Choosing the right espresso machine for home use can be challenging with so many options. The Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus are both popular models that promise professional-quality coffee in a compact form. Here, we compare their key features, performance, and suitability to help you decide which one fits your coffee lifestyle best.
Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee with ease, but they differ in speed, size, and advanced features. Let’s explore their strengths and limitations to see which aligns better with your brewing preferences.
Key Takeaways
| Speed of Heating | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has a conical burr grinder; Bambino Plus relies on external grinding. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for smaller kitchens. |
| Ease of Use | Both feature low-pressure pre-infusion for flavor extraction. |
| Price & Value | Express offers more features at a slightly higher price, Bambino Plus is more streamlined. |
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
- ✔ Capacity: 67 fl oz water tank
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Material: Stainless steel
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 fl oz
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Material: Stainless steel
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 Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Barista Express provides a combined grinder and espresso maker with extensive controls, making it suitable for those who want to fine-tune their brew. Its integrated grinder and digital temperature control help achieve precise extraction, but it requires more setup and space.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder for convenience
- Adjustable grind size and dose
- Good for hands-on users
- Sturdy build
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up
- Larger footprint
- More complex to operate
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts wanting full control and customization
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users preferring quick setup
Bottom line: A versatile machine perfect for serious home baristas who want control.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus is designed for quick, top-quality espresso with a sleek, compact profile. Its ThermoJet heating system ensures rapid heat-up, making it perfect for busy mornings. While it lacks a built-in grinder, it offers excellent extraction with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact and stylish
- Automatic milk frothing
- Easy to use
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less customizable than Express
- Smaller water reservoir
Best for: Home users seeking quick, high-quality espresso with minimal effort
Not ideal for: Those wanting control over grind and dose or larger capacity
Bottom line: A sleek, fast, and easy-to-use machine ideal for quick espresso at home.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heat-up Time | Longer (~30 sec) | Faster (~3 sec) |
| Size | Larger | Compact |
| Customization | High | Moderate |
| Frothing System | Manual / Semi-Auto | Automatic |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts | Casual users |
The Verdict
Choose the Barista Express if you want maximum control and a built-in grinder, ideal for dedicated coffee lovers. Opt for the Bambino Plus if you prefer speed, simplicity, and a smaller footprint for quick, quality espresso.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Express was rewarding but required more time to set up and perfect. The integrated grinder and manual controls gave me a hands-on experience I enjoyed. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was a breeze to get started with, heating up in seconds and delivering consistent shots with minimal fuss.
Deep Dive into Features
The Barista Express offers extensive control with dose adjustment and a built-in grinder, making it suitable for those who want to experiment with different beans and grind sizes. Its digital temperature control ensures precise extraction, but it does require more space and time to operate. The Bambino Plus’s standout feature is its ThermoJet heating system, which means you can go from power on to espresso in about three seconds, perfect for busy mornings. Its automatic milk frother simplifies creating lattes and cappuccinos, though it relies on external grinding, which may add some prep time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Breville Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus requires an external grinder as it does not include a built-in grinding feature.
Which machine is faster to heat up?
The Bambino Plus heats up significantly faster thanks to its ThermoJet system, reaching optimal temperature in about 3 seconds.
Can I customize grind settings on the Breville Barista Express?
Yes, the Express has an integrated conical burr grinder with adjustable grind size and dose control, allowing for detailed customization.
Is one machine more suitable for small kitchens?
Yes, the Bambino Plus’s compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space.
Which Espresso Machine Fits Your Coffee Routine?
If you’re a passionate coffee enthusiast who enjoys experimenting and needs maximum control, the Breville Barista Express is the better choice. However, if you want quick, reliable espresso with minimal setup and limited space, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value and convenience. Consider your priorities—control versus speed—and choose accordingly to elevate your home brewing experience.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
