Choosing the right espresso machine can be daunting, especially with two popular Breville options: the Barista Express and Bambino Plus. Both promise professional-quality coffee at home, but they differ in features, size, and setup. Here’s an honest comparison to help you decide which suits your brewing style and space best.
In my testing, I looked at ease of use, build quality, speed, and overall coffee quality to give you a clear picture of what each machine offers.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats faster with ThermoJet, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Grind Control | Express has an integrated conical burr grinder, while Bambino Plus requires pre-ground coffee. |
| Size | Bambino Plus is more compact, perfect for smaller kitchens. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers faster setup and operation with minimal fuss. |
| Coffee Quality | Both machines deliver third wave espresso with proper technique and grind. |
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR, 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: 1680W
- ✔ Water Tank: 67 oz
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 10.5 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Water Tank: 64 oz
Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express is a versatile machine that combines a high-quality conical burr grinder with precise espresso extraction. It’s ideal for those who appreciate control over every shot and don’t mind a larger footprint. Its hands-on approach means more involvement but also more customization.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise control over shot extraction
- Sturdy build quality
- Includes tamping tool
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up
- Larger footprint
- More complex setup
Best for: Home baristas looking for an all-in-one solution with grinder control.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those seeking quick, instant espresso.
Bottom line: A highly capable espresso machine perfect for enthusiasts who want control and quality.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus excels in speed and simplicity, with a compact design ideal for smaller kitchens. Its ThermoJet heating system heats up in about 3 seconds, letting you brew faster without sacrificing quality. It’s perfect for users who want a straightforward, reliable machine that delivers cafe-quality shots.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact footprint
- Easy to operate
- Consistent extraction
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Requires pre-ground coffee
- Less manual control
Best for: Busy households or small spaces needing quick, quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Users wanting detailed control over grind and tamping.
Bottom line: A sleek, fast machine that’s perfect for quick, high-quality espresso at home.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, integrated conical burr | No, pre-ground only |
| Heating System | Digital temperature control with pre-infusion | ThermoJet rapid heating |
| Size | 13.2 x 12.5 x 16 inches | 7.7 x 12.2 x 12 inches |
| Speed | Slower, around 45 seconds to heat | Fast, about 3 seconds |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts wanting control | Speed-focused users |
| Price Range | Higher, due to features | More affordable |
The Verdict
For dedicated home baristas who want control and versatility, the Barista Express is a top pick. For those prioritizing speed, space, and convenience, the Bambino Plus is ideal.
Hands-On Impressions
In my experience, the Barista Express offers a hands-on, customizable brewing process that’s satisfying for enthusiasts. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, impresses with its quick startup and consistent shots, perfect for busy mornings where time is limited.
Design and Ease of Use
The Bambino Plus is more compact and straightforward, making it easier to set up and use daily. The Express provides more manual controls, which can be fun but requires a learning curve.
Performance and Coffee Quality
Both machines deliver excellent espresso, but the Express’s integrated grinder offers fresher grounds and more control over dose. The Bambino Plus produces consistent shots with minimal effort, especially thanks to its rapid heat-up system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Barista Express?
Yes, although it has an integrated grinder, you can bypass it and use pre-ground coffee if preferred.
Which machine heats up faster?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, while the Express takes around 45 seconds.
Is the grinder on the Barista Express adjustable?
Yes, the integrated conical burr grinder allows you to adjust grind size for different beans and preferences.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus is more compact and space-efficient, making it a better fit for limited kitchen areas.
Finding Your Perfect Brew Buddy
Both the Breville Barista Express and Bambino Plus are excellent choices for home espresso lovers, but they serve different needs. If you enjoy the process of grinding and dialing in your shots, the Express provides more control and customization. For quick, reliable espresso in a small footprint, the Bambino Plus is unbeatable. Consider your space, budget, and how much involvement you want in your brewing process to choose the best fit.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
