Breville Barista Express: Still a Top Espresso Pick in 2025

Introduction

If you’re the kind of person who needs their coffee before facing the world, then the Breville Barista Express BES870XL might just be your new best friend. This all-in-one espresso machine has built a strong reputation among home baristas — and for good reason. It lets you grind, brew, and steam all in one go, delivering rich, café-style espresso without stepping outside your home.

Let’s see why everyone’s still buzzing about the Barista Express in 2025!”

 

Design & Build Quality

The brushed stainless steel design gives the Barista Express a sleek, modern look — just like the machines you see in your favorite cafés.It’s solidly built and has that “coffee shop” vibe, which instantly upgrades your kitchen counter. Despite being loaded with features, it’s surprisingly compact — perfect for small kitchens or coffee nooks.

Key Features That Make the Barista Express a Go-To for Coffee Lovers

 Steam Wand That Changes the Game

Whether you love creamy lattes or foamy cappuccinos, the steam wand lets you froth milk like a pro. It’s a favorite feature for anyone wanting that café-style finish.

 You Can Actually Make Coffee Shop Drinks at Home
Seriously —Steam Wand That Changes the Game. Whether you’re into frothy cappuccinos or smooth lattes, this thing helps you get that creamy, silky milk like your favorite café. Plus, if you’re feeling fancy, it’s great for practicing a little latte art too.

 No Waiting Around in the Morning
The heating system kicks in fast and keeps everything at a steady temp. That means less time waiting and more time sipping. And yes, your espresso shots will come out more consistent — even if you’re still learning.

 It Tells You What’s Going On
There’s a built-in pressure gauge right on the front. It shows you if your shot is going well or if you need to tweak your grind or tamp. Super helpful when you’re figuring things out.

User-Friendly Controls

Whether you’re new to espresso or a pro at pulling shots, the dial control system makes it super easy. You can switch between grind size, espresso, and steam with a simple turn.

It also offers manual and automatic options — perfect if you like control but also want the ease of one-button brewing when you’re in a rush.

Grinding and Dosing

Fresh Grind, Every Time

The Barista Express grinds beans straight into the portafilter — giving you full control over grind size and quantity without the mess.

You can choose your grind size from fine to coarse — just like the pros.

Adjustable Dose Control

You also get to control how much coffee you grind per shot. Whether you like it strong or smooth, you’re in charge.

Espresso Extraction

15-Bar Italian Pump

Its 15-bar Italian pump delivers just the right amount of pressure for rich, smooth espresso with that perfect crema on top.

 Too little pressure and your shot’s weak. Too much, and it gets bitter. This machine hits the sweet spot.

Pre-Infusion Process

It starts with low-pressure pre-infusion, which gently expands the coffee grounds before full extraction — helping to draw out all the flavors.

Manual Shot Control

Want to control shot length manually? Go ahead. Prefer automatic single or double shot buttons? They’ve got you covered too.

Frothing and Steaming

You can move the steam wand in any direction, giving you full control over the milk texture. Great for customizing your drinks or even trying your hand at latte art.

You can create silky microfoam that’s perfect for lattes, flat whites, and more.

If you’re a fan of latte art, this wand is your new best friend.

Cleaning & Maintenance

No one likes cleaning, but Breville makes it less painful.

• It has cleaning alerts that tell you when it’s time for a scrub.
• The drip tray and water tank are easy to remove and rinse.
• Comes with cleaning tools and tablets in the box.

What’s in the Box?

Add your favorite fresh coffee beans to the hopper.

• Stainless steel portafilter
• Single and dual wall filter baskets
• Integrated tamper
• Razor dose trimming tool
• Milk jug
• Cleaning disc and tablets
• Brush and tool kit
• Water filter and holder

Basically, everything you need to get started on Day One.

How to Use It (Step-by-Step)

Choose your grind size and grind directly into the portafilter.

Tamp the coffee evenly using the built-in tamper.

Lock portafilter into the group head.

Press the single or double shot button.

Use the steam wand to create creamy, frothy milk for lattes or cappuccinos.

Pour and enjoy your homemade latte!

Easy, right?

Pros and Cons

 Pros

All-in-one design

Built-in grinder

Amazing espresso quality

Customizable settings

Durable build

 Cons

Slight learning curve for beginners

Needs regular cleaning

A grinder can be loud

Breville BES870XL vs Other Espresso Machines

Compared to cheaper models, the BES870XL offers way more control and flavor. While it’s pricier than basic machines, it costs less than commercial-grade setups — and performs just as well for home use.

If you’re serious about quality coffee at home, this one’s a winner.

Who Should Buy It?

This machine is perfect for:

• Beginners who want to learn espresso making
• Coffee lovers who want a step up from pod machines
• Home baristas who want full control
• People who want all-in-one functionality in one stylish machine

Price & Value for Money

Is it cheap? Not exactly. But for what it offers — grinder, espresso machine, and steam wand in one — it’s fantastic value. 

Real User Reviews

Here’s what some actual users say:

“It took me a week to get the hang of it, but now my morning espresso is better than Starbucks!”
– Sarah, Verified Buyer

“Love the fresh grind and crema it produces. My kitchen feels like a coffee shop!”
– Tom, Home Barista

Conclusion 

If you’re serious about stepping up your coffee game, the Breville Barista Express BES870XL is honestly a solid choice. It gives you that full coffee shop vibe at home — fresh ground espresso, creamy milk foam, and all the control you need to dial in your perfect cup.

Yeah, it might take a little practice at first — but once you get the hang of it, you’ll honestly wonder how you ever survived on instant coffee or those pricey café runs. It’s super satisfying, kind of fun to master, and honestly a little addictive (in the best way possible).

FAQs

Q1. Does it come with a warranty?

Yep! Breville usually includes a 1-year limited warranty with the Barista Express — just in case anything goes wrong.

Q2. Can I use pre-ground coffee?

You can! But honestly, it really shines when you use fresh beans — that’s where the flavor magic happens.

Q3. Is it hard to clean?

Not at all. It actually gives you cleaning alerts, and it comes with handy tools to help you keep it in great shape without the hassle.

Q4. How long does it take to make a cup of coffee?

Once you get the hang of it, about 2–3 minutes from grinding to sipping. The more you use it, the faster you get.

Q5. Can I use it for tea or just hot water?

Absolutely. There’s a hot water spout built-in — perfect for tea, Americanos, or even a quick cup of oatmeal in the morning.