Bisuzs Reviews Blog

Best Manual Espresso Machine – La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola

August 6, 2017 By Dave Leave a Comment

To certain people, a great cup of espresso is different from a good cup of espresso and don’t you try arguing with them about that. If you fall into that group, you may like to control every aspect of the process called espresso making and you’ll love the La Pavoni Europiccola EPC-8 manual espresso maker for it.

La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola espresso machine — La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola (image courtesy of pixlefire)

Do It All Yourself

From selecting fresh beans to pulling the espresso shot with precisely applied pressure, are you sure you’re up to doing it all manually? There is a learning curve and quite a few wasted shots awaiting if this is the first time you’re attempting a manual espresso maker (More about the different types of espresso machines in my Best Espresso Machine Reviews 2016). Good thing it comes with an instructional video.

Exceptional Quality and Long Lasting Build

The quality of this beautiful Italian-made espresso maker is exceptional. It is heavy and sleek and everything else you may expect from a machine over $800. The chrome plating is so striking that you would without doubt want to leave this out on the counter top for all to see. Whenever you pull a shot you will feel with your hand the sturdy ease of a well-built machine.

The La Pavoni EPC-8 is not for just anyone who wants to drink espresso at home. You probably won’t get the perfect espresso with the first few shots unless you’re an experienced barista who has been pulling shots every day of his life. On the bright side, this means you may make espresso shots of different quality and intensity to find that perfect taste.

As an enthusiast of espresso machines myself, I own one of these beauties and you can bet every one of my guests is awestruck whenever I “perform” espresso making skills on it. But I must admit that I don’t use it to make my own espressos every day. I would settle for a good espresso using my reliable semi automatic or when I’m really pressed for time, an automatic.

I love how sturdy the parts are because that means the espresso machine isn’t going to break down any time soon. The EPC-8 can easily last for five years and more, and the best thing is that there are no electronics on it that will fail prematurely. You can be sure an espresso maker at this price has seals and miscellaneous parts that are wholly replaceable.

Interested yet? Click here to check out the price.

Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines 2017

June 5, 2017 By Dave 1 Comment

The super automatic espresso machine is the higher end espresso maker for home users, and is gaining popularity for its convenience and gradually lowered prices. Any busy person would appreciate getting a favorite drink by just pressing a button or two. However, don’t expect a good super automatic espresso machine to be less than $500.

What are the best super automatic espresso machines you can buy for your home, office, or even cafe? Do note that I’m talking about super automatic espresso makers that make espressos from beans with a built-in grinder. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to super automatics, automatic espresso machines use capsules and are just as convenient with a one-touch operation.

Find my list of best espresso machines of 2017 here.

Super Automatic Espresso Machine Reviews 2017

Best Budget Super Automatic Espresso Machine – DeLonghi ESAM3300

Due to its high demand, the price of the Delonghi ESAM3300 has been lowered significantly (my uncle bought one many years ago), so espresso lovers can now enjoy the convenience of bean to cup at a single press at half the average price of super automatic espresso makers.

This may not be the cream of the crop as such – it lacks the high end features like saving your favorite settings and automatic turn on, parts are low to medium grade at most, and it can be noisy when making coffee – but it does make really good espressos and froths milk very well. I’m also glad for the conical burr grinder, adjustable grind and coffee strength.

If a fully automated, bean to cup machine that makes good coffee is what you want, and you don’t mind putting conversation on hold while the coffee is being made, the Delonghi ESAM3300 is a good buy. Get it here with free shipping.

Best Super Automatic Espresso Machine – Jura-Capresso Impressa J6

The Jura-Capresso Impressa J6 is the smart super automatic espresso machine that anyone will love. It makes superb espressos, saves your favorite drinks in its memory, and allows you to make espressos using pre-ground coffee as well. The conical burr grinder is efficient and works quietly (no, it’s not whisper quiet) enough for my household.

It tells you when to descale it and is pretty much a no-brainer for the average smartphone user. The dual boilers keep the pressure going so you’ll be able to make shot after shot of espressos. There’s no stopping you save your caffeine tolerance!

Read my full review for the Jura-Capresso Impressa J6 or check out the best price here.

Best Super Automatic Espresso Machine for Cappuccinos – DeLonghi ESAM3500

Any cappuccino or latte lover would love this super automatic espresso machine to bits. All that business of using a frothing pitcher filled with milk, trying to hone your frothing skills so that you get the perfect and lovely milk foam to top off your espresso? No more of that with this super automatic espresso maker!

Store your milk in the container that comes with this machine in the fridge, and when you need a cappuccino, attach the container (yes, right out of the fridge), make your cappuccino, detach the container with the remaining milk and put it back!

The espresso is good, you can set your coffee strength and save your favorite ratio for milk and milk foam, and it’s really easy to use. The only gripe is that you’ll need to replace the O-rings (that you can find in Home Depot) when they break.

For more, go to my espresso machine reviews and guide.

Best Nespresso Machines

May 2, 2017 By Dave Leave a Comment

The Nespresso espresso machines are undeniably one of the best espresso machines in the market today. Not only do they come in a sleek and stylish design, but are also very easy to use. They are preferred by both domestic and commercial users. They boast of various features that help make espresso preparation effortless and fulfilling.

Nespresso machines are fast and efficient, this comes in handy when you are in a rush and you don’t want to be kept waiting for your morning cup of espresso. Coupled with the capsule system that keeps the mess down to minimum, you can bet convenience is taken to another level. The downside of Nespresso espresso machines is that they are made specifically for Nespresso’s capsules only, but fortunately the capsules come in a variety of flavors and intensity for you to choose from.

Listed below are some of the best Nespresso machines and some of their features.

Nespresso Citiz

citiz Featuring a sleek and compact design, the Nespresso Citiz is a high-performance espresso machine which only takes up a little of your kitchen space. It is an automatic espresso maker which means it is easy to operate. You only need to place an espresso capsule and with just the press of a button, your espresso is ready in a blink.

It is one of the easiest espresso makers to maintain and clean, and it is hard for anyone to mess up when using it. It is also worth noting that it features an energy saving mode which automatically switches it off in case you forget.

The Citiz comes with an automatic milk frother and steamer that makes very good milk froth for your cappuccinos and lattes. Read my full review here or click here to see the best price.

Nespresso Pixie

nespresso pixie The Pixie doesn’t disappoint when it comes to making a quality and rich tasting cup of espresso. This Nespresso espresso maker has a modern and sleek design which easily complements any kitchen design and it also takes up the least space with its compact build.

It is among the fastest espresso makers as it heats up in just half a minute, making it most ideal for those working and don’t have a lot of time for making espresso. It is automatic and just like the Citiz, you only need to place a capsule and press a button. The Thermo-block technology ensures temperature control to give you a consistent cup of delicious espresso. The Pixie doesn’t come with a milk frother but you can buy one separately to go with it.

Click here to see the best price.

Nespresso Inissia

nespresso inissia Even though the Inissia isn’t as attractive and stylish as the Pixie or Citiz, it sure delivers espressos that are just as good. The attractiveness of this espresso machine lies in the price. It is the most affordable Nespresso machine that you can buy.

It features the same Nespresso capsule system so you just have to place the espresso capsule and press the button. The internal tray holds used several used capsules to minimize your effort for a delicious cup of espresso. It is also an energy saver since it automatically switches off when not in use and the dip tray is adjustable to accommodate any cup size.

Read my full review for Nespresso Inissia or click here to see the best price.

Nespresso Vertuoline

Nespresso VertuoLine Branded the game changer in espresso brewing, the Vertuoline is with no doubt the Nespresso machine which has received the most attention. Why is this so? You might ask. Well, this is because the Vertuoline makes both espresso and coffee.

This is great news for any household with espresso and coffee drinkers. One thing to note with this Nespresso machine is that it uses a different line of capsules from the other Nespresso machines like Citiz, Pixie and Inissia, so be aware of this when you’re buying capsules for the Vertuoline or when changing from one Nespresso machine to the other.

Click here to see the best price.

When you are looking for quality, design, performance and efficiency when it comes to espresso brewing, the Nespresso machines are always a good choice since you can never go wrong with one of these.

Nespresso Machine Reviews:

Nespresso Citiz Espresso Maker Review
Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker Review (coming soon)
Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker Review
Nespresso VertuoLine Espresso Maker Review (coming soon)
Nespresso espresso maker category

Go back to my best espresso machines of 2017 page:

Best Espresso Machines of 2017

Best Delonghi Espresso Machines

April 10, 2017 By Dave Leave a Comment

The DeLonghi espresso makers are from a well-known brand with a long and fruitful history in the coffee making industry. From small coffee machines to developed espresso machines, the DeLonghi coffee espresso machines are known to be reliable and lasting, while offering a high-caliber taste that captures the essence and flavor of coffee. If you haven’t thought about this before, read the following DeLonghi espresso machine reviews and decide which one suits you and your tastes best.

Delonghi EC-155

In my opinion, this Delonghi espresso machine offers value and also the price range is quite affordable. It is a versatile espresso machine that produces cappuccinos and lattes. Also, it is compact, doesn’t occupy much space and it comes with key features that you will probably see in pricier machines.

It has a patented dual filter holder that lets you pull a shot of espresso from pods or ground coffee. Also, the 15 bar pump incorporated is a very rare finding in an espresso machine this affordable. The advantage is that it will make you more consistent and better-flavored espressos. The two thermostats are built in so you can control the water and also steam temperature, individually.

Additional features include a removable water tank suitable for refill and a water level indicator that shows you when the water in running low. Also, you may like the jet frother wand because it makes frothy lattes and cappuccinos and the boiler that is made of stainless steel with a plastic casing, for durability.

See the best price here.

DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica

Even though it may seem small, think this Delonghi espresso machine big in value, features, power, and ability.

It has an incorporated fully programmable digital control panel and a built-in super quiet burr grinder. The refilling water tank is big, producing 7.5 cups, and also cleaning the machine will no longer be a tedious job for you because the Magnifica is a self-cleaning machine that has a decalcification indicator.

Also, the two stainless steel boilers are of high quality and are designed to last, so don’t worry about replacing them soon. I like that it is always ready for brewing and for steaming without you having to wait between two cycles. This Delonghi espresso machine will make espressos or frothy specialties for your delight.

Read my review or see the best price here.

DeLonghi Silver Lattissima Plus

This DeLonghi espresso machine features a single-touch hot milk system, enlightened buttons for diverse coffee settings, a capsule system that is patented and also has energy-friendly features in your advantage.

I also noticed a robotized cleaning system that will spare you from all the manual cleaning work. Furthermore, the tank is easy to remove, just like the container for capsules and the drip tray. The Nespresso capsule system guarantees that you don’t have to clean up immediately after using it.

This DeLonghi espresso maker can make various types of beverage, depending on what you wish to drink. It will make you anything from plain hot milk to latte macchiato.

See the best price here.

Delonghi Espresso Machine Reviews:

DeLonghi EC-155 Espresso Maker Review (coming soon)
DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica Espresso Maker Review (coming soon)
DeLonghi Silver Lattissima Plus Espresso Maker Review (coming soon)
DeLonghi espresso machine category

Go back to my Best Espresso Machine Reviews 2017.

How to Use an Espresso Machine

April 9, 2017 By Dave Leave a Comment

All right, I’ve been putting off writing this post for too long. It’s probably because I’ve been making espressos at home for too many years that using an espresso machine has become second nature to me. It’ll be like writing about how to floss my teeth or something like that, see? Okay, so here we go.

I’m going to talk about how to use a semi automatic espresso machine, which is what most people wanted a guide for. So have you bought your espresso machine? Got a grinder? Good. I’m not going to talk about how to make your espresso better, that is another topic altogether. I just want to keep things simple for people who’re trying to make their very first espresso.

The Ingredients

To make an espresso with a semi automatic espresso machine, the ingredients you need are water and coffee. Well, and milk if you’re going to make a latte.

Water is simple. You can hook up your espresso machine to a water line if you want, or fill up the water tank of your machine as you go. I won’t elaborate on water quality and how it affects the quality of your espresso, but please, for the sake of your taste buds, use filtered water or you’ll definitely get coffee fit for the drain.

Coffee comes in two forms. Whole beans and preground are available. If you have a good burr grinder, definitely go for whole bean. If you don’t have a good burr grinder, buy whole bean at a coffee shop and ask them to grind it for you on the spot. Don’t buy preground. Just, don’t.

The Espresso Machine

If it is the first time you’re turning on your espresso machine, you’ll need to prime it according to the instructions in the manual of your machine.

Before you make a shot, you’ll need to heat up the espresso machine. All you have to do is turn it on and wait till the machine feels warm to touch. This may take any amount of time, depending on your particular espresso machine.

Now you can look at the components or parts that your machine comes with. These are probably parts of the portafilter, including spigots, brew baskets, filters and the handle. Your semi automatic espresso machine may come with one or many of these for you to choose from.

For a beginner, I suggest you use the largest brew basket, which is for the double shot, and a naked or bottomless filter. The bottomless filter allows you to see how the brew comes out, so that you’ll know whether you’re doing the grind, dose and tamp right. A good beginner espresso machine with bottomless filter is the Capresso 118.05 EC Pro.

When the machine is warm enough, run an empty shot to heat up the brew head. I remember thinking I could skip this step when I was a novice barista, but now I want a perfect shot too much to be a lazy bum.

You’ll need to lock the portafilter in place without coffee in it and press the button for a shot. Hot water will flow through those parts that will come into contact with your coffee later, to heat them up properly. Then you’ll have to wipe the grouphead and portafilter dry before proceeding with the brew.

The Brew

Now you’re ready to brew the espresso you’ve been wanting so much. Fill the brew basket in the portafilter with freshly ground coffee. If you have a grinder and doser, place the portafilter on the doser and dose about 20 grams. Using your forefinger, make a level swipe across the top of the basket to create an even surface. The dose should fill the basket exactly to the brim.

Next comes tamping. Tamping deserves an article all on its own, but no article will make you a greater barista than practice will. So, practice, practice, practice! Usually the semi automatic espresso machine will include a tamper, but if it’s a plastic tamper, you should consider spending a few dollars on a decent stainless steel tamper. Press the tamper evenly on the basket, giving it a half-turn clockwise for a smooth top.

Get ready for the final step. Lock the portafilter to the grouphead, place your volumetric shot glasses or cups under it and press the button or switch to brew for a preset double shot. When you’re experienced enough, you can also try pulling a manual shot with some espresso machines. That simply means controlling the timing of the shot that will require you to know when to stop the brew.

Now the fun part is, if you are using the bottomless portafilter, you can bend down and see how the coffee flows out of the machine. The perfect shot is when the coffee flows in one concentrated stream with even color or stripes of colors down to your cup.

There should be crema on top of your espresso. If there is too little crema, try using fresher beans. Now drink that elixir of pure bliss.

For more espresso machine reviews, guides and tips, follow my blog. You may also like my articles on superautomatic espresso machines and automatic espresso machines. Enjoy!

Best Capresso Espresso Machines

March 29, 2017 By Dave 1 Comment

At first glance the Capresso espresso machines do not look like top notch espresso makers. In fact they look rather cheap. But aesthetics aside, these affordable espresso machines do make good espressos for a beginner to espresso making.

If you are experienced in making your own espresso at home and have expensive taste, the Capresso machines may not be good enough for you. For someone buying their first espresso machine though, these machines may give you some value for your money while you practise to become an expert barista.

Capresso 118.05 EC Pro Pump Espresso Machine

This Capresso espresso maker is a very affordable pump espresso machine under $300. It’s really compact too, so it’s not going to take up a lot of space on your counter top. This is one of the Capresso machines with better build; the stainless steel body and almost all-solid body gives assurance that this espresso machine is not a toy.

I highly recommend this espresso machine for beginners as an entry level machine, not just because it is inexpensive, but also because it comes with a naked portafilter. Don’t let your mind stray elsewhere. The so-called naked portafilter, or bottomless portafilter, allows you to watch the process of coffee extraction, and this helps new baristas-to-be know what they need to do right for the perfect shot of espresso.

The espreso shot seen with bottomless portafilter.

If you like lattes, this espresso machine makes a good milk foam too. The only complaints are the plasticky drip tray and the cup warmer on top of the machine that doesn’t help much in warming the cups. However, I find these issues too small for the price.

Here’s where you can get this espresso machine for the best price.

Capresso 303.01 Steam Espresso Machine

If you have less than $100 to spend on an espresso machine, the Capresso 303.01 is a decent steam espresso machine that comes for way less than that. Use fresh coffee and you may even get a thin layer of crema in the pot.

This Capresso espresso maker is easy to use, the frothing wand works well for lattes and cappuccinos, and it is not difficult to clean up. You’ll have to prepare your own ground coffee, preferably not too fine if you want to avoid a bitter taste. Use the included tamper to tamp and then you can brew up to 4 cups of the coffee with this machine.

For the milk you will need to get a stainless steel frothing pitcher, and use cold, 2% milk instead of non-fat. Milk with fat content creates smoother, creamier froth and tastes a whole lot better, so cut yourself some slack in dieting, ladies.

Here’s where you can get this espresso machine for the best price.

You may also want to read my espresso machine reviews for other similar espresso machines like Mr. Coffee ECM160, Delonghi espresso machines and the best espresso machines under $200.

Best Gaggia Espresso Machines

March 17, 2017 By Dave Leave a Comment

If you are looking for Italian made espresso machines for a blend of quality materials and workmanship, but don’t want to spend over the top, Gaggia espresso makers may make your day. Gaggia espresso machines are not popular for no reason. Espresso making at home will become more professional if you have a Gaggia. The espresso that these espresso machines make is no less of what you would get from the best roasted beans – a rich and dark taste.

Gaggia espresso machines are also notably user friendly. This is why I often recommend a Gaggia to those who have just begun to explore the home espresso option. Why spend so much on delicious espressos from cafes and restaurants if you can make the same at home?

Gaggia Classic 14101

I dare come out and say that the Gaggia Classic is bang on the best espresso machine if you are not looking to pay a hefty price but in the hunt for a classy designer and high tech espresso maker at home. Its stand out features include the industry recommended 58mm filters only found in the pricier models.

The Gaggia Classic 14101 comes with a 17.5-bar pump, a higher pressure than most budget range pump espresso makers. What I really love is that it also has a three way solenoid valve which instantly releases the accumulated pressure from the brass head. This means you can almost immediately make another shot without waiting about.

With over 72 ounces water reservoir, a stainless steel filter capable of double shots and a coffee tamper of commercial grade who can fault you for getting the Gaggia Classic 14101 for $365.

Read my review or see the price here.

Gaggia Brera Super Automatic

If you are looking for a super automatic espresso machine that doesn’t break your bank account, the Gaggia Brera is something that may catch your attention. The Gaggia Brera is a stainless steel super automatic espresso maker with an eye catching design.

The Brera has unparalleled simplicity with classy results. You will find that it is possible to prepare shot after shot of espressos using this espresso machine without the hassle that comes with cleaning up.

My friend loves the bypass doser that allows you to use a different coffee for once, instead of using the beans in the hopper. The espressos that come out are consistently good. Although there are a few complaints about the mechanics of this machine, it is still a good one to consider for simple and fully automated espresso making in a small budget.

See the price here.

Gaggia 12300 Baby Class

Gaggia’s small Baby Class espresso machine contains all of the features of the bigger models, and delivers fantastic espresso shots consistently. The classy look is attributable to the stainless steel housing and chrome plated parts.

It foams milk as well as if not better than most of the other espresso makers in the market today. The foam head would come off easily if not properly attached though, so you might want to check the manual for attaching it nicely.

The push button controls are stylish and straight forward, the boiler has high wattage for quick heating of the water, and it also comes with the three way solenoid valve which instantly releases the accumulated pressure.

See the price here.

Well there you have it, if you are looking for a reliable brand when shopping for espresso makers, take a look at the Gaggia espresso machines. They almost always give value for your money!

Gaggia Espresso Machine Reviews:

Back to main page:

Best Espresso Machine Reviews 2017

Gaggia Classic 14101 – Best Entry Level Semi Automatic Espresso Machine

March 6, 2017 By Dave Leave a Comment

A pump espresso machine that is not too cheap and flimsy, yet not too high end as to burn a hole in the pocket, Gaggia Classic is the best semi automatic espresso machine for a first time buyer. It gives much value for money and is sturdy enough to last you until you’re ready to upgrade.

Very Solid and User Friendly

Gaggia Classic makes good espressos and is easier to use than the high end espresso machines. You may think it’s basic, but it serves its purpose and the build is solid with replaceable parts.

While the housing is stainless steel, the portafilters and grouphead are made of high grade brass plated with chrome.

“I’ve worked at two espresso shops with commercial machines, and the parts on this moderately priced Gaggia are nearly as heavy and substantial as the big multiple-thousands of dollars machines.” – Adapted from a review by Dominika Lepak.

Instantly Make Another Shot

The best feature of the Gaggia Classic is its 3-way valve, which practically makes this espresso machine a level above others!

Okay, I’ll explain. The one less attractive trait of a pump espresso machine is that it takes time to build up pressure after you have made one shot, but the Gaggia Classic solves this problem with the valve, allowing you to make another espresso shot right away.

The Gaggia Classic also heats up very quickly compared to many other espresso makers, which is great when time is ticking off the clock in the morning.

In any case, two shots can be made simultaneously with the Gaggia Classic if you like too. I have made as many as six shots of espresso in just five minutes.

Many have complained about the Gaggia Classic’s steam wand in the old version, but they have replaced it with a new design that is more consistent in its performance.

Use Bottled Water

The only downside to this espresso machine is the aluminum boiler. That’s not to say that it doesn’t perform well, but keep in mind that aluminum tend to corrode if you expose it to minerals in the water you’re using.

Try to avoid using hard tap water, and use bottled water instead. In any case, bottled water or distilled water makes your espressos taste better. To protect the boiler, the manufacturer says it’s better not to backflush the Gaggia Classic at all, and only to descale it annually.

Should You Buy It?

Go for this espresso machine if you are searching for a mid range, professional espresso machine to start off espresso making at home. It’s easy to use, makes great espresso and is not too expensive.

What are you waiting for? Check out the price here for the Gaggia Classic semi automatic espresso machine.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a budget espresso machine that is pump driven, you may like this espresso maker. Unless you are a serious aficionado, I wouldn’t recommend you a manual espresso machine.

The Best Espresso Machine Reviews 2017 can be found in my main page.

Best Steam Espresso Machine – Mr. Coffee ECM160

March 6, 2017 By Dave Leave a Comment

Although steam espresso machines do not produce the real espresso with a thick layer of crema on top that compares to what a pump espresso maker makes, you may want to consider one if you are not willing to spend over $100. A good steam driven espresso maker I would recommend is the Mr. Coffee ECM160.

The good thing about steam espresso machines is that they are much quieter than pump models. Read my espresso machine guide about different types of espresso machines. Mr. Coffee ECM160 is a steam espresso maker that makes up to 4 cups of espressos at once (you may make just one), and it comes with a pretty good milk steam wand for making milk based espresso drinks.

I must say I was impressed with the milk frother on this little espresso maker. With the power it has, the frother can create some pretty decent froth and creamy steamed milk for your lattes. If you love milk based drinks, this is the best espresso maker for cappuccinos you can get at this price.

The espresso machine doesn’t come with a milk pitcher, so I suggest you get a stainless steel mug like this one, and a good tamper to replace the plastic one that comes with it.

I think that it’s easy to use this espresso maker, even if you’re a first timer. You may want to experiment with the pressure of your tamp and grind size to find the best taste that suits you. A tighter tamp will produce stronger coffee but if it’s too tight and the grind is small, coffee will come out more bitter.

Frothing the milk also takes some practice. You will soon find out how to position the steam wand to control the thickness of the foam. Remember though, that the Mr. Coffee ECM160 cannot brew coffee and steam your milk simultaneously.

As for keeping this espresso maker in good shape, just run blank shots (brewing without the coffee) through it every so often and descale it.

I love how you can wind the cord up beneath the espresso maker itself if you need to move it somewhere. Right out of the box the machine has part of the cord wound up.

Mr. Coffee ECM160 is really a decent espresso maker at a very attractive price, though I would only recommend it to peeps who have never owned a pump espresso maker and those who prefer milk based espresso drinks to espresso on its own.

If you decide to get a pump espresso machine after all, you may want to look at the Delonghi EC155, a small pump semi automatic espresso maker just below $100.

Breville BES870XL – Best Value Semi Automatic Espresso Machine

February 6, 2017 By Dave Leave a Comment

Let’s get right into it. The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is the best espresso machine for all levels, and it’s a big bang for your buck. If you have more than one user at home who will be making espressos with the espresso machine, and who have varying degrees of barista skills, you’ll love this semi automatic espresso maker.

Fabulous and Thoughtful Design

The design of this espresso machine is “fabulous”, as someone puts it. Here’s what he said:

“I personally think that this machine is gorgeous and looks great on my kitchen countertop. I love the stainless steel. I love the way it is laid out. I love the way the tamper is held. I love the way it looks when you turn it on and the lighting that it has. Everything is easy to access…I think the design is fabulous.” – Adapted from a review by Andrew

The single wall filter gives the barista of the family control over the tamp pressure and the grind size, while the barista-to-be will be assured that the espresso that comes out is perfectly acceptable by using the dual wall filter.

As with all semi automatic espresso machines, this one needs some getting used to. I had to adjust the grind size to get the pressure right for my shot. The amount of grinds also played a role in this. Once I’ve gotten the settings right for a certain bean, making shot after shot of delicious espresso is a breeze.

Built-In Grinder

The deal maker of this espresso machine is the built-in grinder. The Breville BES870XL has a professional burr grinder which is such a nice touch for a semi automatic espresso maker at this price range.

I must say I’m so pleased with the convenience of feeding grinds into the espresso machine directly because now I’m drinking espresso made with freshly ground beans instead of pre-ground beans! The difference may be slight but it certainly improved the taste.

One thing to be careful about the grinder is never to leave the lid open. That way you can be sure you’ll never accidentally drip water into it when refilling the water tank. One drop of water is enough to create a huge mess in the grinder that will take forever to clean and you don’t want that.

Keeping the lid on also keeps the beans from being exposed to air and humidity, and they will stay fresh longer.

I love how normal espresso lovers like us are willing to share their experiences and tips so that even if you’re not so sure you can handle this espresso machine, it is not hard to find a tip to help you along when you encounter a problem. Best of all, the Breville customer support has always been willing to answer my questions about using the espresso machine.

A helpful tip from another reviewer that I’d like to share here after experimenting it myself is that you can get a dry puck if these steps are followed: make espresso shot, don’t remove portafilter but proceed to steam milk, then remove portafilter to empty puck. Works every single time!

Although the Breville BES870XL is not entirely perfect (most people complain about having to fine tune the shots) I still highly recommend this machine if you have the budget to spend. It is good value for money to get a good semi automatic espresso maker with plenty of features to fiddle with and a good burr grinder thrown in the package. Definitely the best espresso machine to buy at this price range.

For a semi automatic below $500, you may want to look at the Gaggia Classic, or go back to my Best Espresso Machines of 2017 for more.