Neretva Espresso Machine vs Breville Barista Express: Which Home Espresso Machine Should You Buy?
Introduction
Selecting the best home espresso machine for your home barista journey can be both exciting and overwhelming. With countless options available, comparing two standout models—the Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Super Compact Espresso Maker, and the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL—offers valuable insight for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Both machines promise barista-quality coffee at home but cater to different needs, skill levels, and budgets.
This detailed espresso machine comparison breaks down the features, performance, pros, and cons of the Neretva and Breville machines, helping U.S. coffee lovers determine which home barista espresso maker delivers the perfect balance of value, capability, and user experience. Whether you’re seeking an affordable espresso machine under 100 or an automatic espresso maker with all-in-one professional features, this comparison provides the critical information you’ll need to make an informed buying decision.
Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar: Detailed Review
The Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Super Compact Espresso Maker is designed for coffee lovers who want a high-performance 20 bar espresso machine without the bulk or price tag of more advanced models. Priced at an accessible $95, it stands out as an affordable espresso machine under 100, providing impressive features typically found in pricier machines and making it a compelling option for new or casual home baristas.
Crafted with a compact stainless steel body, the Neretva Espresso Machine not only saves counter space but also offers long-lasting durability and modern aesthetics. Recognized as a leading compact espresso machine for small kitchen spaces, this stainless steel espresso machine boasts a powerful 20-bar professional pressure pump paired with a robust 1350W boiler system, enabling you to brew authentic espresso shots, frothy cappuccinos, and creamy lattes with confidence.
One of its standout features is the precise temperature control facilitated through its LED temperature display. This real-time readout allows users to monitor and fine-tune brewing and steaming temperatures, ensuring every shot is extracted at optimal conditions. The machine incorporates a pre-infusion function, gradually increasing pressure at the beginning of extraction to maximize flavor and create a more balanced, aromatic cup.
Milk-based drink lovers will appreciate the powerful steam system with an integrated steam wand, perfect for frothing milk and crafting latte art at home. This makes it an ideal latte art espresso maker for beginners who want to create beautiful drinks in their kitchen. The upgraded stainless steel components ensure straightforward installation and promise durability over extended use.
Ideal for kitchens with limited storage, the Neretva’s sleek, space-saving design doesn’t compromise on professional features. This compact machine is a great choice for those seeking a reliable home barista espresso maker with robust capabilities. The package includes everything you need to get started: espresso machine, portafilter, two pressurized filters, coffee scoop, and user manual. Furthermore, Neretva stands out with its responsive customer service—a 12-hour quick-response guarantee adds peace of mind for buyers.
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Key Features of the Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar
- Professional 20 Bar Pressure: Delivers authentic and rich espresso extraction on a compact, affordable espresso machine under 100.
- 1350W Boiler: Rapid heating for fast preparation time.
- Precise Temperature Control: Real-time LED display for optimal brewing and steaming.
- Pre-Infusion Function: Gradually builds-up pressure for perfectly balanced flavor extraction found in professional espresso machines for home.
- Powerful Steam System: Create delicate microfoam for cappuccinos and lattes; supports latte art for beginners.
- Compact Stainless Steel Design: Space-saving with upgraded durability, ideal as a compact espresso machine for small kitchen setups.
- Comprehensive Accessories: Includes portafilter, filters, spoon, and manual—complete starter kit for a home barista espresso maker.
- Dedicated Customer Care: 12-hour quick-response support distinguishes this Super Compact Espresso Maker from other entry-level models.
Pros & Cons of the Neretva Espresso Machine
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Pros:
- Leading affordable espresso machine under 100 for beginners and budget buyers
- High pressure (20 bar) for improved espresso extraction, great for home coffee enthusiasts
- Stable and precise temperature control with LED display ensures every shot is consistent
- Pre-infusion function enhances taste and crema beyond most basic compact espresso makers
- Super compact and lightweight; ideal for small kitchens and apartment living
- Durable stainless steel espresso machine build and components
- User-friendly, easy to clean, perfect for new home baristas
- Responsive customer support, setting it apart among entry-level espresso makers
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Cons:
- No integrated grinder—requires pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder for ultimate freshness
- Basic steam wand; suitable for beginners but less powerful than higher-end automatic espresso makers
- Limited advanced customization compared to prosumer machines
- Newer brand; long-term durability yet to be widely validated compared to established names like Breville
Breville Barista Express BES870XL: Detailed Review
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL stands out in any espresso machine comparison as an all-in-one solution for enthusiasts aiming for café-quality results without leaving home. With a price tag of $549, it commands a higher investment but delivers significant upgrades—integration, automation, and fine-tuned control—that justify its popularity among serious home baristas.
Breville’s Barista Express is engineered around the “4 Keys Formula,” designed to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home. Its signature feature is the integrated precision conical burr grinder, which grinds beans on-demand and dispenses them directly into the portafilter. This ensures fresher, tastier espresso and gives users granular control over the grind size, an essential aspect for dialing in various coffee roasts and personal preferences. Many breville barista express review articles praise this grinder for elevating the overall espresso experience.
Like the Neretva, Breville’s espresso extraction benefits from low pressure pre-infusion, enhancing flavor complexity and achieving an even extraction. Its PID temperature control regulates water temperature with high accuracy, and the proprietary “Razor” dose trimming tool helps ensure consistent dosing and tamping for a flawless shot.
Manual microfoam milk texturing is a true highlight—the powerful steam wand crafts silky milk for latte art with a degree of nuance prized by coffee aficionados. This is a top choice for those seeking a latte art espresso maker with professional results at home. Its large 67 oz water tank and 1/2 lb bean hopper make it suited for both daily sippers and entertaining guests, offering a true professional espresso machine for home.
For buyers looking for more than an espresso machine, the Barista Express offers a comprehensive starter kit, including various filter baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning accessories, and a full suite of maintenance tools. Additionally, Breville provides a limited 1-year warranty and the opportunity to receive free specialty coffee with registration of the machine. If you’re searching for the best Breville Barista Express BES870XL deal or want to see how the Breville Barista Express vs Nespresso stacks up, this machine continually earns high marks for value and versatility.
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Key Features of the Breville Barista Express BES870XL
- Integrated Conical Burr Grinder: Fresh grinding to portafilter, precise grind size control—true grind-to-cup experience sets this automatic espresso maker apart.
- Low Pressure Pre-Infusion: Gradual pressure build-up for even flavor extraction, a hallmark of premium espresso machines.
- PID Digital Temperature Control: Water delivered at optimal temperatures for best taste—precision found in top professional espresso machines for home.
- Manual Microfoam Steam Wand: Café-style milk frothing and advanced latte art espresso maker performance.
- Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz removable water tank—great for frequent brewing and entertaining.
- Accessory Kit: Includes portafilter, filter baskets (single/double wall), tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools, and more for a complete home barista espresso setup.
- Additional Perks: Free specialty coffee offer, 1-year limited warranty, featured in many top breville barista express review roundups.
- Robust Stainless Steel Construction: Premium look, long-lasting durability—an investment stainless steel espresso machine for serious coffee lovers.
Pros & Cons of the Breville Barista Express BES870XL
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Pros:
- Integrated burr grinder—everything you need in one automatic espresso maker
- Advanced espresso with customizable grind, dose, and extraction for a true professional setup
- PID-controlled temperature stability delivers repeatable café-quality results at home
- Powerful manual steam wand for microfoam milk and latte art creation—highlights of many breville barista express review articles
- Comes with a wide set of professional-grade accessories for the home barista
- Suitable for both beginners (pressurized baskets) and advanced users (unpressurized baskets)—the best home espresso machine for all skill levels
- Large water tank and bean hopper accommodate higher volume brewing needs
- Sturdy, premium stainless steel espresso machine design with a professional appearance
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Cons:
- Higher price point; may not suit those seeking an affordable espresso machine under 100
- Larger footprint; requires ample counter space—consider a compact espresso machine for small kitchen if space is limited
- More complex setup and learning curve for new users compared to entry-level machines
- Requires regular maintenance and cleaning due to integrated grinder—discussed in many breville barista express review guides
- No built-in Wi-Fi or app connectivity
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
by Visit the Breville Store
$549.00
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4
Head-to-Head Comparison: Neretva vs Breville Barista Express
| Feature | Neretva Espresso Machine 20 Bar | Breville Barista Express BES870XL |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $95 | $549 |
| Pressure | 20 bar | 15 bar (with low pressure pre-infusion) |
| Integrated Grinder | No (requires pre-ground coffee or separate grinder) | Yes (conical burr grinder, adjustable grind size) |
| Temperature Control | LED digital display; stable monitoring | PID digital temperature control |
| Pre-Infusion Function | Yes | Yes |
| Steam Wand | Manual, basic (good for beginners, supports latte art) | Manual, advanced microfoam (supports professional latte art) |
| Accessories Included | Portafilter, 2 filters, coffee spoon, user manual | Portafilter, single & dual wall baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning kit, etc. |
| Water Tank Capacity | Not specified (compact size) | 67 oz (large) |
| Bean Hopper | Not included | 1/2 lb bean hopper |
| Machine Size | Super compact, fits small kitchens | Larger, requires ample counter space |
| Warranty | Not specified; 12-hour customer service | 1-year limited product warranty |
Feature-by-Feature Analysis
- Price & Value: Neretva is ideal for budget-conscious buyers, offering core espresso features at a fraction of Breville’s cost—perfect for those seeking an affordable espresso machine under 100. Breville, while pricier, incorporates more advanced technology and all-in-one capability, justifying its reputation as a professional espresso machine for home.
- Ease of Use: Neretva’s straightforward controls make it an optimal choice as a Super Compact Espresso Maker for new users; Breville offers both beginner and advanced modes but expects a steeper learning curve, something often highlighted in breville barista express review articles.
- Pressure & Extraction: Neretva delivers 20-bar pressure, excelling as a 20 bar espresso machine; Breville focuses on 15-bar with optimized pre-infusion for even extraction, lending advantage in breville vs neretva espresso machine debates.
- Temperature Control: Both have digital temperature control, but Breville’s PID system offers greater precision and stability, typical of high-end automatic espresso makers.
- Grinding Capability: Breville’s built-in grinder elevates quality and convenience, while Neretva requires a separate grinder for best results with fresh beans—important for those comparing breville barista express vs nespresso or other home options.
- Milk Frothing: Both feature manual steam wands, but Breville’s design and power are geared toward authentic latte art and texture—a frequent highlight in latte art espresso maker reviews.
- Size & Design: Neretva’s compact form suits small spaces, making it a top compact espresso machine for small kitchen environments, while Breville appeals to users with ample kitchen space seeking a premium stainless steel construction and professional look.
- Included Accessories: Breville comes with a broader array of tools and maintenance items for a full home barista espresso maker experience.
- Customer Support & Warranty: Both brands provide responsive support; Breville adds a standard one-year warranty and often features a Breville Barista Express BES870XL deal for added value.
Conclusion & Recommendation
Choosing between the Neretva Espresso Machine and the Breville Barista Express BES870XL
