Choosing the right espresso machine depends on your brewing needs, space, and desired features. The Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus are both excellent options for home baristas, but they cater to slightly different preferences and budgets.
In this comparison, we’ll break down their key features, performance, and ideal user scenarios to help you decide which machine aligns best with your coffee goals.
Key Takeaways
| Speed & Heating | Bambino Plus heats up faster with ThermoJet, while the Barista Pro offers more advanced brewing controls. |
| Built-in Grinder | Both machines feature dose control grinding, but the Barista Pro’s integrated grinder is more precise. |
| Size & Footprint | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for small kitchens; the Barista Pro is larger but more feature-rich. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus is straightforward, great for beginners; the Barista Pro offers more customization for enthusiasts. |
| Price & Value | Bambino Plus generally costs less, offering great value; the Barista Pro’s features justify its higher price for serious users. |
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...
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At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Weight: 23 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Weight: 20 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1700W
- ✔ Pre-infusion: Yes
Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
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Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Barista Pro provides greater control with its digital temperature control and a more powerful grinder, making it ideal for espresso enthusiasts. Its larger size and higher price point reflect its more professional capabilities.
Pros:
- Advanced digital temperature control
- Integrated conical burr grinder
- More customization options
- High-quality build
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- Higher price
- Longer setup time
Best for: Serious coffee lovers and those wanting professional-level control at home.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or casual users who prefer simplicity.
Bottom line: Ideal for home baristas seeking maximum control and quality.
Breville Bambino Plus
With its faster heat-up time thanks to ThermoJet technology, the Bambino Plus is ideal for busy mornings. Its straightforward operation makes it suitable for beginners or casual coffee drinkers who still want cafe-quality results.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact footprint
- Ease of use
- Good value for the price
Cons:
- Less customization than the Barista Pro
- Smaller water reservoir
- Limited control over grind settings
Best for: Users looking for a quick, reliable espresso machine that doesn’t require extensive setup.
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking advanced brewing features or highly customizable settings.
Bottom line: Great for fast, quality espresso on a compact budget.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Speed & Heating | Slower with traditional heating, but more control | Faster with ThermoJet, ready in seconds |
| Built-in Grinder | Precision conical burr grinder integrated | Dose control with 19g portafilter |
| Size & Footprint | Larger, suited for dedicated space | Compact, ideal for small kitchens |
| Ease of Use | More controls, steeper learning curve | Simpler, user-friendly operation |
| Customization | High, digital controls for precise brewing | Limited, more straightforward settings |
| Price | Higher, reflects professional features | Lower, great value for casual users |
The Verdict
The choice depends on your coffee ambitions: go for the Barista Pro if you want professional control, or choose the Bambino Plus for quick, quality espresso with less fuss.
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Barista Pro felt more like a semi-professional machine, offering detailed control over grind size, temperature, and extraction. It took a bit longer to set up but rewarded me with consistently excellent shots. The Bambino Plus was a breeze to start with, heating up in about three seconds thanks to ThermoJet, and it produced excellent espresso with minimal effort, perfect for busy mornings.
Deeper Analysis
Both machines deliver third wave specialty coffee, but their design philosophies differ. The Barista Pro emphasizes customization and control, making it suitable for enthusiasts who enjoy fine-tuning their brew. The Bambino Plus prioritizes speed and simplicity, ideal for those who want quality espresso without the complexity.Frequently Asked Questions
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is more beginner-friendly with its faster heat-up and straightforward operation, while the Barista Pro offers more advanced features for those willing to learn.
Can I use different beans with these machines?
Yes, both machines have integrated grinders that allow you to use any beans, giving you flexibility in flavor profiles.
How important is the size difference?
If space is limited, the Bambino Plus’s compact size makes it a better fit. The Barista Pro requires more room but offers more control.
Is the price difference justified?
The higher price of the Barista Pro reflects its advanced features and customization options, making it worth it for serious coffee lovers.
Which Espresso Machine Suits Your Coffee Style?
Ultimately, both the Breville Barista Pro and Bambino Plus are excellent choices, but your decision should hinge on your specific needs. If you crave professional-level control and enjoy experimenting with your brew, the Barista Pro is worth the investment. However, if you want quick, reliable espresso without fuss, the Bambino Plus offers exceptional value and convenience, fitting seamlessly into a busy lifestyle.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
