Choosing between the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus depends on your brewing goals, space, and budget. Both machines deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ in features, size, and speed.
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In this comparison, we’ll look at key aspects like grind control, water pressure, heat-up time, and overall performance to help you decide which machine suits your needs best.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heat-Up Time | Bambino Plus heats faster with its ThermoJet system, ideal for quick mornings. |
| Build & Size | Barista Pro has a larger footprint and more advanced controls, suited for serious enthusiasts. |
| Grinding & Extraction | Both machines feature dose control grinding; Barista Pro offers more precise digital temp control. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus is more compact and straightforward, better for beginners. |
| Price & Value | Bambino Plus generally costs less, offering good value for casual users. |
At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Size: 13.2 x 12.5 x 16 inches
- ✔ Weight: 23 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Size: 12.6 x 12.2 x 8.1 inches
- ✔ Weight: 20 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Express BES870BTR provides extensive features for those who want to fine-tune their espresso, including digital temperature control and a built-in grinder. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, focuses on speed and ease of use with a faster heat-up system and straightforward operation.
Pros:
- More precise temperature control
- Integrated grinder with dose control
- Customizable brew settings
- Better for enthusiasts
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- More complex setup
- Higher price
Best for: Serious coffee lovers who want a customizable, professional-level espresso experience.
Not ideal for: Casual users or limited kitchen space may find it too large or complex.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking customization and control in their home espresso setup.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus offers a quick heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet system, making it perfect for busy mornings. Its compact design saves counter space, and it still delivers cafe-quality espresso with its precise dose control and pre-infusion.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up and ready in 3 seconds
- Compact footprint
- User-friendly interface
- Great value for casual users
Cons:
- Less customizable than the Pro
- Fewer advanced features
- Smaller water reservoir
Best for: Home users who want quick, reliable espresso without fuss.
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking extensive control or professional features may find it limiting.
Bottom line: Perfect for quick, easy espresso with minimal setup and space.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Larger, more advanced features | Compact, quick setup |
| Heating System | Digital temperature control | ThermoJet |
| Grinder | Integrated conical burr grinder | No grinder included |
| Control Options | Customizable brewing | Simplified interface |
| Pre-infusion | Yes | Yes |
| Ideal User | Enthusiasts and professionals | Casual users and busy mornings |
The Verdict
If you’re a coffee enthusiast who loves experimenting and fine-tuning your brew, the Barista Pro is worth the investment. For those who prioritize speed, convenience, and space-saving design, the Bambino Plus is the better choice.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, I found the Barista Pro to be a joy for daily use—its detailed controls and built-in grinder made dialing in my perfect shot straightforward. The Bambino Plus impressed me with how quickly it heated up and produced consistent espresso with minimal fuss, ideal for busy mornings.
Deeper Analysis of Features
The Barista Pro’s larger size and digital controls give advanced users more room to customize their espresso, from grind size to temperature. Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus’s fast heat-up time and compact design make it perfect for quick, quality shots without the complexity of more advanced machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is easier for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more straightforward with fewer settings, making it ideal for beginners who want good espresso without a learning curve.
Can I use pre-ground coffee in both machines?
Yes, both machines allow the use of pre-ground coffee, but the built-in grinder in the Barista Pro offers more flexibility for fresh grounds.
How important is the heat-up time?
A faster heat-up time, like the Bambino Plus’s 3 seconds, is convenient for quick mornings, while the Pro’s longer preheat may suit those who prefer more control.
Is the price difference significant?
Yes, the Barista Pro tends to be more expensive due to its advanced features, while the Bambino Plus offers good value for casual use.
Making Your Coffee Choice: Speed or Control?
Ultimately, your choice depends on how involved you want your home espresso experience to be. If you crave customization and professional-level control, the Barista Pro is the way to go. But if you prefer convenience, speed, and a compact setup, the Bambino Plus will serve you well and save space.
Both machines deliver quality espresso, so consider your daily routine and coffee preferences to decide which fits best into your lifestyle.
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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