The Sunbeam EM5300 and the Breville BES870 Barista Express are built for two entirely different coffee drinkers. The Sunbeam EM5300 is an affordable, entry-level machine designed for simplicity and casual use, while the Breville BES870 is a premium, all-in-one espresso station for enthusiasts who want cafe-quality results and total control over their brew.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which of these popular espresso machines is the right fit for your home.
Sunbeam EM5300 Espresso Machine
The Sunbeam EM5300 is a straightforward and compact espresso machine designed for those just starting their home coffee journey. It delivers the core functionality needed to pull an espresso shot and froth milk without the complexity or high cost of more advanced models, making it an accessible entry point into the world of home espresso.
- What it is: A budget-friendly, semi-automatic espresso machine aimed at beginners and casual users.
- Key features: Simple three-button operation for power, espresso, and steam. Includes a full-size 58mm group head and a powerful steam wand for milk frothing.
- Price: Around $150–$200
- Dimensions: Compact and lightweight, designed to fit easily on small countertops.
- Materials/Construction: Primarily made of durable plastic with some metal components for key parts like the group head and steam wand.
- Style: Functional and utilitarian, prioritizing ease of use over high-end aesthetics.
- Pros: Highly affordable price point. Extremely easy for beginners to learn and operate. Compact size is great for small kitchens or apartments. Decent steam wand for the price.
- Cons: Lacks precision control over temperature and pressure. Build quality is mostly plastic, feeling less durable than premium models. Requires a separate, good-quality grinder for best results.
This machine is ideal for anyone on a tight budget who wants to try making espresso at home without being overwhelmed by complicated features.
Shop this product: sunbeam.com
Breville BES870 Barista Express
The Breville BES870, better known as the Barista Express, is a globally recognized powerhouse for serious home baristas. It's an all-in-one unit that integrates a high-quality conical burr grinder, precise PID temperature control, and a pressure gauge, giving you all the tools needed to dial in the perfect shot of espresso from bean to cup.
- What it is: A high-performance, semi-automatic espresso machine with a built-in grinder for coffee enthusiasts.
- Key features: Integrated conical burr grinder with dose control. Digital PID temperature control for precise water temperature. Low-pressure pre-infusion for even extraction. Onboard pressure gauge to monitor shot quality.
- Price: $700–$900
- Dimensions: Larger and heavier than entry-level machines, requiring dedicated counter space.
- Materials/Construction: Built with high-quality, brushed stainless steel for a premium look and long-term durability. Commercial-grade components inside.
- Style: Modern, sleek, and professional, designed to be a centerpiece appliance in a coffee lover's kitchen.
- Pros: Produces true cafe-quality espresso. All-in-one design saves space compared to buying a separate grinder. Incredibly durable construction. Allows for full control over every brewing variable.
- Cons: Significant price difference compared to entry-level machines. Has a steeper learning curve for beginners. Larger footprint may not suit small kitchens.
This is the definitive choice for someone passionate about coffee who is ready to invest in a machine that offers control, consistency, and professional-grade results.
Shop this product: breville.com
Sunbeam EM5300 vs. Breville BES870 Comparison
Features & Control
This is the most significant point of difference. The Sunbeam EM5300 is all about simplicity. It has preset buttons for single or double shots, offering a consistent but uncustomizable experience. While it gets the job done, it's a closed system with little room for tweaking.
In contrast, the Breville BES870 is built for control. It features an integrated conical burr grinder with 16 settings, allowing you to dial in the perfect grind size. Its digital PID temperature control ensures water is at the optimal temperature for extraction, and the onboard pressure gauge gives you real-time feedback to perfect your technique. This level of control is what separates good espresso from great espresso.
Materials & Construction
The build quality reflects the vast price difference between the two machines. The Sunbeam uses durable plastics for most of its body to keep costs down, though key components like the portafilter and steam wand are metal. It's lightweight and functional but doesn't feel like a long-term investment.
The Breville Barista Express is constructed almost entirely from brushed stainless steel. It feels solid, heavy, and built to last for years. The internal components are also higher-grade, designed to withstand daily use. The premium materials not only contribute to its durability but also give it a professional aesthetic.
Dimensions & Fit
The Sunbeam EM5300 is the clear winner for small spaces. It's compact and has a smaller footprint, making it perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited counter real estate. Its lightweight build also makes it easy to move or store if needed.
The Breville BES870 is a larger, more substantial machine that demands a dedicated spot in your kitchen. Its all-in-one design means you won't need space for a separate grinder, but the machine itself is deeper and wider than the Sunbeam. It's designed for users who are creating a permanent coffee station.
Price & Value
At around $150-$200, the Sunbeam EM5300 offers fantastic value for a beginner. It provides a genuine entry point into espresso without a major financial commitment. However, you will need to budget for a separate burr grinder to get the best results, which can add another $100+ to the total cost.
The Breville BES870, at $700-$900, is a serious investment. But its value comes from its all-in-one nature and superior quality. A comparable grinder and machine sold separately could easily exceed this price. For the dedicated coffee enthusiast, the Breville provides long-term value through its durability, consistency, and the exceptional quality of coffee it produces.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both machines are excellent at what they do, but they're intended for completely different users and budgets.
Choose the Sunbeam EM5300 if:
- You are brand new to espresso and want a simple, non-intimidating machine.
- You're testing the waters and don't want to invest hundreds of dollars upfront.
- Your kitchen is small and you have very limited counter space.
- You primarily drink milk-based coffees like lattes and cappuccinos.
Choose the Breville BES870 if:
- You're passionate about the craft of coffee and want to control the brewing process.
- You value an all-in-one solution with a high-quality integrated grinder.
- You want a machine that is durable, stylish, and will last for many years.
- You're looking for cafe-quality espresso and willing to invest time to learn the machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Sunbeam EM5300 and Breville BES870?
The three main differences are price, features, and build quality. The Sunbeam is a budget-friendly plastic machine for beginners with basic functions. The Breville is a premium stainless steel machine for enthusiasts, featuring an integrated grinder and precise temperature and pressure control.
Is the Breville BES870 worth the extra money?
For a coffee enthusiast, yes. The integrated grinder, superior materials, precise controls, and the quality of the final espresso shot easily justify the higher cost. For a casual user who just wants a quick latte, the Sunbeam is a more practical choice.
Do I need a separate grinder for the Sunbeam EM5300?
Yes. To get the best results, you need freshly ground coffee. The Sunbeam does not have a built-in grinder, so you'll need to purchase a separate burr grinder, adding to the overall cost.
Which machine is easier to use for a beginner?
The Sunbeam EM5300 is significantly easier for an absolute beginner due to its simple button layout and lack of complex settings. The Breville has a steeper learning curve but offers much more room to grow your skills.
Which one is more durable long-term?
The Breville BES870 is far more durable. Its stainless steel construction and higher-quality internal components are designed for longevity and daily use, making it a better long-term investment.
Does the Sunbeam EM5300 make good espresso?
For its price, it can produce decent espresso, especially when paired with a good grinder. It's a great Nespresso alternative for making lattes and cappuccinos, but it won't achieve the rich, complex shots a more advanced machine like the Breville can.
How do the steam wands compare?
Both machines have capable steam wands. The Breville's wand offers more power and articulation, making it better for achieving smooth microfoam for latte art. The Sunbeam's wand is powerful enough for frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos but offers less finesse.
Which brand has better customer support?
Breville is known for its comprehensive customer support, detailed user manuals, and online resources, reflecting its premium market position. Sunbeam offers standard customer support suitable for its price point.
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