For coffee enthusiasts seeking a compact yet powerful espresso machine, the Breville Bambino Plus often tops the list. Its sleek design and advanced features promise professional-grade results at home. In this roundup, I’ve selected the most relevant models for comparison, focusing on their unique advantages to help you determine if the Bambino Plus truly delivers value for your money.
Get home appliances delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
My evaluations are based on real-world testing and detailed specs, aiming to provide honest insights into each machine’s performance and usability.
Key Takeaways
| Fast Heating | The ThermoJet system ensures quick heat-up times. |
| Consistent Extraction | Pre-infusion and precise pressure deliver balanced shots. |
| Compact Design | Fits well in small kitchens or limited counter space. |
| Value for Money | Offers professional features at a competitive price. |
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Pre-Infusion: Yes
- ✔ Steam Wand: Automatic
Buying Advice: What to Look for in an Espresso Machine
When choosing an espresso machine, consider the size and space available, as compact models like the Bambino Plus are ideal for small kitchens. Look for features such as quick heat-up times, automatic milk frothing, and ease of use, especially if you’re a beginner. Additionally, the quality of the portafilter and water pressure control are crucial for achieving professional results.
Budget is also a factor: investing in a machine with good build quality and reliable performance can save you money in the long run. Lastly, check if the machine includes extras like a steam wand or built-in grinder to match your coffee preferences.
Buying Advice: Features That Elevate Your Espresso Experience
Features like pre-infusion and precise pressure control help extract full flavor from your coffee. A fast heat-up system, such as Breville’s ThermoJet, significantly reduces wait times and enhances convenience. Automatic milk frothers simplify creating lattes and cappuccinos, making it easier for beginners to craft café-quality drinks at home.
Durability and ease of cleaning are also important—machines with removable drip trays and accessible components tend to last longer and are simpler to maintain.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its quick heat-up time, thanks to the ThermoJet system, and its user-friendly interface. It produces cafe-quality espresso with a 54mm portafilter and 19 grams of coffee for full flavor. Its automatic steam wand makes frothing milk effortless, making it ideal for those who want barista-quality drinks at home.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Easy to use interface
- Automatic milk frother
- Compact size
Cons:
- Limited boiler capacity for continuous use
- No built-in grinder
- Higher price point
Best for: Home baristas seeking quick, quality espresso
Not ideal for: Large-volume coffee drinkers or those preferring built-in grinders
Bottom line: A top choice for those wanting quick, cafe-quality espresso at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Breville Bambino Plus suitable for beginners?
Yes, its automatic features and user-friendly interface make it ideal for those new to espresso making.
How does the Bambino Plus compare in size to other espresso machines?
It has a compact footprint, measuring 12.6 x 7.7 x 12 inches, making it perfect for small kitchens or limited counter space.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Bambino Plus?
Yes, it uses a 54mm porta-filter that accommodates ground coffee, allowing flexibility if you don’t grind your own beans.
Does it include a built-in grinder?
No, the Bambino Plus does not have a built-in grinder, so you will need to grind your beans separately.
The Bottom Line for Home Baristas
The Breville Bambino Plus offers a compelling mix of speed, quality, and ease of use, making it a top choice for home espresso lovers. Its quick heat-up and automatic features streamline the brewing process, delivering cafe-quality drinks in a compact form. While it may lack some bells and whistles like a built-in grinder, it provides excellent value for those seeking a reliable, high-performance espresso machine.
Overall, if you want a versatile and efficient machine that produces consistent results, the Bambino Plus is well worth considering.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
Fall Picks
Arlo Essential Wireless Security Camera 2K (3rd Gen), 3-Camera Set with Yard Sign
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
