Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus depends on your espresso goals and space. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ in features, size, and speed.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their key differences, advantages, and ideal users to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heat-up Time | Bambino Plus heats up faster with ThermoJet, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has a built-in conical burr grinder, offering more convenience. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, perfect for small kitchens. |
| Customization & Control | Express offers more manual control over grinding and extraction. |
| Price & Value | Both offer great value, but Express’s features justify its higher price. |
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality coffee 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
- ✔ Size: 13 x 12 x 16 inches
- ✔ Weight: 23.8 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Size: 7.7 x 12 x 12 inches
- ✔ Weight: 10.4 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville BES500BST Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Black Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Delivers professional-quality espresso at home
- Compact Design: Faster, space-saving espresso machine
- Dose Control Grinding: Consistent, balanced espresso with 19g dose
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Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express is a versatile machine that combines a built-in grinder with precise espresso extraction features. It’s well-suited for those who want to experiment and customize their coffee experience.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for convenience
- More manual control
- Good for learning espresso craft
- Sturdy build quality
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up
- Larger footprint
- Higher price
Best for: Home baristas seeking control and customization
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users wanting quick espresso with minimal fuss
Bottom line: A great choice for hands-on coffee lovers who want control and quality.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus excels in speed and simplicity, heating up rapidly with its ThermoJet system. It’s ideal for users who want café-quality espresso without extensive setup or space.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact footprint
- Easy to use
- Good for quick mornings
Cons:
- Less manual control
- Fewer customization options
- No built-in grinder
Best for: Busy individuals wanting quick, quality espresso
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking extensive control or grinding options
Bottom line: A sleek, fast machine perfect for daily espresso on a tight schedule.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, for convenience | No, ground coffee only |
| Heat-up Time | Longer, around 30 seconds | Fast, 3 seconds with ThermoJet |
| Size | Larger, takes more counter space | Compact footprint |
| Control | Manual and programmable | Simplified, automatic |
| Price | Higher, reflects added features | More budget-friendly |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts and learners | Everyday quick espresso drinkers |
The Verdict
For those who want control, customization, and don’t mind a larger machine, the Barista Express is the way to go. If speed, space, and simplicity are your priorities, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Barista Express rewarding but slightly cumbersome for daily use, especially during busy mornings. The built-in grinder and manual controls give a more authentic experience. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, heats up instantly and produces consistent shots with minimal fuss, making it perfect for quick, quality coffee.
Deeper Analysis of Features
The Barista Express provides a full-featured experience with its integrated grinder and manual controls, ideal for those wanting to learn and adjust their brewing process. Its larger size and longer heat-up time are trade-offs for customization. The Bambino Plus, with its rapid ThermoJet heating system and compact design, sacrifices some control but excels in speed and convenience, making it a great choice for busy households.Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Barista Express include a grinder?
Yes, it has an integrated conical burr grinder that allows for on-demand grinding.
Which machine heats up faster?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, whereas the Express takes longer.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Express?
Yes, the Express has a portafilter that can be used with pre-ground coffee if you prefer.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more user-friendly with fewer controls, making it better for beginners seeking quick results.
Making the Right Choice for Your Coffee Routine
Deciding between the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus ultimately depends on your priorities. If you enjoy hands-on brewing, customization, and learning the craft, the Express offers unmatched control and versatility. For those who value speed, simplicity, and space-saving design, the Bambino Plus provides excellent café-quality espresso with minimal fuss. Consider your daily routine, space, and how much control you want over your coffee brewing process to choose the best fit.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
