- Stainless-steel programmable espresso machine with 15-bar Triple-Prime pump
- Thermoblock heating system; electronic temperature control; pressure gauge
- Push-button volume settings; steam wand for frothing milk; cup warmer
- Includes 1- and 2-cup dual-wall stainless-steel filters, pod filter, tamping tool, and pitcher
- Measures 10 by 10-1/2 by 12-1/4 inches; 1-year limited warranty
Product Description
This die-cast stainless steel programmable espresso machine extracts the perfect volume of coffee at the touch of a button. Choose from Auto Shot, Custom Shot, or Manual, Shot, the Espresso Pressure Gauge assists in obtaining the most favorable extraction pressure, to create the ideal espresso…. More >>
Breville BES820XL Die-Cast 15-Bar Programmable Espresso Machine
After having a couple of low cost Krups 5 bar espresso machines Krups XP4030 Pump Espresso Machine, Black, one I wore out after a little more than a year, I decided to move up to a better system.
After doing a lot of research and reading countless reviews, I decided that this Breville model was the best for the money. I even thought the extra $50 for the programming button was worth it, because I prefer to decide what a double shot or single shot is. My wife likes a bit less coffee and I like a bit more so programmed the single shot for her and the double shot for me. Nice part is I don’t have to watch the machine anymore!
It’s got a nice look. I’m not comparing to anything and there are a lot that have a nice look – but not the Krups we had – it was black and wasn’t that nice looking. Mind you the Krups was a lot less money! How much you will pay for looks is up to you.
The Breville has a nice size water tank that come out from the front so I don’t have to pull the machine out from under the cabinet.
I get my beans ground at my local Starbuck’s or from Coffee Fool dot com when I’m in the mood to be foolish and on the first espresso the pressure was correct, so I’m good with that. I have noticed that the pressure has increased as I use the machine more with the same coffee so I expect the machine has to be broken in a bit, which is likely due to tightening up the seals or I’m getting stronger!
The hot water wand comes in handy for a single cup of tea, but then again so is my microwave. I’m not about to do an energy comparison, but expect the Breville would win in the carbon footprint competition.
The steam wand is very good and discharges reasonably so it is easy to control heating the milk. I don’t use the milk jug that was provided since mine has a temperature gauge to tell me when the milk has reached the right temperature, rather than potentially burning myself when testing the side of the jug. That’s not the real reason though – I just like gadgets. The kids like to have steamed milk for their hot chocolate so saves us having to use the Microwave or stove.
Finally, the size is just right for our requirements. It fits under the cabinets nicely and is the right width so I can be steaming the milk and still have the last bit of coffee dripping out in the shot glasses without knocking them over.
Rating: 5 / 5
This is my third purchase of a pump type espresso machine. The first one was a Gaggia, the second a Capresso. Both were disasters. This Breville is fabulous. It is user friendly, makes a great cup of coffee and has an excellent steaming mechanism. It is obviously upscale with its beautiful stainless body. I am hoping there isn’t a hidden plastic piece that will give out and change my opinion. I am using it about two weeks and can find no fault with it. My husband has commented that he believes the brew is stronger from this machine and I agree. It obviously extracts the most from each and every pull. Also, the fact that you push a button for one or two espresso shots and do not have to monitor the machine to shut it off at the appropriate moment is a real plus. Do yourself a favor, buy this espresso machine and don’t even think about the plastic models (sometimes at much higher prices).
Rating: 5 / 5
I bought this machine refurbished as an upgrade from an inexpensive machine. I have to say “WOW”. This is a well designed system. I really love the progam feaure that allows you to brew a single or double shot just by pushing a button. No more watching until your cup is filled to the right level.
Whether using pods or ground espresso, the Breville brews as good a cup as I’ve had.
I like the all stainless steamer/frother. It is easier to clean as the end disassembles from the wand.
I haven’t had much use for the hot water feature, and if I were redesigning this unit I would leave it out.
The all stainless construction is attractive and utilitarian. Sturdy and lends itself to easy cleanup.
Well worth what I paid for it!
Rating: 5 / 5
The only word is WOW! After using an inexpensive machine for eight years I upgraded to the die-cast Breville, and what a revelation. Well worth the money, it will pay for itself in less than a year if you compare costs with store-boought espresso drinks. Heavy and sturdy, the coffee produced is equal to any from a storefront. I couldn’t be happier – except I wish it had a second tank access for direct pouring of fresh water, but, hey, you can’t have everything for $500, can you?
Never going back…!
Rating: 5 / 5