Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus depends on your coffee habits and space. Both machines aim to bring cafe-quality espresso into your home, but they differ in speed, size, and features.
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In this comparison, I’ll highlight their key differences, pros, cons, and help you decide which suits your needs best.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heating | Bambino Plus heats up faster with its ThermoJet system. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has an integrated grinder, while Bambino Plus does not. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small spaces. |
| Control & Customization | Express offers more control with its PID temperature and grinder. |
| Price & Value | Both offer great value, but Express is slightly more feature-rich. |
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality espresso 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 pounds
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 oz
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 pounds
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 oz
- ✔ Steam Power: Yes
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 results
- Dose Control Grinding: Ensures consistent, balanced espresso
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Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express combines a built-in conical burr grinder with precise espresso extraction features, making it ideal for serious home baristas. Its larger size and multiple controls provide customization, but it takes longer to heat up and set up.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for fresh beans
- Precise temperature control
- Pre-infusion for better flavor
- All-in-one setup
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Longer heat-up time
- More complex to use
Best for: Home enthusiasts seeking control and quality
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or quick coffee routines
Bottom line: A versatile and feature-rich machine for dedicated home baristas.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus is designed for speed and simplicity, with a fast ThermoJet heating system that gets you brewing in about 3 seconds. Its compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens or apartments, though it doesn’t have an integrated grinder.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact and sleek design
- Easy to use controls
- Good steam power for frothing
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less customization options
- Limited control over extraction
Best for: Busy households or small spaces needing quick espresso
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts who want full control or grinding features
Bottom line: A compact, fast espresso machine ideal for quick, quality drinks.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heating System | PID temperature control | ThermoJet |
| Size | 13.2 x 12.5 x 15.3 inches | 7.7 x 12 x 12 inches |
| Preparation Time | Longer setup, about 1 min | About 3 seconds to heat |
| Control Options | More manual controls | Simpler interface |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts | Quick users |
The Verdict
If you want full control and a built-in grinder, go for the Barista Express. For faster, space-saving espresso, the Bambino Plus is your best choice.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I appreciated the Barista Express’s detailed controls and integrated grinder, which gave me more flexibility. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was quick to heat and perfect for mornings when I needed my espresso fast.
Deeper Analysis of Features
Both machines excel at delivering third wave coffee, but they do so in different ways. The Express’s integrated grinder is excellent for fresh beans, but it adds to the machine’s size and complexity. The Bambino Plus’s speed and compactness make it ideal for small kitchens or quick routines, although you’ll need a separate grinder for beans.Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, it requires an external grinder, unlike the Barista Express which has an integrated conical burr grinder.
Which machine is faster to heat up?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, while the Express takes longer, around 30-40 seconds.
Can I get cafe-quality espresso on both machines?
Yes, both are capable of producing high-quality espresso, but the Express offers more control over the brewing process for personalized results.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus is more compact and ideal for small spaces, while the Express is larger but offers more features.
Choosing the Right Home Barista
If you prioritize speed, space, and simplicity, the Bambino Plus is an excellent choice, especially for quick mornings. However, if you’re a coffee enthusiast looking for more control, customization, and a built-in grinder, the Barista Express is the better investment. Consider your space, routine, and desire for customization when making your decision.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
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