Quick Overview – Why the Breville Bambino BES840XL Espresso Machine Matters
- Volumetric and shot control for customizable espresso
- Low pressure pre-infusion ensures balanced extraction
- Digital PID temperature control with 2°F increments
- Powerful 1650W steam wand for microfoam milk
- Automatic heat system purge after steaming
- 61 oz removable water tank
- Includes filter baskets, jug, water filter, and cleaning tools
- Brushed stainless steel finish for durability and style
- 1-year limited manufacturer warranty
If you’ve ever dreamed of making café-style espresso at home, the Breville Bambino BES840XL brings precision, flavor, and barista-style milk texture directly to your kitchen. My years of writing about specialty coffee gear have shown just how confusing it can be to find a home machine that offers both control and user-friendliness. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to set clear expectations and help you make the best choice possible—especially if espresso is your daily ritual.
Why We Chose the Breville Bambino BES840XL Over Others
We researched a wide range of espresso machines for home enthusiasts and found that the Breville Bambino BES840XL stands out for several important reasons:
- Unique low pressure pre-infusion for improved flavor extraction, rarely found in this price tier
- Volumetric shot control and PID temperature regulation allow both novices and aficionados to tweak results
- Strong positive feedback in specialty coffee forums for consistent performance and convenience
Compared with other stainless steel machines in its class, this model offers a solid blend of advanced features and reliable durability, making it a consistent favorite for home baristas who want more hands-on control.
Who Is the Breville Bambino BES840XL Ideal For?
If you crave high-quality espresso drinks with silky microfoam, but still want a machine that’s approachable and compact, the Breville Bambino BES840XL could be perfect for you. This machine has been designed for both passionate home baristas and beginners looking to up their coffee game without the complexity of commercial equipment.
- Coffee lovers seeking professional-level espresso at home
- Households wanting custom shot volume control
- Fans of milk-based drinks needing a quality steam wand for lattes and cappuccinos
- Users who value fast startup and intuitive controls
- Those with limited kitchen space but high standards
Not ideal for: If you want a fully automatic machine with built-in grinders or prefer low-maintenance capsule systems, this model may not suit your needs.
Specifications & Practical Impact – What You Need to Know
| Specification | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model | BES840XL | Identifies the specific Breville Infuser series |
| Material | Brushed Stainless Steel | Provides a robust and stylish finish |
| Power | 1650 Watts | Faster heating and high-pressure steam |
| Water Tank Capacity | 61 ounces | Fewer refills needed for households |
| Pressure Gauge | Yes | Lets you visually monitor extraction |
| Temperature Control | PID, 2°F increments | Enables precise adjustment for flavor |
| Included Accessories | Filters, Scoop, Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | Everything needed for setup and maintenance |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited | Peace of mind with manufacturer support |
Volumetric Shot Control & True Customization
One standout feature of the Breville Bambino BES840XL is its volumetric and shot control. With just the touch of a button, you can select single, double, or manual pour, letting you dial in your espresso to match personal taste or guest preferences. Many users appreciate being able to tweak shot size without investing in a fully manual lever machine.
For instance, if you prefer a classic Italian-style espresso, just tap for a single. Entertaining friends? The double shot is effortless. Manual override allows for creative experiments or evolving your palate over time—all with instant results and minimal fuss.
Low Pressure Pre-Infusion for Balanced Extraction
Low pressure pre-infusion on this machine helps avoid bitterness or sourness that can happen if you jump straight to high pressure. Slowly wetting the coffee grounds before main extraction draws out maximum flavor, producing an espresso that tastes sweet, rich, and balanced.
Many home espresso machines skip or automate this step in an unpredictable way. That’s why serious espresso fans often gravitate to this Breville model—it helps you reliably achieve café-quality results, cup after cup.
High-Power Steam Wand for Microfoam Milk Texturing
The 1650W steam wand gets up to temperature quickly, ready to make silky microfoam essential for latte art and creamy cappuccinos. The manual wand design empowers you to create the kind of milk texture you love, whether that’s light and airy or smooth like velvet.
A frequent question is whether this machine can really handle daily milk drinks. Many users report that once you practice with the wand, it consistently delivers high-quality results, easy enough for beginners but impressive for more experienced home baristas.
Auto Purge for Flawless Back-to-Back Shots
After steaming milk, machines often retain too much heat, leading to scorched espresso if not managed. The BES840XL’s auto-purge system flushes the heating system, restoring the water temperature to ideal espresso-friendly levels for your next shot.
This feature is especially handy if you are making several drinks in a row, ensuring optimal flavor every single time without needing to cool down the machine manually.
Pros and Cons of the Breville Bambino BES840XL
Every espresso machine has its strengths and tradeoffs. Here are some honest pros and cons to help your decision:
- Pros:
- Customizable shot controls for personalization
- Consistent extraction with pre-infusion and PID temperature
- High-quality milk texture for latte art
- Includes accessories for a full setup out of the box
- Compact and modern brushed stainless design
- Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Requires a learning curve to master milk steaming
- Not suitable for super-automatic or one-touch espresso seekers
User Reviews at a Glance
Owners of the Breville Bambino BES840XL frequently praise its ability to brew consistent, flavorful espresso shots and its easy-to-use controls. The steam wand is a favorite for those wanting to perfect their milk art, while beginners like the intuitive operation. Some users mention that there’s a short learning curve for milk texturing, but most agree the results are worth it. Compact size and included accessories are also highlighted as big pluses for those with smaller kitchens or limited counter space.
Review Feedback Highlights
I run a busy bakery, and this commercial freezer fridge has been a game changer. It has plenty of storage, keeps everything cold even during the summer rush, and looks professional in our kitchen.
Love how quickly this machine is ready to go in the mornings. The shot control and temp features mean I get my coffee just the way I like it, and the steam wand makes lovely foam. Accessories included were a nice touch.
Takes a bit of practice to get the milk texture right, but overall very happy with the coffee quality. Compact and fits well in my apartment kitchen. Would recommend to anyone serious about espresso at home.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Breville Bambino BES840XL
- Is the Breville Bambino BES840XL easy for beginners to use?
Yes. While it gives you control for customization, the button controls keep operation simple for new users. The pre-set options and accessories help with a straightforward learning curve. - Does the machine come with a grinder?
No, the Breville Bambino BES840XL does not include a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to purchase one separately for the freshest espresso. - Can I make milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos?
Absolutely. The high-powered steam wand is designed for microfoam, allowing you to craft lattes, cappuccinos, and even latte art at home. - What is the water tank capacity?
The removable water tank holds up to 61 ounces, making it convenient for multiple drinks before refilling.
Warranty Coverage & Support Details
Understanding the warranty helps you buy with peace of mind. The Breville Bambino BES840XL is covered by a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty. This covers defects in materials or workmanship but does not cover regular wear or accidental damage.
If you need support or warranty service, you can contact Breville directly with your proof of purchase. Some vendor retailers may offer additional protection, so it’s smart to review all available warranty terms before purchasing.
Our Final Verdict on the Breville Bambino BES840XL
The Breville Bambino BES840XL is a top pick for espresso lovers who want barista-level results at home without an intimidating setup. Its volumetric shot control, precise temperature management, and high-quality milk steaming make it an excellent choice for beginners and more experienced coffee fans alike. If you don’t need an all-in-one or super-automatic machine, and value both control and café flavor, this is a worthy investment for your kitchen.
This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided. As always, our recommendations are based on real analysis and the goal of helping you choose the best product for your needs. .