Choosing the right espresso machine can be challenging with so many options. The Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus are both popular choices from Breville, each catering to different needs and budgets. This comparison dives into their features, performance, and usability to help you decide which fits your home coffee setup best.
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Both machines promise third wave specialty coffee at home and are equipped with dose control grinding and optimal water pressure, but they differ in speed, size, and some advanced features, making each suitable for different types of users.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Barista Pro heats up faster with ThermoJet, ready in about 3 seconds. |
| Size | Bambino Plus has a more compact footprint, ideal for small kitchens. |
| Grinder | Both have dose control conical burr grinders, but the Pro’s grinder is more integrated. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers simpler controls and faster heat-up, great for beginners. |
| Performance | Barista Pro provides more advanced features for customization and control. |
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: 23 pounds
- ✔ Boiler Type: ThermoJet
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 oz
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 pounds
- ✔ Boiler Type: ThermoJet
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 oz
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
In my testing, the Barista Pro delivered consistently rich espresso with its precise temperature control and fast heat-up. Its built-in grinder and pre-infusion system helped me craft cafe-quality drinks at home with ease.
Pros:
- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Advanced controls for customization
- Integrated burr grinder
- Large 54mm portafilter
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Higher price point
- Steeper learning curve
Best for: Home baristas seeking quality, speed, and control.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or beginners who prefer simplicity.
Bottom line: Best for serious espresso lovers who value speed and customization.
Breville Bambino Plus
In my experience, the Bambino Plus heats up impressively quickly thanks to its ThermoJet system, making it easy to brew multiple cups without long waits. Its simple interface and smaller footprint make it accessible for those new to espresso or with limited space.
Pros:
- Quick heat-up in about 3 seconds
- Compact and lightweight
- Simple controls
- Full flavor extraction with 19g portafilter
Cons:
- Less customization options
- Smaller water reservoir
- Basic display interface
Best for: Beginners or those needing a space-saving machine with fast results.
Not ideal for: Advanced users wanting extensive control or high-volume brewing.
Bottom line: Ideal for beginners wanting quick, quality espresso in a compact package.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Heat-up Time | Fast with ThermoJet (approx. 3 sec) | Fast with ThermoJet (approx. 3 sec) |
| Size | Larger footprint, suitable for more space | Compact, ideal for small kitchens |
| Controls | Advanced with digital display and customization | Simpler, intuitive controls |
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, integrated conical burr grinder | Yes, dose control conical burr |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes, low pressure pre-infusion | Yes, pre-infusion |
| Price | Higher, premium price | More affordable |
The Verdict
The Barista Pro is perfect for enthusiasts seeking advanced features and speed, while the Bambino Plus suits beginners or those with limited space who want quick, quality espresso.
Hands-On Impressions
Living with both machines, I found the Barista Pro to be incredibly satisfying for daily use, especially due to its rapid heat-up and customizable settings. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was a delight for quick mornings, requiring minimal setup and fitting easily on my countertop.
Deeper Analysis of Features
The Barista Pro’s rapid heat-up and integrated grinder make it a powerhouse for those who want precise control over every shot. Its larger size and more complex controls might be overwhelming for beginners, but it rewards those willing to learn. Conversely, the Bambino Plus’s quick heat-up and simplified interface make it more user-friendly, especially for casual drinkers or those with space constraints.Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly due to its simpler controls and fast heat-up time, making it easier to use without extensive knowledge.
Can the Barista Pro make quick drinks?
Yes, despite its larger size, the Barista Pro’s ThermoJet system heats up in about 3 seconds, allowing for fast brewing once set up.
Is the grinder on both machines sufficient?
Both machines feature dose control conical burr grinders, providing consistent grounds, but the Barista Pro’s integrated grinder offers more precise control.
Which machine offers better value?
The Bambino Plus offers excellent value for those seeking quality espresso in a compact, affordable package, while the Barista Pro provides more advanced features for dedicated enthusiasts.
Finding Your Perfect Espresso Partner
Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus ultimately depends on your brewing goals, space, and experience level. The Pro is ideal for serious coffee lovers who want control and speed, while the Bambino Plus suits beginners or those with limited space who still crave quality espresso. Both machines deliver third wave coffee at home, making them excellent investments for passionate home baristas.
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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