Are you a coffee enthusiast searching for the perfect espresso machine that delivers exceptional results in a compact design? Look no further!
In today’s blog post, we’ll be exploring the battle between two formidable contenders: the Breville Bambino and the Bambino Plus.
When it comes to home espresso machines, Breville has established itself as a trusted brand known for its innovative features and cutting-edge technology.
The Bambino series, in particular, has garnered considerable attention for its sleek aesthetics and professional-grade performance.
In this comparison, we’ll dive deep into the similarities and differences between the Breville Bambino and the Bambino Plus, helping you make an informed decision on which one suits your needs best.
We’ll examine various aspects such as design, size, brewing capabilities, milk frothing, control options, and overall user experience.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each machine, allowing you to make an educated choice based on your preferences and requirements.
For a short answer, the Breville Bambino is our preferred choice due to its manual steam wand, allowing for experimentation and skill development in creating various milk textures.
It offers affordability without compromising on espresso quality, making it a great entry-level machine.
On the other hand, the Breville Bambino Plus appeals to those seeking automation, advanced milk frothing, and a larger water tank.
So, whether you’re a budding home barista or a seasoned coffee lover looking to upgrade your current setup, join us as we dissect the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus, and find out which espresso machine is better suited for you.
Let’s dive in and explore the features and functionalities that make these machines stand out from the competition!
Here’s a table comparing the Breville Bambino and Breville Bambino Plus:
| Features | Breville Bambino | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Heating Time | 3 seconds | 3 seconds |
| Temperature Control | PID control | PID control |
| Pre-infusion | Low-pressure pre-infusion | Low pressure pre-infusion |
| Pump Pressure | 15-bar Italian pump | 15-bar Italian pump |
| Espresso Shot Volume | 1 or 2 pre-set volumes | 1 or 2 pre-set volumes |
| Manual Override | Yes | Yes |
| Milk Frothing | Manual steam wand | Automatic or manual with 3 temperature and texture levels |
| Water Tank Capacity | 47 oz (1.4 L) | 64 oz (1.9 L) |
| Dimensions | 7.7 in x 12.6 in x 12.2 inches | 9.6 in x 16.3 in x 16.9 inches |
| Colors Available | Brushed stainless steel | 9 different colors |
| Price | More affordable but more value | More expensive but has considerably more features |
A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence: Breville’s History as a Brand
Breville, founded in Sydney in 1932, has established itself as an esteemed Australian brand specializing in small home appliances.
With a diverse product lineup that includes blenders, coffee machines, toasters, kettles, microwaves, and toaster ovens, Breville has become synonymous with quality and innovation.
Over the years, the company has embarked on numerous product development initiatives, resulting in the acquisition of more than 100 active patents and the receipt of over 40 international design awards.
One significant milestone in Breville’s history occurred in 1974 with the introduction of the toasted sandwich maker, which quickly became a beloved household item.
This success propelled Breville into the forefront of kitchen appliance manufacturers, setting the stage for future innovations.
Today, Breville’s reach extends to over 70 countries, including China, Brazil, South Africa, Mexico, and Israel, catering to a global audience.
In 2002, Breville made its debut in Canada and the United States, further solidifying its presence on the international stage.
The brand’s commitment to enhancing people’s lives through well-designed products and services is evident in its dedication to customer satisfaction.
Breville aims to empower its employees, fostering an environment that encourages mastery of every moment to support the success of its customers.
Beyond creating exceptional appliances, Breville places a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
Recognizing the value of different perspectives and experiences, the company strives to build a culture that embraces diversity, creating a foundation for innovation and understanding.
With a rich history steeped in pioneering spirit, Breville continues to deliver cutting-edge appliances that enhance the lives of its customers worldwide.
From their humble beginnings in Sydney to their global presence today, Breville remains committed to pushing boundaries and redefining what’s possible in the world of home appliances.
Breville Bambino Overview
The Breville Bambino is a compact espresso machine that effortlessly delivers professional-level performance.
Equipped with a 54mm portafilter that accommodates 18 grams of coffee, it ensures a full-bodied flavor that captures the essence of your beans.
Despite its compact size and lightweight design, the Bambino boasts a powerful steam wand capable of producing velvety microfoam consistently.
This feature has garnered praise from users who appreciate its ability to elevate their coffee experience.
With the Bambino, you can fully savor the distinct qualities and freshness of various coffee beans.
Not only does it excel in functionality, but it also adds an aesthetic appeal to your kitchen without occupying excessive space.
Pros:
- PID control and pre-infusion option
- Quick 3-second warm-up time
- Automatic steam wand
Cons:
- Requires espresso knowledge due to its semi-automatic nature
- Limited milk steaming abilities
Breville Bambino Plus Overview
The Breville Bambino Plus is an upgrade to the Bambino with a few additional upgrades.
Just like the Bambino, its 54mm stainless steel portafilter and 18 grams of coffee capacity ensure a full and flavorful extraction.
The machine also features a powerful hands-free automatic steam wand, allowing you to achieve perfectly textured milk for your favorite drinks.
Its compact size and attractive design make it a great choice for those with limited counter space.
The Breville Bambino Plus embodies the philosophy of offering high-quality espresso without requiring extensive skill or knowledge.
It is an entry-level machine that consistently produces excellent shots, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced baristas.
Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned professional, the Breville Bambino Plus delivers consistent results day after day, simplifying the espresso-making process.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Faster brewing compared to many home espresso machines
- Capable of producing excellent espresso at home without complications
- Offers a user-friendly experience, making it suitable for beginners
Cons:
- Relatively higher price compared to other espresso machines in its category
- Automated brewing limits the ability to make manual adjustments to customize your espresso
Breville Bambino vs. Bambino Plus: Overview Of The Key Differences
When comparing the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus, it’s important to understand the distinct features that set them apart.
Below, we break down the main differences between these two espresso machines:
- Capacity:
- Bambino Plus: It boasts a larger water tank capacity of 64 oz (1.9 L).
- Bambino: The Bambino, on the other hand, offers a slightly smaller water tank capacity of 47 oz (1.4 L).
- Milk Steaming System:
- Bambino Plus: This model has a versatile milk-steaming system that offers automatic and manual options. It provides three adjustable milk temperature and texture levels, allowing you to customize milk-based beverages.
- Bambino: In contrast, the Bambino only includes a manual steam wand, which requires a bit more manual control and technique for milk frothing.
- Ease of Use:
- Bambino: Designed for simplicity, the Bambino is straightforward to use and maintain. It offers a more user-friendly experience for those who prefer a no-frills approach.
- Bambino Plus: The Bambino Plus features preset milk options, providing convenience for those seeking a more automated milk frothing process.
- Price:
- Bambino: Generally, the Bambino tends to be priced more affordably compared to the Bambino Plus, making it a budget-friendly choice.
- Size:
- Bambino: The Bambino is slightly smaller, which can be advantageous for those with limited countertop space or a preference for a more compact machine.
- Bambino Plus: While slightly larger, the Bambino Plus still maintains a relatively compact footprint.
Both the Bambino and Bambino Plus share some common features, including PID temperature control and pre-infusion for optimal flavor extraction.
Additionally, they possess similar build qualities and attractive designs. However, the Bambino Plus sets itself apart with its fully automatic brewing system, delivering more consistent results.
In summary, if flexibility and value are your priorities, the Breville Bambino may be the ideal choice.
On the other hand, if you seek guaranteed results and automatic milk frothing capabilities, the Breville Bambino Plus offers a more suitable option.
In the next section, we will go over each of these details more in-depth to help you get a better understanding of which Bambino coffee maker is the better choice for you and whether the extra bit more you pay for the Bambino Plus is worth the extra cost.
Design and Build Quality: Breville Bambino vs. Bambino Plus
When it comes to design and build quality, the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus share many similarities while also offering a few distinctions.
Let’s delve into the details:
Aesthetics and Color Options
With nine different color options available, the Bambino Plus provides a broader range of choices to suit various kitchen aesthetics and personal preferences.
Colors like Black Truffle and Damson Blue add a touch of vibrancy to the machine.
For more color options, you can visit Breville’s website.
In contrast, the Bambino has a more limited selection, primarily available in brushed steel. While it offers a sleek and sophisticated appearance, the color options are more restricted.
Build Quality and Warranty
Both the Bambino and Bambino Plus exhibit solid build quality, ensuring reliability and durability.
The brushed stainless steel construction, akin to Breville’s larger and more expensive espresso machines, imparts a robust feel.
One user observation pointed out that the drip tray on the Bambino feels slightly more solid compared to the Bambino Plus.
Nonetheless, both machines are designed to withstand regular use and maintain their performance over time.
Warranty coverage differs between the two models.
The Bambino Plus includes a 2-year warranty, offering extended protection and peace of mind.
On the other hand, the Bambino comes with a 1-year warranty, providing standard coverage but with a shorter duration.
Size and Dimensions
The Bambino is slightly smaller, making it a favorable choice for those with limited countertop space.
Its compact design allows for convenient placement in various kitchen setups.
While the Bambino Plus is marginally larger, it still maintains a relatively compact footprint, ensuring versatility in terms of placement.
Let’s delve into the dimensions of each machine for a closer look:
Breville Bambino:
- Dimensions: The Breville Bambino measures approximately 7.7 inches in width, 12.6 inches in depth, and 12.2 inches in height.
- Water Reservoir Capacity: It features a 1.4-liter reservoir, which is equivalent to 47 fluid ounces.
Bambino Plus:
- Dimensions: On the other hand, the Bambino Plus has larger dimensions, measuring around 9.6 inches in width, 16.3 inches in depth, and 16.9 inches in height.
- Water Reservoir Capacity: It boasts a 1.9-liter reservoir, offering a capacity of 64 fluid ounces.
These variations in size and water reservoir capacity may be significant factors to consider, particularly for individuals who have limited counter space.
Design Elements and Control Panel
Both the Bambino and Bambino Plus feature minimalist designs, emphasizing simplicity and functionality.
Their control panels have no more than five buttons, ensuring ease of use.
The control panel of the Bambino includes single and double shot buttons on the left side, while the right side houses water dispense and steam buttons.
In contrast, the Bambino Plus positions the steam button beside the espresso shot buttons, leaving space for additional buttons dedicated to temperature and texture adjustments.
While both the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus boast premium build qualities and similar designs, the Bambino Plus stands out with its variety of color options.
Additionally, the Bambino Plus offers an extended 2-year warranty, providing users with added assurance.
Ultimately, both machines are expected to deliver excellent performance and durability for years to come.
Features: Breville Bambino vs. Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino and Breville Bambino Plus espresso machines share a remarkable set of features that contribute to their outstanding performance.
Despite their seemingly simple appearance, these machines are equipped with advanced technology to deliver exceptional brewing results.
Let’s explore the impressive features that both machines offer.
First and foremost, both the Bambino and Bambino Plus feature Breville’s ThermoJet Heating System, which sets a new standard for heating speed with a remarkable heating time of just 3 seconds.
This ensures that you can enjoy your espresso without any unnecessary waiting time.
Furthermore, both machines are equipped with PID temperature control, guaranteeing precise and consistent brewing temperatures.
This level of control is essential for extracting the best flavors from your coffee grounds and achieving optimal espresso quality.
Both the Bambino and Bambino Plus also incorporate low-pressure pre-infusion, a process that wets the coffee grounds before applying full pressure.
This step allows for even extraction and enhances the flavors in your espresso shot.
In terms of brewing pressure, both machines feature a 15-bar Italian pump, providing a brewing pressure of 9 bars.
This optimal pressure level ensures the extraction of rich flavors and the formation of a beautiful crema on top of your espresso.
Both machines offer the convenience of pre-set espresso shot volumes, allowing you to choose between one or two shots.
Additionally, manual override functionality is available for those who prefer to customize their shot volumes according to personal preferences.
Another versatile feature found in both the Bambino and Bambino Plus is the hot water dispenser, accessible through the steam wand.
While the Bambino offers a dedicated hot water button for easy access, the Bambino Plus requires the simultaneous pressing of the “1 Cup” and “Milk Foam” buttons to activate hot water dispensing.
One notable distinction in features is the milk steaming system.
The Breville Bambino Plus comes equipped with an automatic or manual steam wand, offering three adjustable milk temperature and texture levels.
In contrast, the Bambino solely provides a manual steam wand for manual milk frothing.
Both machines are designed with a thoughtful cup warmer on top, ensuring that your espresso remains at the optimal temperature for enjoyment.
The Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus impress with their shared features that enhance the brewing process.
With rapid heating, precise temperature control, low-pressure pre-infusion, and a range of brewing options, these machines offer a complete espresso experience.
While the Bambino Plus stands out with its automatic milk frothing and customization options, the Bambino offers its own advantages such as a dedicated hot water button.
Steam Wand and Milk Frothing Capabilities: Breville Bambino vs. Bambino Plus
If you’re someone who enjoys indulging in milky espresso beverages like lattes and cappuccinos, the steam wand of your espresso maker holds significant importance.
This particular aspect is where the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus differ the most.
Let’s explore each machine in detail:
Breville Bambino: Manual Milk Frothing
The Bambino comes with a traditional steam wand that requires manual operation.
It features a single-hole tip and a button to start and stop the steaming process.
This manual frothing option allows for a hands-on experience, giving users more control over the milk frothing process.
If you enjoy the art of manually frothing milk and want to learn the techniques involved, the Bambino’s steam wand provides a valuable opportunity to master the craft.
However, it’s important to note that using the manual steam wand may take a bit longer (around 60 seconds) and result in more water content in the frothed milk compared to the automatic option.
Breville Bambino Plus: Automatic Milk Frothing
In contrast, the Bambino Plus features an automatic milk frothing system with an innovative steam wand.
This system offers a hands-free experience and provides three adjustable milk temperature and texture levels.
With the automatic milk frothing feature, you can easily achieve silky, microfoam milk without the need for manual intervention.
By selecting your desired milk temperature and foam settings, the machine takes care of texturing the milk for you.
This automated process is particularly beneficial for those who are new to milk frothing or prefer a more consistent result without the learning curve and is also a lot quicker at around 30 seconds on average.
Temperature and Texture Control
The Bambino Plus takes milk frothing a step further with its advanced temperature control feature.
Equipped with sensors in the drip tray, the machine allows for precise temperature adjustments.
You can choose between three temperature options, ranging from 50 to 90(50, 70, 90) degrees Celsius.
Additionally, the Bambino Plus provides texture control for the steamed milk, allowing you to achieve your desired level of foam consistency.
It offers options for flat white-fine foam to a dry cappuccino texture, ensuring versatility in your milk-based beverages.
Performance and Considerations
Both the Bambino and Bambino Plus excel in milk frothing performance, delivering barista-quality microform.
With the Thermojet heating system, there is no lag time between pulling an espresso shot and steaming milk on either machine.
However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Bambino Plus Considerations:
- Non-dairy milk: The Bambino Plus may require more finesse when frothing non-dairy milk, such as oat milk, due to its lower protein and fat content.
- Manual frothing: The wand on the Bambino Plus does not rotate, making manual frothing more challenging.
- Self-cleaning: The self-cleaning function of the wand can be a bit aggressive, resulting in water splashing over the backplate and the counter if not covered.
Bambino Considerations:
- Learning curve: Using the manual steam wand on the Bambino requires learning the techniques for frothing milk manually, which may take time and practice.
- Water content: Due to the single-hole tip, the frothed milk on the Bambino may contain more water compared to the automatic frothing option.
- Milk Pitcher not included: Bambino sometimes does not include a milk pitcher in its package. Although acquiring one from Breville is simple and the cost is reasonable enough not to be a major setback, it can be frustrating to discover that your machine isn’t ready for immediate use when it comes to crafting lattes.
Overall, both the Bambino and Bambino Plus deliver satisfactory milk-frothing capabilities.
However, if you desire a more automated and convenient experience, the Bambino Plus with its automatic milk frothing system and temperature control may be the preferred choice.
On the other hand, if you enjoy the hands-on approach and want more control over the milk frothing process, the Bambino’s manual steam wand provides an opportunity to refine your skills.
Brewing Performance: Breville Bambino vs. Bambino Plus
When it comes to evaluating espresso machines, the most critical aspect is the quality of the espresso they produce.
In this regard, both the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus excel, as they share the same powerful ThermoJet heating system, which ensures optimal extraction temperatures in a mere three seconds.
This rapid heating capability outperforms previous Breville models with less advanced thermocoil heating systems, providing a significant advantage.
Another key factor in brewing espresso is water pressure.
Both the Bambino and the Bambino Plus employ a 15-bar Italian pump design, delivering excellent results comparable to commercial-grade machines.
Pump-based systems offer superior performance compared to steam-based systems, enhancing the overall espresso quality.
To achieve precise temperature control during extraction, both machines are equipped with digital temperature control (PID).
This feature swiftly brings the water to the ideal temperature, ensuring optimal espresso extraction every time.
In terms of brewing features, both the Bambino and Bambino Plus incorporate a low-pressure pre-infusion setting, a characteristic typically found in higher-end machines.
This feature primes the coffee grounds in the portafilter, promoting even extraction and bringing out the rich and complex flavors of the espresso.
Whether using freshly ground beans or pre-ground espresso, both machines benefit from this well-designed feature.
Our verdict: It’s a draw. Both the Breville Bambino and the Bambino Plus deliver exceptional brewing performance.
With precise temperature control, rapid heating, low-pressure pre-infusion, and optimal pressure, these machines consistently produce balanced and flavorful espresso shots at the touch of a button.
To ensure the highest coffee quality from your machine, consider using freshly ground beans, which are essential for exquisite flavors.
You can explore a variety of coffees from specialty roasters or local coffee shops to discover your preferred taste profiles.
Additionally, if you have a capable espresso grinder that allows for fine-tuning of the grind size, using a single-wall filter basket instead of the double-wall pressurized basket can significantly enhance the coffee quality produced by both the Bambino and Bambino Plus.
Ease Of Use: Breville Bambino vs. Bambino Plus
When comparing the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus, ease of use is a crucial factor to consider.
Both machines are designed with user-friendliness in mind, although there are notable differences that may influence your decision.
The Breville Bambino offers a more straightforward user experience.
With fewer features and options, it is easier to use compared to the Bambino Plus.
However, the Bambino Plus boasts a more intuitive interface, featuring a few buttons that cater to both experienced baristas and beginners.
The inclusion of preset milk options on the Bambino Plus can be a decisive factor for some users.
One of the significant distinctions between the two machines lies in their milk-steaming systems.
The Bambino Plus provides the choice between an automatic or manual steam wand with three adjustable milk temperature and texture levels, offering a range of customization.
In contrast, the Bambino only includes a manual steam wand.
If you prefer a hands-on approach to milk texturing, the Bambino’s manual steam wand might be more suitable.
However, if you seek a more automated process, the Bambino Plus is the better option.
In terms of cleaning and maintenance, the Bambino Plus has the advantage of a dedicated cleaning program, simplifying upkeep compared to the Bambino.
Nevertheless, both machines are relatively easy to clean and maintain overall.
Ultimately, the decision between the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus depends on personal preferences and priorities.
If simplicity and a lower price point are important to you, the Bambino offers a compelling choice but keep in mind that the manual steam wand will require a bit more skill to use.
Conversely, if you value automation and additional features, the Bambino Plus justifies the extra investment.
Both machines can produce high-quality espresso and have garnered positive reviews for their performance and user-friendliness.
Value for Money: Breville Bambino vs. Breville Bambino Plus
When considering the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus, the difference in price between the two models is quite surprising.
The Bambino espresso maker provides excellent value for money compared to its competitors, delivering beautiful espresso and milk foam at a fraction of the cost compared to the Bambino Plus, making it more appealing for those on a budget.
The Breville Bambino Plus justifies its higher price with a range of additional features.
The inclusion of sensors, an efficient steam wand, and automatic presets for temperature and texture all add value to the machine.
The Bambino Plus allows for a set-it-and-forget-it experience with the milk jug, enhancing convenience.
In terms of user-friendliness in coffee brewing and milk frothing, the Bambino Plus excels, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
However, at a similar price, one could opt for a semi-automatic machine that produces barista-quality espresso or an entry-level super-automatic machine for a hands-free experience.
Nonetheless, if you desire a compact espresso machine with a high level of automation and brewing performance, the Bambino Plus remains a compelling option.
Both the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus excel in essential aspects that an espresso maker should deliver.
Both machines feature a reliable heating system, digital temperature control, low-pressure pre-infusion, and Italian pumps that ensure optimal water pressure for brewing and steaming.
The shared Thermojet heating system eliminates lag time, quickly heating water and maintaining consistent temperature levels.
Additionally, both machines offer easy presets for controlling shot volume.
We would recommend purchasing a Bambino and investing in a separate milk frother like the Aeroccino 4.
Alternatively, you can allocate the savings towards a high-quality burr grinder, such as the DF64, which is essential for achieving excellent espresso results.
Considering the price, it is challenging to find another compact machine that produces such exceptional espresso shots as the Bambino.
Moreover, it incorporates Breville’s latest technology and features a commercial-style steam wand.
On the other hand, the Bambino Plus commands a significantly higher price but compensates with its user-friendly nature.
Overall, the Breville Bambino offers superior value for money.
Accessories: Breville Bambino vs. Breville Bambino Plus
Each machine comes with a portafilter, a tamper, and a milk jug.
However, the Bambino Plus surpasses the Bambino in terms of both the quality and quantity of accessories provided.
While both machines include one-cup and two-cup dual-wall filter baskets, portafilter, and cleaning tools, the Bambino Plus offers additional accessories not found in the Bambino.
These include a 16fl oz (480ml) stainless steel milk jug and a Razor precision dosing tool.
One noticeable difference is the tamper.
The Bambino Plus comes with a metal tamper, which is of higher quality compared to the plastic tamper included with the Bambino.
The plastic tamper can be problematic as it tends to slip during the tamping process, resulting in an uneven puck and potentially impacting the taste of the espresso.
Fortunately, there are several affordable tampers available on the market, such as the Luxhaus 53mm tamper, which offers better performance and durability.
Investing in a better tamper can greatly improve the espresso-making process.
Another significant accessory provided with the Bambino Plus is the Razor precision dosing tool.
This tool helps level the espresso grounds in the portafilter, ensuring the right amount of space for optimal extraction.
While it may be helpful for beginners, as one becomes more experienced, the need for the dosing tool diminishes, and using a basic scale like the Apexstone can be more beneficial.
Additionally, the Bambino Plus offers single-wall filter baskets, also known as non-pressurized baskets, which can deliver superior espresso quality but require more skill to use effectively.
Starting with dual-wall filters and gradually transitioning to single-wall filter baskets as you learn to dial in espresso is recommended.
Although these differences may appear minor individually, they can be quite frustrating when combined.
The advantage of choosing the Breville Bambino Plus is that it provides better-quality accessories and a wider selection, eliminating the need to purchase additional equipment like a milk jug and a quality tamper separately, which are essential for brewing espresso drinks.
The Breville Bambino Plus emerges as the winner in terms of accessories.
Its inclusion of higher-quality accessories and additional tools saves you money in the long run, as you won’t need to invest in extra equipment to enhance your espresso-making experience.
Breville Bambino vs Bambino Plus: Key Similarities
Here are some of the key similarities between the Bambino and Bambino Plus:
Excellent Espresso
Both the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus are capable of producing exceptional espresso, allowing coffee enthusiasts to enjoy a rich and flavorful cup of coffee from the comfort of their homes.
Compact Size
Both machines share a compact design, making them suitable for small kitchens or limited countertop space.
Their compact footprint ensures they won’t take up excessive room while still delivering impressive performance.
Advanced Technology
The Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus boast advanced technological features to enhance the brewing process.
They are equipped with PID temperature control, which ensures precise water temperature for optimal extraction.
Additionally, both machines offer pre-infusion capabilities, allowing for even saturation of the coffee grounds to extract maximum flavor.
54mm Portafilter
Another similarity between the two machines is the use of a 54mm portafilter.
This portafilter size ensures proper extraction and allows for flexibility in using different coffee doses and grind sizes.
Value for Money
In addition to their similarities in core features and capabilities, both the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus offer excellent value for money.
These espresso machines provide a remarkable combination of performance, quality, and affordability.
Despite their compact size, both machines are designed to deliver barista-quality espresso, ensuring that you can enjoy a café-like experience in the comfort of your own home.
Breville Bambino vs. Breville Bambino Plus: The Verdict
Who Should Buy The Bambino?
The Breville Bambino is an excellent option for those who value simplicity and compactness.
If you have limited countertop space or prefer a machine that doesn’t overwhelm you with complicated features, the Bambino is a great fit.
It offers all the essential features needed for brewing high-quality espresso, such as rapid heating, precise temperature control, and low-pressure pre-infusion.
The manual steam wand allows you to practice and master the art of milk frothing, giving you full control over the texture and temperature of your milk.
Additionally, the Bambino is more budget-friendly, making it an attractive choice for espresso enthusiasts on a tighter budget.
Who Should Buy The Bambino Plus?
On the other hand, the Breville Bambino Plus caters to those who desire more automation and advanced milk-frothing capabilities.
If you prefer the convenience of automatic milk frothing with customizable temperature and texture options, the Bambino Plus is a suitable choice.
Its automatic steam wand takes the guesswork out of milk frothing, making it easier for beginners or those who want consistent results every time.
The larger water tank capacity and the option to choose from a range of stylish colors are bonuses for those who prioritize aesthetics and convenience.
Which Do We Prefer?
While both machines offer impressive features, our preference leans towards the Breville Bambino for a few reasons.
Firstly, the manual steam wand allows you to develop your barista skills and experiment with different milk textures.
This hands-on approach can be rewarding and enjoyable for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the art of espresso making.
Additionally, the Bambino’s affordability makes it an excellent entry-level machine without compromising on the quality of the espresso produced.
By investing in a separate grinder, you can elevate your coffee experience without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the choice between the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus depends on your individual preferences and requirements.
If you value simplicity, compactness, and the opportunity to develop your barista skills, the Breville Bambino is an excellent option.
However, if you prefer more automation, advanced milk frothing capabilities, and a larger water tank, the Breville Bambino Plus may be the better fit.
FAQ’s
What is the difference between Bambino and Bambino Plus?
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out with its advanced features and larger water tank capacity, albeit at a higher price.
On the other hand, the Breville Bambino offers greater control and flexibility through its manual milk wand, while being more budget-friendly.
The key differences between the two lie in the level of features and pricing, allowing users to choose based on their priorities for convenience, customization, and cost.
Is the Bambino Plus worth the extra money?
Whether the Breville Bambino Plus is worth the extra money depends on your specific needs and preferences.
It offers more advanced features, such as automatic milk frothing and a larger water tank capacity, which can enhance convenience and functionality.
If these features align with your requirements and you are willing to invest in them, then the Bambino Plus may be worth the extra cost.
However, if you prioritize manual control, flexibility, and have a tighter budget, the Bambino can still provide excellent espresso-making capabilities at a more affordable price.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and the value you place on the additional features offered by the Bambino Plus.
Does the Bambino Plus make cappuccino?
Yes, the Breville Bambino Plus can make cappuccino.
The machine has an automated steam wand that makes milk steaming as easy as a few button-pushes, allowing for those luxurious espresso shots to be turned into great cappuccinos and lattes
Does the Bambino and Bambino Plus use the same portafilter?
Yes, Both the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus espresso machines utilize the same 54-mm portafilter.
Do you need a grinder with Bambino Plus?
Yes, the Breville Bambino Plus is an excellent compact espresso machine capable of producing rich and flavorful espresso with light and frothy milk foam.
However, it does not include a coffee bean grinder.
To achieve the best results with freshly ground coffee beans, it is recommended to pair the machine with a separate grinder.
Experts suggest investing in a burr grinder, as it helps preserve the flavor of the coffee beans and ensures a consistent grind.
What is the best grind size for Bambino Plus?
To achieve optimal results with the Bambino Plus, it is recommended to start with a grind size of 14 and make adjustments based on your taste preferences.
Experimenting with different grind sizes will allow you to fine-tune the extraction and customize the flavor of your espresso.
