Breville Barista Express 870 Vs 875

Breville Barista Express 870 Vs 875

The Barista Express is one of the flagship models in Breville’s semi-automatic coffee machine lineup. This popular model is available in a couple of versions, and today, we’re comparing the Breville Barista Express 870 vs. 875. If you’re anticipating a significant difference or upgrade, I must give a little spoiler: you might be disappointed!

The only difference between the older Express 870 and the newer Express 875 model is that the latter comes with a temperature-control milk jug featuring an integrated thermometer indicator strip. That’s the sole distinction, my friends!

Despite this minor variation, both models boast a plethora of features aimed at simplifying the process of consistently producing excellent espresso at home. They also offer various manual control options for those who wish to refine their barista skills, making them both solid choices for coffee enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the details and see how these two models stack up against each other.

Breville Barista Express 870 vs. 875: Specs & Features Comparison

When comparing the Breville Barista Express 870 and 875 models, it becomes apparent that both machines share nearly identical specifications and features. The primary distinction is the addition of a temperature-control milk jug with an integrated thermometer indicator strip in the 875 model.

Model:

• Breville Barista Express 875: Comes with a temperature-control milk jug.
• Breville Barista Express 870: Standard model without the temperature-control milk jug.

Dimensions/Weight:

• Both models measure 12.5 x 12.7 x 16.2 inches and weigh 26.4 lbs.

Interface:

• Both machines feature a button-operated interface with two one-touch drink options.

Built-in Grinder:

• Both models are equipped with a stainless steel conical burr grinder with 18 grinding settings.

Heating System:

• Both machines use a single thermocoil heating system.

Pump Pressure:

• Both machines operate at 15 bars of pump pressure.

Pre-Infusion:

• Both models feature a pre-infusion function.

Milk Frothing System:

• Both machines are equipped with a manual steam wand.

Spigot Type/Cup Clearance:

• Both models have dual spigots with a 4-inch cup clearance.

Water Reservoir/Bean Hopper:

• Both models have a 2-liter water reservoir and a 0.25 kg bean hopper.

Filter:

• Both models offer an optional filter.

Compatibility:

• Both machines are compatible with pre-ground coffee.

Breville Barista Express 875:

• Adjustable grinder with 18 grind settings.
• Good built-in steam wand.
• Numerous adjustable settings.
• Temperature-control jug.
• Simple to use and clean.

Breville Barista Express 870:

• Adjustable grinder with 18 grind settings.
• Good built-in steam wand.
• Numerous adjustable settings.
• Brews a tasty espresso.
• Simple to use and clean.

Breville Barista Express 875 stands out slightly due to its temperature-control milk jug, but both models offer excellent features for making high-quality espresso at home. Whether you choose the 870 or the 875, you can expect a fantastic coffee-making experience with either machine.

Breville Barista Express 870 vs 875: What’s the Difference?

At a glance, the only difference between these two models is the inclusion of a temperature control milk jug with the Barista Express 875. But what makes the Barista Express itself a great choice? Let’s dive into its standout features and see how it performs.

Coffee Flavor & Brewing System

Winner: Breville Barista Express 875

Built-in Grinder

One of the Barista Express’s best features is its built-in stainless steel conical burr grinder with 18 settings. This means you won’t need a separate grinder cluttering your kitchen—just load your beans into the hopper, and the machine takes care of the rest.

While 18 grind settings may not seem extensive, they’re more than enough for beginners learning the ropes of espresso-making. Plus, maintaining the grinder is easy; disassembling it for cleaning is straightforward—just keep it out of the dishwasher.

Dosing & Tamping

Both the 870 and 875 models feature a 54mm portafilter and a high-quality tamper that conveniently attaches to the left side of the machine—no more searching for your tamper in kitchen drawers. The Barista Express also includes both single- and dual-wall filter baskets, allowing you to use either freshly ground beans or pre-ground coffee.

Now, the key difference between the 870 and 875: the 875 comes with a stainless steel milk pitcher that features a built-in temperature scale, making it easier to achieve the perfect milk temperature for lattes and cappuccinos.

Heating System

The Barista Express features a thermocoil heating system that gets up to temperature in just 30 seconds—a significant improvement over traditional boilers, which can take up to 30 minutes.

That said, even though the machine heats up quickly, it’s best to give it a little extra time before brewing to ensure the group head and portafilter are properly warmed. The thermocoil also warms up the top of the machine, creating a cup-warming tray to keep your espresso cups at the perfect temperature.

Brewing System

Pre-infusion plays a vital role in extracting the best flavors from your coffee, and the Barista Express excels in this area. It gently wets the coffee grounds before applying 15 bars of pressure, allowing the aromas to develop fully.

Even better, the pre-infusion time is adjustable. The default setting is 10 seconds, but you can fine-tune it to match your preferences.

Design & Convenience

Winner: Tie

Dimensions & User Interface

The Barista Express isn’t the most compact semi-automatic espresso machine, but it’s also not oversized. Its built-in grinder eliminates the need for extra counter space. However, if you have low-hanging kitchen cabinets, you might need to move the machine out occasionally to access the bean hopper and cup-warming tray.

The front-facing control panel is user-friendly, featuring a large pressure gauge and tactile buttons that make it easy to navigate. Adjusting shot volume, water temperature, and pre-infusion time is simple, though some fine-tuning requires a quick look at the user manual.

Spout Type & Cup Clearance

The Barista Express features a dual spout design, providing ample clearance for standard espresso cups. While the height isn’t adjustable, you can remove the drip tray to accommodate larger mugs or travel cups.

Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper

The water tank holds 2 liters, which is convenient for multiple brews before refilling. However, its placement at the back of the machine can make refilling slightly awkward. To improve water quality and reduce scaling, Breville includes a water filter that fits inside the reservoir.

The bean hopper holds 0.25 kilograms of coffee beans and features an airtight seal to preserve freshness.

Milk Frothing System

Winner: Tie

Both models come with a professional-style steam wand that rotates 360 degrees, making milk frothing more precise and user-friendly. If you’ve ever used a wand with limited movement, you’ll appreciate the flexibility.

Once you get the hang of it, the steam wand delivers excellent microfoam for creating café-style lattes and cappuccinos. If you’re into latte art, this machine gives you the control needed to create hearts, leaves, and other designs.

Additionally, there’s a dedicated hot water spout next to the steam wand, which is great for making Americanos or tea.

Drink Options & Programmability

Winner: Tie

Drink Options

The Barista Express doesn’t have pre-programmed specialty drinks like some fully automatic machines. Instead, it gives you the tools to craft espresso-based beverages manually. Whether you’re making a latte, cappuccino, or macchiato, it’s all in your hands.

Programmability

Customization is a strong suit of the Barista Express. You can adjust the brewing temperature between 187°F and 205°F, fine-tune the coffee strength, and tweak the pre-infusion time.

The center-located pressure gauge may seem old-school, but it’s an invaluable tool for optimizing espresso extraction. By keeping an eye on the gauge, you can adjust your grind size and tamping pressure accordingly.

The only difference between the Breville Barista Express 870 and 875 is the temperature control milk jug included with the 875. Otherwise, both models deliver an excellent semi-automatic espresso experience with a built-in grinder, adjustable settings, and a high-quality steam wand. If you already own a milk pitcher, the 870 will save you some money. But if you want a more precise way to froth milk, the 875’s temperature jug is a worthwhile bonus.

Quick Rundown of Breville Barista Express 875

Sage the Barista Express Espresso Machine, Bean to Cup Coffee Machine with Milk Frother, BES875BKS – Black Sesame

The Breville Barista Express 875 is an advanced espresso machine designed to bring third-wave specialty coffee to your home. Utilizing Breville’s 4 keys formula, this machine offers all-in-one convenience with an integrated grinder, allowing you to go from beans to espresso in under a minute.

Key Features:

• Dose Control Grinding: The integrated precision conical burr grinder grinds on demand, delivering the right amount of freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter for your preferred taste with any roast of bean.
• Optimal Water Pressure: The low-pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start, ensuring that all the flavors are drawn out evenly during the extraction for a balanced tasting cup.
• Precise Espresso Extraction: The digital temperature control (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, ensuring optimal espresso extraction.
• Manual Microfoam Milk Texturing: The powerful steam wand allows you to hand texture microfoam milk, enhancing flavor and enabling the creation of latte art.

Pros:

• Adjustable grinder with 18 grind settings.
• Good built-in steam wand.
• A lot of adjustable settings.
• Temperature control jug.
• Simple to use and clean.

Cons:

• No milk temperature control.
• Requires trial and error to froth milk.

The Breville Barista Express 875 stands out for its adjustable grinder, powerful steam wand, and numerous settings that provide versatility and control. The addition of a temperature control jug further enhances the milk texturing experience, making it a comprehensive choice for home baristas who want to perfect their craft.