinks for themselves or their guests, such as hosting a brunch, enjoying a morning cup, or indulging in a weekend treat. This machine can make a variety of drinks, such as espresso, latte, cappuccino, macchiato, Americano, or tea.
Overall, this machine is for anyone who loves espresso-based drinks and wants to make them at home with fresh beans and customized settings.
Comparison
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a semi-automatic espresso machine that gives users more control and customization over the brewing process, but also requires more skill and effort.
Here is a table that compares this machine to three other semi-automatic espresso machines: the DeLonghi La Specialista Espresso Machine, the Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine, and the Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine. These machines have similar features and functions, such as built-in grinders, PID temperature control, steam wands, and pressure gauges.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | DeLonghi La Specialista | Gaggia Classic Pro | Rancilio Silvia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in grinder | Yes, with adjustable grind size and dose | Yes, with sensor grinding technology and smart tamping station | No, requires a separate grinder | No, requires a separate grinder |
| PID temperature control | Yes, with adjustable temperature | Yes, with dual heating system | No, requires manual temperature surfing | No, requires manual temperature surfing or PID mod |
| Pre-infusion function | Yes, with low-pressure pre-infusion | Yes, with active rinsing function | No, requires manual pre-infusion or mod | No, requires manual pre-infusion or mod |
| Pressure gauge | Yes, with analog pressure gauge | No, but has LED indicators for pressure level | No, but can be added with mod | No, but can be added with mod |
| Steam wand | Yes, with 360-degree swivel steam wand and auto-purge feature | Yes, with advanced latte system and flat or foamy milk option | Yes, with commercial-style steam wand and three-way solenoid valve | Yes, with commercial-grade steam wand and three-way solenoid valve |
| Price (as of Oct 2023) | $559.95 on Amazon | $699.00 on Amazon | $449.00 on Amazon | $715.00 on Amazon |
As you can see, the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine has some advantages and disadvantages compared to these competitors.
Pros and Cons
After comparing the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine to other similar products, it’s time to summarize its major advantages and disadvantages. Here are the pros and cons of this machine:
Pros
Excellent performance in making espresso and frothing milkUser-friendly design and features that make it easy to operate and cleanValue for money that offers a lot of functionality for a reasonable price
Cons
Steep learning curve that may take some time and practice to masterNoise level that may be annoying for some users or neighborsMaintenance that may require frequent cleaning and descaling to keep it in good condition
As you can see, the pros of this machine outweigh the cons, especially if you are looking for a versatile and reliable semi-automatic espresso machine that can make cafe-quality coffee at home. However, you should also be aware of the drawbacks and limitations of this machine, and decide whether they are deal-breakers for you or not.
Price and Value
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is not the cheapest espresso machine on the market, but it is not the most expensive either. It has a price of $559.95 on Amazon with free shipping, or $499.95 on Breville’s official website with a 2-year warranty.
The value of this machine depends on several factors, such as the quality, features, and durability of the machine, as well as the savings from making coffee at home instead of buying it from cafes. Based on these factors, we can say that this machine offers a good value for money for anyone who loves espresso-based drinks and wants to make them at home with fresh beans and customized settings.
The quality of this machine is excellent, as it can make espresso and froth milk with speed and consistency, while giving users precise control over the brewing process. The machine also has a user-friendly design and features that make it easy to operate and clean. The machine also has a sleek and elegant design that looks great in any kitchen.
The features of this machine are impressive, as it has a built-in grinder that saves space and money, a PID temperature control that ensures optimal extraction, a pre-infusion function that enhances flavor and aroma, a pressure gauge that helps users monitor their shots, and a steam wand that allows users to create microfoam for latte art or creamy foam for cappuccino.
The savings from this machine are significant, as it can save users a lot of money in the long run by making coffee at home instead of buying it from cafes. According to [this article], the average cost of an espresso-based drink in the US is $3.45, which means that if you buy one drink every day for a year, you will spend $1,259.25. However, if you make your own coffee at home using this machine, you will only spend about $0.60 per drink, which means that you will only spend $219 per year. That’s a saving of $1,040.25 per year!
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
Key Features: Integrated grinder, Brushed Stainless Steel, Simple button control
- Dose control grinding
- Precise espresso extraction
- Manual microfoam milk texturing
- Espresso machine with grind size dial
- Espresso maker with built-in coffee grinder
RRP: $749.99
User Reviews
Another way to evaluate the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is to look at the user reviews and ratings from verified buyers who have used this machine. What do they have to say about this product? Let’s find out.
The machine has a high rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon, based on 22,994 reviews. This indicates that most users are satisfied with their purchase and enjoy using this machine. Here are some of the common themes and feedback from the user reviews:
- Many users praise the quality and taste of the coffee that this machine produces, saying that it is comparable or better than the coffee from cafes. They also appreciate the ability to customize the settings and use fresh beans for their drinks.
- Many users also compliment the design and features of the machine, saying that it is easy to use, clean, and maintain. They also like the sleek and elegant look of the machine and how it fits in their kitchen.
- Some users also mention the value for money that this machine offers, saying that it is worth the investment and that it saves them money from buying coffee from cafes. They also say that the machine is durable and reliable, and that it comes with a good warranty and customer service.
- However, some users also point out some drawbacks and limitations of the machine, saying that it has a steep learning curve that may require some trial and error to master, that it is noisy when grinding and brewing, and that it requires regular cleaning and descaling to keep it in good condition.
Conclusion
After reviewing the features, performance, ease of use, value, and user feedback of the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, we can offer a clear and concise verdict on this product. Is it worth buying? Let’s find out.
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a versatile and reliable semi-automatic espresso machine that can make cafe-quality coffee at home with fresh beans and customized settings. It has a built-in grinder that saves space and money, a PID temperature control that ensures optimal extraction, a pre-infusion function that enhances flavor and aroma, a pressure gauge that helps users monitor their shots, and a steam wand that allows users to create microfoam for latte art or creamy foam for cappuccino. It also has a user-friendly design and features that make it easy to operate and clean, as well as a sleek and elegant look that fits in any kitchen.
The machine does have some drawbacks and limitations, such as its steep learning curve that may require some trial and error to master, its noise level that may be annoying for some users or neighbors, and its maintenance that may require frequent cleaning and descaling to keep it in good condition. However, these are not deal-breakers for anyone who loves espresso-based drinks and wants to have a cafe-like experience at home.
Therefore, we can conclude that this machine is worth buying for anyone who loves espresso-based drinks and wants to make them at home with fresh beans and customized settings. The machine offers a lot of functionality for a reasonable price, and it can pay for itself in less than six months by saving users money from making coffee at home.
If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable semi-automatic espresso machine that can make cafe-quality coffee at home, don’t hesitate to buy the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine today.
Variations
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is one of the models in the Breville Barista Series, which offers all-in-one espresso machines with integrated grinders. There are other variations of this machine that have different features and functions.
Here is a table that compares the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine to three other variations: the Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine, the Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine, and the Breville Oracle Touch Espresso Machine. These machines have similar features and functions, such as built-in grinders, PID temperature control, steam wands, and pressure gauges. However, they also have some differences that may affect your decision.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Barista Touch | Breville Oracle Touch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grinder type | Conical burr grinder | Conical burr grinder with ThermoJet heating system | Conical burr grinder with ThermoJet heating system | Conical burr grinder with dual boiler system |
| Grind size and dose control | Manual dial control | Digital LCD display control | Digital touch screen control | Digital touch screen control |
| Tamping | Manual removable magnetic tamper | Manual removable magnetic tamper | Automatic integrated tamper | Automatic integrated tamper |
| Price | $559.95 on Amazon | $699.95 on Amazon | $999.95 on Amazon | $2,499.95 on Amazon |
As you can see, the variations of this machine have some advantages and disadvantages compared to the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine. The main differences are in the grinder type, the grind size and dose control, the tamping, the milk frothing, the interface, and the price.
