Comprehensive Review: Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS in brushed stainless steel is an elegant and powerful appliance that promises to transform your home coffee brewing experience. Combining style with functionality, this espresso machine is designed for those who appreciate the art of crafting the perfect espresso, latte, or cappuccino right in their own kitchen. Here’s a detailed review based on its design, features, and performance.
Design and Build Quality
Appearance and Construction:
- Material: Made from high-quality stainless steel, the Barista Pro not only looks sleek and professional but is also built to last. The brushed finish gives it a premium look that fits well in any modern kitchen decor.
- Dimensions and Weight: Standing at 13 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 13 inches high, it strikes a balance between being compact enough to fit under most kitchen cabinets while still robust enough to house a powerful espresso-making setup. Weighing 19.5 pounds, it feels sturdy and stable.
Key Features
1. Intuitive Interface:
- The Barista Pro features an intuitive LCD interface that displays grinding and extracting progress animations. The screen provides real-time feedback on the coffee making process, enhancing the user’s control and precision.
2. Fast Heat Up Time:
- With a ThermoJet heating system, the machine reaches the optimal extraction temperature in just 3 seconds. This means you can go from start to sip in very little time, making it perfect for busy mornings or quick coffee breaks.
3. Integrated Grinder:
- The built-in conical burr grinder delivers the right amount of coffee on demand, with adjustable grind size and dose control. This ensures maximum flavor potential by delivering the precise amount and fineness of coffee grounds needed for the brewing process.
4. Microfoam Milk Texturing:
- The powerful steam wand performance allows you to hand texture microfoam milk that enhances flavor and enables the creation of latte art. This feature is particularly appreciated by espresso enthusiasts who enjoy cappuccinos and lattes.
Performance and Quality of Brew
- Espresso Quality: The Barista Pro excels at pulling a rich and balanced shot of espresso. The pre-infusion function gradually increases water pressure to gently expand grinds for an even extraction, which pulls out all the flavors and aromas.
- Consistency: Users report consistent results, which is critical for an espresso machine at this price point. Whether it’s your first cup of the day or your fifth, the Barista Pro delivers consistent quality.
- Speed and Efficiency: The quick heating and the straightforward interface make it easy to use, minimizing the time between wanting a cup of coffee and drinking one.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
- Cleaning: The Breville Barista Pro is relatively easy to maintain. It comes with a removable drip tray and a descaling function which makes cleaning less cumbersome. Regular maintenance is essential with this machine, as with any espresso machine, to keep it performing at its best.
- Water Tank Capacity: A 2-liter water tank means you can pull several shots and steam milk without needing to refill constantly, which is convenient for hosting or for frequent use throughout the day.
Price and Value
- Pricing: At $679.95 after a 20% discount from its original price of $849.95, the Barista Pro offers significant value given its professional-grade features and performance. It competes well in the market against similar espresso machines that often come at higher prices.
Conclusion
The Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS is an excellent choice for those who are serious about their coffee. It combines a professional coffeehouse experience with the convenience of home use. While it may be an investment, its robust design, advanced features, and consistent performance justify the price for anyone looking to elevate their espresso game at home. Whether you are a budding barista or a seasoned coffee aficionado, the Barista Pro could be your new best friend in the kitchen.
