Breville BES870XL vs Barista Pro

Espresso lovers often debate between the Breville BES870XL and the Barista Pro. Both machines bring quality, power, and a sleek stainless steel look, but they don’t work the same.

The BES870XL keeps things classic with manual controls and a built-in grinder that gives full control over every shot. The Barista Pro steps in with faster heat-up time, an LCD screen, and smart features that speed up the brewing process without cutting flavor.

These machines come from the same trusted brand but serve different coffee-making styles. One supports a hands-on approach, while the other adds speed and digital help.

Home baristas want rich crema, perfect pressure, and reliable results both machines deliver, but in different ways. This head-to-head review compares them side by side, from build quality to taste. Get ready to find the machine that fits your routine, your style, and your daily cup.

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Fresh espresso at home is a daily treat. The Breville BES870XL and the Barista Pro are two strong machines from Breville’s Barista Series. Both grind beans, brew espresso, and steam milk in one unit.

Both use Breville’s 4 Keys Formula for balanced flavor. But the small details make them different. This article breaks down both machines clearly. No confusing words. No long technical talk. Just easy facts to help you choose.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

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The BES870XL is part of Breville’s Barista Series. It’s an all-in-one espresso machine. The built-in burr grinder lets you go from whole beans to espresso fast. The water tank holds 67 ounces. The bean hopper holds half a pound of beans.

It uses digital temperature control (PID) for even heat. Pre-infusion helps draw flavor evenly. The steam wand lets you froth milk by hand. It also comes with all the tools you need, including a tamper, milk jug, and cleaning kit.

Features

Built-in conical burr grinder
Dose control grinding
Pre-infusion for flavor balance
PID temperature control
Manual steam wand for milk frothing
Grind size dial
1600-watt power
67 oz water tank
1/2 lb bean hopper
Manual shot control

What is the good?

Built-in grinder saves space
Easy to control grind size
Manual milk frothing feels real
Comes with useful accessories
Strong flavor from pre-infusion
Makes one or two shots
Compact for its power

What is the bad?

Takes longer to heat up
Analog interface feels a bit old
One-year warranty only
No digital screen
Not the quietest machine

Overall Opinion

The BES870XL gives a great espresso experience with manual control. It’s simple to use and has all you need in one body.

It suits someone who wants to learn espresso at home. The manual milk frothing and grind size control are good for skill building. It’s not fast, but it works well.

Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS

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The Barista Pro upgrades the Barista Express. It has a faster heat-up time. The new ThermoJet system reaches ready temperature in 3 seconds. The built-in grinder offers dose control with one touch.

The digital display shows animations and clear info. It still includes pre-infusion and PID temperature control. The steam wand is strong and works well for milk texture.

The machine gives precise control without feeling too technical. It comes with the same useful tools portafilter, milk jug, filters, and cleaning kit.

Features

ThermoJet heating system (3-second heat-up)
Conical burr grinder with dose control
Digital temperature control (PID)
Low pressure pre-infusion
Manual steam wand
LCD screen with animations
Volumetric shot control
1680-watt power
67 oz water tank
1/2 lb bean hopper
Two-year warranty

What is the good?

Fast heat-up time
Clear and helpful LCD display
Accurate and even espresso shots
Great milk texture from steam wand
Easy to learn and use
Makes coffee quickly
One-touch grinding saves time

What is the bad?

Slightly more expensive
LCD may confuse very new users
No app or smart features
Slightly louder during grinding

Overall Opinion

The Barista Pro is fast, smart, and easy to use. The ThermoJet system means no waiting. The LCD screen helps guide each step.

You still get full control over grind and milk. It fits best for someone who wants speed and clear feedback while making coffee. It feels modern and clean.

Detailed Comparison for Breville BES870XL vs Barista Pro

Both machines offer a built-in grinder, steam wand, and PID temperature control. Both use the same bean and water capacity.

Both include the tools you need for home espresso. The espresso taste is close because both use pre-infusion and similar pressure systems.

The big differences come from speed and interface. The BES870XL takes longer to heat up, while the Barista Pro is ready in 3 seconds. The BES870XL uses buttons and dials. The Barista Pro uses an LCD screen with clear steps. It also gives better control over shots.

The BES870XL works well for users who want full control with a classic feel. The Barista Pro suits those who want speed and simple guidance. The Pro costs more but gives more value in time and feedback.

FAQs

Does the Barista Pro make better espresso than the BES870XL?
Both make great espresso. The Barista Pro does it faster and with more help from the screen.

Which machine is better for beginners?
The Barista Pro is easier to use because of the LCD. The BES870XL is better if you want to learn manual steps.

Is the steam wand the same?
Both use manual wands. Both make good microfoam. The Pro’s wand feels smoother to control.

Can I use both for single and double shots?
Yes. Both machines support single and double shot baskets.

Does the Barista Pro save more time?
Yes. It heats in 3 seconds. The BES870XL takes about 30 seconds or more.

Do both have built-in grinders?
Yes. Each machine has a conical burr grinder with dose control.

Conclusion

The Breville BES870XL and the Barista Pro both bring café-style espresso to your kitchen. Both have grinders, steam wands, and strong pressure systems. The BES870XL gives you manual control and a classic look.

The Barista Pro adds speed, a digital screen, and easier steps. If you enjoy learning coffee with hands-on tools, the BES870XL is a great pick.

If you want speed and help from the display, the Barista Pro fits better. Both deliver great taste. The best choice depends on how you like to make your morning cup.