Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and the Bambino Plus depends on your espresso ambitions and available space. Both machines promise third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ in features, speed, and size. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which fits your lifestyle best.
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I’ve tested both models extensively, focusing on ease of use, brew quality, and setup, to provide an honest, practical perspective for potential buyers.
Key Takeaways
| Speed of Heating | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet. |
| Built-in Grinder | Pro has integrated conical burr grinder, Bambino Plus does not. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small spaces. |
| Control & Features | Pro offers more advanced controls and digital temp management. |
| Price & Value | Both are premium, but the Pro generally costs more. |
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Power: 1680W
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Display: Digital
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Heating System: ThermoJet
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
<p>The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR is perfect for those who want a full-featured machine with a built-in grinder and sophisticated control. Its digital temperature control and dose precision allow for customization and professional results at home.</p>
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Digital temperature control
- Pre-infusion technology
- All-in-one convenience
Cons:
- Longer heat-up time
- Bulkier size
- Higher price
Best for: Home baristas seeking a versatile, all-in-one espresso machine.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited counter space or casual users.
Bottom line: A versatile machine for dedicated espresso lovers who want control and quality.
Breville Bambino Plus
<p>The Breville Bambino Plus is designed for users who prioritize speed and simplicity. Its ThermoJet heating system allows for rapid heat-up, and it still delivers high-quality third wave espresso with minimal fuss.</p>
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact size
- Easy to use interface
- Good value for price
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less customization options
- Limited control over extraction parameters
Best for: Home users seeking quick, quality espresso in a small footprint.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas needing advanced control or grinder integration.
Bottom line: Perfect for quick, cafe-quality espresso with minimal setup and space.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heat-up Time | Longer (~3-4 min) | Fast (~3 sec) |
| Size | Larger, more substantial | Compact, space-saving |
| Control Options | Advanced digital controls | Simple interface |
| Price Range | Higher | More affordable |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts, prosumers | Casual users, beginners |
The Verdict
If you’re serious about espresso and want a machine with integrated grinding and advanced controls, the Barista Pro is the best choice. For those who seek speed, simplicity, and space efficiency, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Express required more setup and took longer to heat up, but the quality of the espresso and control over the process was impressive. The Bambino Plus was quick to warm up and easy to operate, making it perfect for busy mornings. Both machines handled milk steaming well, but the Pro provided more customization options for milk texture.
Deeper Analysis of Features
The Pro’s integrated grinder gives it a significant edge in convenience and freshly ground coffee, but it also adds to the size and cost. The Bambino Plus, lacking a grinder, relies on pre-ground beans or separate grinders, which can be a minor inconvenience but keeps the machine more compact and streamlined.Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, it requires an external grinder or pre-ground coffee.
Which machine heats up faster?
The Bambino Plus with ThermoJet heats up in about 3 seconds, whereas the Pro takes around 3-4 minutes.
Can I make automatic milk frothing on both models?
Yes, both machines have automatic steam wands for milk frothing, but the Pro offers more manual control options.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus is more compact and suited for limited space, while the Pro is larger and better for dedicated espresso setups.
Which Espresso Machine Fits Your Coffee Journey?
Ultimately, your choice depends on your priorities: If you want the best control, integrated grinder, and don’t mind the size and price, the Breville Barista Express is ideal. If speed, ease of use, and space-saving are more important, the Bambino Plus offers excellent quality in a compact form. Both are capable of brewing third wave specialty coffee, so consider your daily routine and espresso goals when deciding.
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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