Expert Comparison: Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine vs Breville Bambino Espresso Machine
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Side by side comparison | Most recommended | Out of stock |
|---|---|---|
Price | $499.95 | See Price and Details |
Color options |   | -- |
User rating | 4.71(14) | 4.14(485) |
The Curated Take | Best for coffee lovers seeking barista-quality espresso at an affordable price. | Best for beginners looking for professional-grade espresso at home. |
Housing material | Stainless steel, Plastic | Stainless steel |
Features | Milk frother, Removable water reservoir | -- |
In the world of home espresso machines, the Breville Bambino Plus and Breville Bambino are two strong contenders. Both machines are praised for their affordability, performance, and compact size. The Bambino Plus stands out with its professional-sized fittings, powerful steam wand, larger water tank, and automatic milk frothing system. On the other hand, the Bambino is lauded for its quick heat-up time, ease of use, and the inclusion of five different portafilter baskets. While both machines are capable of delivering high-quality espresso and steamed milk, the Bambino Plus is seen as a more premium choice due to its additional features. However, the Bambino holds its own with its forgiving pressurized baskets and volumetric controls. In the end, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is a favorite among both professional baristas and home coffee enthusiasts. It's praised for its affordability, performance, and compact size, making it a solid choice for those with limited counter space. The Bambino Plus heats up in just a minute and comes with a hefty 54mm portafilter. When paired with a good burr grinder, it can deliver professional results from the espresso.
One of the standout features of the Bambino Plus is its powerful steam wand, which is capable of creating any milk foam texture you desire. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy milk-based espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. The Bambino Plus also boasts professional-sized fittings, a larger water tank, and an automatic milk frothing system, setting it apart from its sibling, the Bambino.
However, it's worth noting that while the Bambino Plus is a dependable machine, it may not feel as premium as some other options due to the building materials used.
This machine has a small footprint and a friendly price; it can make good quality espresso and is capable of steaming milk much like a professional machine. Compared to the Bambino, the Plus model has professional- sized fittings, a more powerful steam wand (with a 4-hole tip), a larger water tank, and an automatic milk frothing system. It can also start steaming instantly with its Thermojet system.
This machine has a small footprint and a friendly price; it can make good quality espresso and is capable of steaming milk much like a professional machine. Compared to the Bambino, the Plus model has professional- sized fittings, a more powerful steam wand (with a 4-hole tip), a larger water tank, and an automatic milk frothing system. It can also start steaming instantly with its Thermojet system.
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Breville Bambino Espresso Machine summary
The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine is a great entry-level option for those new to home espresso brewing. It's known for its quick heat-up time, minimal design, and user-friendly controls. The Bambino offers both single and double shot options, and hot water can be dispensed from the steam wand.
One of the key features of the Bambino is its steam wand, which does the work for you and stops once the milk reaches the correct temperature. This makes it a great choice for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-off approach to milk frothing.
The Bambino comes with five different portafilter baskets, including pressurized and precision options, making it versatile for different brewing methods. It also includes an ESE basket for easy use with pre-packaged espresso pods. However, for peak performance, a burr grinder is recommended.
The Breville Bambino was my entry into home espresso. It is great for newcomers who want a machine that's easy to use but still have some control over their espresso shots. It has a great price point for the quality of shots it can pull, and steams milk well although the one-hole steam wand does steam a bit slowly.
The Breville Bambino was my entry into home espresso. It is great for newcomers who want a machine that's easy to use but still have some control over their espresso shots. It has a great price point for the quality of shots it can pull, and steams milk well although the one-hole steam wand does steam a bit slowly.
- We price match
- Returnable
Similarities
Both the Breville Bambino Plus and Bambino Espresso Machines are designed with the home barista in mind. They are compact, making them ideal for smaller kitchen spaces, and are praised for their affordability and performance. Both machines heat up quickly, allowing you to enjoy your espresso without a long wait.
Both machines also come with a powerful steam wand, making them capable of creating a variety of milk-based espresso drinks. They also both offer the option of single or double shots, giving you control over the strength of your espresso.
In terms of aesthetics, both machines sport a sleek, modern design that would fit well in any kitchen. They are also both made by Breville, a trusted brand in the world of home espresso machines.
Differences and Who They're Good For
While the Breville Bambino Plus and Bambino Espresso Machines share many similarities, they also have key differences that cater to different user needs.
The Bambino Plus stands out with its professional-sized fittings, larger water tank, and automatic milk frothing system. These features make it a great choice for those who want a more premium home espresso experience and are willing to invest a bit more. It's also a good fit for those who enjoy milk-based espresso drinks, thanks to its powerful steam wand.
On the other hand, the Bambino is a great entry-level option. It's user-friendly, with minimal controls and a steam wand that stops once the milk reaches the correct temperature. It also comes with five different portafilter baskets, making it versatile for different brewing methods. This makes it a great choice for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-off approach to espresso brewing.
Analysis on Who’s the Winner
When comparing the Breville Bambino Plus and Bambino Espresso Machines, the winner can vary depending on the specific dimension being considered.
Performance: The Bambino Plus takes the lead with its professional-sized fittings and automatic milk frothing system, which allow for a more premium espresso experience.
Ease of Use: The Bambino wins in this category with its minimal controls and steam wand that stops once the milk reaches the correct temperature, making it more user-friendly for beginners.
Versatility: The Bambino also wins in terms of versatility, thanks to its five different portafilter baskets that cater to different brewing methods.
Value for Money: Both machines offer great value for their price, but the Bambino may edge out slightly due to its lower price point and the inclusion of five different portafilter baskets.
Conclusions
In conclusion, both the Breville Bambino Plus and Bambino Espresso Machines are strong contenders in the world of home espresso machines. The Bambino Plus shines with its professional features and premium espresso experience, making it a great choice for those willing to invest a bit more. Meanwhile, the Bambino stands out with its user-friendly design and versatility, making it an excellent entry-level option.
Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of home espresso brewing or a seasoned home barista seeking a more premium experience, both machines offer great value and performance. So, grab your favorite coffee beans, and let's get brewing!
