Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus depends on your coffee priorities, space, and experience level. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ in features, speed, and size.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their key aspects, strengths, and ideal users to help you make an informed decision suited to your coffee lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats faster with ThermoJet, making it quicker to start brewing. |
| Size | Bambino Plus has a more compact footprint, ideal for smaller kitchens. |
| Grinder | Both have dose control grinding; Barista Pro’s integrated grinder is more advanced. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers faster heat-up and simpler operation, great for beginners. |
| Customization | Barista Pro provides more detailed control over grind size and extraction. |
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
- ✔ Power: 1680W
- ✔ Display: Digital temperature controls
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Heat-up Time: 3 seconds
- ✔ Milk Frothing: Automatic steam wand
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 oz
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 BES870BTR offers a premium experience with its integrated conical burr grinder and precise temperature control. It’s ideal for those who want greater control over their espresso quality and are willing to spend more time on setup and brewing.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control
- Customizable grind size and dose
- Balanced water pressure system
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Longer heat-up time
- Steeper learning curve
Best for: Experienced home baristas wanting full control over their espresso shot.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users seeking quick, effortless coffee.
Bottom line: A versatile machine for those who want detailed control and quality.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus is designed for speed and simplicity, featuring the ThermoJet heating system that achieves optimal temperature in just 3 seconds. It’s perfect for users who want café-quality espresso without extensive setup or learning curves.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact size
- User-friendly interface
- Consistent espresso quality
Cons:
- Less customizable
- Built-in grinder is not included
- Limited control over extraction parameters
Best for: Beginners or those with limited space seeking quick, quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas wanting detailed control and customization.
Bottom line: Great for quick, quality espresso in a compact, easy-to-use form.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Grinder | Yes, precise conical burr | No, separate purchase needed |
| Heat-up Time | Longer, around 3 minutes | 3 seconds with ThermoJet |
| Size | 13.3×12.5×16.5 inches | 12.5x12x12 inches |
| Control | Advanced customization | Simpler, user-friendly |
| Ideal User | Experienced baristas | Beginners or small kitchens |
| Price Range | Higher, premium build | More affordable |
The Verdict
If you’re serious about espresso and want maximum control, the Barista Pro is your choice. For quick, quality coffee without fuss, the Bambino Plus excels.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Barista Pro offers a more engaging experience—adjusting grind size and pressure felt rewarding once dialed in. The Bambino Plus was incredibly quick to heat up and brew, perfect for busy mornings and small kitchens.
Design and Space
The Bambino Plus has a smaller footprint, making it ideal for kitchens with limited space. The Barista Pro, while larger, offers a more robust build and integrated grinder for those who value customization.
Ease of Use and Speed
The Bambino Plus heats up in just 3 seconds thanks to ThermoJet, allowing you to brew faster. The Barista Pro takes about 3 minutes to reach optimal temperature but provides more control over the brewing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both machines have built-in grinders?
Only the Breville Barista Pro has an integrated conical burr grinder. The Bambino Plus requires a separate grinder.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly due to its quick heat-up and simpler interface, while the Barista Pro offers more customization for those willing to learn.
Can I make milk-based drinks with both?
Yes, both machines feature steam wands, but the Bambino Plus has automatic steaming, making it easier for beginners.
How important is size for a small kitchen?
The Bambino Plus’s compact size makes it a better fit for smaller spaces, while the Barista Pro’s larger footprint provides more features and control.
Which Breville Machine Fits Your Coffee Lifestyle?
Deciding between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus ultimately depends on your priorities. If you seek professional control and enjoy experimenting with your espresso, the Barista Pro delivers excellent customization and quality. However, if quick setup, speed, and space-saving design are more important, the Bambino Plus is a fantastic choice for everyday espresso at home.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
