Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and the Bambino Plus depends on your brewing needs, space, and budget. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ significantly in features and performance.
This comparison breaks down their key aspects, helping you decide which espresso machine aligns best with your coffee journey.
Key Takeaways
| Speed and Heating | Bambino Plus heats faster with ThermoJet, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Built-in Grinder | Barista Pro has a more advanced, integrated conical burr grinder. |
| Size and Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, perfect for smaller kitchens. |
| Customization | Barista Pro offers more control with digital temperature and grind adjustments. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus has a simpler setup, better for beginners. |
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
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At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: 23.8 lbs
- ✔ Steam Wand: Yes, manual
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 9.8 lbs
- ✔ Steam Wand: Yes, automatic microfoam
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
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Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express (BES870BTR) combines a high-quality conical burr grinder with precise espresso extraction features. It’s designed for users who want control over every aspect of their brew and are willing to spend some time mastering it.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for freshness
- Precise digital temperature control
- Customizable grind and dose settings
- Balanced pre-infusion process
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up
- Larger footprint
- Steeper learning curve
Best for: Serious coffee lovers and home baristas seeking full control
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those preferring quick, simple setups
Bottom line: A premium choice for dedicated espresso enthusiasts who want full control.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus (BSP600) is designed for convenience without sacrificing quality. Its ThermoJet heating system allows for rapid heat-up, making it ideal for quick espresso shots and daily use with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact footprint
- Simple interface
- Good for beginners
Cons:
- Less customizable
- Smaller water reservoir
- Built-in grinder not included
Best for: Home users seeking speed and simplicity in a small package
Not ideal for: Coffee connoisseurs wanting full manual control
Bottom line: Great for quick, quality espresso in a small, user-friendly machine.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Grinder | Yes, precise conical burr | No, separate grinder needed |
| Heating System | Digital temperature control | ThermoJet rapid heat-up |
| Size | Larger footprint | Compact and space-saving |
| Control | Fully customizable digital | Button interface |
| Setup Complexity | More involved | Simpler, plug-and-play |
| Best Use Case | Advanced home baristas | Quick, casual espresso |
The Verdict
Both machines serve different needs—choose the Barista Pro if you want full control and are willing to invest time; opt for the Bambino Plus if speed and simplicity matter more.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Express felt more like a professional setup, taking time to dial in the grind and temperature, but delivering rich espresso. The Bambino Plus was a delight for hectic mornings, brewing quickly with minimal fuss, though with less manual control.
Deeper Analysis
The Barista Pro excels in customization, offering digital controls for temperature and grind size, making it ideal for those who enjoy fine-tuning their espresso. Its built-in grinder ensures freshness, but it adds to the size and complexity. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, shines with its rapid ThermoJet heating system, allowing you to start brewing in just a few seconds. Its straightforward interface makes it perfect for beginners or those who prefer speed over control.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-ground coffee with these machines?
Yes, both machines can accommodate pre-ground coffee, though the Barista Pro’s grinder is designed for fresh beans for optimal flavor.
Is the built-in grinder worth it?
For serious espresso enthusiasts, the integrated grinder in the Barista Pro adds convenience and freshness, but it is less necessary if you prefer pre-ground coffee or already own a grinder.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more user-friendly with its simple controls and quick heat-up, making it a better choice for beginners.
How much space do these machines take?
The Barista Pro is larger and better suited for dedicated coffee stations, while the Bambino Plus is more compact for small kitchens.
Find Your Perfect Brew Companion
Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus ultimately depends on your priorities—full control and customization or speed and simplicity. The Barista Pro is ideal if you’re passionate about mastering espresso with all the bells and whistles, while the Bambino Plus caters to those who want great coffee without the fuss. Consider your space, skill level, and how much time you want to spend on brewing to make the best choice 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.
