Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus depends on your priorities in size, speed, and advanced features. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they cater to different user needs and preferences.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their key features, performance, and what makes each stand out to help you decide which one is the best fit for your coffee routine.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heat-Up Time | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Built-in Grinder | Barista Pro has an integrated conical burr grinder for precise dosing. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, suitable for small kitchens. |
| User Experience | Barista Pro offers more control with digital temperature and grinder adjustments. |
| Price & Value | Both include free coffee bags, but the Pro typically costs more due to advanced features. |
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-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 kg
- ✔ Dimensions: 13.5 x 12.5 x 16 inches
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 9.9 kg
- ✔ Dimensions: 12.6 x 7.7 x 12 inches
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville BES500BST Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Black Stainless Steel
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews professional-quality espresso at home
- Fast, Compact Design: Part of Bambino Series for quick results
- Dose Control Grinding: Consistent, balanced espresso with 19g dose
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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 ideal for users who want a semi-automatic machine with a built-in grinder, offering more customization and control over their brew. Its precision conical burr grinder and digital temp control make it a versatile choice.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature and pressure controls
- All-in-one design for convenience
- Good for espresso enthusiasts
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Longer heat-up time
- More complex to operate
Best for: Home baristas who want control and flexibility in brewing.
Not ideal for: Those needing a compact, quick-start machine.
Bottom line: A feature-rich machine for serious espresso lovers willing to learn.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its speed, thanks to the ThermoJet heating system that reaches optimum temperature rapidly. Its compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens or limited space without sacrificing quality.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact footprint
- Good for beginners and casual users
- Includes a 54mm portafilter for cafe-style extraction
Cons:
- Less customization than Pro
- No built-in grinder
- Limited control over extraction
Best for: Users who want quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking advanced control or built-in grinder.
Bottom line: A fast, space-saving machine perfect for everyday espresso lovers.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, integrated conical burr | No, manual dose control |
| Heating System | Digital temperature control | ThermoJet rapid heating |
| Size & Footprint | Larger, 13.5 x 12.5 x 16 inches | Compact, 12.6 x 7.7 x 12 inches |
| Pre-infusion | Yes | Yes |
| User Control | More customizable, digital display | Simple, manual controls |
| Speed of Heat-Up | Standard, slower | Fast, ThermoJet system |
The Verdict
If you want professional-grade control and customization, the Barista Pro is the better choice. For quick, quality coffee in a smaller space, the Bambino Plus excels.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Pro felt more like a semi-automatic machine I’d find in a cafe, with precise controls and a robust grinder. The Bambino Plus surprised me with how quickly it heated up and how compact it was, making it perfect for busy mornings. Both produce excellent espresso, but the setup and operation differ significantly based on your experience level.
Deeper Analysis of Features and Performance
Both machines excel at delivering third wave espresso, but their design philosophies cater to different users. The Barista Pro offers more control with digital temp regulation and an integrated grinder, making it suitable for enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering. The Bambino Plus prioritizes speed and simplicity, ideal for those who want a quick, reliable shot without fuss.Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus does not include a built-in grinder; it requires pre-ground coffee or an external grinder.
Which machine heats up faster?
The Bambino Plus uses the ThermoJet heating system, which achieves optimal temperature faster than the traditional heating system in the Barista Pro.
Can I customize the brew parameters on both machines?
The Barista Pro offers more customization options, including digital temperature control and grind size, while the Bambino Plus has more basic controls.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus is more compact and better suited for small kitchens or limited counter space.
Find Your Perfect Coffee Companion
Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus ultimately depends on your priorities. If you value control, customization, and a built-in grinder, the Barista Pro is a great investment. Conversely, if you need quick, high-quality espresso without the extra features and limited space, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value and convenience. Both deliver third wave coffee at home, making your daily brew a satisfying experience regardless of your choice.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
