Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and Breville Barista Pro can be challenging since both are high-quality all-in-one espresso machines designed for home use. They share many features, but subtle differences can impact your brewing experience.
This comparison highlights their key features, advantages, and limitations to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and budget.
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: 23 kg
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- ✔ Weight: 14 kg
- ✔ Power: 1700W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality coffee at home
- All-in-One Espresso Machine: Includes integrated grinder for convenience
- Fast Bean to Espresso: Brews in under one minute
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Breville Barista Express vs Breville Barista Pro: Full Breakdown
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality coffee at home
- All-in-One Espresso Machine: Includes integrated grinder for convenience
- Fast Bean to Espresso: Brews in under one minute
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Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express offers a classic espresso experience with a built-in grinder and precise control. Its design suits those who prefer a hands-on approach and value affordability.
Pros:
- Integrated conical burr grinder
- Customizable shot parameters
- Affordable price point
- Compact design
Cons:
- Slower heat-up time
- Less advanced display
- Fewer modern features
Best for: Home baristas seeking a reliable, entry-level espresso machine with manual control
Not ideal for: Users wanting a quick, high-tech setup with minimal effort
Bottom line: A solid choice for traditional espresso lovers on a budget.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
The Breville Barista Pro features a sleek brushed stainless steel build and a faster heat-up time, making it ideal for those who appreciate convenience and modern technology in their espresso machine.
Pros:
- Faster heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Intuitive LCD display
- Consistent temperature control
- Sleek stainless steel design
Cons:
- Slightly higher price
- More complex interface for beginners
- Less hands-on control
Best for: Home baristas who want quick, precise, and modern espresso brewing with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Traditionalists preferring manual control or those on a tight budget
Bottom line: Perfect for modern users prioritizing speed and ease of use.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Barista Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Build Material | Plastic/Metal | Stainless Steel |
| Heat-up Time | Up to 30 mins | 3 seconds |
| Display | Analog controls | LCD |
| Grinding System | Integrated conical burr | Integrated conical burr |
| Faster Brew | No | Yes |
| Price Range | Lower | Higher |
The Verdict
Both machines excel in different areas. If you prefer a traditional, hands-on experience, the Barista Express is ideal. For those who want speed, precision, and modern features, the Barista Pro is the better choice.
Key Differences in Features
The main differences lie in their heat-up times, display interfaces, and build materials. The Pro’s faster heat-up and digital controls make it more suitable for quick, consistent shots, while the Express offers a more manual approach for enthusiasts willing to spend a little more time.
Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re a beginner or prefer a traditional espresso-making process, the Barista Express provides excellent value. Conversely, if you want a more modern, faster, and user-friendly machine, the Barista Pro will serve you better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Barista Pro heat up faster than the Express?
Yes, the Barista Pro heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, whereas the Express can take several minutes.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with these machines?
Both machines feature integrated conical burr grinders, but they also have a portafilter for using pre-ground coffee if desired.
Is the display on the Pro easy to use for beginners?
The LCD display on the Barista Pro is intuitive, but it may be slightly more complex than the manual controls of the Express for complete beginners.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Barista Pro is more compact and faster, making it a better fit for smaller spaces or busy mornings.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
