Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus depends on your priorities for espresso quality, speed, and countertop space. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee using the 4 Keys Formula, but they differ in size, features, and design.
In this comparison, I’ll explore their key features, performance, and suitability for different users to help you decide which fits your home coffee setup best.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heating | Bambino Plus heats faster with ThermoJet, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Build & Size | Barista Pro is larger with more advanced features; Bambino Plus is compact and sleek. |
| Grinder Control | Both machines have dose control grinding; the Pro has a conical burr grinder integrated. |
| Water Pressure System | Both feature low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus offers faster setup and simpler operation for beginners. |
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: 23.8 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: 13.2 x 12.5 x 16.5 in
- ✔ Power: 1680W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 13.2 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: 12.6 x 7.7 x 12.2 in
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Barista Express is a robust all-in-one machine with a built-in conical burr grinder, providing flexibility for different beans and roasts. Its larger size makes it suitable for those who want a more professional experience at home.
Pros:
- Integrated grinder with dose control
- Precise temperature control
- Low pressure pre-infusion
- Customizable extraction
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- More complex setup
- Heavier to move
Best for: Users seeking a semi-professional machine with complete control over their espresso process.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those preferring a more compact, plug-and-play option.
Bottom line: Ideal for espresso lovers wanting precision and control in a home setup.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus offers a faster heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet system, making it great for those who want quality espresso with minimal wait. Its compact footprint suits small kitchens or limited counter space.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Simple operation
- Lightweight and compact
- Consistent extraction
Cons:
- Less customization
- Smaller water reservoir
- No integrated grinder
Best for: Home baristas seeking quick, high-quality espresso without complex setup.
Not ideal for: Users wanting extensive control or built-in grinder features.
Bottom line: Perfect for quick, cafe-quality espresso in small spaces with minimal fuss.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Size and Design | Larger, more professional build | Compact, sleek design |
| Heating System | Digital temperature control | ThermoJet fast heat-up |
| Built-in Grinder | Yes, conical burr grinder | No, external grinder needed |
| Ease of Use | More controls, steeper learning curve | Simpler, faster operation |
| Customization | High, with precise control | Limited customization |
| Ideal User | Serious enthusiasts | Beginners or busy households |
The Verdict
For those who value control, customization, and a professional feel, the Barista Pro is the better choice. If speed, space-saving design, and ease of use are more important, the Bambino Plus is ideal.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Express required more setup and took some time to master, but the results were deeply satisfying. The Bambino Plus was a breeze to get started with, heating up quickly and consistently delivering good shots — perfect for busy mornings.
Deep Dive into Features
The Barista Pro’s integrated grinder and digital temperature control give experienced users more flexibility. Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus’s ThermoJet system offers near-instant heat-up, making it the go-to for quick, quality espresso without much fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both machines include a grinder?
Only the Barista Express has an integrated conical burr grinder. The Bambino Plus requires an external grinder.
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more user-friendly with faster setup and operation, making it better suited for beginners.
Can I customize the espresso settings on both?
The Barista Pro offers more customization options, including precise temperature control and grind size, while the Bambino Plus offers limited control.
Which machine takes up less countertop space?
The Bambino Plus is more compact and ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space.
Find Your Perfect Brew Companion
Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus depends on your priorities. If you want a machine with advanced control and don’t mind a larger footprint, the Barista Express is a great investment. For those who value speed, simplicity, and space-saving design, the Bambino Plus will serve you well. Both deliver quality espresso, so your choice ultimately hinges on your experience level and daily routine.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
