Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and the Bambino Plus depends on your brewing needs, space, and budget. Both machines promise third wave specialty coffee with advanced features, but they differ in speed, size, and grinder integration.
In this comparison, we’ll break down their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you decide which machine fits your home espresso setup best.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heat Up Time | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to its ThermoJet system. |
| Built-in Grinder | Barista Pro has an integrated conical burr grinder, while Bambino Plus uses dose control for ground coffee. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for smaller kitchens. |
| Ease of Use | Both machines are user-friendly, but Barista Pro offers more control features. |
| Price & Value | Bambino Plus is generally more affordable with quick results. |
Amazon Product B0GKQFHV6X
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: 23.8 lbs
- ✔ Heating System: ThermoJet
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 lbs
- ✔ Milk Frothing: Automatic steam wand
- ✔ Setup Time: Less than 5 minutes
Amazon Product B0CDLYFD9M
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR offers a high level of control with its integrated grinder and precise temperature management. It’s suited for those who want to experiment with grind size and extraction parameters for a customized coffee experience.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control
- Pre-infusion feature for balanced extraction
- All-in-one machine
Cons:
- Takes longer to heat up
- Larger footprint
- Requires more setup
Best for: Home baristas who want full control and fresh grinding
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those needing quick, convenient espresso
Bottom line: A feature-rich machine for serious home baristas who value control.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus is designed for speed and simplicity, featuring an innovative ThermoJet heating system that achieves optimal temperature in just 3 seconds. It’s perfect for those who want cafe-quality espresso with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time
- Compact size
- Good for small spaces
- Includes steam wand for milk frothing
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less control over grind and extraction
- Limited customization features
Best for: Users seeking quick, quality espresso with minimal setup
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting full control over grind and brewing parameters
Bottom line: A compact, quick-heating machine perfect for busy mornings and small kitchens.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes (integrated) | No, dose control |
| Heat-up Time | Longer, approx 3-4 mins | About 3 seconds |
| Size | Larger, 12.5 x 12 x 16 inches | Compact, 7.7 x 12.2 x 12.5 inches |
| Control Precision | High, with grind and temp control | Limited, more straightforward |
| Milk Frothing | Steam wand | Automatic steam wand |
| Price Range | Higher | More affordable |
The Verdict
Choose the Barista Pro if you want maximum control and fresh grinding, ideal for enthusiasts. Opt for the Bambino Plus if speed, convenience, and a small footprint matter more.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I appreciated how quickly the Bambino Plus heated up and was ready to brew within minutes. The Barista Pro, while slower to start, gave me more control over grind size and extraction, which I enjoyed experimenting with. Both are reliable, but I found the Bambino Plus better suited for busy mornings and limited space.
Deep Dive into Features
The Barista Pro offers a built-in conical burr grinder, allowing for truly fresh grounds and more control over flavor. Its digital temperature control and pre-infusion help craft a balanced shot, but it demands more setup and patience. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, features a ThermoJet heating system that reaches optimal temperature in just three seconds, making it perfect for quick espresso shots. Its automatic milk frothing simplifies the process, although it lacks the customization options of the Pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus have a built-in grinder?
No, it relies on ground coffee you prepare separately; it offers dose control but no grinder.
Which machine is faster to heat up?
The Bambino Plus heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, while the Barista Pro takes a few minutes.
Can I customize the grind size on both machines?
Only the Barista Pro offers integrated grinder control; the Bambino Plus uses pre-ground coffee with dose adjustments.
Which machine is better for small kitchens?
The Bambino Plus’s compact size makes it ideal for smaller spaces, whereas the Barista Pro is larger but offers more features.
Finding Your Perfect Espresso Companion
If you’re serious about developing barista skills and enjoy experimenting with grind and temperature, the Barista Pro is the clear choice. However, if you prefer quick, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss and limited space, the Bambino Plus delivers excellent results. Consider your space, budget, and how much control you want over your brewing process to make the best decision.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
