Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and the Bambino Plus can be challenging, especially with both offering impressive features for home espresso enthusiasts. Understanding their differences in grinding, heating, and usability can help you make an informed decision.
Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they cater to different preferences in terms of speed, size, and control. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of these popular models.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet. |
| Size | Bambino Plus has a more compact footprint, ideal for small kitchens. |
| Grinding | Both feature dose control grinders, with the Express having a built-in conical burr grinder. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers quicker setup and operation, great for busy mornings. |
| Customization | Express offers more manual control for espresso extraction. |
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
- ✔ Dimensions: 12.5 x 12.2 x 16 inches
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: 7.7 x 12 x 12 inches
- ✔ 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 Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Barista Express is perfect for those who want to fine-tune every aspect of their espresso, thanks to its integrated grinder and manual controls. It’s ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with their coffee, though it takes longer to heat up and setup.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise control over extraction
- Durable build quality
- All-in-one setup
Cons:
- Longer warm-up time
- More complex to operate
- Larger footprint
Best for: Home baristas who love control and customization.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users needing quick coffee on busy mornings.
Bottom line: A versatile, manual espresso machine suited for coffee enthusiasts.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus stands out with its fast ThermoJet heating system, allowing it to be ready in about 3 seconds. Its compact design makes it perfect for small spaces, and it simplifies many operations without sacrificing quality.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact size
- Ease of use
- Consistent extraction
Cons:
- Less manual control
- No built-in grinder
- Limited customization
Best for: Busy individuals who want quick, café-quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Purists who want full manual control or own their own grinder.
Bottom line: A streamlined, fast-heat espresso machine perfect for everyday use.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Grinding | Integrated conical burr grinder | Separate grinder needed |
| Heat-up time | Approx 45 seconds | Approx 3 seconds |
| Size | Larger footprint | Compact design |
| Control | Manual with extensive options | Automatic with limited control |
| Customization | High, for enthusiasts | Moderate, for convenience |
| Price | Higher end | More affordable |
The Verdict
The Barista Express is best for those seeking full control and customization, while the Bambino Plus suits users who prioritize speed and simplicity.
Hands-On Impressions
In my experience, the Barista Express takes some time to master due to its manual features, but the results are deeply satisfying once you get the hang of it. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, is incredibly quick to get started with, making it perfect for busy mornings, though it offers less room for customization.
Deeper Analysis of Features
While the Barista Express provides a more traditional barista experience with extensive manual controls and a built-in grinder, it requires more effort and skill to operate. The Bambino Plus emphasizes speed and ease, with nearly instant heat-up and straightforward operation, making it ideal for casual coffee lovers who still want quality espresso at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly due to its fast heat-up time and simplified operation, whereas the Barista Express offers more control but requires learning.
Can I use my own coffee grinder with these machines?
Yes, the Bambino Plus requires a separate grinder since it does not have a built-in one, while the Barista Express has an integrated conical burr grinder.
Which machine offers better espresso quality?
Both deliver high-quality espresso, but the Barista Express’s manual controls and built-in grinder allow for more customization and potentially richer flavor for experienced users.
Are these machines suitable for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus’s compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens, while the Barista Express is larger and better suited for dedicated coffee spaces.
Choosing the Right Espresso Machine for Your Coffee Journey
Ultimately, your choice depends on how much control you want versus how quickly you need your coffee. The Barista Express is perfect for those who want to fine-tune their brewing and enjoy a more hands-on experience. The Bambino Plus offers a hassle-free, fast alternative for everyday espresso lovers who value speed and simplicity. Both are excellent options, but understanding your priorities will help you make the best decision for your daily coffee routine.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
