I just got my BES860XL in the mail today. I am having a big problem. Even with the grinder set to the finest setting and tamping with around 30 pounds of pressure; I am getting a under extracted 10 second double shot. I know it's not the machine because I put the same grounds in my BES830XL and also got a 10 second shot. Is it a problem with my beans or is the grinder that bad? BTW, I am using the single wall double shot filter. Can anyone help?
@CHARLIEBITESHARD Sounds like something is up with the grinder -- I'd contact Breville to see if they can help you with that ... or it my need to be swapped out as defective. - Kat
@CHARLIEBITESHARD Hellow, I've had the same problem with this machine, until I realized was the coffee beans, black beans don't work well, the water run too fast through coffee, so I stop using Starbucks coffee beans because almost all of them are black beans. Now I'm using local roasted beans and it's been great, huge crema, good taste just like dark bitter chocolate. I do like black beans, so I use the double wall basket and that's work well for real black coffee beans.
I bought this machine based on your review at your shop, and it is absolutely a GREAT machine. For six months since i bought it i make at least 3 lattes everyday.
Thanks, and I'm thinking of buying the Rancilio Epoca ST Semi-automatic Commercial Espresso Machine.
@Gig103 It's not a superb grinder but does work well with this machine; you can make it coarser for different preps, but the consistency isn't exceptional -- just middle of the range. - Kat
You guys are amazing, your videos are very informative, for people loving coffee it's just great to have a channel like yours. Please don't stop. Breville Barista Express is a very good machine, I'm not gonna say the best one, but definetely a very good machine. Use a very fresh coffee and every shot will be just perfect. And please, anyone loving coffee try if you have a chance mexican coffee from Oaxaca, Veracruz or Chiapas, all those tree states have a very good cofffe.
this is kinda painful to watch, but i found out what i needed, and when steaming, the wand should be at the side of the jug, so that a whirlpool is created to consume big bubbles and have an even consistency.
We love our Barista Express. Perhaps my tastes aren't as refined as some of the people's who have commented but we enjoy every shot it makes really. One question I had for your espresso maker gurus, is it necessary to use the Breville cleaning tablets or can I buy the slightly cheaper and easier to find in bulk like say those made by Cafiza? I don't really see the problem, but I trust the experts usually. Hope to visit you someday in Seattle. We're in Boise, not too far.
@paulyw170 We haven't done testing specifically to determine if there's any difference, but I'm assuming it would be fine -- we use the Cafiza in our Jura machines that also have private label cleaning supplies without any issue...so you could definitely try it out ! :) Glad to hear you're enjoying the machine -- it is our favorite of the Brevilles - Kat
@SeattleCoffeeGear I was delighted to get your reply! Thanks! I am going to go with the Cafiza. I will let you know if there is some sort of explosion! due to using a non Breville product. Love the videos! Ciao!
Though other machines like the Rancilio get rave reviews, I have to say, I'm really impressed by the "all-in-one" aspect of this Breville Barista Express. Between the water filter and the grinder, I'm almost sold. Seems from the comments (and Gale's reaction after drinking) that most people aren't overly pleased with it though. Are there any other machines like this that incorporate a grinder?
I love you guys videos, by the way. I click through them for hours like it's a television series.
@shesdoinit This is the only on that incorporates a grinder these days; there were older models that did in the past. The Brevilles just don't get hot enough or sustain their temp long enough to get a good shot. So you're paying for other attributes instead of paying for the temp functionality on the Silvia. It's always something ;) - Kat
Breville's review from the company is so boring and they dont make coffee or make me laugh this one has both coffee making and comedy. Now i just have to confince the wife that i can buy this.
Thank you!! Although I would love to get the Oscar. I think I will decide on getting the Sylvia with the Rancilio doser grinder and the PID. I just emailed to see how much it would cost to get it installed before it leaves your shop. Oh by the way I tested the temperature of my Breville and the most I got it to was 155 and that was after brewing a double shot without espresso first to warm up the portafilter.
@SeattleCoffeeGear I received my new machine and grinder about a week ago. I have had a chance to unpack it and play with it and let me tell you I am so happy with my purchase!!... you can totally tell the difference in quality of the machine right away. I am still working on getting the right dial in on my grinder. I have one question on my rocky doser grinder. I noticed on your videos it has a different grind catcher than the one mine came with. Is that an upgrade to it? Thank you Kat
@soulrebelsalazar I am not sure; the model we currently have on the floor is the most current model -- what part looks different? I popped open a new one and it also looks like the one on the floor. But we do have videos from a couple years ago that were the previous version so maybe that's the confusion? - Kat
@SeattleCoffeeGear i believe it is on an older video so it might be from previous model of the grinder. It's on the "crew review: Rancilio Rocky Grinder" dated August 4, 2009.
I had one more question. Do you guys know if there is a mod or upgrade for the drip tray to attach a hose of some sort and have it drain to a bucket or other type of container. Thank you
@soulrebelsalazar Ah yes, that would have been the older model of the Rocky, which they have since changed the base on. Don't know of any drip tray mods for this machine -- sorry! :( - Kat
Thank you for your opinion Kat I really appreciate it. I had one more question. What is the difference between a boiler and heat exchange machine. I was also looking at the Oscar. -Erick
@soulrebelsalazar A single boiler is the primary water source and they generally only have a mono pump, meaning you switch between temps & functions; an Hx machine (like the Oscar) has a primary steam boiler and an embedded boiler that feeds the brew head, also a dual pump. This means a) better temp regulation and b) simultaneous function ability - brew & steam. Incidentally, the Oscar is excellent for the price. - Kat
Hi Kat.... Love your videos!...I recently bought this Breville Barista express and after looking at a bunch of your video's I am considering returning it and getting the Rancillo Silvia... Which one in your opinion is the better machine??... I really would love to get the rockey machine but will have to save up for that one. Thanks again Kat. Erick (@mrericksalazar)
@soulrebelsalazar I think the Silvia is definitely a better machine IF you have a great grinder to go with it, otherwise you're going to be disappointed with the results. The Silvia has better temp than the Breville's thermoblocks and more powerful bursts of steam because it's a boiler vs. thermoblock. - Kat
Hello. First of all, I'd like to compliment you on your very informative reviews. They are quite outstanding. As for this machine, can you comment on what type of grinder mechanism is utilized in this machine (i.e. The older BCG450XL or the newer BCG800XL), and if it also has the "shim(s)" issue? Thanks!
@zeram01 I am assuming it's the older version, as this machine was produced before they got into the Smart Grinder. Additionally, the grinder it has works well with the pressurized baskets, not super great with the non-pressurized. I don't believe you can upgrade it with a shim kit, but we haven't tried it, so...the shims we got from Breville were specific for the Smart Grinder only and can't be used on their older model. - Kat
Can I give you some advice from a barista point of view and an owner of this machine , as soon as you put the group head in , extraction should be started, milk should steam in a whirlpool motion, and with the grind set all the way to finest the creama should be perfect, also a thermomoter will help as well , hope this helps all that have this machine, think I may do my own video and show some latte art which you can do from this machine
@belllorable No, this is designed for home use only and wouldn't recover quickly enough for commercial use. I'd recommend looking at something like the Nuova Simonelli Oscar, which is NSF rated and would be able to do low capacity commercial application. It really depends on your volume, though. - Kat
@MegaDeathwarrant It will separate and you can't really re-steam it again and get good results. I recommend folks steam what they're going to use at that one time. These machines don't have super powerful steam, so you shouldn't be doing more than a 20 oz. pitcher anyway. - Kat
i owe this machine for nearly 10 months. not really happy with it. There is nearly no difference in grinding of beans from fine to corse. Where the steamer is the laquer starts to corrode or be bubbly, even that the machines was always kept clean.
The pressure from using the single filter cups never gets up high as presented here.
What's wrong? I've tried everything - no differences. But still coffee wise is nice.
Hi Kat! I purchased this machine in about May of last year after lots of research. I would have liked to do a Rancilio, but it was just out of my price range. I have to say, I absolutely love this machine. After getting to know it (and ruining a lot of coffee), I've found local coffee blends and some techniques that have made a very consistent and delicious latte every morning. The steam wand has also provided excellent foam. Thanks for the video - it was a big influence on my purchase!
@Microweb4 So great to hear! Glad that you are happy with the machine and making great coffee at home :) Please let me know if you need anything else - Kat
hi Kat, thanks for your response. The portafilter has plastic inside, right before you place one of the single or dual wall filter baskets on top. The spout where the coffee is coming out from is stainless steel, the outside is stainless steel, but there is plastic, right where the dual wall filter goes on top.. no other portafilters available? nothing from another company (all stainless steel) that would fit? thank you!
@avarsou Ah - sorry, I thought you were talking about the basket specifically. As far as we know, there are no other portafilters that fit made by other manufacturers. - Kat
I just purchased this machine both for its functionality and because of the lack of plastic (and hence leaching) in the coffee path.I like everything on it so far, except the portafilter: what's the deal with the plastic inside the portafilter? won't the hot water/coffee touch plastic before it gets to my cup? are there any portafilters that i could use instead that are all steel? i believe the tamper is 53mm and the portafilter 59mm? (it is a little below 60mm). please correct me if wrong.THX!
@avarsou I just looked at our demo model & I'm not sure what you're talking about -- I don't see any plastic in the filter basket. Can you clarify? As far as I know, there are no other portafilter options available for this machine. - Kat
@ccase01atgmail It's for temp improvement; you can remove it completely but you'll break the piece and not be able to re-install it so it's a final decision :) - Kat
@SeattleCoffeeGear How does it improve temp? I make two sets of double shots each morning and If I am running just blank hot water first then is it necessary? In other words, what would Kat do? ;)
@ccase01atgmail Well it just makes it so you don't have to wait for the metal on the bottom of the pf to warm up, as well, prior to pulling shots -- the plastic doesn't remove temp as the shots are extracted as metal would if it was cool. So if you're running water through the pf before shots, removing the plastic won't be an issue -- just that you will have to do that regardless of your mood ;) - Kat
@Romanqo27 You will need to experiment with the right grind based on the coffee that you're using. Time your shots and try to extract a double (2 oz.) within 20 - 30 seconds. It sounds like you might be grinding too coarsely, but I can't be certain unless I watch it in action. How long is it taking for the shots to extract? - Kat
@SeattleCoffeeGear One shot is about 10-15 second. But the taste is good (without too much bitter and acidity) - can it be in beans freshness? I use Illy beans from supermarket. Thanks;)
I'm actually planning on getting this machine soon. From everything I've seen though, it looks like it comes with both dual walled filters, and non pressurized single walls. Is the machine in the video an older model or something?
@Romanqo27 Steam wand is alright, probably the best part of the machine, but it has a panarello so you can't necessarily make microfoam with it like you'd find at a cafe. It does make a nice foam automatically, however, that if you work it in is close to microfoam. - Kat
Great review! My wife and I have been looking for an espresso machine for a few weeks now - and it's good to know there's a machine out there that you can grind, tamp, brew and steam with.
@trevorwinder Yeah, this is probably the best performing Breville espresso machine, so if you want to go this route, it's definitely the one to buy. - Kat
I love my machine. Makes a good coffee. It is easy to clean. It is all in one. It fits right in the kitchen. It looks cool. Before it I had an old Cafe Rome (the plastic top one) the plastic top casing cracked (always used to use it to rest dishes and bowls from out of the microwave).
Personally I think if you are used to drip filter, have an old dodgy espresso machine etc and you want a step up this is the machine for you. You can grow into it and everyone in the house can use it.
(continued) Then, when you have practised and perfected the more skilled options with all the gadgets it comes with, you can donate/sell this one to a relative/friend and buy a more expensive option.
Likely you will find this is one is good enough for what you are after.
P.S. I love the levered water tank. It is a clever design that it 'slides home' onto the back.
@O2BSoLucky I agree! In our opinion, there is no 'perfect' machine and it's really about knowing what the machine can/can't do and accepting that from the get go. Also, budget is a major concern for many folks and so making allowances for a lower price is part of the story with these machines. Thanks so much for your feedback! - Kat
Kat, I just leave the stainless-steel canister on the tray and let the frother do the rest. I get perfect froth every time with very little manual work.
@CGScammell Great to hear! That's what panarellos are designed for, theoretically, and so it's good to know that this one actually performs the way it was intended :) - Kat
Hi, great review! When I saw one of your other ones being not so kind to another Breville, I was wondering if something was wrong with mine.
Anyway, I own the barista express, and it's a nice machine. Have to say that it seems very picky about what you put into it. Get a good roast in there, though, and it works great.
My biggest gripe about the machine is the grinder - specifically, the auto grind size amount. If it goes over (and does a lot) then you end up with a lot of wasted coffee.
@SeattleCoffeeGear it has a very small tolerance on the dial. For eg pointing it at the 'D' in the Dual wall grind setting isn't enough you need to have it precisely at the start, middle, or end of the 'D' for not enough, mostly enough, too much it is over flowing. Watch the vid at 00:54 see that little big 'D' within that letter space decides whether not enough or too much coffee.
Bear in mind this is the ONLY issue. And a short burst of manual grind fixes it!
This looks like a nice machine guys. I'm glad you have this video up because I haven't seen much about it. The only thing is the pressurised baskets and thermoblock... Would I be better off with a Nemox/Lelit Combi? Thanks!
Hey guys, this machine is supposed to come with two sets of baskets.. "dual wall" pressurized, and regular... You guys didn't get the regular baskets? It even says on the grind setting, and the dose setting, dual wall or regular.. HMMM... best be emailin them breville folks! lol
Seems to have some nice steam power though.. quiet too.
Yeah, the Breville video talks about the "dual wall" basket as well as the "single wall" (I'm assuming they mean pressurized and unpressurized, repsectively, but they don't come out and say it).
Thanks for the first look. With all the nice features they could have a winner if they paired it up with some decent internals. I'm interested in how this performs with the unpressurized baskets.
I just got my BES860XL in the mail today. I am having a big problem. Even with the grinder set to the finest setting and tamping with around 30 pounds of pressure; I am getting a under extracted 10 second double shot. I know it's not the machine because I put the same grounds in my BES830XL and also got a 10 second shot. Is it a problem with my beans or is the grinder that bad? BTW, I am using the single wall double shot filter. Can anyone help?
CHARLIEBITESHARD 1 week ago
@CHARLIEBITESHARD Sounds like something is up with the grinder -- I'd contact Breville to see if they can help you with that ... or it my need to be swapped out as defective. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 week ago
@CHARLIEBITESHARD Hellow, I've had the same problem with this machine, until I realized was the coffee beans, black beans don't work well, the water run too fast through coffee, so I stop using Starbucks coffee beans because almost all of them are black beans. Now I'm using local roasted beans and it's been great, huge crema, good taste just like dark bitter chocolate. I do like black beans, so I use the double wall basket and that's work well for real black coffee beans.
MRTUDFA 2 days ago
@CHARLIEBITESHARD Breville just sent me a new machine. Grinder is now flawless. Great customer service!!!
CHARLIEBITESHARD 22 minutes ago
I bought this machine based on your review at your shop, and it is absolutely a GREAT machine. For six months since i bought it i make at least 3 lattes everyday.
Thanks, and I'm thinking of buying the Rancilio Epoca ST Semi-automatic Commercial Espresso Machine.
SlimFatRich1 2 weeks ago
@SlimFatRich1 Cool!!! Great to hear :) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 week ago
I'm sold!! :) Great vid. Thanks!!
PlayTilTheyBleed 2 weeks ago
ok ty
MGONavyBey 1 month ago
i need buy this machimne but i dont know how buy can u tell me ??? ty
MGONavyBey 1 month ago
@MGONavyBey You can pick it up on our site (link on the main channel page) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 month ago
Would you guys say this machine's grinder is on par with a standalone? Can it grind coarse for french press too, so I could multipurpose the grinder?
Gig103 3 months ago
@Gig103 It's not a superb grinder but does work well with this machine; you can make it coarser for different preps, but the consistency isn't exceptional -- just middle of the range. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 3 months ago
You guys are amazing, your videos are very informative, for people loving coffee it's just great to have a channel like yours. Please don't stop. Breville Barista Express is a very good machine, I'm not gonna say the best one, but definetely a very good machine. Use a very fresh coffee and every shot will be just perfect. And please, anyone loving coffee try if you have a chance mexican coffee from Oaxaca, Veracruz or Chiapas, all those tree states have a very good cofffe.
MRTUDFA 3 months ago
@MRTUDFA I definitely think it's a great model for the price point :) Thanks for watching and glad you find the channel helpful! - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 3 months ago
this is kinda painful to watch, but i found out what i needed, and when steaming, the wand should be at the side of the jug, so that a whirlpool is created to consume big bubbles and have an even consistency.
kkiillbbiixxyy 3 months ago
@kkiillbbiixxyy Sorry it was painful to watch! - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 3 months ago
hi, is there a 3 way solenoid and can it be descaled?
coolcattune 3 months ago
@coolcattune Yes and no - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 3 months ago
We love our Barista Express. Perhaps my tastes aren't as refined as some of the people's who have commented but we enjoy every shot it makes really. One question I had for your espresso maker gurus, is it necessary to use the Breville cleaning tablets or can I buy the slightly cheaper and easier to find in bulk like say those made by Cafiza? I don't really see the problem, but I trust the experts usually. Hope to visit you someday in Seattle. We're in Boise, not too far.
paulyw170 5 months ago
@paulyw170 We haven't done testing specifically to determine if there's any difference, but I'm assuming it would be fine -- we use the Cafiza in our Jura machines that also have private label cleaning supplies without any issue...so you could definitely try it out ! :) Glad to hear you're enjoying the machine -- it is our favorite of the Brevilles - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 5 months ago
@SeattleCoffeeGear I was delighted to get your reply! Thanks! I am going to go with the Cafiza. I will let you know if there is some sort of explosion! due to using a non Breville product. Love the videos! Ciao!
paulyw170 4 months ago
@paulyw170 Hahaha -- please do, and I hope for the non-explosive best :D - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 4 months ago
Hi thanks for the video, just the reminder that that this unit comes with a single wall non pressurized basket too.
Thanks.
abiNematollahi 6 months ago
Though other machines like the Rancilio get rave reviews, I have to say, I'm really impressed by the "all-in-one" aspect of this Breville Barista Express. Between the water filter and the grinder, I'm almost sold. Seems from the comments (and Gale's reaction after drinking) that most people aren't overly pleased with it though. Are there any other machines like this that incorporate a grinder?
I love you guys videos, by the way. I click through them for hours like it's a television series.
shesdoinit 7 months ago
@shesdoinit This is the only on that incorporates a grinder these days; there were older models that did in the past. The Brevilles just don't get hot enough or sustain their temp long enough to get a good shot. So you're paying for other attributes instead of paying for the temp functionality on the Silvia. It's always something ;) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 7 months ago
Breville's review from the company is so boring and they dont make coffee or make me laugh this one has both coffee making and comedy. Now i just have to confince the wife that i can buy this.
Tonystarkes888 8 months ago
@Tonystarkes888 Glad you enjoyed it -- and found it fun + useful :D - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 8 months ago
Thank you!! Although I would love to get the Oscar. I think I will decide on getting the Sylvia with the Rancilio doser grinder and the PID. I just emailed to see how much it would cost to get it installed before it leaves your shop. Oh by the way I tested the temperature of my Breville and the most I got it to was 155 and that was after brewing a double shot without espresso first to warm up the portafilter.
-Erick
soulrebelsalazar 8 months ago
@soulrebelsalazar Yeah, thermoblocks are super inconsistent. I think your selection is a great choice! :) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 8 months ago
@SeattleCoffeeGear I received my new machine and grinder about a week ago. I have had a chance to unpack it and play with it and let me tell you I am so happy with my purchase!!... you can totally tell the difference in quality of the machine right away. I am still working on getting the right dial in on my grinder. I have one question on my rocky doser grinder. I noticed on your videos it has a different grind catcher than the one mine came with. Is that an upgrade to it? Thank you Kat
soulrebelsalazar 8 months ago
@soulrebelsalazar I am not sure; the model we currently have on the floor is the most current model -- what part looks different? I popped open a new one and it also looks like the one on the floor. But we do have videos from a couple years ago that were the previous version so maybe that's the confusion? - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 8 months ago
@SeattleCoffeeGear i believe it is on an older video so it might be from previous model of the grinder. It's on the "crew review: Rancilio Rocky Grinder" dated August 4, 2009.
I had one more question. Do you guys know if there is a mod or upgrade for the drip tray to attach a hose of some sort and have it drain to a bucket or other type of container. Thank you
-Erick
soulrebelsalazar 7 months ago
@soulrebelsalazar Ah yes, that would have been the older model of the Rocky, which they have since changed the base on. Don't know of any drip tray mods for this machine -- sorry! :( - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 7 months ago
Thank you for your opinion Kat I really appreciate it. I had one more question. What is the difference between a boiler and heat exchange machine. I was also looking at the Oscar. -Erick
soulrebelsalazar 8 months ago
@soulrebelsalazar A single boiler is the primary water source and they generally only have a mono pump, meaning you switch between temps & functions; an Hx machine (like the Oscar) has a primary steam boiler and an embedded boiler that feeds the brew head, also a dual pump. This means a) better temp regulation and b) simultaneous function ability - brew & steam. Incidentally, the Oscar is excellent for the price. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 8 months ago
Hi Kat.... Love your videos!...I recently bought this Breville Barista express and after looking at a bunch of your video's I am considering returning it and getting the Rancillo Silvia... Which one in your opinion is the better machine??... I really would love to get the rockey machine but will have to save up for that one. Thanks again Kat. Erick (@mrericksalazar)
soulrebelsalazar 8 months ago
oops i meant a rocket Cellini
soulrebelsalazar 8 months ago
@soulrebelsalazar I think the Silvia is definitely a better machine IF you have a great grinder to go with it, otherwise you're going to be disappointed with the results. The Silvia has better temp than the Breville's thermoblocks and more powerful bursts of steam because it's a boiler vs. thermoblock. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 8 months ago
My Breville doesn't say "clean me", it just says "FULL". How lame is that?
woodypw 9 months ago
@woodypw I think you need to write a strongly worded letter to the manufacturer! - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 9 months ago
Hello. First of all, I'd like to compliment you on your very informative reviews. They are quite outstanding. As for this machine, can you comment on what type of grinder mechanism is utilized in this machine (i.e. The older BCG450XL or the newer BCG800XL), and if it also has the "shim(s)" issue? Thanks!
zeram01 9 months ago
@zeram01 I am assuming it's the older version, as this machine was produced before they got into the Smart Grinder. Additionally, the grinder it has works well with the pressurized baskets, not super great with the non-pressurized. I don't believe you can upgrade it with a shim kit, but we haven't tried it, so...the shims we got from Breville were specific for the Smart Grinder only and can't be used on their older model. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 9 months ago
Can I give you some advice from a barista point of view and an owner of this machine , as soon as you put the group head in , extraction should be started, milk should steam in a whirlpool motion, and with the grind set all the way to finest the creama should be perfect, also a thermomoter will help as well , hope this helps all that have this machine, think I may do my own video and show some latte art which you can do from this machine
proutfamilystuff 9 months ago
@proutfamilystuff Thanks for sharing your tips! - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 9 months ago
Hi, I'm starting a small coffee shop. would this machine suit? or is it too slow or just not good enough? thanks
belllorable 9 months ago
@belllorable No, this is designed for home use only and wouldn't recover quickly enough for commercial use. I'd recommend looking at something like the Nuova Simonelli Oscar, which is NSF rated and would be able to do low capacity commercial application. It really depends on your volume, though. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 9 months ago
can you steam the milk and place it in a fridge so you can use the left overs later?
MegaDeathwarrant 9 months ago
@MegaDeathwarrant It will separate and you can't really re-steam it again and get good results. I recommend folks steam what they're going to use at that one time. These machines don't have super powerful steam, so you shouldn't be doing more than a 20 oz. pitcher anyway. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 9 months ago
@SeattleCoffeeGear thank you
MegaDeathwarrant 9 months ago
i owe this machine for nearly 10 months. not really happy with it. There is nearly no difference in grinding of beans from fine to corse. Where the steamer is the laquer starts to corrode or be bubbly, even that the machines was always kept clean.
The pressure from using the single filter cups never gets up high as presented here.
What's wrong? I've tried everything - no differences. But still coffee wise is nice.
Can any one else comment?
daltoniks 1 year ago
Hi Kat! I purchased this machine in about May of last year after lots of research. I would have liked to do a Rancilio, but it was just out of my price range. I have to say, I absolutely love this machine. After getting to know it (and ruining a lot of coffee), I've found local coffee blends and some techniques that have made a very consistent and delicious latte every morning. The steam wand has also provided excellent foam. Thanks for the video - it was a big influence on my purchase!
Microweb4 1 year ago
@Microweb4 So great to hear! Glad that you are happy with the machine and making great coffee at home :) Please let me know if you need anything else - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
hi Kat, thanks for your response. The portafilter has plastic inside, right before you place one of the single or dual wall filter baskets on top. The spout where the coffee is coming out from is stainless steel, the outside is stainless steel, but there is plastic, right where the dual wall filter goes on top.. no other portafilters available? nothing from another company (all stainless steel) that would fit? thank you!
avarsou 1 year ago
@avarsou Ah - sorry, I thought you were talking about the basket specifically. As far as we know, there are no other portafilters that fit made by other manufacturers. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
I just purchased this machine both for its functionality and because of the lack of plastic (and hence leaching) in the coffee path.I like everything on it so far, except the portafilter: what's the deal with the plastic inside the portafilter? won't the hot water/coffee touch plastic before it gets to my cup? are there any portafilters that i could use instead that are all steel? i believe the tamper is 53mm and the portafilter 59mm? (it is a little below 60mm). please correct me if wrong.THX!
avarsou 1 year ago
@avarsou I just looked at our demo model & I'm not sure what you're talking about -- I don't see any plastic in the filter basket. Can you clarify? As far as I know, there are no other portafilter options available for this machine. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
@SeattleCoffeeGear the plastic is on mine as well. It is in the portafilter assembly below the filter basket. Is that piece required?
ccase01atgmail 2 months ago
@ccase01atgmail It's for temp improvement; you can remove it completely but you'll break the piece and not be able to re-install it so it's a final decision :) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 2 months ago
@SeattleCoffeeGear How does it improve temp? I make two sets of double shots each morning and If I am running just blank hot water first then is it necessary? In other words, what would Kat do? ;)
ccase01atgmail 2 months ago
@ccase01atgmail Well it just makes it so you don't have to wait for the metal on the bottom of the pf to warm up, as well, prior to pulling shots -- the plastic doesn't remove temp as the shots are extracted as metal would if it was cool. So if you're running water through the pf before shots, removing the plastic won't be an issue -- just that you will have to do that regardless of your mood ;) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 2 months ago
@avarsou did youfind out what the plastic was for?
ccase01atgmail 2 months ago
I was iffy on purchasing this machine or not and this video made me order it! Can't wait till it gets here!!!
Misfts2 1 year ago
@Misfts2 Cool! Hope it works well for you :) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
Can you tell me what number of grind size should I use on this maschine? My shot is always light and has no crema :(
Romanqo27 1 year ago
@Romanqo27 You will need to experiment with the right grind based on the coffee that you're using. Time your shots and try to extract a double (2 oz.) within 20 - 30 seconds. It sounds like you might be grinding too coarsely, but I can't be certain unless I watch it in action. How long is it taking for the shots to extract? - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
@SeattleCoffeeGear One shot is about 10-15 second. But the taste is good (without too much bitter and acidity) - can it be in beans freshness? I use Illy beans from supermarket. Thanks;)
Romanqo27 1 year ago
@Romanqo27 I would take it more fine, then, to slow it down or tamp a little bit harder. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
I'm actually planning on getting this machine soon. From everything I've seen though, it looks like it comes with both dual walled filters, and non pressurized single walls. Is the machine in the video an older model or something?
mrendall90 1 year ago
@mrendall90 Yes - when they first released the machine it did not have the non-pressurized filters (and still some non-US models do not). - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
Great review! But I have one question for you- is the steam wand good or not? Can it make mikrofoam, too? Thanks! ;)
Romanqo27 1 year ago
@Romanqo27 Steam wand is alright, probably the best part of the machine, but it has a panarello so you can't necessarily make microfoam with it like you'd find at a cafe. It does make a nice foam automatically, however, that if you work it in is close to microfoam. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
Fantastic! Just put our order in this weekend... it should be here sometime tomorrow! :D
trevorwinder 1 year ago
@trevorwinder Cool :) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
Great review! My wife and I have been looking for an espresso machine for a few weeks now - and it's good to know there's a machine out there that you can grind, tamp, brew and steam with.
trevorwinder 1 year ago
@trevorwinder Yeah, this is probably the best performing Breville espresso machine, so if you want to go this route, it's definitely the one to buy. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
I love my machine. Makes a good coffee. It is easy to clean. It is all in one. It fits right in the kitchen. It looks cool. Before it I had an old Cafe Rome (the plastic top one) the plastic top casing cracked (always used to use it to rest dishes and bowls from out of the microwave).
Personally I think if you are used to drip filter, have an old dodgy espresso machine etc and you want a step up this is the machine for you. You can grow into it and everyone in the house can use it.
O2BSoLucky 1 year ago
(continued) Then, when you have practised and perfected the more skilled options with all the gadgets it comes with, you can donate/sell this one to a relative/friend and buy a more expensive option.
Likely you will find this is one is good enough for what you are after.
P.S. I love the levered water tank. It is a clever design that it 'slides home' onto the back.
O2BSoLucky 1 year ago
@O2BSoLucky I agree! In our opinion, there is no 'perfect' machine and it's really about knowing what the machine can/can't do and accepting that from the get go. Also, budget is a major concern for many folks and so making allowances for a lower price is part of the story with these machines. Thanks so much for your feedback! - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
Kat, I just leave the stainless-steel canister on the tray and let the frother do the rest. I get perfect froth every time with very little manual work.
CGScammell 1 year ago
@CGScammell Great to hear! That's what panarellos are designed for, theoretically, and so it's good to know that this one actually performs the way it was intended :) - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
Hi, great review! When I saw one of your other ones being not so kind to another Breville, I was wondering if something was wrong with mine.
Anyway, I own the barista express, and it's a nice machine. Have to say that it seems very picky about what you put into it. Get a good roast in there, though, and it works great.
My biggest gripe about the machine is the grinder - specifically, the auto grind size amount. If it goes over (and does a lot) then you end up with a lot of wasted coffee.
cpmoser54 1 year ago
@cpmoser54 Are you not adjusting the auto-dose or are you finding it hard to hit just the right dosage for filter basket size? - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
@SeattleCoffeeGear it has a very small tolerance on the dial. For eg pointing it at the 'D' in the Dual wall grind setting isn't enough you need to have it precisely at the start, middle, or end of the 'D' for not enough, mostly enough, too much it is over flowing. Watch the vid at 00:54 see that little big 'D' within that letter space decides whether not enough or too much coffee.
Bear in mind this is the ONLY issue. And a short burst of manual grind fixes it!
O2BSoLucky 1 year ago
@O2BSoLucky Thanks for clarifying for me! I will be sure to pass that along to customers when we discuss the machine. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
I hope sometime you guys upload an update regarding the taste using the non pressurized single walled baskets.
Flatnate 1 year ago
@Flatnate We tested this wit our non-pressurized baskets which are basically the same thing. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
I thought this machine gives you both pressurized and non pressurized baskets.
fkarayan 1 year ago
@fkarayan I think it does now, yes. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
This looks like a nice machine guys. I'm glad you have this video up because I haven't seen much about it. The only thing is the pressurised baskets and thermoblock... Would I be better off with a Nemox/Lelit Combi? Thanks!
lukewarm711 1 year ago
@lukewarm711 Honestly, I'm not sure; we don't carry that equipment so I'm not familiar with how it compares. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 1 year ago
Thanks for the quick reply Kat. The diameter of the portafilter is 54mm.
DarthLuscious 2 years ago
Ah - no. Sorry! We don't have any baskets in this size available. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 2 years ago
Do you have a non-pressurized basket for a Cuisinart EM-100c?
DarthLuscious 2 years ago
What's the diameter of the portafilter? - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 2 years ago
Hey guys, this machine is supposed to come with two sets of baskets.. "dual wall" pressurized, and regular... You guys didn't get the regular baskets? It even says on the grind setting, and the dose setting, dual wall or regular.. HMMM... best be emailin them breville folks! lol
Seems to have some nice steam power though.. quiet too.
JmanEspresso 2 years ago
Yeah, the Breville video talks about the "dual wall" basket as well as the "single wall" (I'm assuming they mean pressurized and unpressurized, repsectively, but they don't come out and say it).
Thanks for the first look. With all the nice features they could have a winner if they paired it up with some decent internals. I'm interested in how this performs with the unpressurized baskets.
beesoffury 2 years ago
Hmmm...you know, I'm not sure what we have. I will check in the original box and see what I come up with. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 2 years ago
If only they would pair those nice little extra features with a machine with an actual boiler (or two), an adjustable OPV, a three-way solenoid, etc.
TheLeftHand77 2 years ago
ha - yeah. - Kat
SeattleCoffeeGear 2 years ago