Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and the Bambino Plus depends on your priorities in home espresso making. Both machines deliver third wave specialty coffee with advanced features, but they cater to different needs in terms of size, speed, and functionality.
In this comparison, we’ll break down key aspects like grinding, heating, and overall performance to help you decide which machine fits your coffee routine best.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats faster with its ThermoJet system. |
| Grinding | Both machines have dose control grinding, but the Pro offers a more integrated experience. |
| Size | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small spaces. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus has simpler operation with faster setup. |
| Customization | Barista Pro offers more detailed control over extraction parameters. |
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
- ✔ Color: Black Truffle
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 lbs
- ✔ Color: Black Stainless Steel
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
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 (Model BES870BTR) is designed for those who want a semi-automatic machine with advanced customization options. It features a built-in conical burr grinder and precise temperature control, making it ideal for users who enjoy tweaking their espresso settings.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for convenience
- Precise temperature control
- Low pressure pre-infusion for flavor extraction
- All-in-one design
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Longer setup time
- More expensive
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking control and quality
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or beginners who want quick, simple espresso
Bottom line: A feature-packed machine for those wanting full control over their espresso.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus (Model BES500) excels in speed and simplicity. Its ThermoJet heating system heats up in just 3 seconds, allowing you to pull shots quickly without sacrificing quality. It’s a great choice for those who want café-quality espresso without extensive setup.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact size
- Simple operation
- Consistent extraction with dose control
Cons:
- Less customization options
- Built-in grinder not included
- Fewer advanced features
Best for: Beginners and small-space enthusiasts seeking quick results
Not ideal for: Experienced users wanting deep customization or grinding control
Bottom line: An excellent choice for quick, quality espresso in a sleek, compact design.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Size and Footprint | Larger, more feature-rich | Compact and space-saving |
| Heating System | Digital temperature control | ThermoJet rapid heating |
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, integrated conical burr | No, requires separate grinder |
| Customization | High, with manual controls | Limited, more automated |
| Speed to Brew | Slower, setup needed | Fast, ready in 3 seconds |
| Ideal User | Experienced home baristas | Beginners and busy households |
The Verdict
If you want a versatile, feature-rich machine with full control, the Breville Barista Pro is your best bet. For quick, straightforward espresso with a smaller footprint, the Bambino Plus is ideal.
Hands-On Impressions
In my experience, the Barista Pro feels more like a dedicated espresso setup, with precise controls and a robust build. It takes a bit more time to learn but offers excellent results. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was a revelation for my mornings—quick heat-up, simple operation, and consistently good espresso without fuss.
Deeper Analysis of Features
The Barista Pro’s integrated grinder and customizable extraction give serious home baristas the tools to fine-tune their espresso. Its large water reservoir and digital controls make it more suited for those who want a more hands-on experience. Conversely, the Bambino Plus’s ThermoJet system means you can go from power on to espresso in just seconds, making it perfect for busy mornings or small spaces where speed matters most.Frequently Asked Questions
Is the built-in grinder on the Barista Pro worth it?
Yes, it provides fresh grounds on demand and simplifies the workflow, especially for users who want a one-stop machine.
Can I make latte art with these machines?
Both machines have steam wands capable of texturing milk for latte art, though the Barista Pro offers more control over the steaming process.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more straightforward and faster to get started with, making it ideal for newcomers.
Do both machines come with free coffee?
Yes, both include a promotion for two free bags of specialty coffee upon registration.
Choosing the Right Espresso Machine for Your Home Coffee Routine
Ultimately, your choice depends on how much control you want and how quickly you need your coffee. The Breville Barista Pro offers a more comprehensive experience for serious enthusiasts, while the Bambino Plus provides quick, high-quality espresso in a compact form for everyday convenience. Both are excellent options, so consider your space, skill level, and coffee habits when deciding.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
