Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus depends on your priorities for home espresso brewing. Both machines promise third wave specialty coffee, but they differ in features, size, and speed. Here’s an honest, detailed comparison to help you decide which fits your lifestyle and coffee preferences.
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In this comparison, I’ll cover their key specs, usability, and overall value based on real-world testing and product details.
Key Takeaways
| Speed of Heating | Bambino Plus heats faster with ThermoJet, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has an integrated grinder, giving more control over grind size. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, perfect for smaller kitchens. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers faster setup and operation for beginners. |
| Extraction Control | Both feature low-pressure pre-infusion for balanced flavor. |
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At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Boiler Type: Thermo-block
- ✔ Pump Pressure: 15 bar
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Heat System: ThermoJet
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
- ✔ Milk Frothing: Automatic with adjustable steam
Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR is ideal for those who want an all-in-one machine with a built-in grinder. It offers precise dosing and a range of manual controls, making it suitable for coffee lovers eager to refine their barista skills. Its size is larger, but it’s worth it for the customization options.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Precise espresso control
- Customizable brew settings
- All-in-one convenience
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Longer heat-up time
- More complex to operate
Best for: Home baristas seeking control and grind customization
Not ideal for: Kitchens with limited space or for quick, casual coffee.
Bottom line: A versatile espresso machine perfect for control-focused users.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus is designed for speed and simplicity. Its ThermoJet heating system achieves optimal temperature in just 3 seconds, making it perfect for busy mornings. While it lacks an integrated grinder, it pairs well with external grinders for streamlined use and delivers cafe-quality espresso quickly.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact size
- Easy to operate
- Consistent temperature control
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less manual control
- Smaller water reservoir
Best for: Users who prioritize speed and ease of use over customization
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting detailed grind control or manual brewing.
Bottom line: A compact, fast espresso machine ideal for quick, quality cups.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heating Speed | Slower, takes minutes | Around 3 seconds |
| Size | Larger, more countertop space needed | Compact and space-saving |
| Manual Control | More customizable | Less manual control |
| Frothing | Manual steam wand | Automatic steam with adjustable milk temperature |
| Speed of Setup | Longer | Very quick |
The Verdict
Choose the Breville Barista Express if you desire control and customization; go for Bambino Plus if speed and simplicity matter more.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Barista Express more engaging but also more involved to set up and master. The Bambino Plus was impressively quick to heat and easy to operate, making it perfect for busy mornings. Both machines delivered excellent espresso, but each caters to different user preferences.
Deep Dive into Features
The Barista Express offers a built-in conical burr grinder and more manual control over brewing parameters, which makes it suitable for enthusiasts. Its larger size means it fits better in dedicated coffee spaces but requires more countertop room. The Bambino Plus, with its ThermoJet system, heats faster and is incredibly compact—ideal for those who want a straightforward machine that produces great espresso quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Barista Express?
Yes, the Barista Express has a bypass chute that allows you to use pre-ground coffee if you prefer not to grind beans every time.
Does the Bambino Plus include a milk frother?
Yes, it features an automatic steam wand with adjustable milk temperature for easy frothing.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly due to its fast heat-up and automatic functions, while the Barista Express offers more manual control for those eager to learn barista techniques.
Can I upgrade the grinder on the Bambino Plus?
Since the Bambino Plus does not have a built-in grinder, you can pair it with an external grinder of your choice for freshly ground coffee.
Finding Your Perfect Espresso Companion
Both the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus excel at delivering quality espresso at home but cater to different needs. The Express appeals to those wanting control, customization, and a comprehensive all-in-one setup. The Bambino Plus is ideal for users who value speed, simplicity, and a compact footprint. Consider your space, skill level, and how involved you want to be in the brewing process to choose the right machine for your coffee journey.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
