Making a perfect cup of espresso at home can feel a bit daunting, but that’s where the Breville Infuser comes into play.

We’ve been testing out this machine, and it’s proven to be both easy to use and highly efficient.

With its sleek stainless steel finish, it looks stylish on the counter and doesn’t take up too much space either.

What stands out about this espresso maker is the pre-infusion feature, which gently prepares the coffee grinds for extraction, resulting in more even flavors.

It’s equipped with a reliable heating system, ensuring the water temperature stays precise for that perfect shot. The auto purge function is a nice touch, too, as it keeps everything calibrated for optimal results.

We’ve noticed the machine handles espresso-making seamlessly, and it’s also sturdy.

Bottom Line

The Breville Infuser is a solid choice for any espresso lover wanting a blend of simplicity and quality. It offers reliable features without being overly complicated.

If you’re looking to enhance your coffee routine, consider adding this one to your kitchen. Check it out today!

Breville BES840XL Espresso Machine Overview

We spent some time with the Breville BES840XL and were impressed by its elegant stainless steel look and practical features.

The pre-infusion function struck us as a great touch, ensuring an even extraction for a balanced espresso.

One thing that stood out was the 1600w thermocoil heating system. It keeps the water temperature just right, which is key for a good espresso.

While the machine offers many conveniences, it does take a bit of space on the counter. This is something to note if kitchen space is tight.

The set of included accessories was handy, making the process of brewing and cleaning more straightforward. With a 4.4-star rating from a large number of users, it’s clear many others appreciate the Breville as much as we do.

Pre-Infusion Technology

We’ve just had a go with the Breville espresso machine, and the pre-infusion technology stood out. This feature allows the coffee grounds to soak in water for a few seconds before the full brew starts. It seems to enhance the flavor by gradually expanding the coffee grounds.

When using this feature, we noticed that it gave the espresso a balanced taste. The shot had a rich aroma, smooth texture, and consistent flavor, which we appreciated during our taste test.

On the downside, this step increases the brewing time slightly. While it’s not a dealbreaker, it might not be ideal if you’re rushing in the morning. For those who value quality over speed, the pre-infusion technology is a solid benefit.

Temperature Control System

Using the espresso machine, we immediately noticed the efficiency of its temperature control system. It maintains a steady heat for each cup, which is crucial for making quality espresso.

The balanced temperature results in a consistently rich flavor, cup after cup.

Despite its strengths, the system’s precision might falter slightly when brewing back-to-back shots without allowing the machine to rest. This can lead to minor variations in taste, but it’s manageable with a bit of patience.

This feature is especially useful for amateur baristas learning the ropes, as it offers a forgiving experience while still producing excellent results.

Volumetric Control

When it comes to the Breville Espresso Machine, the volumetric control feature stands out. We found it allows us to set the exact amount of espresso we want, making it easy to tailor each shot to our liking.

The machine offers three options: pre-set, manual override, or re-programmable volumes. This flexibility is quite handy for both beginners and experienced coffee lovers.

On the downside, setting up the re-programmable volumes can take a little trial and error. It’s not the most intuitive at first, but once we’ve sorted that out, it becomes a great tool. The consistent performance we’ve seen with this feature means getting our perfect cup is within reach every time.

Ease of Cleaning

Keeping our Breville Infuser clean is quite manageable, though it does require a bit of consistency.

The included cleaning tools are practical, and the cleaning process doesn’t take much time.

The cleaning disc and tablets help maintain the machine’s performance, ensuring it continues to brew great espresso.

We appreciate the machine giving reminders when it’s time for a clean, but the manual cleaning of parts like the drip tray and steam wand needs to be a regular habit. This isn’t challenging, but it is important to do frequently to prevent any buildup.

In our use, the stainless steel exterior only needs a quick wipe to shine. Overall, while not entirely hassle-free, cleaning is straightforward with the provided tools and instructions.

Aesthetic and Build Quality

The Breville Infuser stands out with its sleek brushed stainless steel finish. It complements any kitchen setup, offering a modern and stylish look.

We noticed its sturdy construction made us feel confident in its durability.

While using it, we observed the thoughtful layout of controls, which provides easy access and pleasant usability. With its solid structure, it feels reliable, yet it is compact enough to fit nicely on most countertops without dominating the space.

A minor downside is that it can attract fingerprints, which may require frequent cleaning to maintain its polished appearance. The build quality seems designed to last, combining function and form into an appealing package.

Pros and Cons

Taking a closer look at our firsthand experience with Breville’s espresso machine, we highlighted some clear advantages and drawbacks.

Pros

• Quality Build: It stands out with its stainless steel design. The machine feels robust and durable.
• Ease of Use: With its pre-infusion function and easy controls, crafting a delicious espresso is straightforward. We appreciated the balance of simplicity and customizability.
• Consistent Performance: The 1600w thermocoil heating system and auto-purge function ensure even temperatures, leading to consistent results with each use.
• Compact Design: This model fits snugly into smaller spaces, which is perfect for cozy kitchens. It doesn’t overwhelm our countertops.

Cons

• Price Point: It’s on the pricier side. Some might find it a bit expensive considering other options available.
• Durability Concerns: A few users have noted concerns over long-term durability, which gave us pause about its longevity.
• Learning Curve: While not overly complicated, some might find the initial setup and use slightly challenging, especially if they’re new to using espresso machines.

In all, Breville’s espresso machine offers a mix of high-quality construction and ease of use, although potential buyers should weigh its cost and long-term reliability.

Consumer Insights

Using the Breville machine has been quite an experience for us. We appreciate its sturdy, stainless steel design and the compact size that doesn’t overwhelm our countertop.

This machine is perfect for those who enjoy a simple coffee experience without too many confusing features.

Users found it easy to make delicious espresso at home, though some mentioned it might not justify its price if you’re searching for basic functionality.

While we were thrilled with the quality of espresso it produces, some users had concerns about its durability over time, especially considering the investment.

It’s noteworthy that several consumers upgraded from previous models, like the Cafe Roma, and noted significant improvements in performance and reliability.

Overall, the positive ratings and number of reviews highlight its popularity. Still, it’s good to weigh the price against the features you truly need.

Conclusion

We’ve spent some time with the Breville Infuser and found much to like. It’s a sturdy espresso machine that fits well on the countertop without taking up too much space.

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We enjoyed its solid construction and elegant stainless steel finish, which adds a touch of class to our kitchen. Its ability to make consistently good espresso with a simple setup is a highlight.

On the downside, there are less expensive options if you only want basic espresso drinks. Some users question its long-term durability, but others have praised its lasting performance compared to older models.

In our experience, the Breville Infuser hits a sweet spot between versatility and ease of use.

Overall, for regular home use without the need for commercial-level features, it’s a straightforward choice that works well for us. This machine makes a great addition if you enjoy a reliable espresso fixture at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Breville Infuser compare to the Breville Bambino Plus in terms of features and performance?

The Breville Infuser and the Bambino Plus both aim to deliver great espresso without the complexities of more high-end models.

The Infuser offers more control over the extraction with its volumetric programming, making it suitable for those who enjoy tailoring their coffee to personal taste.

The Bambino Plus heats up faster and is slightly more compact, which is handy for small kitchens. Both have consistent steam pressure, but the Bambino’s automatic milk frothing is a bonus for those who enjoy lattes and cappuccinos.

What are the notable differences between the Breville Infuser and the Barista Express?

The main difference between the Infuser and the Barista Express is the built-in grinder present in the Barista Express. This addition can be convenient, saving counter space and offering freshly ground coffee.

Meanwhile, the Infuser focuses on the brewing process, with features like the pre-infusion stage and temperature control. If you already own a good grinder, the Infuser makes a solid choice with fewer moving parts to maintain.

Can the Breville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine produce café-quality espresso?

Our experience with the Breville Infuser has been impressive when it comes to making espresso that rivals café quality.

Its pre-infusion feature gently preps the coffee grounds, leading to rich flavors and a creamy texture, especially when paired with freshly ground beans. Consistent temperature control helps in extracting fantastic shots each time, which is crucial for serious coffee lovers.

How long can I expect the water filters to last in my Breville espresso machine?

Breville recommends replacing the water filter every two months. This helps keep the water clean, resulting generally in better-tasting espresso and extending the machine’s lifespan.

Keeping an eye on the regularity of use can also help in determining if an earlier replacement is needed, particularly in areas with hard water.

What maintenance is required to keep the Breville BES840XL in optimal condition?

To keep the Infuser running smoothly, regular cleaning is key.

Backflushing with cleaning tablets should be done every month to clear out oils and residues from the brewing pathway.

Cleaning the steam wand after each use and descaling the machine every three months or so depending on water hardness will ensure prolonged efficiency. The machine also comes with a cleaning tool set to facilitate routine maintenance.

What improvements have been made in the Breville BES840XL compared to previous models?

Compared to older Breville models like the Café Roma, the Infuser brings several improvements.

The thermocoil heating system is a notable upgrade, offering faster heat-up times and consistent temperature.

Design-wise, it’s sleeker without compromising on durability.

Usability enhancements like better interface controls and more precise pre-infusion settings cater to users looking for ease without sacrificing quality.