When it comes to compact home espresso machines, Breville’s Bambino and Bambino Plus stand out as two of the most popular options. Both models are designed to deliver café-quality espresso in a small footprint, but they cater to slightly different audiences.
Breville Bambino vs Bambino Plus: Quick Overview
The Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus are two compact espresso machines designed for home baristas who want café-quality coffee without the bulk of commercial equipment. Both models use Breville’s ThermoJet heating system, which allows rapid heat-up in just 3 seconds.
Key Highlights:
- Breville Bambino – Affordable, manual milk frothing, slim design.
- Breville Bambino Plus – Higher price, automatic steam wand, more beginner-friendly.
- Both Models – ThermoJet heating, 20-bar pressure, compact footprint.
- Target Users – Bambino suits budget-conscious coffee lovers; Bambino Plus appeals to those who want convenience.
In essence, the Bambino is about simplicity and control, while the Bambino Plus adds automation for milk-based drinks.
Design and Build Quality Comparison
Breville is known for sleek stainless-steel designs, and both machines reflect this. The Bambino is slightly more minimalistic, with fewer buttons and a straightforward interface. The Bambino Plus, however, adds extra functionality with dedicated milk frothing controls and a sturdier steam wand.
Design Features:
- Bambino – Slim profile, simple button layout, lightweight build.
- Bambino Plus – Slightly larger, premium finish, dedicated milk frothing buttons.
- Shared Traits – Stainless steel housing, modern aesthetic, durable construction.
- User Appeal – Bambino for minimalists, Bambino Plus for those who want more features.
Both machines are built to last, but the Bambino Plus feels more premium due to its added components. The Bambino’s simplicity makes it easier to maintain, while the Plus offers a more professional feel.
Size and Portability Differences
Compactness is a major selling point for both models. The Bambino is one of the smallest espresso machines in Breville’s lineup, making it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
Size Comparison:
- Bambino – Slimmer, lighter, easier to move.
- Bambino Plus – Slightly bulkier, heavier, but still compact.
- Counter Space Needs – Bambino fits tighter spaces; Plus requires a bit more room.
- Portability – Bambino is more travel-friendly.
The Plus, while not oversized, is better suited for users who prioritize functionality over ultra-compact design. Both machines remain practical for everyday use, but the Bambino wins in portability.
Heating System: ThermoJet Technology Explained
Both machines use Breville’s ThermoJet heating system, which is a standout feature. Unlike traditional espresso machines that take minutes to heat, ThermoJet reaches optimal temperature in just 3 seconds.
ThermoJet Benefits:
- Rapid Heat-Up – Ready in 3 seconds.
- Energy Efficient – Consumes less power compared to traditional boilers.
- Consistent Temperature – Ensures stable espresso extraction.
- Shared Across Models – Both Bambino and Bambino Plus use ThermoJet.
Whether you choose the Bambino or Bambino Plus, you’ll enjoy quick start-up times and consistent brewing. The difference lies not in heating but in milk frothing capabilities, which sets the Plus apart.
Steam Wand Performance: Manual vs Automatic
Milk frothing is where the biggest difference lies. The Bambino uses a manual steam wand, requiring skill and practice to achieve café-quality microfoam. The Bambino Plus, however, features an automatic steam wand with adjustable temperature and texture settings, making it beginner-friendly.
Steam Wand Comparison:
- Bambino – Manual wand, full control, requires practice.
- Bambino Plus – Automatic wand, preset options, consistent results.
- Skill Level – Bambino suits experienced users; Plus suits beginners.
- Drink Variety – Plus makes lattes and cappuccinos easier.
The Plus, however, simplifies the process, ensuring consistent milk froth without effort. This makes the Plus more appealing to latte lovers who value convenience.
Ease of Use and User Experience
Breville designed both machines with user-friendliness in mind. The Bambino offers a straightforward interface with basic buttons, while the Bambino Plus adds dedicated milk frothing controls.
Ease of Use Highlights:
- Bambino – Simple interface, manual frothing, requires practice.
- Bambino Plus – Automatic frothing, beginner-friendly, more guided experience.
- Maintenance – Both machines are easy to clean with removable drip trays.
- User Appeal – Bambino for hands-on users, Plus for convenience seekers.
The Bambino, while simple, requires more effort to master milk frothing. Both machines, however, deliver excellent espresso with minimal hassle.
Price and Value for Money
Price is a major factor in choosing between the two. The Bambino is the more affordable option, often retailing around $300, while the Bambino Plus costs closer to $500. The difference comes down to whether you value automatic milk frothing.
Price Breakdown:
- Bambino – Lower cost, great value for espresso quality.
- Bambino Plus – Higher cost, added convenience features.
- Investment Consideration – Bambino saves money for a better grinder.
- Value – Plus offers more features, but at a premium.
If budget is a concern, the Bambino is the smarter choice. It delivers excellent espresso at a lower price, leaving room to invest in a quality grinder.
Which Machine Is Best for Beginners?
Beginners often struggle with milk frothing, which makes the Bambino Plus a better option. Its automatic steam wand ensures consistent results without requiring barista skills. The Bambino, while excellent, demands practice and patience.
Beginner-Friendly Features:
- Bambino – Manual frothing, requires skill.
- Bambino Plus – Automatic frothing, preset options, easy learning curve.
- Espresso Quality – Both deliver café-level espresso.
- Best Choice – Plus for beginners, Bambino for enthusiasts.
The Bambino is better suited for users who enjoy hands-on learning and want more control. Both machines are beginner-friendly in brewing, but milk frothing sets them apart.
Final Verdict: Choosing Between Bambino and Bambino Plus
Choosing between the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus ultimately comes down to your priorities as a home barista. Both machines deliver excellent espresso thanks to Breville’s ThermoJet heating system and 20‑bar pressure extraction, but they differ in how much control and convenience they offer.
Verdict Summary:
- Choose Bambino – Budget‑friendly, compact, manual steam wand for those who enjoy learning and practicing frothing skills.
- Choose Bambino Plus – Higher price, automatic steam wand, beginner‑friendly, perfect for latte and cappuccino lovers.
- Espresso Quality – Both machines deliver café‑style espresso with rich crema.
- Best Fit – Bambino for enthusiasts who value control; Bambino Plus for convenience seekers who want quick, consistent results.
In conclusion, the Bambino is the better choice if you want affordability and the satisfaction of mastering espresso techniques.