Deciding between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus can be tough, as both promise third wave specialty coffee at home. While they share some core features like pre-infusion and dual boilers, their design, speed, and user experience differ significantly.
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This comparison will help you understand their strengths and limitations, so you can choose the best fit for your coffee needs and kitchen space.
Key Takeaways
| Speed of Heat Up | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to its ThermoJet system. |
| Built-in Grinder | Barista Pro has a more advanced conical burr grinder for precise dosing. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for smaller kitchens. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers quick, straightforward operation for beginners. |
| Customization | Barista Pro provides more control over grind size and extraction parameters. |
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Dimensions: 13.2 x 12.5 x 15 inches
- ✔ Weight: 23 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Dimensions: 7.7 x 12.2 x 12 inches
- ✔ Weight: 12.5 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR offers more control over the coffee-making process with its integrated grinder and precise extraction features. It’s perfect for those who want to experiment and refine their espresso skills.
Pros:
- Integrated conical burr grinder
- Precise digital temperature control
- Adjustable grind size and dose
- All-in-one machine
Cons:
- Longer heat-up time
- Larger footprint
- More complex for beginners
Best for: Home baristas looking for customization and control over every shot.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users preferring quick, simple setups.
Bottom line: A versatile, feature-rich machine for dedicated espresso lovers.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out with its fast heat-up time and compact size. It’s designed for users who want good quality espresso without fuss, making it perfect for smaller kitchens or first-time espresso enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Faster heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact and lightweight
- Simple interface
- Excellent for quick shots
Cons:
- Limited control over grind and extraction
- Built-in grinder not included
- Less customization
Best for: Beginners wanting a quick, reliable espresso maker with minimal setup.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas seeking detailed control or advanced features.
Bottom line: A compact, fast-heating machine perfect for casual espresso lovers.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Size & Footprint | Larger, more robust | Compact, space-saving |
| Grinder | Integrated conical burr grinder | No built-in grinder |
| Heat-up Time | Approx. 3-4 minutes | About 3 seconds |
| Control & Customization | High, with adjustable grind and dose | Limited, preset options |
| Ease of Use | Moderate, with more settings | Simple, straightforward operation |
| Design & Aesthetics | Professional, versatile | Sleek, modern, minimal |
The Verdict
The Barista Pro suits those who want maximum control and a more traditional espresso experience, while the Bambino Plus is perfect for quick, quality shots in smaller spaces or for newcomers.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I appreciated the Barista Pro’s detailed adjustments and its built-in grinder, which gave me more control over shot quality. The Bambino Plus impressed me with how quickly it heated up and how easy it was to operate for daily use.
Deep Dive into Features and Performance
Both machines excel in delivering third wave specialty coffee, but their differences in speed, control, and size make them suited for different types of users. The Barista Pro’s advanced features cater to enthusiasts, while the Bambino Plus’s speed and simplicity appeal to casual users.Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus does not include a built-in grinder; you’ll need to grind beans separately.
How long does it take for each machine to heat up?
The Barista Pro takes about 3-4 minutes to reach optimal temperature, while the Bambino Plus heats up in just around 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system.
Can I customize grind size on the Bambino Plus?
No, the Bambino Plus does not have a built-in grinder or adjustable grind settings. Customization is limited compared to the Barista Pro.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus’s compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens, whereas the Barista Pro requires more space.
Finding the Right Espresso Machine for Your Coffee Journey
Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus ultimately depends on your priorities: control and customization or speed and simplicity. If you’re a coffee enthusiast who enjoys tweaking every parameter, the Barista Pro offers extensive features and precision. However, if you value quick results and a compact footprint, the Bambino Plus provides excellent quality with minimal fuss.
Both machines deliver third wave specialty coffee, so you can’t go wrong—just pick the one that best fits your lifestyle and skill level.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
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