Quick Advice: Breville Barista 870 vs. Sunbeam Cafe EM7000

Recommendations for buyers and upgraders from the site's members.
cbr shadow
Posts: 7
Joined: 9 years ago

#1: Post by cbr shadow »

I'm looking at two used machines that I'd like to replace my current cheapie Kuchef espresso machine which I purchased at Aldi a while ago for $120.

I make ~4 drinks daily, two with milk/steam. I do this every day. I just like straight espresso or a machiatto, wife likes a soy cap.
I have an OE Pharos Hand Grinder already.

Note the prices below are AUD, so the prices may not jive with what is available in the USA.

Breville Barista BES870 - ($350) 6 months old (with receipt) and low usage. Has the built-in grinder, but I already have a OE Pharos Grinder. Might be nice to have an electric grinder for wife's milky drinks though? Or decaf I guess?

Sunbeam Cafe EM7000 - ($500) - brand new in box, but purchased from a person on craigslist. Seems to be a little higher-end machine than the Breville, has lots of cool features.

Which is the better fit for me? Price is close enough that I'd compare the two.

Alan Frew
Posts: 661
Joined: 16 years ago

#2: Post by Alan Frew »

Sunbeam. The 58mm portafilter makes up for a multitude of other sins, plus dual thermoblock etc.

Alan