Choosing the right espresso machine can be challenging with so many options available. The Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus are both popular choices, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this comparison, we’ll dive into their features, performance, and which one might be the better fit for your coffee routine.
Understanding how they differ in terms of speed, control, and size will help you make an informed decision for your home brewing setup.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has integrated conical burr grinder; Bambino Plus relies on external grinding. |
| Size | Bambino Plus has a more compact footprint. |
| Control | Express offers more manual control options. |
| Price | Express tends to be more expensive, reflecting its features. |
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality coffee at home
- All-in-One Espresso Machine: Includes integrated grinder for convenience
- Fast Bean to Espresso: Brews in under one minute
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At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: 23 kg
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Water Tank: 2L
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 9.9 kg
- ✔ Power: 1700W
- ✔ Water Tank: 2L
Breville BES500BST Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Black Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews professional-quality espresso at home
- Fast, Compact Design: Part of Bambino Series for quick, space-saving brewing
- Dose Control Grinding: Ensures consistent, balanced espresso with 19g dose
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Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express excels in delivering a semi-automatic experience with its integrated grinder and precise control features. It’s perfect for those who enjoy customizing their espresso and prefer a more involved brewing process.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Precise dose control
- Customizable extraction pressure
- Great for coffee enthusiasts
Cons:
- Longer setup time
- Larger footprint
- Higher price
Best for: Home baristas who want control and enjoy experimenting with their coffee.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space.
Bottom line: A versatile machine for serious coffee lovers who want control over every shot.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus shines with its fast heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet system and a streamlined design. It’s perfect for users who want high-quality espresso without fuss and minimal setup.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact footprint
- Easy to use controls
- Full flavor extraction with 19g portafilter
Cons:
- External grinder needed
- Less manual control
- Limited customization
Best for: Busy individuals or small kitchens looking for quick, quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts wanting detailed control or a built-in grinder.
Bottom line: A quick and stylish choice for those wanting café-quality espresso in minutes.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, integrated | No, external needed |
| Heat-Up Time | Longer, around 15-20 mins | Faster with ThermoJet |
| Size | Larger, 14 x 12.5 x 16 inches | Compact, 7.7 x 12.2 x 12.5 inches |
| Control Type | Manual + digital | Automated with minimal controls |
| Price Range | Higher | Lower to mid-range |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts & hobbyists | Casual users & small kitchens |
The Verdict
For those who want detailed control and a built-in grinder, the Barista Express is the top choice. If you prefer quick, café-quality espresso with less fuss and a smaller footprint, the Bambino Plus is ideal.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Barista Express to be a rewarding machine for hands-on users. It took a bit longer to set up but offered great control over each shot. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was a breeze to use—filling my cup with rich espresso in just a few minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
Deep Dive: Features & Performance
The Barista Express’s integrated grinder and precise control over grind size, dose, and extraction pressure make it a favorite for coffee lovers who want to craft their perfect shot. Its larger size and longer heat-up time are trade-offs for this customization. Conversely, the Bambino Plus’s ThermoJet system allows it to reach optimal temperature in about 3 seconds, making it great for quick turns and small spaces, though it relies on external grinding options for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus requires you to use an external grinder to prepare your coffee grounds.
Which machine is faster to heat up?
The Bambino Plus features the ThermoJet heating system, which heats up in about 3 seconds, making it significantly faster than the Barista Express.
Can I make custom espresso shots with both machines?
Yes, but the Barista Express offers more manual control over grind size, dose, and extraction pressure, making it better suited for customization.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus is more compact and lighter, making it ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space.
Which Espresso Machine Fits Your Coffee Style?
Both the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus deliver excellent espresso, but they cater to different priorities. If you love tinkering and want maximum control, the Express is a great investment. For those who value speed, simplicity, and space-saving design, the Bambino Plus is the smarter choice. Consider your daily routine and space constraints to determine the best fit for your home coffee setup.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
