Full review
Longer notes from the same comments we summarized above.
What people reported
Many owners are happy with the espresso shots produced by the Barista Express Impress, often calling them "great" or "awesome." Some users found the machine to be a significant upgrade from simpler super-automatic models, noting improvements in consistency and taste. Its aesthetic appeal and compact design are also frequently mentioned as positives, and some users enjoy the "hands-on" experience it offers.
Problems people mention
A common complaint revolves around the steam wand's performance, with some users finding it "unusable" or taking "way too long to get going." There are concerns about the long-term durability of the machine, including reports of it becoming unstable or failing after a few months or a couple of years (e.g., "5 seconds of death"). One user reported the machine leaking and even causing an electrical shock after a year. Issues with the automatic dosing function have also been mentioned, where it stops working unexpectedly. Some users also note that the machine "uses a lot of water."
Where owners disagree
While many are content with the espresso quality, some more experienced users find limitations with the built-in grinder, leading them to consider or actually purchase separate, higher-end grinders to achieve finer control over extraction and flavor notes. There's also discussion around the machine's pressure, with a user noting it doesn't always hit the advertised 9 bars. For new users, there can be a learning curve to pull a "decent espresso shot," despite the machine's "Impress" branding, which implies ease of use.
Who it's for
The Breville Barista Express Impress appears to be a good fit for individuals looking to step up from basic coffee makers or super-automatic machines and want a more interactive espresso-making experience. It caters to those who appreciate a hands-on approach and value aesthetics. However, users prioritizing high-end steam power, consistent automatic dosing, or absolute top-tier grind consistency for advanced espresso may find themselves needing to adjust expectations or supplement the machine with additional equipment.
