Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and the Bambino Plus can be challenging, as both promise professional-quality espresso at home. While they share the third wave specialty coffee approach, their features and sizes differ significantly. This comparison aims to highlight their strengths and help you decide which suits your needs best.
From quick heat-up times to grinder integration, understanding their differences ensures you pick the right machine for your brewing style and kitchen space.
Key Takeaways
| Speedy Heat-Up | Bambino Plus heats faster thanks to ThermoJet technology. |
| Built-in Grinder | Barista Pro features a precision conical burr grinder for on-demand grinding. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small kitchens. |
| Ease of Use | Both machines offer pre-infusion, but the Bambino Plus simplifies operation. |
| Price & Value | The Bambino Plus is generally more affordable with quick results. |
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: 23.8 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 20.8 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
In my testing, the Barista Pro impressed with its integrated grinder and digital temperature control, making it ideal for those serious about customizing their espresso. It’s larger but provides more control over the brewing process, perfect for home baristas who want a semi-professional experience.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder for fresh beans
- Precise temperature control
- Customizable shot parameters
- Large water tank
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Slightly more complex setup
Best for: Home baristas seeking precision and versatility
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or casual coffee drinkers
Bottom line: A feature-rich machine best suited for serious espresso lovers.
Breville Bambino Plus
During my experience with the Bambino Plus, I appreciated how quickly it heats up—thanks to its ThermoJet system—and how simple it is to operate. It’s perfect for busy mornings or small kitchens that want cafe-quality espresso without the extra bulk or complexity.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact size
- Easy to use controls
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Less control over grind and extraction
- Built-in grinder not included
- Limited customization
Best for: Casual users wanting quick, quality espresso
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking advanced control and customization
Bottom line: A compact, fast machine ideal for everyday espresso needs.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Grinder | Integrated conical burr grinder | No built-in grinder |
| Heat-up Time | Approximately 3 seconds (PID temperature control) | About 3 seconds (ThermoJet system) |
| Size | Larger footprint, 13.2 x 12.5 x 16 inches | Smaller, 12.6 x 12 x 15 inches |
| User Control | More customizable with digital controls | Simpler, more automated |
| Best For | Enthusiasts and serious home baristas | Casual users and small kitchens |
| Price Range | Higher | More affordable |
The Verdict
The Breville Barista Pro is perfect if you want advanced control and customization, while the Bambino Plus is ideal for quick, hassle-free espresso in a small space.
Hands-On Impressions
Living with both machines, I found the Barista Pro more engaging due to its detailed controls and integrated grinder, which makes it great for experimenting with beans and extraction. The Bambino Plus, however, was much faster to set up and use daily, making it my go-to for busy mornings without sacrificing quality.
In-Depth Analysis of Features
The Barista Pro excels with its built-in grinder and digital temperature control, offering a more professional experience at home. Its larger size is a trade-off for more control and customization. Conversely, the Bambino Plus focuses on speed and simplicity, with its ThermoJet heating and straightforward controls, making it perfect for quick espresso shots and small spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Breville Barista Pro include a grinder?
Yes, it has an integrated precision conical burr grinder that grinds on demand for fresh beans.
Which machine heats up faster?
The Bambino Plus heats up slightly faster thanks to its ThermoJet heating system, achieving optimal temperature in about 3 seconds.
Is the Bambino Plus suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, its simplified controls and quick heat-up time make it ideal for newcomers to espresso brewing.
Can I customize the espresso extraction on the Bambino Plus?
No, it offers limited customization compared to the Barista Pro, which provides more detailed control over parameters.
Making Your Choice: Precision or Speed?
Both the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus deliver excellent espresso, but your choice depends on your priorities. If you value detailed control, customization, and a built-in grinder, the Barista Pro is the better fit. For those seeking quick, high-quality espresso in a smaller, more straightforward machine, the Bambino Plus offers fantastic value and convenience. Consider your space, budget, and brewing enthusiasm to pick the best match for your home coffee setup.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
