Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Which Should You Buy?
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These two Breville machines suit different people. The Barista Express is an all-in-one with a built-in grinder. The Bambino Plus is a compact machine with no grinder but an automatic steam wand that makes milk drinks very easy.
The main differences
| Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus | |
|---|---|---|
| Grinder | Built-in conical burr | None; needs a separate grinder or pre-ground coffee |
| Milk | Manual steam wand | Automatic steam wand (set temperature and texture) |
| Heat-up | Thermocoil; takes a little while | ThermoJet; ready in seconds |
| Size | Larger, with bean hopper on top | Compact and narrow |
| Price tier | Premium | Mid-range |
Full specs
| Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-automatic with built-in grinder | Semi-automatic (no grinder) |
| Built-in grinder | Yes, conical burr | No |
| Milk | Manual steam wand | Automatic steam wand (set temp and texture) |
| Portafilter | 54 mm | 54 mm |
| Price tier | Premium | Mid-range |
| Best for | Beginners who want café-style espresso without buying a separate grinder | Latte and cappuccino drinkers with limited counter space |
Specs are from the manufacturers. Always confirm on the retailer's listing before buying.
Choose the Breville Barista Express if
- You do not own a grinder and want everything in one box
- You drink straight espresso as well as milk drinks
- You want to learn to steam milk yourself
Choose the Breville Bambino Plus if
- You mostly drink lattes and cappuccinos
- You have little counter space
- You already own a grinder or buy fresh pre-ground coffee
Verdict
No grinder at home? The Barista Express is the simpler buy. Mostly milk drinks and a small kitchen? The Bambino Plus, paired with a grinder or fresh pre-ground coffee, is easier day to day.
FAQ
Is the Bambino Plus good without a grinder?
It works with fresh pre-ground espresso coffee, especially for milk drinks. For the best straight espresso, pair it with a burr grinder.
Which is easier for beginners?
For milk drinks, the Bambino Plus, thanks to its automatic wand. For learning espresso as a whole without buying extras, the Barista Express.
More buying guides
- Best Espresso Machines for Beginners
- Best Espresso Machines with a Built-In Grinder
- Best Budget Espresso Machines
- Best Espresso Machines for Lattes and Cappuccinos
- Best Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machines
- Best Espresso Machines for Small Kitchens
- Best Espresso Machines for Latte Art
- Espresso Machines That Fit Under Kitchen Cabinets
- Best Espresso Machines for Families and Busy Households
- Best Premium Espresso Machines
- Best Mid-Range Espresso Machines
- Espresso Machines That Heat Up in Seconds
- Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
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