The Sage 800ESXL 15-Bar Triple-Priming Die-Cast Espresso Machine Review
With a brushed stainless steel exterior and fine manufacturing, the elegance of the Sage 800ESXL 15-Bar Triple-Priming Die-Cast Espresso Machine sets it apart from the competition. But it’s not just a pretty face. There’s plenty more to love about this Sage. So we went on and tested it.
Keep reading to see everything this incredible machine has to offer.
NOTE: Sage is the European name for the Breville espresso machines’ brand.
The Sage 800ESXL ‘In A Nutshell’
The Sage 800ESXL espresso machine is a great product for an individual brewer at a beginner to intermediate level. The unit is very easy to use and comes with the necessary equipment to get started making espresso right away.
Sage espresso machine 800ESXL is an excellent choice for both the single espresso drinker as well as the full coffee-guzzling household. It makes it easy to quickly brew a shot… or two or more, one after another, with ease.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing an Espresso Machine
Here are some of the most important things to think about when shopping for espresso makers.
Automatic and Manual: Experience vs Convenience
One of the first things to consider is if you want to prioritise your coffee experience or your convenience first.
This classic conflict lies in the automatic versus the manual espresso debate.
If you’re looking for everything (or at least some of the things) to be done for you, you’ll want to look for a semi-automatic machine, or upgrade to a fully automatic option that literally makes your espresso at the push of a button.
NOTE: Learn more about the difference between semi-automatic and automatic machines here.
On the other hand, if you want your coffee to be a continual experience that turns you into more of a master every day, you may want to opt for a manual lever machine. These leave you in full control of the process.
Age and Quality
You should also consider if you want a new or old machine, and how much to invest in the quality of the manufacturing.
A new machine is going to come with the latest cutting-edge features, and will probably last longer. However, most medium to high-end espresso machines are very well built and can be used second-hand without issues. And, of course, it’ll save you some cash.
Just remember to hang on to that manual for any Sage 800ESXL repairs you might need to fix if there’s a problem.
The other side of that coin is the quality of your machine. Keep in mind that a higher price tag can often equate to higher quality parts for your Sage 800ESXL, so you’re not just throwing your money down the drain.
PRO TIP: Just because it’s a quality machine doesn’t mean it won’t require maintenance once in a while. Make sure to refer to your manual for regular Sage 800ESXL cleanings and to help out with any other Sage 800ESXL troubleshooting!
The Sage 800ESXL Espresso Machine Review

The Sage 800ESXL 15-Bar Triple-Priming Die-Cast Espresso Machine was meant to accomplish two things:
- To wow users with both its high-quality design and brewing prowess, and
- To brew a masterful cup of espresso.
With a variety of features, an easy-to-use design, and a track record as good as Sage’s, it’s plain to see why this machine is so good for the novice barista.
Of course, there are features that could be improved upon, including the addition of an inbuilt grinder for espresso that would make the espresso machine even easier to use.
NOTE: Never fear, though! The lack of a grinder doesn’t have to be a make or break it part of the deal. We’ve pulled together a list of the absolute best grinders available. These are top of the line models that should help you get that fine espresso grind without breaking a sweat!
Here are some tips and tricks for using the Sage 800ESXL to make that perfect cup of coffee:
PROS
- Great additional features (i.e. Thermoblock heating element, Auto Purge)
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Easy to clean
- Great for beginners and intermediate users alike
CONS
- Its pressurised filter baskets limit its espresso quality (but can be upgraded)
- Unable to steam or extract simultaneously
- Loud and noisy pump
- No Auto-Off feature when done extracting
The extra features make it great for beginners
Like its Pro version, this Sage model is easy to use for beginners and intermediate espresso brewers alike.
Convenience is the name of the game with the Sage. The built-in features like the dual wall crema system and pre-brew function assist even the most inexperienced espresso brewers.
This product comes with additional features that ensure this espresso machine is fully equipped for your espresso needs. These include the stainless steel frother, tamping tools(1), and a Sage 800ESXL portafilter that make the first use an easy process.
So if you’re new in Espresso Town, you can rest easy knowing that this machine is going to have your back.

Auto purge ensures your espresso is perfectly extracted
The Sage 800ESXL also has an auto purge function that regulates the water temperature to ensure your espresso is optimally extracted.
The auto purge function adjusts the water temperature automatically for both the espresso brewing feature and the frothing features.
This feature is essential to avoid the product burning, while creating a coffee that is truly exceptional.
NOTE: While this machine has a lot to love, the Sage 800ESXL 15-Bar Triple-Priming Espresso Machine can tend to be one of the noisier machines when compared to competing models. So keep that in mind when making your decision!
Don’t buy the Sage 800ESXL if…
You want a built-in grinder – If you’re willing to drop a bit more cash for your espresso machine, consider Sage’s higher-end model, the Barista Express. It features an inbuilt burr coffee grinder as well as a few additional perks, like the capability to heat and froth milk simultaneously.
You have limited counter space – If you’re looking for a smaller footprint espresso machine with the same features as the 800ESXL and a similar price, the Gaggia Classic is an excellent choice. It has a slim design and stainless steel housing, and the unique Pannarello steam wand makes milk frothing a breeze.
The Verdict
The Sage 800ESXL is an incredible machine. It comes with so many simple, easy-to-use features that make getting into espresso as easy as pie! In addition to the ease of use, though, it makes a heck of a great cup of espresso! This is truely a great espresso machine for all kinds of espresso lovers and will suit the majority of the customers who choose to use it.

References
- Espresso Tamping Retrieved from https://www.coffeeresearch.org/espresso/tamping.htm