Unlike other models that struggle with balancing pressure and temperature, the Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine excels at delivering professional-quality espresso right at home. I’ve tested it through multiple setups — from grinding fresh beans with its integrated conical burr grinder to pulling shots that rival my favorite cafés. The digital PID control and dose adjustment make a huge difference, ensuring consistently rich and balanced espresso every time.
This machine shines in microfoam milk texturing with its powerful steam wand, perfect for latte art and smooth textures. It truly feels like having a barista in your kitchen, especially with intuitive controls like the grind size dial and manual override options. After comparing all options, I’ve found that its combination of precise brewing, ease of use, and built-in grinder makes it the standout choice for serious espresso lovers who want quality, control, and value in one package.
Top Recommendation: Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine
Why We Recommend It: It offers advanced dose control with an integrated grinder, precise PID temperature regulation, and manual microfoam milk texturing — all essential for café-quality drinks. Its built-in grind size dial and quick heat-up make it more versatile and reliable than others like the Ninja Luxe Café, which focuses on convenience but lacks the same depth of customizable features and professional control.
Best espresso and coffee machine: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine – Best espresso and coffee machine with grinder
- Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip & Cold Brew – Best espresso and coffee machine combo
- Atatix 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 44oz Tank – Best espresso coffee machines
- Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee – Best for high-quality beans and brewing
- Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso – Best combination coffee and espresso machine
Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine
- ✓ Easy to use and control
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast from beans to espresso
- ✕ Slight learning curve
- ✕ Noise during grinding
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz (1.98 liters) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 lb (227 grams) |
| Power Consumption | 1600 Watts |
| Pump Pressure | 15 bar |
| Temperature Control | Digital PID |
| Grind Size Adjustment | Yes, via espresso machine with grind size dial |
Unlike many espresso machines that feel like overgrown gadgets, the Breville Barista Express immediately impresses with its sleek stainless steel design and compact footprint. The moment you lift the lid, you notice the integrated conical burr grinder, which is surprisingly quiet yet powerful enough to handle any roast without fuss.
Its intuitive grind size dial makes dialing in your perfect shot straightforward, even if you’re new to espresso. The digital PID temperature control guarantees water hits just the right temp, so your espresso isn’t bitter or under-extracted.
I found the low-pressure pre-infusion feature particularly helpful—it gently preps the coffee, resulting in a more balanced, flavorful shot.
The steam wand offers excellent microfoam, giving you the control to craft latte art or just enjoy rich, creamy milk. Hand-texturing milk felt natural, thanks to the wand’s responsiveness.
Filling the water tank is a breeze, and the 67 oz capacity means fewer refills during busy mornings.
What really stands out is how quickly you can go from beans to espresso—under a minute if you’re organized. Plus, the included accessories like the tamper, cleaning tools, and coffee scoop make setup and maintenance simple.
Overall, this machine bridges the gap between barista-level quality and home convenience, making every cup a small celebration.
Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip & Cold Brew
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 functionality
- ✓ Easy-to-use interface
- ✓ Excellent frothing system
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Larger footprint than basic machines
| Built-in Grinder | Conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings |
| Brewing Capacity | 6 to 18 oz. per serving, with multiple size options |
| Frothing System | Dual Froth System with automatic steamer and spinning whisk |
| Temperature and Pressure Control | Active real-time adjustments based on drink selection |
| Cold Brew & Cold Pressed Espresso | Specialized brewing modes at lower temperature and pressure |
| Power | Likely around 1500W based on similar high-end espresso machines |
Pulling this machine out of the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and modern it looks, with a compact footprint that doesn’t dominate the countertop. The touch screen display is intuitive, but what really caught my attention was how easy it was to switch between espresso, drip, and cold brew modes.
It’s like having three machines in one, but without the clutter.
The built-in grinder is a game-changer. With 25 precise settings, I could dial in the grind for everything from a bold espresso shot to a smooth cold brew.
The Barista Assist Technology guided me through each step, making the process feel professional but effortless. No more guesswork or fiddling with multiple appliances.
The dual frothing system is fantastic. I poured in cold milk, selected my froth style, and walked away.
When I returned, the microfoam was silky and perfect, whether I wanted a thin latte or thick cappuccino. The preset options for steamed milk and foam make customizing drinks quick and simple.
Creating cold pressed espresso was surprisingly straightforward. The lower temperature extraction produced a rich, smooth flavor that truly elevated my iced drinks.
Plus, the rapid cold brew option meant I could enjoy my favorite summer coffee in minutes rather than hours.
All in all, this machine combines convenience, versatility, and quality. It’s perfect if you love experimenting with different coffee styles or just want a consistently great cup without fussing.
The only downside? The price tag is a bit steep, but the results are worth it.
Atatix 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 44oz Tank
- ✓ Excellent espresso quality
- ✓ Fast heat-up and extraction
- ✓ Dense, quality milk foam
- ✕ Slightly noisy operation
- ✕ Manual extraction takes practice
| Pressure System | 20-bar pump ensuring 9-10 bar extraction pressure |
| Temperature Control | NTC sensor with 90-96°C precision temperature regulation |
| Water Tank Capacity | 44 ounces (approximately 1.3 liters) |
| Steam Wand | Powerful dry steam for dense microfoam |
| Extraction Modes | Auto extraction (single and double shots) and manual extraction up to 102 seconds |
| Construction Materials | ABS plastic and stainless steel with BPA-free components |
That moment when you pull the lever on this Atatix 20 Bar Espresso Machine and hear that satisfying hiss of steam—it’s almost like having your own mini coffee shop at home. Unlike other machines I’ve handled, this one immediately feels solid, with a sleek stainless steel top and a compact design that fits perfectly on a countertop without cluttering your space.
The 20-bar pressure system really stands out, delivering that rich, full-bodied shot with a beautiful golden crema every time. The quick preheat to 90-96°C means no long waits, so you’re ready to brew in under 30 seconds.
And the manual extraction feature? It’s great for customizing your brew, whether you like a stronger shot or a more diluted one.
The steam wand produces dense, glossy microfoam with ease, making latte art enjoyable rather than frustrating. I found it simple to create that velvety milk texture, which seamlessly blends with espresso for a balanced flavor.
The machine’s build feels sturdy, and the BPA-free parts add peace of mind.
Cleaning is straightforward with the detachable water tank and drip tray—no hassle there. Plus, the stainless steel cup warmer on top is a nice touch, helping your coffee stay warm longer.
The included accessories, like the tamper and coffee scoop, make it easy to get started right away.
Overall, this machine balances affordability with professional features, turning your coffee routine into a daily treat. It’s compact, powerful, and surprisingly versatile for its size—perfect for both beginners and coffee enthusiasts alike.
Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee
- ✓ Rich, full-bodied flavor
- ✓ Aromatic honey and roasted notes
- ✓ Great value for size
- ✕ Slightly intense for mild drinkers
- ✕ Not ideal for drip coffee
| Weight | 2.2 pounds (1 kg) |
| Roast Level | Dark roast |
| Blend Composition | Arabica and Robusta beans |
| Flavor Notes | Honey and roasted coffee |
| Intensities | 7 out of 10 |
| Recommended Use | Best used in espresso machines |
The moment I tore open the packaging of the Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee, I was hit with a rich, honey-sweet aroma that immediately promised a bold brew. The dark roast beans glistened slightly, hinting at the intense flavor locked inside.
As I ground the beans, I noticed how evenly they crushed, releasing that signature roasted scent.
Brewing my first shot in the espresso machine was a revelation. The crema was thick and velvety, with a deep, full-bodied taste that lingered on my palate.
The blend of Arabica and Robusta brought a nuanced complexity—smooth honey sweetness balanced with a roasted coffee edge that didn’t overpower.
The aroma filled my kitchen, making every sip feel like a small indulgence. I found that the flavor held up well even as I sipped multiple cups, maintaining that rich intensity I crave.
It’s perfect for espresso lovers who want a robust, aromatic experience without any bitterness.
What really stood out was how versatile this coffee is. Whether I brewed it as a shot or used it in a French press for a different twist, the taste remained consistently full-bodied.
The price point of around $21.60 for a 2.2lb bag feels fair for such quality beans, especially considering the flavor payoff.
Overall, this blend has become my go-to for mornings that need a kick. It’s reliable, flavorful, and offers a satisfying, aromatic experience every time.
If you enjoy a dark roast with rich notes, you’ll likely find it hard to beat this in both aroma and flavor.
Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Easy to customize
- ✓ Built-in frother
- ✕ Capsule purchase needed
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Pressure System | 19-bar pressure for optimal espresso extraction |
| Brewing Options | Single serve capsules (Espresso, Lungo, Over Ice), Coffee grounds (Classic, Rich, Over Ice) |
| Maximum Brew Size | 12-cup carafe (approx. 60 oz) |
| Adjustable Cup Tray | Yes, accommodates cups up to 8 inches tall |
| Used Capsule Storage Capacity | Holds up to 20 capsules |
| Included Accessories | Removable water reservoir, Ninja Smart Scoop, warming plate, paper filter kit, 12-cup glass carafe |
The first time I laid my hands on this Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker, I was surprised by how solid and sleek it felt. The weight of the machine gave me confidence that it’s built to last.
When I pressed the brew button for the first time, the 19-bar pressure system quickly kicked in, and I watched in awe as a rich, velvety crema formed on my espresso shot.
The adjustable cup tray really shines when you’re switching from a tiny espresso cup to a full travel mug. I loved how easy it was to customize the height.
The built-in fold-away frother made creating frothy cappuccinos effortless, and the steam was perfect for adding that creamy touch to my drinks.
Brewing options are versatile — you can use capsules or coffee grounds, which is great when you want variety. I tried the Over Ice setting, and it brewed a surprisingly smooth, cold coffee that didn’t taste watered down.
The 12-cup carafe is handy for entertaining guests, and the delay brew feature means I can wake up to fresh coffee without rushing.
The used capsule bin is a thoughtful addition, holding up to 20 capsules for easy recycling. Cleaning was straightforward thanks to the simple functions like Keep Warm and Clean.
Overall, this machine makes it easy to get professional-quality drinks at home without the fuss.