Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and the Barista Pro depends on your brewing preferences, budget, and how much control you want over your espresso experience. Both machines are part of Breville’s esteemed Barista Series and incorporate integrated grinders, making them ideal for home baristas.
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This comparison dives into the key differences, features, and ideal users for each model to help you make an informed decision.
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Color: Black Truffle
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 fl oz
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- ✔ Color: Brushed Stainless Steel
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 fl oz
Breville Barista Express vs Breville Barista Pro: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express offers a great balance of manual control and convenience, making it perfect for users who want to learn espresso making while still enjoying quality results. Its integrated conical burr grinder and precise temperature control ensure a freshly brewed, flavorful cup each time.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder with dose control
- Manual steaming wand for textured milk
- Affordable for a feature-rich machine
- Easy to use for beginners
Cons:
- Slower heat-up time compared to Pro
- Less advanced display and interface
- Fewer customization options
Best for: Home baristas who value hands-on control and learning the craft
Not ideal for: Users seeking quick, high-tech operation or more advanced features
Bottom line: A solid choice for those wanting a manual, hands-on espresso experience.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
The Breville Barista Pro features a sleek, intuitive interface and faster heat-up time, making it ideal for users who want professional-quality espresso with less fuss. Its digital display and faster operation suit busy mornings or more advanced home baristas.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet heating system
- Touch screen interface for easy control
- Integrated grinder with dose control
- Sleek brushed stainless steel finish
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
- Less hands-on control than the Express
- Smaller water reservoir
Best for: Busy users who want fast, consistent espresso with minimal effort
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a more manual experience or learning tool
Bottom line: Ideal for quick, high-quality espresso with modern features.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Barista Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Build Material | Black Truffle finish | Brushed stainless steel |
| Heating System | ThermoBlock | ThermoJet |
| Display | Analog controls | Digital touch screen |
| Speed | Moderate | Fast |
| User Interface | Manual controls | Touch interface |
| Price Range | Lower | Higher |
The Verdict
The choice depends on your preference for manual control versus speed and modern features. The Express is great for hands-on learning, while the Pro offers convenience and speed for busy mornings.
Deep Dive into Features
The Breville Barista Express provides a more traditional espresso-making experience, with manual controls and an integrated grinder that gives you total control over your brew. Its analog interface makes it straightforward but slower to operate. Conversely, the Breville Barista Pro’s faster heat-up time, digital display, and sleek design make it ideal for users who prioritize speed and modern technology while still achieving excellent espresso quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Breville Barista Express is more beginner-friendly with manual controls that help learn espresso basics, whereas the Pro is better for users who want quick results with less manual effort.
Can both machines make latte art?
Yes, both machines have steam wands suitable for frothing milk for latte art, but the Pro’s faster steaming can be more convenient.
How do the cleaning and maintenance compare?
Both machines require regular cleaning of the grinder and drip tray. The Pro’s digital interface provides easier maintenance alerts and controls, while the Express may need more manual attention.
Are the water tanks similar?
Yes, both have 67 fl oz water reservoirs, suitable for multiple beverages before refilling.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
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