Choosing the right espresso machine can be daunting, especially with options like the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus. Both are designed for home baristas aiming for professional-quality coffee but differ in features, size, and speed. In this comparison, we’ll examine their key aspects so you can decide which suits your needs best.
Whether you’re after a more feature-rich machine with an integrated grinder or a compact, fast-heating option, this guide covers the essentials to help you make an informed choice.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heating | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet, while the Barista Pro offers more control with its digital temp system. |
| Built-in Grinder | Barista Pro has an integrated conical burr grinder; Bambino Plus requires pre-ground coffee. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small kitchens; the Barista Pro is larger but offers more features. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus is simpler and quicker to set up; the Barista Pro offers more manual control. |
| Price Range | The Barista Pro generally costs more due to its advanced features and grinder. |
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 kg
- ✔ Dimensions: 12.5 x 12 x 14 inches
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 4.9 kg
- ✔ Dimensions: 7.7 x 12.2 x 12 inches
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
Breville BES500BST Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Black Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Delivers professional-quality espresso at home
- Compact Design: Faster, space-saving espresso machine
- Dose Control Grinding: Consistent, balanced espresso with 19g portafilter
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Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express is a versatile machine with a built-in grinder, making it ideal for those who want to customize their coffee. It offers precision control over grind size and dose, helping craft cafe-quality espresso at home.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for convenience
- Precise temperature control
- Pre-infusion feature enhances flavor
- All-in-one design
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- More complex setup
- Higher price point
Best for: Home baristas who want a feature-rich, customizable espresso experience.
Not ideal for: Someone looking for a quick, space-saving machine or beginner-friendly setup.
Bottom line: A powerful, versatile espresso machine for serious enthusiasts.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus excels in speed and simplicity, with a fast ThermoJet heating system that reaches optimal temperature rapidly. It features a 54mm porta-filter with 19 grams for full flavor extraction and is perfect for those with limited space or who prefer a straightforward setup.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact size
- Simple operation
- Good for small kitchens
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less manual control
- Limited customization
Best for: Busy individuals seeking quick, cafe-quality espresso without fuss.
Not ideal for: Advanced users wanting extensive control or built-in grinder.
Bottom line: A compact, fast-heating machine perfect for quick, quality espresso.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heat-Up Time | Approx. 30 seconds | Approx. 3 seconds |
| Size | Larger, 12.5 x 12 x 14 inches | Compact, 7.7 x 12.2 x 12 inches |
| Control Options | Manual & digital | Automatic with simple controls |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
| Best For | Enthusiasts & customization | Quick, everyday espresso |
The Verdict
Those seeking a feature-rich, customizable machine should opt for the Barista Pro, while the Bambino Plus is perfect for fast, quality coffee in small spaces.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Pro offered a satisfying level of control with its integrated grinder and precise temperature settings, though it took a bit longer to heat up. The Bambino Plus impressed me with its quick setup and fast heat-up, making it perfect for busy mornings. Both machines produced excellent espresso, but their different features cater to distinct user needs.
Deep Dive: Features and Usability
The Barista Pro excels with its integrated grinder and digital temperature control, giving you more manual control and customization options. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, shines with its ThermoJet system that heats up in just seconds, making it ideal for quick preparation without sacrificing quality. Both machines pre-infuse to ensure flavor extraction, but their size and control complexity vary significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus requires you to use pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder.
How long does it take for each machine to heat up?
The Barista Pro takes around 30 seconds, while the Bambino Plus heats in approximately 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more user-friendly and quicker to set up, making it better suited for beginners.
Can I get cafe-quality espresso with both?
Yes, both can produce excellent espresso, but the Barista Pro offers more control for customization.
Finding Your Perfect Espresso Partner
Ultimately, your choice depends on your priorities: if you value control, customization, and a built-in grinder, the Barista Pro is the better choice. If speed, simplicity, and space-saving design are more important, then the Bambino Plus offers an excellent, high-quality experience in a compact form. Both machines deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, so consider your kitchen space and how much involvement you want in the brewing process.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
