The Breville Barista Express BES870 and the BES870XL are, for all practical purposes, the exact same espresso machine. Any confusion stems from regional naming conventions or retailer-specific labeling - the "XL" does not signify a larger size, extra-large water tank, or any enhanced features compared to the standard BES870 model.
This guide will finally clear up the confusion and explain exactly what you get when you buy the beloved Barista Express from Breville, regardless of the model number on the box.
Breville Barista Express BES870
The Breville Barista Express has long been a top-rated choice for home coffee enthusiasts moving from beginner machines to the world of semi-automatic espresso. It's a true all-in-one appliance, integrating a high-quality conical burr grinder and a powerful steam wand into a compact and stylish stainless steel body. This design allows you to go from whole bean to fresh espresso without needing multiple pieces of equipment cluttering your counter.
- What it is: A semi-automatic, all-in-one espresso machine with an integrated conical burr grinder.
- Key features: Built-in dose-control grinder, precise PID temperature control, 15-bar Italian pump, high-pressure steam wand for micro-foam milk, and a pressure gauge to help you dial in the perfect shot.
- Price: Around $700–$750 USD, depending on the retailer.
- Dimensions: Approximately 12.5" H x 12" W x 16" D.
- Materials/Construction: Features a durable, brushed stainless steel housing, stainless steel conical burrs for the grinder, and high-quality internal components built for longevity.
- Style: Sleek, modern, and professional aesthetic that looks great in any kitchen.
- Pros: Excellent value for an all-in-one machine. The integrated grinder saves space and money. Gives users full control over the espresso-making process. Great for learning and improving barista skills at home.
- Cons: Has a learning curve compared to fully automatic machines. The single thermocoil heating system means you cannot brew espresso and steam milk at the same time. The grinder can be a bit messy.
This machine is ideal for the aspiring home barista who wants hands-on control to craft cafe-quality coffee drinks and appreciates having the grinder and brewer in one unit.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/bes870.html
Breville Barista Express BES870XL
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is the same celebrated machine as the BES870, with the "XL" suffix often seen on listings from certain retailers or in specific international markets. It delivers the same performance, features, and sleek stainless steel design that has made the Barista Express a go-to choice globally. Do not let the "XL" mislead you - you are getting the same core product with the same capabilities.
- What it is: The same semi-automatic, all-in-one espresso machine noted above, marketed under the BES870XL model number.
- Key features: Same as the BES870: integrated grinder, PID temperature control, pressure gauge, and powerful steam wand for milk frothing.
- Price: Around $700–$750 USD, mirroring the standard model's price.
- Dimensions: Identical to the BES870 at 12.5" H x 12" W x 16" D.
- Materials/Construction: Built with the same sturdy brushed stainless steel and reliable internal parts as its non-XL counterpart.
- Style: Boasts the same modern, professional aesthetic that fits well in home kitchens.
- Pros: Identical benefits, including its space-saving all-in-one design and ability to produce high-quality espresso. A fantastic tool for honing espresso skills.
- Cons: Shares the same drawbacks: a learning curve is required, and simultaneous brewing and steaming is not possible.
Perfect for the exact same user: someone passionate about coffee who wants to master the art of espresso making at home with one convenient and high-performing machine.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/bes870.html
Breville Barista Express BES870 vs. BES870XL Comparison
Because the Breville Barista Express BES870 and BES870XL are functionally identical, this comparison serves mainly to reassure you that there are no hidden differences to worry about during your shopping journey.
Model Number & Naming: What's the "XL"?
The primary point of confusion lies with the "XL" suffix. This is not a product differentiator but a marketing or regional identifier. In many markets, particularly the United States, Breville adds XL to the model number (e.g., BES870XL for the Barista Express, BOV800XL for the Smart Oven).
Rest assured, the "XL" does not stand for "extra large." It does not mean the machine has a bigger water tank, a larger bean hopper, or additional accessories. It is simply part of the model nomenclature in certain regions, and for all practical purposes, BES870 and BES870XL refer to the same product.
Features & Performance
Both the BES870 and BES870XL boast the same flagship features that make the Barista Express a standout product. Both models include the built-in conical burr grinder with dose control, digital PID temperature control for water stability, a 15-bar Italian pump, and the hands-on pressure gauge. Their performance is identical, delivering the same quality of espresso shots and steamed milk when operated correctly.
Dimensions & Materials
There is absolutely no difference in size, weight, or build quality. Both the BES870 and BES870XL are constructed from brushed stainless steel and share the exact same physical dimensions of 12.5" x 12" x 16". They will occupy the same amount of space on your kitchen counter and feel equally robust and premium.
Price & Value
Given that they are the same product, the BES870 and BES870XL are priced identically across most retailers. You should not expect to find a price premium or a discount on one version over the other. Both offer the same fantastic value by combining a capable espresso machine and a conical burr grinder for the price of one mid-range machine. Your purchasing decision should come down to current availability and who is offering the best deal, not the model number.
Which One Should You Choose?
Since the BES870 and BES870XL are the same machine, the decision is refreshingly simple.
The Breville Barista Express is the right choice for you if:
- You want an all-in-one machine to save counter space and the cost of buying a separate grinder.
- You're excited by the idea of learning to dial in espresso shots, tamp, and froth milk like a professional.
- You value a machine with quality construction that looks fantastic in your kitchen.
- Your budget is around the $700-$750 mark for a complete espresso setup.
Your choice between the BES870 and the BES870XL should be based purely on current price and availability. Simply find the best deal on the Breville Barista Express and purchase it with the confidence that you’re getting the right award-winning machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Breville BES870 and BES870XL?
There are no functional, performance, or physical differences. The "XL" in the BES870XL model name is primarily a regional marketing identifier used by Breville and does not signify a different or upgraded product.
Is the BREVILLE Barista Express BES870XL larger than the BES870?
No. Both models share the exact same dimensions: approximately 12.5 inches in height, 12 inches in width, and 16 inches in depth. The "XL" does not mean "extra large."
Why does Breville use two different model numbers?
Companies often use different model numbers for the same product for various internal reasons, including distinguishing inventory destined for different retail partners, different countries, or different versions of packaging.
Are the included accessories for the BES870 and BES870XL the same?
Yes. Both models typically come with the same set of accessories, including a portafilter, single and dual wall filter baskets, a stainless steel milk frothing jug, the Razor precision dose trimming tool, and cleaning tools.
Is the Breville Barista Express a good machine for beginners?
While there is a learning curve to dialing in the perfect shot, the Barista Express is widely considered one of the best machines for beginners wanting to learn semi-automatic espresso. Its intuitive controls and pressure gauge provide instant feedback to help you improve.
How long will the Breville Barista Express last?
With regular cleaning and maintenance (including descaling and changing the water filter), a Breville Barista Express can last for 5-10 years. Its sturdy build quality is designed for long-term home use.
Which is better, the BES870 or BES870XL?
Neither is better because they are the same product. When shopping, you should consider them interchangeable and look for the version with the best price or availability from a trusted retailer.
Can you brew and steam simultaneously on the Barista Express?
No. The Barista Express uses a single thermocoil heating system, which means it can only perform one function at a time. After brewing your espresso, you will need to wait a few seconds for the machine to heat up to steam temperature to froth your milk.
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