Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus depends on your espresso goals and available space. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home but differ in features, size, and speed.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their design, performance, and suitability to help you decide which machine best fits your coffee routine and budget.
Key Takeaways
| Speed of Heating | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to its ThermoJet system. |
| Built-in Grinder | Barista Pro has an integrated conical burr grinder, while Bambino Plus does not. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small kitchens. |
| Ease of Use | Both machines offer pre-infusion and precise temperature control. |
| Price Point | Bambino Plus is generally more affordable, offering good value for beginners. |
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
- ✔ Boiler: Thermo-block
- ✔ Weight: 23 lbs
- ✔ Warranty: 1-year
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Boiler: ThermoJet
- ✔ Weight: 9.9 lbs
- ✔ Warranty: 1-year
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 Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR offers comprehensive features including a built-in grinder, digital temperature control, and dose control grinding. It’s perfect if you want a more hands-on experience and greater customization.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control
- Pre-infusion for flavor extraction
- All-in-one design
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Longer heat-up time
- More complex setup
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want a full-featured, versatile espresso setup at home.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those seeking quick, minimal setup.
Bottom line: Great choice for detailed brewing and customization.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus offers fast heat-up with its ThermoJet system and a 54mm porta-filter that handles 19 grams for cafe-quality shots. It’s designed for users who want speed without sacrificing espresso quality.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact size
- Ease of use
- Consistent extraction
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Limited customization
- Less control over grind size
Best for: Beginners or those with limited space seeking quick, quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas wanting advanced control or integrated grinding.
Bottom line: Ideal for fast, cafe-quality espresso at home with minimal fuss.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heat-up Time | Longer (~1 min) | Faster (~3 sec) |
| Size | Larger | Compact |
| Customization | High | Medium |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts & pros | Beginners & small kitchens |
| Price | Higher | More affordable |
The Verdict
Both machines excel in different areas: the Barista Pro offers extensive control and a built-in grinder, making it perfect for coffee enthusiasts. The Bambino Plus delivers quick, high-quality espresso with minimal setup, ideal for busy mornings or small spaces.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Barista Pro to be excellent for crafting detailed espresso shots, especially with its integrated grinder and precise temperature control. The Bambino Plus impressed me with how quickly it heated up and produced consistent results, making it perfect for daily use without fuss.
Deep Dive into Features
The Barista Express BES870BTR shines with its dose control grinding, digital temperature control, and pre-infusion, offering a highly customizable experience. It takes longer to heat up but rewards users with full control over their brew parameters. The Bambino Plus, with its ThermoJet system, heats up in about 3 seconds, allowing for quick shots, but it doesn’t include an integrated grinder, requiring external options for beans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus does not have a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to grind beans separately.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly due to its faster heat-up and simpler operation, while the Barista Pro offers more customization for those willing to learn.
Can I make milk-based drinks with both machines?
Yes, both machines feature steam wands suitable for frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos.
How long does each machine take to heat up?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, whereas the Barista Pro takes around 3-4 minutes.
Which Machine Fits Your Coffee Routine?
If you’re a coffee enthusiast who enjoys customizing every shot and values an integrated grinder, the Breville Barista Express BES870BTR is your best pick. However, if you need a quick, reliable, and space-saving machine for everyday espresso, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value and convenience. Consider your space, skill level, and how involved you want to be in brewing to choose the right fit.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
