Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and the Bambino Plus depends on your brewing priorities and space considerations. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ significantly in size, features, and speed.
In this comparison, I’ll break down their key features, usability, and value to help you decide which machine fits your coffee routine best.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heat Up Time | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to its ThermoJet system. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has an integrated grinder; Bambino Plus requires a separate grinder. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small kitchens. |
| Ease of Use | Both machines are user-friendly, but the Bambino Plus is simpler for quick espresso. |
| Customization & Control | Express offers more control with dose adjustment and pre-infusion. |
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality coffee at home
- All-in-One Espresso Machine: Includes integrated grinder for convenience
- Fast Bean to Espresso: Brews in under one minute
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At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Color: Black Truffle
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Color: Black Stainless Steel
- ✔ Wattage: 1600W
- ✔ Setup: Plug and play
Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Barista Express offers a full-featured experience with its integrated conical burr grinder and precise dose control, making it perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their espresso. Its larger size suits dedicated coffee lovers, but it takes longer to heat up and brew.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder for fresh beans
- Full control over grind and extraction
- Durable build quality
- Great for experimenting with coffee
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up
- Larger footprint
- More complex setup
Best for: Coffee lovers who want hands-on control and fresh grinding.
Not ideal for: Limited countertop space or those preferring quick, simple espresso.
Bottom line: A versatile, feature-rich machine for serious coffee enthusiasts.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus is perfect for those who want a sleek, fast, and straightforward espresso machine. Its ThermoJet heating system achieves optimal temperature in about 3 seconds, making it great for busy mornings. While it lacks built-in grinding, its performance is impressive for its size.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact footprint fits small kitchens
- Simple to use with automatic steam wand
- Consistent espresso quality
Cons:
- No integrated grinder
- Less customizable than Express
- Limited control over grind size
Best for: Home users seeking quick, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting full control or integrated grinding.
Bottom line: A compact, fast machine ideal for quick, quality espresso at home.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Build & Design | Larger with integrated grinder | Smaller, sleek, no grinder |
| Heat-up Time | Longer, around 30 seconds to a minute | About 3 seconds with ThermoJet |
| Control | Full manual controls and dose adjustment | Simpler with automatic steam and shot controls |
| Size | Larger footprint | Compact and space-saving |
| Customization | More options for grind size, dose, pre-infusion | Limited customization, focus on ease |
| Price Range | Higher, reflecting features | More affordable |
The Verdict
If you’re a serious coffee enthusiast wanting full control and fresh grinding, the Barista Express is your pick. For those who prefer quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss and space, the Bambino Plus is ideal.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Express required more setup and time, but the control over grind and extraction was rewarding. The Bambino Plus was a breeze to get started with, heating up almost instantly and producing excellent espresso with little effort. Both deliver great results, but their workflows differ significantly.
Feature Deep Dive
The Barista Express’s integrated grinder allows for freshly ground beans, giving you maximum flavor control. Its larger size can be a concern if space is limited, but it compensates with more manual options for brewing. The Bambino Plus, with its ThermoJet system, heats up lightning fast, making it perfect for quick mornings or small kitchens. Its automatic steam wand simplifies milk frothing, but it lacks the same level of customization as the Express.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus requires a separate grinder since it does not include one internally.
How long does it take for each machine to heat up?
The Express takes about 30 seconds to a minute, while the Bambino Plus’s ThermoJet system heats in roughly 3 seconds.
Can I adjust the grind size on the Bambino Plus?
No, since it doesn’t have an integrated grinder, you’ll need to adjust the grind on your separate grinder.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly due to its quick heat-up and automated features, but the Express offers more control for those willing to learn.
Which Machine Fits Your Coffee Lifestyle?
Both the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus are excellent choices for home espresso, but they serve different needs. If you love experimenting with grind settings and want a machine that grows with your skills, the Express is the way to go. On the other hand, if speed, convenience, and space-saving design matter most, the Bambino Plus will serve you well. Consider your priorities and space constraints to choose the perfect fit for your coffee routine.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
