Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and the Bambino Plus depends on your specific coffee needs and space. Both machines deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they cater to slightly different preferences and budgets.
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In this comparison, we’ll explore their key features, performance, and suitability to help you decide which espresso machine fits your lifestyle best.
Key Takeaways
| Setup & Speed | Bambino Plus heats faster with ThermoJet, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Grinding & Precision | Express offers integrated dose control grinding for customizable beans. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, perfect for limited space. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus simplifies operation with faster heat-up and intuitive controls. |
| Price & Value | Both include free coffee bags; Express provides more customization options. |
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Grinder: Integrated conical burr
- ✔ Size: Large footprint
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Heat-up Time: 3 seconds
- ✔ Size: Small footprint
- ✔ Control: Automatic milk frothing
Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express is a robust, feature-rich espresso machine with integrated grinder, making it ideal for those who want control over their coffee. It’s slightly larger but offers more detailed adjustments for brewing and grinding. It’s perfect for enthusiasts who love experimenting with different beans and techniques.
Pros:
- Integrated conical burr grinder for freshness
- Precise dose control for tailored shots
- Low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction
- All-in-one design for convenience
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up and brew
- Larger footprint may not suit small kitchens
- More complex setup for beginners
Best for: Coffee lovers seeking full control and customization
Not ideal for: Those needing a quick, space-saving espresso solution
Bottom line: A versatile espresso machine suited for enthusiasts who want control over every shot.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus excels in speed and simplicity, with a faster heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet system. It’s designed for users who want great coffee with minimal fuss and a small footprint that fits comfortably in tight spaces. Its automatic steam wand makes milk frothing straightforward.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Simple interface for quick operation
- Compact size ideal for small kitchens
- Automatic steam wand for milk
Cons:
- Limited customization compared to Express
- Smaller water tank (64 oz)
- Less control over grind and dose
Best for: Busy individuals seeking quick, quality espresso
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting full control over brewing parameters
Bottom line: A compact, fast machine perfect for everyday espresso without fuss.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Grinding System | Integrated conical burr grinder | No grinder, uses ground coffee |
| Speed to Brew | Slower due to detailed adjustments | Fast with ThermoJet system |
| Size | Larger, 13.2 x 12 x 16.5 inches | Smaller, 12 x 7.7 x 12 inches |
| Ease of Use | More controls, suited for enthusiasts | Simpler, ideal for quick use |
| Frothing | Manual steam wand | Automatic/manual wand |
| Price Range | Higher, reflecting more features | More affordable, compact design |
The Verdict
Pick the Breville Barista Express if you want maximum control and customization. Choose the Bambino Plus for fast, simple, and space-efficient espresso making.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Express felt more engaging to use, especially during setup and dialing in shots. The integrated grinder really makes a difference in freshness. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, impressed me with how quickly it heated up and how easy milk frothing was, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Deep Dive into Features
The Barista Express offers extensive control over grind size, dose, and temperature. Its built-in grinder ensures maximum freshness, but it requires more effort to master. The Bambino Plus simplifies this with preset options and a faster heat-up time, making it more accessible for beginners or those in a hurry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is better for espresso quality?
Both deliver third wave specialty coffee, but the Express with its precise control may produce more nuanced shots.
Is the Bambino Plus suitable for advanced users?
While it’s great for quick results, advanced users might find the limited customization less appealing.
How important is size for a home setup?
If space is limited, the Bambino Plus’s compact design makes it a better fit.
Does the built-in grinder in the Express make a big difference?
Yes, it ensures maximum freshness and allows for better control over grind size and dose.
Which Espresso Machine Fits Your Coffee Routine?
Ultimately, your choice depends on how much control you want versus convenience. The Breville Barista Express is perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting and customizing their shots. Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus offers quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss, ideal for busy mornings or smaller kitchens. Both are excellent machines that will elevate your home coffee experience—pick the one that best matches your lifestyle and preferences.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
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