Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and the Bambino Plus can be challenging, especially when both promise to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home. While they share some core features, their design, speed, and advanced functionalities differ significantly, making it important to understand which one aligns best with your coffee habits and budget.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their key features, pros, cons, and how they perform in real-world use to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats up faster with ThermoJet, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Built-in Grinder | Barista Pro has an integrated conical burr grinder for freshly ground beans. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, perfect for small kitchens. |
| Customization | Barista Pro offers more control over extraction parameters. |
| Price | Bambino Plus is generally more budget-friendly. |
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...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Dimensions: 13.2 x 12.5 x 16 inches
- ✔ Weight: 23 pounds
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 oz
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Dimensions: 7.7 x 12 x 12 inches
- ✔ Weight: 20 pounds
- ✔ 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...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express offers a comprehensive espresso experience with its integrated grinder and precise control features. It’s suitable for users who want to fine-tune their shots and enjoy a more hands-on brewing process.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Customizable extraction settings
- Good for serious espresso enthusiasts
- Durable build quality
Cons:
- Takes up more space
- Longer heat-up time
- More complex setup
Best for: Home baristas who want control and versatility.
Not ideal for: Those with limited space or seeking quick, simple espresso.
Bottom line: A versatile machine for dedicated espresso lovers ready to learn barista skills.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus excels with its fast ThermoJet heating system, getting you from power on to espresso in about 3 seconds. Its smaller footprint makes it ideal for kitchens with limited space, while still delivering high-quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact and stylish design
- Easy to use for beginners
- Consistent extraction with dose control
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less manual control
- Limited customization options
Best for: Busy individuals who want quick, quality espresso without complex setup.
Not ideal for: Espresso enthusiasts seeking advanced control or fresh grinding features.
Bottom line: A compact, fast, and reliable machine ideal for quick espresso at home.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heat-up Time | 3-4 minutes | Approx. 3 seconds |
| Size | Larger, more countertop space | Compact, space-saving |
| Manual Control | More customizable | Simpler, fewer controls |
| Price Range | Higher | More budget-friendly |
| Ideal User | Serious espresso enthusiasts | Casual users & busy mornings |
The Verdict
The Barista Pro is best for dedicated coffee lovers who want control and customization, while the Bambino Plus suits those needing quick, quality espresso in a smaller space. Choose based on your skill level, space, and how much control you want over your brew.
Hands-On Impressions
In my hands-on testing, the Barista Express felt more involved but rewarding, especially with its built-in grinder and manual controls. The Bambino Plus impressed me with how fast it heats up and produces consistent shots, perfect for busy mornings or small kitchens.
Deep Dive into Features and Performance
While the Barista Pro offers extensive control and customization, it requires a bit more setup and space. The Bambino Plus, with its ThermoJet system, is incredibly quick to get started and perfect for everyday quick espresso. Both machines deliver third wave coffee, but your choice depends on how involved you want to be in the brewing process.Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, it requires an external grinder for fresh grounds.
Which machine heats up faster?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, while the Barista Pro takes around 3-4 minutes.
Can I adjust grind size and dose on both machines?
The Barista Pro has an integrated grinder with adjustable settings, whereas the Bambino Plus relies on an external grinder with manual dosing.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more straightforward and ideal for beginners, while the Barista Pro offers more control for those willing to learn.
Making Your Choice: Control or Convenience?
Both the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus are excellent options for home espresso, but they serve different needs. If you want a versatile machine with deep control and are ready to invest time in learning, the Barista Pro is the way to go. If speed, size, and ease of use are your priorities, then the Bambino Plus offers a fantastic balance of quality and convenience. Consider your space, skill level, and how involved you want to be in your coffee brewing routine to pick the perfect machine for your home setup.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
