Breville Barista Express Impress vs Pro

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As a coffee enthusiast, I’ve tried a variety of espresso machines, from entry-level models to high-end ones. But when it comes to finding the perfect balance between performance, user experience, and price, two machines always seem to come up: the Breville Barista Express Impress and the Breville Barista Pro. After spending quite a bit of time testing both, I’ve come to the conclusion that the Breville Barista Express Impress is the better option for me.

Both machines are fantastic in their own right, but there are several key features in the Barista Express Impress that I found made a noticeable difference in the consistency and ease of my coffee-making process. In this article, I’ll walk you through the reasons why I prefer the Barista Express Impress, sharing my personal experience, and highlighting the key factors that make it stand out.

Why I Decided to Upgrade to the Barista Express Impress

When I first started brewing espresso at home, I had the Barista Pro, and I thought I was making great shots. However, as I continued experimenting, I realized that getting the perfect tamp, grind size, and shot consistency was a lot harder than I initially thought. That's when I started looking for an upgrade. The Barista Express Impress immediately caught my attention with its automatic tamping feature, a feature I didn't even realize I needed until I used it.

Having used the Barista Pro for several months, I can tell you that the Barista Express Impress simply delivers a better overall experience. It’s not that the Barista Pro is a bad machine—it isn’t. It’s just that the extra features and enhancements in the Barista Express Impress make a noticeable difference, especially if you're after consistent quality every time.

The Impress Feature: A Game-Changer for Consistency

One of the most significant improvements I noticed in the Barista Express Impress is the Impress tamping system. This feature is something I didn’t even know I needed until I tried it.

With the Barista Pro, tamping was a bit of a guessing game for me. I tried different pressures, different angles, and sometimes the results were great, but other times, the espresso shot didn’t turn out the way I wanted. The issue with tamping is that it requires a delicate balance, and getting it right can take a lot of trial and error. With the Barista Express Impress, that struggle is gone. The built-in tamping system automatically applies the right pressure, making it much easier to achieve a consistent shot.

This feature is especially useful for beginners or anyone who doesn’t want to spend too much time figuring out the perfect tamp. The machine’s pressure gauge makes it easy to see when the tamp is just right. For someone like me, who values consistency, this feature has been a huge advantage.

The Convenience of the Grinder and Customization

Another feature that I absolutely love about the Barista Express Impress is its built-in conical burr grinder. Having a grinder built into the machine is extremely convenient. I don’t have to worry about storing or cleaning a separate grinder, and I know that the grind size is just right for my espresso shots.

What I particularly enjoy is the customization that the grinder offers. The Barista Express Impress allows me to adjust the grind size to match my coffee beans, which makes a significant difference in how my espresso shots taste. Whether I’m using a darker roast or a lighter one, I can easily adjust the grind size to ensure I get the best possible extraction.

Compared to the Barista Pro, which also features a grinder, I find the Barista Express Impress’ grind consistency to be a bit superior. With the Pro, I had to fiddle with the grind settings a bit more to get the right texture, but with the Express Impress, the adjustment process feels smoother and more precise.

Fast Heat-Up Time for Busy Mornings

One of the things that initially sold me on Breville machines was their ThermoJet heating system. Both the Barista Express Impress and the Barista Pro feature this system, but I find that the Express Impress heats up just a little bit faster. This is important for those of us who are always in a rush in the mornings.

I’m not one to wait around for my espresso machine to heat up, so I appreciate that the Barista Express Impress is ready to go in just a few seconds. Whether I’m making a quick espresso or getting the steam wand ready for a cappuccino, the machine is always quick and efficient.

The Design: Sleek and Compact

The design of the Barista Express Impress is another feature that made it stand out. I have a small kitchen with limited counter space, and the last thing I wanted was a bulky espresso machine that took up too much room. The Barista Express Impress is relatively compact, with a clean and modern look that fits well in my kitchen.

It has a high-quality build, with brushed stainless steel that not only looks great but is also easy to clean. Compared to the Barista Pro, which has a slightly larger footprint and more traditional design, I find the Barista Express Impress to be more aesthetically pleasing and practical for my space.

Steaming Milk with the Barista Express Impress

As someone who enjoys a good cappuccino or latte, I was curious to see how the Barista Express Impress handled milk steaming. The steam wand on this machine is powerful enough to create rich, velvety microfoam, which is a must for any good espresso-based drink.

I’ve tried a number of machines with steam wands, but the Barista Express Impress’ wand is easy to control, and it consistently delivers the perfect milk texture for lattes and cappuccinos. The Pro’s steam wand is great too, but I found the Express Impress to be a little more forgiving when it comes to creating perfect microfoam.

Why the Barista Pro Isn’t a Bad Choice

While I do prefer the Barista Express Impress, it’s important to acknowledge that the Barista Pro is still a great machine. If you’re looking for something with slightly fewer features but still offers a reliable espresso-making experience, the Pro could work well for you. The Pro has a more basic tamping process, but its grinder is just as solid, and the overall quality is very good.

For people who don’t mind taking a little extra time to get the tamping right, or for those who are more experienced with espresso making, the Pro might be a more budget-friendly option. However, after spending time with both machines, the extra precision and features in the Barista Express Impress make it the clear winner for me.

Final Thoughts on the Barista Express Impress

To wrap things up, I’ve found the Breville Barista Express Impress to be an excellent choice for anyone serious about making great espresso at home. Its automatic tamping system, customizable grind, and overall design make it a superior option for those who want consistent, high-quality shots with minimal effort.

If you’re just starting out with espresso or even if you’ve been making espresso for a while, the Barista Express Impress is a machine that will not only help you make better espresso but also make the entire process more enjoyable. It’s simple to use, quick to heat up, and produces fantastic results.

In the end, while the Breville Barista Pro is a great machine in its own right, I believe the Barista Express Impress provides better value for those who want a bit more precision and ease of use. For me, it’s the perfect balance of performance, convenience, and design, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their home espresso setup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What’s the main difference between the Breville Barista Express Impress and the Barista Pro?
A: The main difference lies in the tamping system. The Barista Express Impress features an automatic tamping system that ensures consistent pressure for each shot, making it easier for beginners and ensuring better consistency. The Barista Pro, on the other hand, requires manual tamping, which can lead to inconsistencies if not done properly.

Q: Is the Barista Express Impress good for beginners?
A: Yes, the Barista Express Impress is great for beginners. The automatic tamping system simplifies the process and ensures more consistent results, even if you’re new to making espresso. The intuitive controls and clear display also make it user-friendly.

Q: How long does it take for the Barista Express Impress to heat up?
A: The Barista Express Impress uses Breville’s ThermoJet heating system, which heats up in about 3 seconds. This makes it quick and efficient for busy mornings when you don’t have much time.

Q: Can the Barista Express Impress make both espresso and milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos?
A: Yes, the Barista Express Impress can make both espresso and milk-based drinks. It features a steam wand that allows you to create rich, velvety microfoam, perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.

Q: How customizable is the grind on the Barista Express Impress?
A: The Barista Express Impress has a conical burr grinder that is highly customizable. You can adjust the grind size and dose to suit your preferred coffee beans, ensuring the best possible espresso extraction.

Q: Does the Barista Pro have the same tamping system as the Barista Express Impress?
A: No, the Barista Pro does not have the automatic tamping system that the Barista Express Impress offers. The Pro requires manual tamping, which can be less consistent and may require more attention to get the right tamp pressure.

Q: Is the Barista Express Impress easy to clean?
A: Yes, the Barista Express Impress is relatively easy to clean. It has a removable drip tray, portafilter, and water reservoir that are all easy to access and clean. Additionally, the grinder has a removable burr for cleaning as well. Regular cleaning will help maintain the machine’s performance.

Q: Can the Barista Express Impress make multiple shots in quick succession?
A: Yes, the Barista Express Impress is capable of making multiple shots in quick succession, thanks to its efficient heating system and strong performance. However, if you’re making several drinks back-to-back, it’s recommended to give the machine a brief rest between shots to ensure optimal performance.

Q: Does the Barista Express Impress come with a built-in grinder?
A: Yes, the Barista Express Impress comes with a built-in conical burr grinder. This eliminates the need for a separate grinder and allows you to grind fresh coffee beans directly into the portafilter for the best espresso extraction.