Barista Express 870 vs 875: Is There Any Difference Between These Models? – Quick Comparison

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If you are wondering which wins between Barista Express 870 vs 875, I have the answer for you: Barista Express 870. In fact, the core production of these machines is exactly the same. So basically, they don’t have any difference except for the accessory that comes with them.

With the 870 model, you will get the core machine alongside a bundle of accessories like a coffee scoop, milk jug, 54mm portafilter, etc. This one is the winner because its price point is much better than the 875 line. In addition, its flavor performance is wonderful, and we have all the basic items for a classic cup of Joe.

The only advantage that the Barista 875 has is its thermal milk jug. The jug is designed to display the real-time temperature of the liquid content inside it. The feature helps us control the milk temperature so that it won’t get too hot and makes the drink take forever to cool down. The thing is: Breville charges extra much for this thermal pitcher, which I don’t find very necessary in the long run.

Barista Express 870 vs 875: Comparison Chart

Image
THE WINNER (#1)
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Model
Breville Barista Express 870
Breville Barista Express 875
Dimensions (LxWxH)
12.5 x 12.6 x 13.1 Inches
12.5 x 12.6 x 13.1 Inches
Capacity
67oz
67oz
Color
Silver/ Black
Silver/ Black
Weight
23 Pounds
23 Pounds
Material
Stainless steel
Stainless steel
Power / Voltage
1600W/ 110–120 V
1600W/ 110–120 V
Pump Pressure
15 bars
15 bars
Descaling Duration
30 minutes
30 minutes
Beans Container Capacity
250g / 0.55 pounds
250g / 0.55 pounds
Thermocoil Heating Element
Milk Frothing Method
Manual steam wand
Manual steam wand
Milk Jug Thermal
Cup Warmer
Temperature Control Technology
Value for money
What I Like
Price
$697.99
$749.00
THE WINNER (#1)
Image
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel
Model
Breville Barista Express 870
Dimensions (LxWxH)
12.5 x 12.6 x 13.1 Inches
Capacity
67oz
Color
Silver/ Black
Weight
23 Pounds
Material
Stainless steel
Power / Voltage
1600W/ 110–120 V
Pump Pressure
15 bars
Descaling Duration
30 minutes
Beans Container Capacity
250g / 0.55 pounds
Thermocoil Heating Element
Milk Frothing Method
Manual steam wand
Milk Jug Thermal
Cup Warmer
Temperature Control Technology
Value for money
What I Like
Price
$697.99
More Info
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Image
Model
Breville Barista Express 875
Dimensions (LxWxH)
12.5 x 12.6 x 13.1 Inches
Capacity
67oz
Color
Silver/ Black
Weight
23 Pounds
Material
Stainless steel
Power / Voltage
1600W/ 110–120 V
Pump Pressure
15 bars
Descaling Duration
30 minutes
Beans Container Capacity
250g / 0.55 pounds
Thermocoil Heating Element
Milk Frothing Method
Manual steam wand
Milk Jug Thermal
Cup Warmer
Temperature Control Technology
Value for money
What I Like
Price
$749.00

Last update on 2024-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Barista Express 870 vs 875: Differences

The only difference between Barista Express 870 and 875 is the Thermo Milk Jug. The jug that comes with Barista 875 is designed with an integrated thermometer that displays the real-time temperature of the milk inside. The thermometer will slowly appear according to the milk temperature during and after frothing.

The jug that comes with Barista 875 is designed with an integrated thermometer
The jug that comes with Barista 875 is designed with an integrated thermometer

What are the benefits of the Thermo Milk Jug? Besides knowing the temp, I don’t find the feature highly impressive or practical. It doesn’t help with the foam texture, either. Whenever I froth milk foam, I deliberately move the jug around until the milk texture is creamy enough and the pitcher is slightly too hot to hold comfortably. In the long run, you won’t even look at the thermometer on the jug.

But of course, if you are a beginner and this is your first experience purchasing coffee-related devices, I still encourage you to buy it if you find the jug’s additional feature convenient.

Barista Express 870 vs 875: Similarities

Regarding similarities, these espresso makers are identical. So what are the most important features that you should know about? Get to know their heat performance, flavor, and milk frothing.

Thermocoil heating element

For precisely balanced flavors, the Thermocoil heating technology with PID temperature control delivers water at exactly 200°F during the entire brewing time. This allows a balanced extraction of the whole puck of coffee ground. If the temperature fluctuates repeatedly, parts of the ground will taste bitter while the others taste watered-down. Combining these unbalanced flavors won’t result in a good cup of espresso.

Breville Barista Express uses thermocoil and heats water in 30s
Breville Barista Express uses thermocoil and heats water in 30s

After testing the Barista Express, I must say I’m impressed with the espresso extraction. It does what it says: delivering balanced shots of espresso with a tasty, sweet, and bitter note. After each extraction, I can see a notable layer of foam forming on top. It helps thicken the texture of the espresso and gives it a better mouthfeel.

Potent conical burr grinder with 16 settings

A conical burr grinder reduces the possibility of experiencing a jam to almost zero. After testing the grinder, I’m impressed with its performance of delivering even ground with little to no clump. Also, there are 16 settings to grind beans from coarse to fine.

At first, I must say that it can be tricky to find the correct grind size for your need. Some prefer strong espresso. Thus, a high setting will be more adequate. On the other hand, some enjoy light espresso, which can be achieved through a puck of coarse coffee ground only.

You will have to play around with the grind setting during the first brews. For me, I like my grinder set at level 10 or 11. I get strong espresso but not too bitter and too fine for the pump pressure to work with.

Built-in pressure gauge

With the pressure gauge, you can watch the machine slowly applying pressure to extract espresso essence using low-pressure pre-infusion technology. Personally, I think the gauge is very practical. In addition, we have real-time information on whether the 15 bars pump pressure is working correctly or not to extract a rich cup of espresso.

The pressure gauge is very practical
The pressure gauge is very practical

Of course, there isn’t much we can do when the pressure isn’t potent enough except for sending the machine back for a warranty. But with a gauge, we know the device has a problem, and we must do something about it before the fault gets too severe for a worthy fix.

Perfect milk wand for lattes

In case you are looking forward to making dry microform, I will tell you immediately that these models aren’t made for this. But, if you enjoy the creaminess of steamed milk with a thin but notable layer of foam, Breville Barista Express is for you.

I have tested the wands, and I believe they are more than great for drinks like latte, flat white, mocha, or latte macchiato. The milk’s texture after frothing is also ideal for latte art. As for cappuccinos, the wands aren’t designed to froth dry foam, so it’s not up for it.

Quick Rundown Of Barista Express 870

Sale
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL, Brushed Stainless Steel
  • Earn up to $200 cashback with a Beanz coffee subscription when you purchase a selected Breville espresso machine. Valid Aug 1, 2023 until Jun 30, 2024
  • The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is part of the Barista Series that offers all in one espresso machines with integrated grinder to go from beans to espresso in under one minute, helping you make the perfect cup of Cappuccino or Latte
  • DOSE CONTROL GRINDING: Integrated precision conical burr grinder grinds on demand to deliver the right amount of freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter for your preferred taste with any roast of bean
  • OPTIMAL WATER PRESSURE: Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and helps ensure all the flavors are drawn out evenly during the extraction for a balanced tasting cup
  • PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION: Digital temperature control (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, ensuring optimal espresso extraction

Last update on 2024-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Affordable entry-level machine for beginners
  • Perfect for 2-3 users
  • Aromatic and tasty espresso flavor
  • Big cup warming tray
  • Ideal for latte
Cons
  • The milk jug that comes with the product set doesn’t display temperature

Quick Rundown Of Barista Express 875

Pros
  • Comes with thermo milk pitcher
  • Simple design for beginners
  • Twin-brewing cycles for single espresso
  • Perfect for latte and mocha
Cons
  • Overpriced

Product Video

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