What To Know
- While the Breville BES870XL may come with a premium price tag, its exceptional performance, durability, and versatility make it an investment that will pay off for years to come.
- A more budget-friendly option with a manual steam wand and a traditional espresso experience.
- While its price may be a deterrent for some, its exceptional performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment that will enhance your daily caffeine ritual for years to come.
If you’re an avid coffee enthusiast yearning for café-quality brews at home, the Breville BES870XL Barista Express Impress is an indispensable appliance that will elevate your daily caffeine ritual. This comprehensive review will delve into the exceptional features, performance, and overall value of this highly acclaimed coffee machine.
Unboxing and Setup
Upon unboxing the Breville BES870XL, you’ll be greeted by a sleek and sturdy machine that exudes quality craftsmanship. The setup process is straightforward, with clear instructions guiding you through each step. Within minutes, you’ll be ready to embark on your coffee-making journey.
Design and Features
The Breville BES870XL boasts an elegant stainless steel design that seamlessly complements any kitchen décor. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for smaller spaces, while its user-friendly interface ensures effortless operation.
Key features include:
- Integrated Conical Burr Grinder: Freshly ground coffee is essential for optimal flavor extraction. The built-in conical burr grinder provides precise grinding, ensuring consistent particle size and maximum flavor potential.
- Dual Boiler System: This advanced feature allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, reducing wait times and ensuring optimal temperature control for both processes.
- PID Temperature Control: The Precision Infusion System (PID) maintains a precise brewing temperature, ensuring consistent and flavorful extractions.
- Adjustable Shot Volume: Customize your coffee to your desired strength by adjusting the shot volume from 1 to 3 ounces.
- Microfoam Steam Wand: Create velvety smooth microfoam with the adjustable steam wand, perfect for crafting latte art and other specialty drinks.
Brewing Performance
The Breville BES870XL delivers exceptional brewing performance that rivals professional-grade machines. The conical burr grinder produces uniformly ground coffee, ensuring optimal extraction and a balanced flavor profile. The dual boiler system ensures stable temperatures throughout the brewing process, resulting in consistent and flavorful shots.
Steaming Capability
The adjustable steam wand on the Breville BES870XL is a delight to use. The powerful steam output allows for quick and efficient frothing, creating creamy and velvety microfoam. Whether you’re a seasoned latte artist or a novice, you’ll find it easy to create stunning coffee creations.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Maintaining the Breville BES870XL is a breeze. The removable water tank and drip tray make cleaning effortless, while the automatic backflush cycle helps prevent coffee residue buildup. Regular cleaning and descaling will ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Value for Money
While the Breville BES870XL may come with a premium price tag, its exceptional performance, durability, and versatility make it an investment that will pay off for years to come. Home baristas who value convenience, consistency, and café-quality coffee will find it a worthwhile purchase.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Integrated conical burr grinder for freshly ground coffee
- Dual boiler system for simultaneous brewing and steaming
- PID temperature control for precise brewing
- Adjustable shot volume for customized coffee strength
- Powerful steam wand for velvety microfoam
- User-friendly interface and intuitive operation
- Durable construction and high-quality materials
Cons:
- Relatively expensive compared to entry-level machines
- May require some practice to master the art of espresso making
Alternatives
If the Breville BES870XL is not quite what you’re looking for, consider these alternatives:
- Gaggia Classic Pro: A more budget-friendly option with a manual steam wand and a traditional espresso experience.
- Jura E8: A fully automatic machine that offers hands-free convenience and a wide range of coffee options.
- Breville Oracle Touch: A high-end machine with automated grinding, tamping, and milk frothing for ultimate convenience.
Final Thoughts: A Coffee Machine Worth the Investment
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express Impress is an exceptional coffee machine that delivers café-quality brews in the comfort of your own home. Its integrated grinder, dual boiler system, and user-friendly interface make it an ideal choice for discerning coffee enthusiasts who value consistency, convenience, and craftsmanship. While its price may be a deterrent for some, its exceptional performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment that will enhance your daily caffeine ritual for years to come.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Is the Breville BES870XL suitable for beginners?
A: While the Breville BES870XL offers advanced features, its user-friendly interface and intuitive operation make it accessible to both beginners and experienced baristas.
Q: How often should I descale the Breville BES870XL?
A: The frequency of descaling depends on the water quality in your area. As a general rule, it’s recommended to descale every 2-3 months.
Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville BES870XL?
A: Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee, but freshly ground coffee will produce a more flavorful and aromatic brew.
