Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus depends on your coffee goals and space. Both machines promise third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ in features, size, and speed. In this comparison, I’ll break down their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which fits your coffee routine best.
Whether you want a full-featured espresso setup or a compact machine with quick heat-up, this guide covers what you need to know before making your purchase.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heat-Up | Bambino Plus heats faster thanks to ThermoJet, while Barista Pro offers more control with its digital temperature system. |
| Built-in Grinder | Both have dose control grinding, but the Barista Pro includes a more integrated grinder with finer adjustments. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small kitchens; Barista Pro is larger but offers more features. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus is simpler with fewer controls, perfect for beginners; Barista Pro offers more customization. |
| Price & Value | Bambino Plus generally costs less, but the Barista Pro provides more advanced features for serious espresso enthusiasts. |
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
- ✔ Color: Black Truffle
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
- ✔ Display: Digital
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Color: Black Stainless Steel
- ✔ Frothing: Automatic
- ✔ Heat-Up Time: 3 seconds
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 Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express excels if you’re looking for a feature-rich machine with precise control and a built-in grinder. Its larger size and advanced features make it ideal for those who want to refine their barista skills at home.
Pros:
- Integrated conical burr grinder
- Precise temperature control
- Pre-infusion for flavor extraction
- Customizable settings
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Slower heat-up time
- More complex to operate
Best for: Home baristas who want professional-grade espresso and aren’t limited by space.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or casual users seeking quick, simple espresso.
Bottom line: A powerful, feature-packed machine for dedicated espresso lovers.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus is designed for quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss. Its fast ThermoJet heating system means you’re ready to brew in just a few seconds, making it perfect for busy mornings and small kitchens.
Pros:
- Faster heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact size
- Automatic milk frothing
- Good value for entry-level users
Cons:
- Less control over grind and temperature
- Fewer customization options
- Smaller water tank
Best for: Beginners or those who want quick, reliable espresso without much setup.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas seeking advanced features or detailed control.
Bottom line: A compact, fast, and easy-to-use espresso machine for casual brewing.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, integrated conical burr | No, dose control only |
| Heat-Up Time | Approx. 3 seconds | Around 3-4 seconds |
| Size | Larger, 13.2 x 12.5 x 16.5 in | Smaller, 12 x 7.7 x 12.6 in |
| Control Options | Full digital controls | Simpler interface |
| Frothing | Manual steam wand | Automatic milk frother |
| Water Tank Capacity | 67 oz | 64 oz |
The Verdict
Both machines suit different needs: the Barista Pro is great for enthusiasts wanting control and customization, while the Bambino Plus appeals to beginners or those who prioritize speed and convenience.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Barista Pro to be more hands-on, requiring some learning but delivering excellent control over shot quality. The Bambino Plus was remarkably quick to heat and easy to operate, making it perfect for mornings when time is limited. Both machines produce great espresso, but your choice depends on your skill level and how much effort you want to put into brewing.
Deeper Analysis of Features and Performance
The Barista Pro’s digital temperature control and precision grinder give it an edge for those who want to fine-tune every shot, but it also demands more setup and cleaning. Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus’s ThermoJet system makes it almost instant to start brewing, which is ideal for busy households. Both machines include pre-infusion for better flavor extraction, but the Barista Pro’s larger size means it can handle larger volumes and more complex routines.Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more suitable for beginners due to its simplicity, quick heat-up, and automatic milk frothing.
Can I make latte art with both machines?
Yes, both have steam wands capable of frothing milk for latte art, but the Bambino Plus’s automatic frother makes it easier for beginners.
How easy is cleaning and maintenance?
Both machines require regular cleaning; the Barista Pro’s integrated grinder needs more attention, while the Bambino Plus’s simpler design makes cleaning straightforward.
Is the water tank size sufficient?
Both have similar capacities—around 64-67 oz—which is usually enough for multiple drinks before refilling.
Finding Your Perfect Espresso Companion
If you’re serious about mastering espresso and enjoy customizing your drinks, the Breville Barista Pro offers the advanced features and control needed. However, if you want a fast, reliable machine that’s easy to operate right out of the box, the Bambino Plus is an excellent choice. Consider your space, skill level, and how much time you want to spend on brewing to pick the best fit for your home coffee setup.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
