Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and Breville Barista Pro depends on your brewing needs and preferences. Both machines are part of Breville’s popular Barista Series and offer integrated grinders for convenience. This comparison will help you understand the key differences and strengths of each model to make an informed decision.
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While both machines aim to deliver third-wave specialty coffee at home, their features and user experience vary slightly. Read on to see which aligns best with your coffee routine.
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Grinder Type: Conical burr
- ✔ Color: Black Truffle
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- ✔ Power: 1650W
- ✔ Grinder Type: Conical burr
- ✔ Color: Stainless Steel
Products Worth Considering
Philips 2200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Classic Milk Frother, 2 Coffee Varieties, Intuitive Touch Display, Ceramic Grinder
De'Longhi Rivelia Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, White
De'Longhi Dinamica Plus Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
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Breville Barista Express vs Breville Barista Pro: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Barista Express offers excellent value with a built-in grinder and straightforward controls. It’s ideal for those new to espresso making or who want a reliable, all-in-one machine without extra bells and whistles.
Pros:
- Integrated conical burr grinder
- Pre-infusion technology
- Affordable price point
- Compact design
Cons:
- Longer heat-up time
- Less advanced digital controls
- Manual steaming process
Best for: Beginners or those on a budget looking for quality espresso at home
Not ideal for: Users seeking quick, highly automated brewing or advanced features
Bottom line: A solid all-in-one option for newcomers to espresso brewing.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
The Barista Pro improves upon the Express with a faster heat-up time and more advanced digital interface. It is suited for users who want more control over their espresso and a quicker, more streamlined experience.
Pros:
- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Intuitive digital interface
- Precise temperature control
- Sleek brushed stainless steel finish
Cons:
- Higher price
- More complex setup
- Larger footprint
Best for: Coffee lovers who value speed, consistency, and control
Not ideal for: Beginners or those on a tight budget
Bottom line: Ideal for enthusiasts wanting a faster, more precise espresso experience.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Barista Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Build | Standard size, manual controls | Sleek stainless steel, digital interface |
| Heat-up Time | Approx. 30 seconds | About 3 seconds with ThermoJet |
| User Interface | Manual and dial controls | Touchscreen-like digital controls |
| Speed | Moderate | Fast |
| Price Range | Lower to mid-range | Mid to high-range |
| Ideal User | Beginners & budget-conscious | Enthusiasts & speed-focused |
The Verdict
For beginners or budget buyers, the Barista Express is a reliable choice. Coffee lovers seeking speed, precision, and modern features should opt for the Barista Pro.
Design and Usability
The Barista Express features a classic, manual design suitable for those comfortable with traditional controls. Its size and interface make it approachable for beginners. Conversely, the Barista Pro’s sleek stainless steel finish and digital interface provide a more modern, user-friendly experience, ideal for users who prefer quick operation and precise control.
Performance and Features
The Pro’s rapid heat-up system and PID temperature control offer more consistent results and faster brewing. The Express, while slightly slower, still provides excellent coffee quality with its integrated grinder and pre-infusion technology. The choice depends on whether speed and advanced features are priorities for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Breville Barista Express is more suitable for beginners due to its straightforward controls and manual operation, making it easier to learn espresso making.
Is the Barista Pro worth the extra cost?
If you value speed, digital controls, and more precise temperature management, the Barista Pro offers significant advantages that justify the higher price.
Can I use the same beans in both machines?
Yes, both machines have integrated grinders that work with any roast of bean, allowing you to customize your coffee experience.
Which machine takes up more counter space?
The Barista Pro is slightly larger and may take up more space due to its design and features, so consider your kitchen layout.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
