Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus depends on your specific espresso needs and space considerations. Both machines are designed for home use and deliver third wave specialty coffee, but they differ in features, size, and speed.
This comparison will break down the key aspects of each model, helping you decide which fits your brewing style and kitchen setup better.
Key Takeaways
| Speed of Heating | Bambino Plus heats faster with its ThermoJet system. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has an integrated conical burr grinder for convenience. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for smaller kitchens. |
| Extraction Control | Both use low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers faster setup and operation with less fuss. |
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
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Steam Wand: Yes
- ✔ Built-in Grinder: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Steam Wand: Yes
- ✔ Heating System: ThermoJet
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 Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express is a versatile all-in-one espresso machine with an integrated grinder, making it ideal for those who want full control over their brewing process. Its dose control and pre-infusion features help craft balanced espresso shots, though it requires a bit more setup and space.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh beans
- Precise dose control and temperature management
- All-in-one design saves counter space
- Good for enthusiasts wanting control
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up and brew
- Bulkier size may not suit small kitchens
- Requires more cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Home baristas who want full control over coffee brewing
Not ideal for: Users seeking a quick, space-saving machine without fuss
Bottom line: A feature-rich machine perfect for dedicated home espresso enthusiasts.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus offers a fast heat-up time with its ThermoJet system and a straightforward interface, making it perfect for busy mornings. It features a 54mm portafilter with 19 grams for cafe-quality flavor, and its smaller footprint suits smaller kitchens or limited counter space.
Pros:
- Faster heat-up and ready in seconds
- Compact, space-efficient design
- Good temperature stability with ThermoJet
- Simple operation for beginners
Cons:
- Lacks built-in grinder, requires pre-ground coffee
- Less manual control over dosing
- Limited customization options
Best for: Users who want quick, consistent espresso with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking detailed control and grinder integration
Bottom line: A compact, fast, and reliable espresso machine for everyday use.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heat-up Time | Longer | Seconds |
| Size | Larger | Compact |
| Manual Control | More | Less |
| Price Range | Higher | Moderate |
| Ideal Use | Enthusiasts | Quick mornings |
The Verdict
If you prioritize detailed control and a built-in grinder, the Barista Express is your best bet. For fast, simple, and space-saving espresso, the Bambino Plus shines.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Express felt more involved but rewarding, especially with the built-in grinder and manual options. The Bambino Plus impressed with its speed and ease of use, making it perfect for busy mornings. Both machines produce excellent espresso once dialed in, but their setups cater to different user preferences.
Design and User Experience
The Bambino Plus excels in compactness and simplicity, with quick heat-up times and easy operation, ideal for newcomers or limited space. The Barista Express, while bulkier, offers more manual control and customization, appealing to those who enjoy tinkering with their brew process.Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Breville Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus requires pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder, unlike the Express which features an integrated conical burr grinder.
Which machine is faster to heat up?
The Bambino Plus uses the ThermoJet heating system, achieving optimal temperature in seconds, whereas the Express takes a few extra minutes.
Is manual control better on the Express?
Yes, the Express allows for more precise control over grind size, dose, and pre-infusion, giving experienced users more flexibility.
Which machine is more suitable for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is generally easier for beginners due to its faster setup, fewer manual controls, and straightforward operation.
Which Breville Machine Fits Your Coffee Lifestyle?
Both the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus are excellent choices for home espresso enthusiasts, but they serve different needs. The Express offers more control and a built-in grinder for those willing to invest time in brewing, while the Bambino Plus provides speed, simplicity, and a smaller footprint for everyday convenience. Consider your space, skill level, and how involved you want your brewing process to be when choosing between them.
Whichever you pick, both machines deliver quality espresso and bring professional results into your home kitchen, making your coffee routine more enjoyable and satisfying.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
