If you’re an aspiring home barista in search of an espresso machine that’s both affordable and user-friendly, allow me to introduce the Breville Barista Pro. This standout in Breville’s range impresses with its sleek design, precise temperature control, and intuitive digital display. In this detailed review, we’ll explore the features, performance, and overall user experience of the Breville Barista Pro espresso machine.
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Red Velvet Cake, Large
Amazon.com A Closer Look at the Breville Barista Pro
Crafted with the varied preferences of coffee connoisseurs in mind, the Breville Barista Pro shines with its array of exceptional features, distinguishing it from conventional espresso machines. The machine’s intuitive controls and precise espresso extraction capabilities allow you to effortlessly create your ideal coffee. Equipped with a built-in grinder and an automatic milk texturing feature, each element of the Breville Barista Pro is thoughtfully designed to achieve extraordinary results. Let’s delve into the specifics of what makes this machine a must-have for coffee lovers.
Design and Appearance
The Breville Barista Pro distinguishes itself from the brand’s other models with its contemporary design. Eschewing the vintage look, it opts for a sleek stainless steel body and smooth, rounded edges, radiating a modern and refined charm. This machine might not be the most compact solution for smaller kitchens, but its relatively lightweight build renders it a viable option for a variety of kitchen countertops, blending functionality with an air of sophistication.
| Brand | Breville |
| Color | Red Velvet Cake |
| Product Dimensions | 13.5″D x 13.9″W x 16″H |
| Special Feature | Integrated Coffee Grinder |
| Coffee Maker Type | Espresso Machine |
| Capacity | 2 Liters |
| Material | Plastic |
| Item Weight | 9.1 Kilograms |
| Wattage | 1680 watts |
About this item
- ThermoJet Heating System: The innovative ThermoJet heating system reaches the optimal extraction temperature in just 3 seconds, ensuring your best coffee is made without delay. This system is also more energy-efficient, using up to 32% less energy annually compared to a Thermoblock heating system. *Disclaimer: This is based on Breville’s internal benchmark testing as of November 2022.
- Auto Grind & Dose: Equipped with an integrated conical burr grinder featuring 30 grind settings, this machine effortlessly grinds coffee to perfection. With just a single touch, the dose control delivers the precise amount of coffee needed for maximum flavor.
- Baratza European Precision Burrs: This espresso machine includes an integrated hardened steel precision conical burr grinder, also with 30 grind settings. A simple touch activates the grinder, providing the perfect dose of coffee for full-bodied flavor.
- Low Pressure Pre-Infusion and 9 Bar Extraction: Experience the luxury of smooth, creamy, and caramel-colored espresso. It begins with low pressure pre-infusions and culminates in a high-pressure (9 bar) extraction process, all powered by a 15 bar Italian pump.
- Manual Hand-Crafted Microfoam: The powerful steam wand on the Barista Pro is engineered for speed and efficiency, transforming milk into velvety smooth microfoam. This is ideal for crafting latte art, adding a professional touch to your home-brewed beverages.
User Interface and Controls
The Breville Barista Pro showcases a significant enhancement in user interface, especially when compared to its predecessor, the Barista Express. This model is equipped with a user-friendly monochromatic LCD screen complemented by intuitive buttons, making the navigation through its various settings and controls exceptionally straightforward. While it’s important to mention that the Barista Pro does not feature a pressure gauge, a common element in other Breville machines, it thoughtfully includes a timer function. This addition aids in achieving consistently perfect espresso shots, balancing its feature set effectively.
Grind Size Adjustment and Burr Grinder
The Barista Pro’s stainless steel burr grinder, offering 30 grind size adjustments, is a highlight feature. This versatility allows for precise tuning of the grind, essential for optimal extraction. However, it’s noteworthy that while the grinder performs efficiently, it does generate a considerable amount of noise. Additionally, some users have expressed difficulty in making very fine adjustments, attributing this to the limited variance between the available grind settings.
Volumetric Control and Digital PID Temperature Control
The Breville Barista Pro enhances the coffee-making process with its timed shot capabilities and volumetric control, offering both convenience and consistent quality. Adjusting the shot volume is straightforward, thanks to the grind dial, and achieving pre-programmed shots is effortless. Another key feature is the digital PID temperature control, which allows for precise adjustments to the brewing temperature, maximizing the flavor extraction from your espresso.
ThermoJet Heating System and Pre-Infusion
In terms of heating efficiency, the Barista Pro is equipped with Breville’s advanced ThermoJet heating system. This system quickly reaches the ideal espresso extraction temperature in just three seconds, a notable improvement over the thirty-second heat-up time of the Barista Express. Additionally, the machine boasts a pre-infusion function. This feature gently moistens the coffee grounds under low pressure before the actual brewing begins, enhancing the overall flavor and richness of the espresso shot.
Milk Frothing and Steam Wand
The steam wand on the Barista Pro, a carryover from the Barista Express, is adept at producing smooth, velvety milk foam, perfect for crafting lattes and cappuccinos. While it might not match the performance of professional-grade frothers seen in coffee shops, this steam wand stands out for its durability and ease of maintenance. It is important to note, though, that the rubber grip on the steam wand may present a slight challenge. Extra attention is needed during cleaning to ensure all milk residue is flushed out, preventing any potential contamination.
Filter Baskets and Tamping
Included with the Barista Pro is a 54mm stainless steel portafilter, accompanied by both single and dual wall filter baskets. This setup offers the flexibility to brew either single or double shots of espresso, catering to various preferences and occasions. Moreover, the machine comes with a stainless steel tamper, which is a notable upgrade from the less durable plastic tampers commonly included with other espresso machines. This enhancement adds to the overall quality and user experience of the Barista Pro.
Specialty Drinks and Cup Height
The Barista Pro, in contrast to some other models in Breville’s range, does not feature a built-in specialty drink menu. This means that while you can still manually craft various specialty drinks, the machine is primarily designed to excel in preparing traditional espresso shots. A key aspect of its design is the accommodating cup height, which is compatible with a wide range of cup sizes, including larger travel mugs. This versatility ensures that users can enjoy their espresso in their favorite cups or mugs, adding to the convenience and user-friendliness of the machine.
How to Use the Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine | breville espresso
Operating the Barista Pro is a breeze, even for those new to espresso making. After a basic initial setup, which includes rinsing all detachable parts and performing a system flush, you’re all set to brew your first espresso. Simply power up the machine, fill the water reservoir, and add your choice of coffee beans to the hopper. For automatic dosing, just place the portafilter in the grinding cradle and hit the button.
If you prefer manual control, hold the portafilter under the grinder. You can adjust the grind size to your preference, ensure an even distribution of coffee in the portafilter, and then tamp down the grounds. To preheat your espresso cups, utilize the machine’s hot water spout. Next, secure the portafilter into the brew head and select either the single or double shot option to begin extraction. Monitoring the extraction time is key to achieving the perfect shot.
When it comes to milk-based drinks, the Barista Pro’s automated steam wand takes the guesswork out of milk texturing. It helps you achieve just the right level of frothiness for lattes and cappuccinos. With its user-friendly design and intuitive controls, the Breville Barista Pro enables users of all skill levels to craft barista-quality drinks with ease. Whether your preference leans towards a robust espresso or a smooth, creamy latte, the Barista Pro offers the tools and flexibility to explore and enjoy the art of home coffee brewing.
Observations and Performance
Although the Barista Pro does not come with a dosing funnel, which might be a minor inconvenience at first, its impressive performance more than compensates for this. The grinder, while a bit on the noisy side, consistently yields superior results once you’ve found your preferred settings. The process of adjusting grind size and dose is quite straightforward. Moreover, the timed dosing feature ensures precise and consistent shots. The machine also provides the option to adjust pre-infusion time, giving you additional control to fine-tune the flavor profile of your espresso.
The manual steam wand of the Barista Pro, though not the most sophisticated in the market, is quite capable of producing good quality milk foam suitable for various espresso-based beverages. In summary, the Barista Pro delivers a user-friendly experience, making it easier for users to produce high-quality espresso shots consistently. This machine is a solid choice for those seeking to enjoy barista-level coffee making at home.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Maintaining the Barista Pro in top working condition requires regular cleaning and upkeep, just as with any espresso machine. Although the inclusion of a water filter in the machine helps reduce the need for frequent cleaning cycles, it doesn’t eliminate the necessity for routine maintenance. To ensure the machine’s longevity and optimal performance, it’s advisable to run a cleaning cycle every few months and descale the machine as indicated by its prompts.
Simple daily maintenance tasks can also significantly contribute to the machine’s upkeep. These include wiping down the portafilter after each use and ensuring that both the group head and the steam wand are purged of any coffee residue or milk buildup. Such practices are straightforward but play a crucial role in keeping the Barista Pro clean and functioning at its best.
Breville Barista Pro Specifications
- Manufacturer: Breville
- Model Number: BES878
- Product Category: Hybrid espresso machine
- Housing Material: Stainless steel
- Color Options: Black Stainless Steel, Black Truffle, Brushed Stainless Steel, Damson Blue, Oyster Shell, Royal Champagne, Sea Salt, Smoked Hickory
- Milk Frother: Steam wand
- User Interface: Monochromatic LCD with buttons and dials
- Portafilter Size: 54mm
- Tamping: Manual
- Water Reservoir Capacity: 67.6 fl oz / 2.0 l
- Grinder: Stainless steel conical burr grinder
- Grind Adjustment Levels: 30
- Bean Hopper Capacity: 8.1 oz / 230.0 g
- Pre-Infusion: Yes
- Cup Height: Maximum 4.0 in / 10.2 cm
- Warranty: 2 years
Comparison: Breville Barista Pro vs Other Espresso Machines
In the landscape of espresso machines available in the market, the Breville Barista Pro clearly differentiates itself with its blend of sophisticated features and ease of use. The inclusion of an integrated grinder and an automatic milk texturing feature is particularly noteworthy, as it streamlines the coffee-making process by removing the need for separate grinding and frothing devices. This all-in-one approach not only saves space but also enhances the overall efficiency of coffee preparation.
Another significant advantage of the Barista Pro is its rapid heat-up time, thanks to the ThermoJet heating system. This feature, combined with the machine’s ability to achieve precise espresso extraction, positions it as a top choice for those who value both convenience and high-quality coffee. This balance of advanced functionality and user-friendliness makes the Barista Pro a strong competitor in its category, appealing to both casual coffee drinkers and serious espresso enthusiasts.
- Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Barista Express: The Barista Pro offers more advanced features, including a digital display, precise temperature control, and timed shots, making it a worthwhile upgrade from the Barista Express.
- Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Barista Touch: The Barista Touch offers a touchscreen display and customizable drink recipes, making it ideal for those who prefer one-touch specialty drinks. However, the Barista Pro offers similar performance at a more affordable price point.
- Breville Barista Pro vs DeLonghi La Specialista: While the DeLonghi La Specialista is more affordable, the Barista Pro offers a more user-friendly experience and better control over espresso extraction. The Barista Pro is recommended for those who value ease of use and consistency.
Indeed, the Breville Barista Pro holds a unique position in the market of espresso machines, primarily due to how it effortlessly combines various functionalities into a cohesive and user-friendly package. While other machines might offer similar features, the Barista Pro distinguishes itself through its seamless integration of these elements. The machine’s intuitive controls and customizable settings offer a degree of flexibility that appeals to a broad spectrum of coffee brewing styles and preferences.
This adaptability makes the Barista Pro a compelling option, regardless of whether it’s being compared to more basic, entry-level machines or to its more advanced, higher-end counterparts. It manages to strike a fine balance between performance, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, which makes it a worthy consideration for home baristas seeking a reliable, versatile, and stylish espresso machine.
Unveiling the Breville Barista Pro: A Comprehensive Review
Welcome to the world of the Breville Barista Pro, a machine that’s poised to transform your home coffee brewing journey. This stylish and sophisticated coffee machine doesn’t just sit pretty on your countertop; it brings a host of advanced features designed to elevate your coffee experience to new heights. In this detailed review, we will explore the various aspects of the Barista Pro, from its innovative features and user-friendly functionality to its overall performance, ensuring you have all the information you need to see why it’s a game-changer in home coffee brewing.
The Breville Barista Pro’s grinder, inspired by the prowess of the Breville Smart Grinder Pro, is a noteworthy feature that significantly enhances the machine’s appeal. This stainless steel burr grinder, with its 30 adjustable grind sizes, offers a remarkable level of flexibility, allowing you to fine-tune your coffee grounds for the perfect shot.
Embarking on the experience of using the Breville Barista Pro is akin to entering the realm of artisanal coffee making. It brings the skill and finesse of a professional barista right into your kitchen. With an intuitive interface and precision in espresso extraction, every element of this machine is crafted to uplift your home coffee brewing experience. Whether you are deeply versed in the nuances of coffee or are just beginning to explore the intricacies of being a home barista, this review aims to provide you with the insights needed to understand the full capabilities of the Barista Pro.
So, let’s dive into the world of the Breville Barista Pro and discover how it unlocks the possibility of crafting café-quality coffee in the comfort of your home.
Breville: Key features of the Barista Pro
The Breville Barista Pro stands as a remarkable choice in the realm of home espresso machines, thanks to its array of impressive features. Key among these is the integrated conical burr grinder, which allows for precise grinding of coffee beans, critical for achieving the best flavor extraction in each espresso shot. The machine’s digital temperature control (PID) ensures water is heated to the exact temperature required for optimal espresso extraction, a vital element in crafting the perfect shot.
Further enhancing its appeal, the Barista Pro boasts an automatic steam wand capable of creating rich, velvety microfoam, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. One of the machine’s standout attributes is its rapid heat-up time, which efficiently bridges the gap from bean to cup in just seconds.
The user-friendly interface of the Barista Pro is another highlight, offering easy access to a variety of customizable settings. This functionality empowers you to fine-tune your brewing experience to match your individual taste preferences. With the Breville Barista Pro, you’re not just making coffee; you’re embracing the role of a barista, capable of producing cafe-quality beverages right in your own kitchen.
Pros and cons of the Breville Barista Pro
Unique Rewriter
The Breville Barista Pro, like any product, balances its strengths with certain limitations. On the positive side, its integrated grinder is a significant boon, removing the need for a separate grinding device and thus simplifying the coffee brewing process. The automatic milk texturing feature is another highlight, providing users with consistently perfect, smooth, and creamy froth with minimal effort. Aesthetically, the machine’s sleek and compact design ensures it fits seamlessly into any kitchen décor, while its user-friendly interface is approachable for both novice and seasoned coffee makers.
On the flip side, the price point of the Barista Pro might be a consideration for those on a tighter budget. It sits at a higher price range, which could be a determining factor for some potential buyers. Furthermore, while the machine boasts a range of customization features, there may be users who desire more advanced manual controls for a deeper, hands-on coffee brewing experience. Despite these considerations, the overall performance and quality of the Breville Barista Pro position it as an attractive option for those in search of a high-end home coffee brewing experience.
Maintenance and cleaning tips
To ensure that your Breville Barista Pro maintains its exceptional performance over time, regular maintenance and cleaning are key. The design of the machine, with its removable components, simplifies the cleaning process. The stainless steel portafilter and filter baskets are notably dishwasher-safe, offering added ease in keeping them clean. Regular descaling is also essential; it prevents the accumulation of mineral deposits, which can impede the machine’s brewing efficiency and affect the taste of your coffee.
Moreover, it’s important to clean the grinder regularly. This step is crucial to remove any lingering coffee oils, which can affect the freshness and flavor of your coffee beans. The maintenance indicator on the Breville Barista Pro is a helpful feature, alerting you to necessary upkeep tasks such as emptying the drip tray and cleaning the steam wand. By adhering to these maintenance and cleaning practices, you can extend the lifespan of your Barista Pro and ensure that it continues to produce outstanding coffee for many years.
Customer reviews and experiences
The Breville Barista Pro has garnered praise from customers worldwide, with many highlighting its intuitive interface, consistent performance, and ability to produce cafe-quality beverages at home. Users have expressed appreciation for the machine’s integrated grinder, noting that it simplifies the brewing process and contributes to the freshness and flavor of the coffee. The automatic milk texturing feature has also received acclaim for its ability to create professional-quality microfoam with minimal effort.
Customers have also praised the Breville Barista Pro’s build quality and attention to detail, emphasizing its durability and reliability as key selling points. While some have noted the learning curve associated with mastering the machine’s various settings, the majority of users have found the Breville Barista Pro to be an invaluable addition to their home brewing setup. These positive customer reviews and experiences serve as a testament to the machine’s ability to deliver exceptional results and enhance the overall coffee brewing experience.
Where to buy the Breville Barista Pro
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Red Velvet Cake, Large
Amazon.com Breville Barista Pro accessories and add-ons
In addition to the Breville Barista Pro itself, there are various accessories and add-ons that can complement and enhance your setup. From precision coffee scales to tamper and tamping mats, these accessories can elevate your barista game and contribute to the overall craftsmanship of your coffee-making process. Specialty milk pitchers and thermometers can aid in achieving the perfect milk texture for your latte art, while cleaning brushes and maintenance kits are essential for keeping your machine in top condition.
Furthermore, exploring different coffee bean varieties and experimenting with flavor syrups and sauces can add a creative dimension to your brewing experience. The Breville Barista Pro’s compatibility with a range of accessories and add-ons enables you to personalize your setup according to your preferences and aspirations. By investing in quality accessories, you can further optimize your brewing precision and expand your repertoire of coffee creations.
Final verdict
In conclusion, the Breville Barista Pro stands as a formidable contender in the realm of home espresso machines, offering a harmonious blend of style, functionality, and performance. Its intuitive controls, integrated grinder, and automatic milk texturing feature make it a standout choice for those seeking a convenient yet sophisticated home brewing solution. While its price point may pose a consideration for some, the overall quality and results delivered by the Breville Barista Pro justify its investment for coffee enthusiasts who prioritize excellence in their brewing experiences.
Whether you’re aiming to recreate your favorite cafe beverages or embark on a journey of coffee exploration, the Breville Barista Pro empowers you to unlock the potential of artisanal coffee brewing from the comfort of your own kitchen. With its array of features, customizable settings, and seamless integration of essential functionalities, the Breville Barista Pro is poised to elevate your home brewing journey and redefine your relationship with coffee. Embrace the art of home brewing with the Breville Barista Pro and savor the boundless possibilities it unlocks for creating exceptional coffee experiences.
