Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus can be tough, especially with both offering impressive features for home espresso enthusiasts. Understanding their differences in setup, speed, and overall performance helps you decide which suits your brewing style best.
In this comparison, we’ll look closely at each machine’s key features, usability, and value, providing honest insights to help you make an informed choice for your coffee setup.
Key Takeaways
| Setup & Speed | Bambino Plus heats up faster with ThermoJet, while the Express offers more customization. |
| Grinding & Brewing | Express has integrated conical burr grinder; Bambino Plus relies on ground coffee. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact and ideal for smaller counters. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus is simpler with faster heat-up, but Express offers more control. |
| Price & Value | Both include free coffee bags; Express is slightly more versatile. |
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 pounds
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 oz
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 pounds
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 oz
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
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 Breville Barista Express is a versatile machine perfect for coffee lovers who want to grind fresh beans and have control over their espresso shot. Its built-in grinder and precise water pressure system make it ideal for those who enjoy craft brewing at home.
Pros:
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Precise espresso extraction
- Customizable settings
- All-in-one convenience
Cons:
- Longer heat-up time
- More complex setup
- Bulkier design
Best for: Home baristas who want full control and freshness.
Not ideal for: Users preferring quick, minimalist espresso machines.
Bottom line: Great choice for serious espresso lovers wanting control and freshness.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out with its fast ThermoJet heating system, allowing you to brew espresso in just a few seconds. Its streamlined design makes it perfect for small kitchens or those who value speed and simplicity without sacrificing quality.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact footprint
- Simple operation
- Cafe-quality results
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less customization
- Smaller water reservoir
Best for: Busy individuals who want quick, high-quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking grinder control or more brewing options.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want quick, cafe-quality espresso without complexity.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heat-up Time | Longer (~3-4 mins) | Fast (~3 seconds) |
| Size | Larger footprint | Compact design |
| Customization | High | Limited |
| Water Reservoir | 67 oz | 64 oz |
| Ideal User | Home baristas | Busy, quick users |
The Verdict
The Barista Express suits those wanting full control and fresh grinding, while the Bambino Plus is for users prioritizing speed and simplicity in a small footprint.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Breville Barista Express rewarding for its grinding precision and control, but it takes longer to heat up and setup. The Bambino Plus impressed me with its near-instant heat-up and straightforward operation, making it ideal for quick mornings. Both deliver excellent espresso, but your choice depends on how much customization you desire.
Deeper Analysis of Key Features
The main difference lies in the integrated grinder and speed. The Express offers more control over grind size and dose, which is great for enthusiasts. The Bambino Plus’s faster ThermoJet system means you can go from off to espresso in seconds, perfect for busy mornings. Both machines excel at delivering third wave specialty coffee, but their setup and usability cater to different lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus uses pre-ground coffee, whereas the Barista Express features an integrated conical burr grinder.
Which machine is faster to heat up?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, while the Express takes around 3-4 minutes.
Can I customize the espresso extraction on both machines?
The Barista Express offers more customization options, including grind size and dose, while the Bambino Plus focuses on quick, consistent results with limited adjustments.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus is more compact and ideal for small spaces, whereas the Express is larger but offers more features.
Choosing the Right Espresso Machine for Your Lifestyle
Both the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus deliver excellent espresso, but they serve different needs. If you love experimenting with grind size and want a machine that offers more control, the Express is a great fit. For those who value speed, simplicity, and a smaller footprint, the Bambino Plus is an excellent choice. Consider your daily routine and how much control you want over your coffee brewing process 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.
