Choosing the right espresso machine for home brewing can be challenging, especially when deciding between two popular models from Breville: the Barista Pro and the Bambino Plus. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee with ease, but they differ significantly in features, size, and price point.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their key differences, strengths, and ideal use cases to help you pick the perfect machine for your coffee journey.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heating | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet, while the Barista Pro offers more advanced control. |
| Grinder & Dose Control | Both feature dose control grinding, but the Barista Pro’s integrated grinder is more precise. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small kitchens, whereas the Barista Pro is larger but more feature-rich. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus is simpler with fewer manual controls, making it better for beginners. |
| Price & Value | The Barista Pro generally costs more but offers more customization and power. |
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
- ✔ Boil Time: around 45 seconds
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
- ✔ Display: Digital
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Heat Up Time: 3 seconds with ThermoJet
- ✔ Steam Wand: Automatic milk frothing
- ✔ Display: LED
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 Breville Barista Express BES870BTR is a powerful all-in-one espresso machine with an integrated conical burr grinder and precise digital temperature control. It’s perfect for those who want to fine-tune their espresso brewing process and enjoy professional-quality results at home.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder with dose control
- Precise temperature and pre-infusion system
- All-in-one design for convenience
- Good for detailed brewing control
Cons:
- Larger footprint, takes more counter space
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Requires more maintenance
Best for: Coffee lovers seeking customizable, high-quality espresso at home
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or beginners preferring simplicity
Bottom line: A versatile, feature-rich machine for dedicated espresso enthusiasts.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus offers quick heat-up times and simplified operation, making it a great choice for newcomers to espresso brewing. Its compact design fits well in smaller kitchens, and it still delivers cafe-quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Fast ThermoJet heating system
- Compact and stylish design
- Easy to operate with minimal manual control
- Includes a steam wand for milk frothing
Cons:
- Less control over grind and extraction variables
- Fewer customization options
- Built-in grinder not included
Best for: Beginners or those with limited space who want quick, quality espresso
Not ideal for: Advanced users seeking detailed control and customization
Bottom line: A compact, fast, and easy-to-use espresso machine for casual coffee drinkers.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Size & Footprint | Larger, more feature-rich | Compact and space-saving |
| Heating System | Standard boiler with PID control | ThermoJet rapid heating |
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, integrated conical burr | No, requires separate grinder |
| Ease of Use | Manual controls, detailed | Simplified, automatic features |
| Price Range | Higher, premium price | More affordable |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts and prosumers | Beginners and casual users |
The Verdict
If you want a highly customizable, feature-rich espresso machine and have space and budget, the Barista Pro is the better choice. For quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss, the Bambino Plus is ideal.
Hands-On Impressions
In my experience, setting up the Barista Pro was straightforward but took some time to master its features. The integrated grinder and digital controls give you excellent control over your brew, but it does require a bit of effort initially. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, heats up in seconds and is very user-friendly, making daily brewing quick and easy without much fuss.
Deep Dive into Features
The Barista Pro’s advanced controls, including dose control grinding and digital temperature regulation, make it perfect for those who want to experiment and perfect their espresso. Its larger size might be a drawback for small kitchens, but it offers unmatched customization. Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus shines with its rapid ThermoJet heating system, making it almost instant to start brewing, ideal for busy mornings or casual drinkers.Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus does not have a built-in grinder. You need to grind beans separately.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly due to its simplified operation and faster heat-up process.
Can I customize the espresso with the Bambino Plus?
Limited customization options; it’s designed for quick and easy use rather than detailed control.
How much counter space does the Barista Pro need?
It requires a larger footprint, approximately 16.5 x 12.5 inches, which might be a consideration for small kitchens.
Find Your Perfect Espresso Companion
Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus ultimately depends on your priorities: detailed control and advanced features versus convenience and speed. If you’re passionate about crafting every shot and have space to spare, the Barista Pro offers unmatched versatility. For those who want great espresso with minimal effort and in a compact form, the Bambino Plus is a fantastic choice. Consider your daily routine, space, and budget to find the best fit for your home coffee setup.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
