Choosing the right espresso machine for home brewing can be challenging with so many options. The Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus are both popular choices, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this comparison, we’ll look at their features, performance, and suitability for different users to help you decide which one fits your coffee journey best.
Both machines promise third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ in size, speed, and functionality. Let’s dive into the details to see how they stack up.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats faster with ThermoJet. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has a more advanced grinder with dose control. |
| Size | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small spaces. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers quicker setup and operation. |
| Customization | Express provides more control over grind and extraction. |
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, 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
- ✔ Weight: 23.8 lbs
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 oz
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 20 lbs
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 oz
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville BES500BST Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Black Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews professional-quality espresso at home
- Fast, Compact Design: Part of Bambino Series for quick results
- Dose Control Grinding: Ensures consistent, balanced espresso
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Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express excels in offering detailed control over grind size, dose, and extraction, making it ideal for enthusiasts who want to fine-tune their espresso. Its integrated conical burr grinder and digital temperature control ensure a high-quality brew, though it requires a bit more setup and space.
Pros:
- Advanced dose control grinder
- Precise temperature management
- All-in-one design with grinder and espresso making
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Longer setup time
- More complex to operate
Best for: Coffee aficionados who enjoy customizing their espresso and have space for a versatile machine.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those needing a quick, compact setup.
Bottom line: A versatile machine for serious coffee lovers who want control.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus shines with its rapid heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet system, making it perfect for quick espresso shots. Its smaller footprint and straightforward operation make it suitable for those new to espresso making or with limited space. While it offers less customization than the Express, it still delivers cafe-quality coffee.
Pros:
- Faster heat-up
- Compact design
- Easy to use with minimal setup
- Good value for features
Cons:
- Less control over grind and extraction
- Built-in grinder is basic
- Limited customization options
Best for: Home users seeking quick, reliable espresso with minimal fuss, especially in tight spaces.
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting detailed control or grinding precision.
Bottom line: A fast, compact espresso machine ideal for busy mornings.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Larger, more feature-rich | Smaller, space-saving |
| Heat-up Time | Longer, manual | Faster with ThermoJet |
| Grinding | Integrated grinder with dose control | Basic dose control grinder |
| Customization | High, with precise control | Limited, more automated |
| Ease of Use | Requires some learning | User-friendly, quick setup |
| Price Range | Higher | More affordable |
The Verdict
For those who want detailed control and versatility, the Breville Barista Express is the better choice. If speed, convenience, and space are your priorities, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I appreciated how the Express allowed me to dial in my grind and temperature, giving me more control over my espresso. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was incredibly quick to heat and easy to operate, making it perfect for busy mornings. Both machines produce great espresso, but their workflows suit different types of users.
Deep Dive into Features
The Breville Barista Express offers a more comprehensive setup with its integrated grinder, digital temperature control, and manual options for adjusting grind size and dose. It’s designed for enthusiasts who want to experiment and perfect their espresso. The Bambino Plus, with its fast ThermoJet heating system, prioritizes speed and simplicity, making it ideal for quick cups without fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more user-friendly with its quick heat-up time and minimal setup, making it ideal for beginners.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with both machines?
Yes, both machines allow the use of pre-ground coffee, but they are optimized for using freshly ground beans for the best flavor.
How important is the grinder in these machines?
The integrated grinder in the Express provides more control over grind size and dose, which can impact espresso quality significantly.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus has a smaller footprint and is more suitable for limited space without sacrificing quality.
Find Your Perfect Brew Companion
Deciding between the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus depends on your priorities—whether you value control and customization or speed and convenience. The Express is a great investment for coffee lovers who want to fine-tune every shot, while the Bambino Plus appeals to those needing quick, high-quality espresso with less hassle. Both deliver excellent results, so think about your space, skill level, and how involved you want your brewing process to be.
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