Choosing the right espresso machine can be challenging, especially when both the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus offer impressive features for home baristas. While they share some common traits like third wave coffee and precise extraction, their differences in size, speed, and setup make each ideal for different users.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their key features, usability, and performance to help you decide which machine aligns best with your coffee habits and space constraints.
Key Takeaways
| Speed of Heating | The Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to its ThermoJet system. |
| Built-in Grinder | The Barista Pro has an integrated conical burr grinder for fresher grounds. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for smaller spaces. |
| Control & Customization | Barista Pro offers more precise control with digital temperature and grind settings. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus provides simplified operation with fewer adjustments. |
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
- ✔ Weight: 23.8 lbs
- ✔ Water Capacity: 67 oz
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 19.8 lbs
- ✔ Water Capacity: 64 oz
- ✔ Power: 1600W
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 Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Barista Express offers advanced features like dose control grinding and digital temperature control, making it suitable for enthusiasts who want more control over their espresso. Its larger size and more complex setup may require a learning curve, but it rewards dedicated users with cafe-quality results.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Precise digital controls
- Balanced extraction with pre-infusion
- All-in-one setup
Cons:
- Heavier and larger footprint
- Longer warm-up time
- More complex to operate
Best for: Serious coffee lovers who want café-grade espresso at home with full control.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or beginners who prefer simplicity.
Bottom line: A powerful, feature-rich machine for passionate home baristas.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus stands out with its fast ThermoJet heating system, allowing it to reach optimal temperature quickly. Its simplified interface and smaller size make it perfect for users who want excellent espresso without fuss, especially in limited space or for quick mornings.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact and stylish
- Easy to operate
- Full flavor with 19g portafilter
Cons:
- No integrated grinder
- Less control over extraction parameters
- Smaller water reservoir
Best for: Busy individuals who want quick, quality espresso with minimal setup.
Not ideal for: Those seeking advanced customization or grinder integration.
Bottom line: A sleek, fast espresso machine ideal for space-conscious users.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Time | Longer with traditional boiler | Faster with ThermoJet |
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Size | Larger, more robust | Compact and space-saving |
| Control | More manual controls | Simplified, automatic |
| Customization | High, with digital controls | Limited, more straightforward |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts and prosumer | Casual users and busy mornings |
The Verdict
The Barista Pro is best for dedicated coffee lovers who want maximum control, while the Bambino Plus suits those seeking quick, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Hands-On Impressions
In my experience, setting up the Barista Pro was straightforward but required some initial learning to master the grinder and control features. The Bambino Plus was ready to go almost immediately, and I appreciated its quick heat-up time for busy mornings. Both machines produced excellent espresso, but the Barista Pro offered more depth and customization for those who enjoy experimenting.
Deep Dive into Features
The Barista Pro provides precise digital temperature control, dose control grinding, and an integrated grinder, making it ideal for users who want to fine-tune every shot. In contrast, the Bambino Plus’s ThermoJet system allows it to reach the right temperature in just 3 seconds, and its simple interface is perfect for quick, consistent results without fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Barista Pro have a built-in grinder?
Yes, it features an integrated conical burr grinder that grinds on demand for maximum freshness.
Can the Bambino Plus be used without a grinder?
Yes, it requires a separate grinder since it does not have a built-in grinder, but it accepts a 54mm portafilter for cafe-quality brewing.
Which machine is faster to heat up?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, while the Barista Pro takes longer due to its traditional boiler setup.
Is one machine easier to operate than the other?
Yes, the Bambino Plus has a simpler, more intuitive interface, making it more suitable for beginners, whereas the Barista Pro offers more customization options for experienced users.
Choosing the Right Espresso Machine for Your Home Coffee Ritual
Both the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus are excellent options, but they cater to different needs. If you’re passionate about crafting your perfect espresso and enjoy experimenting with settings, the Barista Pro offers superior control and integrated features. Conversely, if you want a quick, reliable, and space-efficient machine that still delivers café-quality coffee, the Bambino Plus is a smart, value-packed choice.
Ultimately, your selection should depend on your level of coffee enthusiasm, available space, and how much time you want to invest in coffee making. Either way, both machines promise a high-quality espresso experience at home.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
