Choosing the right espresso machine can be challenging with so many options on the market. The Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus are two popular models, each offering unique features suited for different users. In this comparison, we’ll break down their key differences to help you decide which fits your coffee habits and space best.
Both machines aim to bring third wave specialty coffee into your home, but they differ in speed, size, and functionality. Let’s explore their specifications, performance, and value to see which one stands out for your daily brewing routine.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats up faster with ThermoJet for quicker espresso. |
| Size | Bambino Plus has a more compact footprint, ideal for small kitchens. |
| Grinding | Express features integrated dose control conical burr grinder; Bambino Plus uses separate grind dose. |
| Ease of Use | Both have low-pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction, but Bambino Plus offers faster heat-up. |
| Price | Bambino Plus generally costs less, offering good value for its size and features. |
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews café-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 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
<p>The Breville Barista Express combines a built-in grinder with precise control, making it perfect for those who want to customize their coffee with a single device. Its professional features like low-pressure pre-infusion and digital temperature control ensure a balanced extraction.</p><p>However, it’s larger and takes longer to heat up, which might be a consideration for everyday quick coffee runs.</p>
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for convenience
- Precise espresso control
- All-in-one design
- Good for customization
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up
- Larger footprint
- More complex setup
Best for: Coffee lovers who want a comprehensive machine for daily espresso and brewing customization.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those seeking quick, on-the-fly espresso shots.
Bottom line: Ideal for dedicated espresso enthusiasts who want an all-in-one solution.
Breville Bambino Plus
<p>The Breville Bambino Plus shines with its quick heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet system, making it perfect for busy mornings. Its smaller size makes it suitable for limited counter space, yet it still delivers third wave quality espresso with its 54mm portafilter and precise dosing.</p><p>While it lacks an integrated grinder, its simple operation and fast performance make it a great choice for beginners or those who prefer using pre-ground coffee.</p>
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact size
- Easy to operate
- Cafe-quality espresso
Cons:
- No integrated grinder
- Limited customization
- Less suited for advanced baristas
Best for: Home users who want quick, high-quality espresso in a small footprint.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a built-in grinder or full customization features.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting quick, professional-quality espresso without fuss.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Grinder | Yes | No, separate grinder needed |
| Heat-up Time | Longer, around 15-20 mins | Faster, about 3 seconds with ThermoJet |
| Size | 13.2 x 12.5 x 16.5 inches | 7.7 x 12.2 x 12.5 inches |
| Ease of Use | Moderate, more controls | Simpler, quicker setup |
| Price Range | Higher | More affordable |
| Best For | Enthusiasts seeking all-in-one | Quick, quality espresso for busy mornings |
The Verdict
If you want a feature-rich, all-in-one espresso machine and don’t mind the size and setup time, the Barista Express is your pick. For those prioritizing speed, compactness, and ease, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value and performance.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I appreciated how the Barista Express allowed for a lot of customization, from grind size to extraction time, but it did take some time to get everything dialed in. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was a breeze to set up and start pulling espresso shots within minutes, making my mornings smoother.
Deeper Analysis
Both machines excel at delivering third wave specialty coffee, but their approach differs. The Barista Express is perfect for those who want a comprehensive device with a built-in grinder and more control over the brewing process. Conversely, the Bambino Plus is designed for quick, consistent results with less fuss, thanks to its rapid heat-up system and compact size.
Choosing between them depends on your priorities: customization and all-in-one convenience or speed and space-saving design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have an integrated grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus requires a separate grinder for ground coffee or beans.
How long does it take for each machine to heat up?
The Barista Express takes about 15-20 minutes to reach optimal temperature, while the Bambino Plus heats up in around 3 seconds thanks to ThermoJet.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Barista Express?
Yes, although it has an integrated grinder, you can also use pre-ground coffee if desired.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly due to its simple operation and quick setup, while the Barista Express offers more control for those willing to learn.
Choosing the Right Espresso Machine for Your Home
Both the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus bring quality espresso into your home, but they cater to different needs. If you’re an enthusiast wanting full control and don’t mind a larger machine, the Express is a great investment. For quick, consistent results in a smaller space, the Bambino Plus is an excellent choice. Consider your space, budget, and desired level of involvement in brewing when making your decision.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
