Breville BES840XL/A Infuser Microfoam Low Pressure Espresso Machine

Last updated: January 7, 2022


If you're new to espresso makers or simply want a machine that's easy to use, the No. 1 overall pick Breville Infuser Espresso Machine may be right for you. You'll get delicious tasting coffee, thanks to a process that gradually separates coffee grounds at the start of brewing. It also includes a built-in steam wand to recreate the beautiful latte art you see at your favorite coffee shop.

Breville BES840XL/A Infuser Microfoam Low Pressure Espresso Machine

We looked at the top Espresso Machines and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Espresso Machine you should buy.

Product Details

Key Takeaway: The Breville Infuser Espresso Machine is an easy-to-use espresso maker that turns out delicious coffee and comes with a built-in steam wand.

In our analysis of 51 expert reviews, the Breville Infuser Microfoam Low Pressure Espresso Machine placed 12th when we looked at the top 19 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

For espresso with a well-balanced flavor, flavor needs to be drawn evenly from all the coffee grinds. What is the best way to prepare the grinds for an even extraction? Rather than starting with bursts of high pressure, the Breville Infuser Espresso Machine starts with steady, low pressure to gently expand the grinds. This helps fills in any cracks, gaps, or irregularities in the coffee puck before full pressure is applied, so even pressure is applied to all parts of the coffee puck and optimal flavor is extracted.The BES840XL has both automatic features, like temperature settings, and programmable features like volumetric control. The key features that set it apart from other espresso machines in its price range are the pre-infusion technology, the thermocoil heating system, and PID temperature control technology. See chart below for details. Other helpful features include a cup warmer on the top of the machine and a feature that removes excess water from the filter basket after coffee extraction, so the used grounds form a dry puck for quicker cleanup. The machine goes into ‘Sleep Mode’ after 1 hour and automatically shuts off after 3 hours. There is extra-tall cup clearance for brewing directly into travel mugs. Other touches include an ‘Empty Me!’ indicator that lets you know when the removable drip tray is full and a ‘Clean Me’ cleaning alert. The storage tray houses the included accessories. Lastly, all parts that come in contact with water and coffee are BPA free.

Our Expert Consultant

Julie Chernoff
Culinary Expert

Julie Chernoff is a long-time member of Les Dames d’Escoffier (past president of the Chicago Chapter, and current co-chair of the LDEI Legacy Awards Committee), the Association of Food Journalists (AFJ) and the International Association of Culinary Professionals.

Chernoff is the dining editor of Better, a lifestyle website and print magazine. Her journalism started in the test kitchens of Weight Watchers Magazine. She holds a BA in English from Yale University and is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy. She has spent the last few decades styling, photographing, teaching, developing recipes, editing, thinking and writing about food.

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

It has a user-friendly design (with ample labeling and easy-to-read instructions), and comes with the basic accessories that you need to get started.
This espresso machine has an auto-shutoff feature, which turns the machine off after a period of inactivity, making it both energy efficient and safe.

What reviewers didn't like

It is equipped with 360-degree motion steam wand, but you will need to experiment a bit with it to get the results you want
View our Espresso Machine buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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