Choosing the right espresso machine can be challenging with so many options. The Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus are both excellent choices, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this comparison, I’ll break down their features, performance, and suitability to help you decide which one fits your coffee routine best.
Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ in speed, size, and some key functionalities. Let’s look closer at what each offers and see which one stands out for your brewing style.
Key Takeaways
| Setup & Speed | The Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet, while the Express takes longer but offers more customization. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has an integrated conical burr grinder for beans-to-espresso convenience; Bambino Plus relies on pre-ground or separate grinder. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus has a more compact design, ideal for small kitchens; Express is larger with more features. |
| Performance & Control | Express offers more manual control and customization; Bambino Plus provides faster results with automatic features. |
| Price & Value | Both include free coffee, but the Express’s additional features justify a higher price point. |
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At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Color: Black Truffle
- ✔ Grinder: Integrated conical burr
- ✔ Heating System: ThermoBlock
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Color: Black Stainless Steel
- ✔ Frothing: Automatic milk frothing
- ✔ Heat-up Time: 3 seconds
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Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Barista Express is ideal if you enjoy hands-on brewing with adjustable settings, and its integrated grinder makes it a true all-in-one machine. It’s perfect for those who want a more involved experience and finer control over their espresso shots.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Manual control for extraction
- Durable build quality
- All-in-one convenience
Cons:
- Longer heat-up time
- Larger footprint
- Requires more skill to master
Best for: Enthusiasts who want a customizable, bean-to-cup experience.
Not ideal for: Those seeking quick, push-button results or limited space.
Bottom line: The Barista Express is perfect for those who want hands-on control and quality brewing at home.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus is designed for speed and simplicity, making it ideal for busy mornings. Its rapid ThermoJet heating system allows for quick shots, and its automatic features make it accessible for beginners and casual users alike.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Automatic milk frothing
- Compact size
- Intuitive controls
Cons:
- Lacks built-in grinder
- Less manual control
- Smaller water reservoir
Best for: Users seeking quick, convenient espresso with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts wanting detailed control or grinder built-in.
Bottom line: The Bambino Plus is excellent for busy households that want quality espresso fast and easy.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, integrated burr grinder | No, relies on pre-ground or separate grinder |
| Heat-up Time | Around 30 seconds | 3 seconds with ThermoJet |
| Size | Larger, more substantial | Compact and space-saving |
| Control Type | Manual with digital controls | Automatic with simple interface |
| Customization | High, manual adjustments | Limited, focus on ease of use |
| Price Range | Higher, premium features | More affordable for everyday use |
The Verdict
If you want full control and a bean-to-cup experience, the Barista Express is your best choice. For quick, consistent results in a small footprint, the Bambino Plus is ideal.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Express rewarding but a bit more involved to operate, especially with its manual grind and shot timing. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was quick to heat up and produce great shots with minimal effort, making it perfect for mornings when I needed caffeine fast.
Deeper Analysis
The Barista Express offers more control with its integrated grinder and manual features, making it appealing for espresso enthusiasts. Its larger size can be a drawback for small kitchens, but it rewards users who enjoy crafting their perfect shot. Conversely, the Bambino Plus focuses on speed and simplicity, with a sleek, compact design and automatic milk frothing, ideal for everyday convenience without sacrificing quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Breville Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus does not have a built-in grinder and requires pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder.
Which machine heats faster?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, whereas the Barista Express takes around 30 seconds.
Can I manually control the shot timing on both machines?
The Barista Express offers manual control for shot timing, while the Bambino Plus automates much of the process for ease of use.
Is the Bambino Plus suitable for beginners?
Yes, its automatic features and quick setup make it great for beginners looking for quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Which Breville is Right for You?
If you enjoy hands-on brewing and want to customize every shot, the Barista Express provides the tools and control you need. However, if you’re after fast, convenient espresso with less manual effort, the Bambino Plus is a fantastic choice for busy mornings and small spaces. Consider your level of experience, space, and how involved you want your brewing process to be when choosing between these two excellent machines.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
