Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
Fast heat-up, compact design, and easy milk frothing deliver café-quality espresso with minor setup considerations.
The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is a compact powerhouse designed for home baristas craving café-quality espresso without the wait. Perfect for tight kitchens and busy mornings, it boasts a blazing 3-second ThermoJet heat-up and a 54mm portafilter that unlocks rich flavor with ease. Its standout feature, an automatic steam wand, crafts microfoam like a pro—ideal for latte lovers seeking fuss-free frothing. Experts praise its precise PID temperature control and durable stainless steel build, though some users note quirks like a small drip tray and no built-in grinder. At around $400, it strikes savvy value—a smart pick where speed meets silky foam and solid style.
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Benefits
PID, ThermoJet and low-pressure pre-infusion deliver balanced shots, reducing bitter flavors and variability.
3-second ThermoJet vs slow thermoblocks reduces morning wait, lowering daily stress and friction.
Automatic steam wand creates consistent microfoam, easing skill burden for novices making lattes.
7.7-inch stainless-steel footprint saves counter space while offering sturdy, repairable metal construction.
Reliable shots and quick workflow support calm routines and reduce decision fatigue each day.
Trade-Offs
Auto-purge and routine flushing use extra water and energy, modestly increasing household resource use.
Reported heating or steam-system failures can generate electronic waste and inconvenient repair cycles.
No integrated grinder often leads to separate equipment purchases, raising material footprint and complexity.
Auto-frother may underperform with many plant milks, affecting foam quality for dairy-free drinkers.
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Publications
5 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Mark Prince from CoffeeGeek highlights the Breville Bambino Plus as a groundbreaking compact espresso machine that combines advanced technology with a remarkably small footprint. Praising its innovative thermojet heating system, PID temperature control, and rapid heat-up time, he emphasizes the machine’s ability to deliver café-quality espresso shots and microfoam milk with minimal fuss. The automated frothing system, adjustable for multiple temperature and foam levels, stands out as a unique feature rarely seen at this price point. While the review acknowledges some quirks—such as a small drip tray, initially limited filter baskets, and a somewhat cold grouphead requiring flushes—the overall fit, finish, and feature set are described as exceptional for under $500. Prince also notes the machine’s compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket accessories and the value of pairing it with a quality grinder. Despite minor criticisms, the Bambino Plus is positioned as a top contender for home espresso enthusiasts seeking convenience without sacrificing quality.
By Mark Prince
Serious Eats praises the Breville Bambino Plus as a standout semi-automatic espresso machine that expertly balances performance, ease of use, and value. The review highlights its rapid ThermoJet heating system, precise PID temperature control, and a unique pressure ramp-up feature that makes pulling excellent espresso shots forgiving and accessible for both beginners and experts. The automatic steam wand impresses with its ability to produce quality microfoam, though some manual swirling is needed for optimal texture. Thoughtful design touches—like a removable water reservoir, clear labeling, a shot counter, and included accessories—enhance usability and maintenance. While the machine’s plastic body and lack of a built-in grinder are noted drawbacks, the reviewer emphasizes that for under $500, the Bambino Plus delivers exceptional reliability and convenience. Tested extensively over a week with over 100 shots, the review conveys genuine enthusiasm tempered by practical considerations, making it a compelling choice for espresso enthusiasts seeking a compact, user-friendly machine.
By Jesse Raub
Erin Bashford from Tom’s Guide highlights the Breville Bambino Plus as a standout entry-level espresso machine, praising its ease of use, compact design, and ability to produce delicious espresso with well-steamed milk. The review conveys genuine enthusiasm for the machine’s quick heat-up time, effective automatic milk steaming, and thoughtful features like the auto-purge function and a well-designed milk jug that aids latte art. While acknowledging its higher price point compared to some competitors and the limited movement of the steam wand, Bashford emphasizes that these drawbacks are outweighed by the machine’s reliability and quality output. The review also offers nuanced insights into the machine’s suitability for beginners and space-conscious users, while noting that espresso purists might prefer more advanced dual-boiler models. Overall, the Bambino Plus is celebrated as the reigning compact espresso champion, delivering excellent performance and convenience for home users without sacrificing quality.
By Erin Bashford
Lesley Robinson from GearLab / TechGearLab highlights the Breville Bambino Plus as a compact, user-friendly espresso machine that excels in convenience and delivers decent espresso shots with good microfoam for cappuccinos. Praised for its fast brewing time, acceptable extraction yield meeting industry standards, and automated milk steaming, it stands out as a solid choice for novices or those with limited counter space. While it lacks a built-in grinder, extensive customization, and has a small drip tray requiring frequent emptying, these trade-offs are balanced by its ease of use, quick setup, and helpful app guidance. The automatic steam wand simplifies milk frothing, though it struggles with very dry foam and occasional scalding at high temperatures. Overall, the Bambino Plus offers a reliable, mostly automatic espresso experience that suits casual users seeking quality without complexity, though more advanced baristas might prefer machines with greater control and built-in grinders.
By Lesley Robinson
Gear Patrol’s Will Price highlights the Breville Bambino Plus as a compact, fast-heating espresso machine that excels at delivering consistent, café-quality shots with minimal fuss. Praising its slim footprint and impressive three-second heat-up time, the review emphasizes the machine’s ease of use, especially for those who already own essential accessories like a grinder and scale. However, Price points out that the Bambino Plus lacks an integrated grinder or dosing system, which means additional equipment is necessary to achieve optimal espresso, somewhat diminishing its standalone value. The milk wand produces excellent microfoam but can cause some mess due to steam purging after use. While the Bambino Plus offers great performance for its size and price, it is positioned as a niche option best suited for espresso enthusiasts who already have complementary gear, with alternatives like the Barista Express offering more all-in-one convenience. Overall, the review balances enthusiasm for Breville’s engineering with practical caveats about the total investment required.
By Will Price
YouTube
11 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Tom's Coffee CornerTom’s Coffee Corner praises the Breville Bambino Plus for its rapid 3-second heat-up, compact design, and superior manual milk frothing that yields velvety microfoam ideal for latte art. However, he notes its automatic steam wand produces thinner foam and that temperature stability can be less consistent than competitors, affecting lighter roast flavor. Overall, he finds the Bambino Plus excels in espresso quality and milk texture but suggests the DeLonghi Dedica Maestro Plus may better suit those prioritizing automatic frothing and temperature control, making the choice dependent on user preferences and budget.
Craft Coffee SpotMarco from Craft Coffee Spot praises both the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus for their durable stainless steel build, fast 3-second ThermoJet heating, and consistent espresso quality. He highlights the Bambino Plus’s automatic steam wand as easy but less effective with non-dairy milk, while favoring the Bambino’s manual wand for better milk texture and affordability. He recommends the Bambino overall, emphasizing the importance of investing in a quality grinder alongside either machine.
Coffee KevCoffee Kev praises the Breville Bambino Plus for its fast 3-second ThermoJet heat-up, reliable 93°C PID temperature control, and convenient automatic milk frothing, making it ideal for beginners seeking café-quality espresso with minimal fuss. He notes both machines deliver excellent espresso but highlights the Plus’s faster steaming and auto steam wand as key advantages, while cautioning about limited temperature adjustability and occasional milk sensor issues. His balanced, detailed comparison offers practical insights on portafilters, roast compatibility, and maintenance, helping viewers choose based on their steaming preferences.
Alternative BrewingAlternative Brewing praises the Breville Bambino Plus for its compact size, rapid 3-second ThermoJet heat-up, and especially its automatic microfoam milk frothing, which delivers café-quality texture with minimal effort. The reviewer highlights the machine’s thoughtful features like the three-way solenoid valve and larger water tank but cautions that consistent espresso depends heavily on a quality grinder and proper workflow. Overall, it’s lauded as a perfect bridge between convenience and craft for home baristas.
Seattle Coffee GearGail from Seattle Coffee Gear praises the Breville Bambino Plus for its rapid 3-second ThermoJet heating, large 64-ounce water tank, and user-friendly automatic steam wand with adjustable milk temperature and foam levels. She highlights its compact stainless steel design, ease of cleaning, and consistent espresso quality, noting it’s ideal for small spaces and beginners. Minor critiques include the fixed pressurized portafilter baskets and lack of built-in grinder, but overall she enthusiastically recommends it for apartment or small-space use.
Lance HedrickLance Hedrick praises the Breville Bambino Plus for its rapid 3-second ThermoJet heating, consistent espresso quality with single-wall baskets, and user-friendly automatic steam wand with customizable settings. He highlights its excellent out-of-box performance and value under $500, while noting build quality concerns, a small drip tray, and manual pre-infusion limitations.
Coffee Coach | Ryde JeavonsRy from Coffee Coach | Ryde Jeavons recommends the Breville Bambino as the best affordable entry-level espresso machine, praising its compact size, fast ThermoJet heating, and solid coffee quality. He views the Bambino Plus’s $200 auto-steaming feature as unnecessary for most beginners, encouraging users to invest instead in a good grinder or beans for better results.
Lifestyle LabLifestyle Lab praises the Breville Bambino Plus for its compact size, sturdy build, and standout automatic steam wand with fast, customizable milk texturing. While impressed by espresso quality and quick heat-up, the reviewer notes drawbacks like the included pressurized portafilter baskets, lack of a hot water spout, and a separate temperature sensor for steaming, suggesting it’s best suited for latte and cappuccino drinkers willing to invest in upgrades.
Coffee PartsPedro from Coffee Parts praises the Breville Bambino Plus for its compact size, rapid 3-second ThermoJet heat-up, and user-friendly automatic milk frothing with customizable temperature and texture settings. He highlights its suitability for beginners and small spaces, noting included accessories and maintenance ease. While appreciating its entry-level focus, he suggests upgrading the portafilter and tamper for a more professional feel and recommends pairing it with a quality grinder for best results.
Gary | BigSpudGary | BigSpud praises the Breville Bambino Plus for its incredibly fast 3-second heat-up, compact design, and convenient automatic milk frothing with customizable settings, making it ideal for beginners or those seeking ease. He values splitting grinding and brewing for greater drink variety but notes the machine feels lightweight, has a fiddly power-off method, and a small drip tray requiring frequent cleaning. Overall, he finds it a smart, space-saving upgrade from the Barista Express, especially for casual specialty coffee drinkers.
Home Barista CornerHome Barista Corner enthusiastically guides beginners through the Breville Bambino Plus’s user-friendly features, highlighting its 3-second ThermoJet heat-up, automatic milk frothing with adjustable settings, and compact design. The tutorial offers practical tips for dosing, tamping, and cleaning, emphasizing ease of use and consistent espresso quality for new home baristas.
Social
7 INFLUENCER REVIEWS
RyanRyanTag | Coffee Content highlights the key differences between the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus, emphasizing the Plus’s faster steam time, improved steam wand design, and automatic milk frothing feature that benefits beginners. He notes identical espresso shot quality but points out the regular Bambino’s lack of a three-way solenoid valve, causing espresso to flow after stopping. Overall, RyanTag finds the Bambino Plus to be the better buy for those seeking convenience and precision, especially novices, while acknowledging the regular Bambino’s solid performance. He offers a practical, balanced recommendation with helpful pricing info, making the Plus a smart choice for most buyers.
bonappetitmagNoah Kaufman highlights the Breville Bambino Plus as a standout beginner espresso machine, praising its rapid heat-up time, easy-to-use portafilter and tamper, and notably smooth, well-balanced espresso shots. He contrasts it with a competitor’s plasticky feel and underwhelming milk steaming, emphasizing Breville’s superior automatic milk frothing. Overall, Noah clearly recommends the Breville Bambino Plus for those seeking café-quality espresso at home with minimal hassle. Its combination of build quality, flavor, and effortless milk steaming makes it the preferred choice for beginners wanting consistent, delicious results.
NYT WirecutterNYT Wirecutter highlights the Breville Bambino Plus as the easiest beginner espresso machine they tested, noting even a former barista was impressed by the reviewer’s initial attempts. The post emphasizes user-friendliness and accessibility for amateur baristas, making it a standout choice for home espresso enthusiasts. Overall, Wirecutter confidently recommends the Bambino Plus for those new to espresso machines, praising its simplicity and reliable performance while encouraging readers to explore their full testing process for more insights.
Asser | THE COFFEE CHRONICLERAsser | THE COFFEE CHRONICLER highlights the Breville Bambino Plus as a deceptively simple yet highly capable espresso machine, ideal for beginners or as a reliable second device. He praises its lightning-fast startup, powerful steaming, and consistent shot quality, while noting the included portafilter’s poor fit and recommending aftermarket accessories for best results. Overall, Asser finds the Bambino Plus offers excellent performance and convenience at a fair price point, making it a strong recommendation for those seeking a user-friendly semi-automatic espresso machine without the typical frustrations of single boiler models.
Bradley at ExperimentalBradley at Experimental highlights practical, user-friendly differences between the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus, praising the Plus’s auto frothing feature, quicker shutoff, and superior tamper. He candidly criticizes the regular model’s plastic tamper and emphasizes value depends heavily on price and grinder quality. Overall, Bradley recommends buying either model only at a good discount, stressing the importance of investing more in a quality grinder than the machine itself. His balanced, experience-based advice helps viewers make an informed choice based on features and budget.
rachelguellirachelguelli highlights four key reasons for choosing the Breville Bambino Plus and a separate grinder for her wedding registry: the appealing almond color that matches her aesthetic, superior separate grinder quality, compact size fitting her space, and cost-effectiveness by splitting the gift. She expresses clear enthusiasm and personal connection to the product. Overall, rachelguelli strongly recommends the Breville Bambino Plus, emphasizing its design, functionality, and affordability as perfect for gifting and everyday use. Her positive tone and practical insights make it a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish, efficient espresso setup.
LaurenLauren Bulloch highlights her enthusiastic love for the Breville Bambino Plus, calling it the best purchase of her life. She praises the automatic milk steamer as a game-changer for making lattes, hot coffee, and hot chocolate daily, though notes it requires pre-ground espresso since it lacks a built-in grinder. Overall, Lauren strongly recommends the Bambino Plus for its reliability, ease of use, and versatility, emphasizing how it has become an essential part of her daily routine with no issues encountered.
Store Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 STORE
Amazon reviewers consistently praise the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine for delivering excellent espresso shots with rich crema and smooth flavor, often highlighting its quick heat-up time and reliable performance right out of the box. Users appreciate the machine’s straightforward controls and compact design, which fits neatly into small kitchen spaces while offering adjustable temperature settings for both brewing and steaming. Many emphasize the convenience of the auto milk frother and the consistent quality it produces without requiring extensive tinkering or modifications. Several customers note that pairing the machine with a quality burr grinder and fresh beans significantly enhances the taste, and some share unique tips like using a magnetic portafilter funnel or a knock box to streamline the espresso-making process. While the machine’s timed shot settings occasionally require manual adjustment to achieve the perfect volume, users find this manageable once they dial in their grind size. However, Amazon reviewers also report mixed experiences regarding durability and functionality. Some encounter issues with the steam wand or pump failing within a few months, and others wish for clearer water level indicators. Cleaning receives varied feedback; although many find the auto-cleaning steam wand helpful, a few mention that the purge cycle can be messy or splash water unexpectedly. Despite these concerns, many customers consider the Bambino Plus a worthwhile investment for those seeking a reliable, no-fuss espresso maker that consistently produces café-quality drinks at home. They value its balance of simplicity, performance, and compactness, making it a favored choice for both espresso novices and enthusiasts who prefer a turnkey appliance over a highly customizable machine.
4.1 Stars / Many verified reviews
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Reddit users generally view the Breville Bambino Plus as a solid entry-level espresso machine offering quick heat-up times, consistent shot quality, and convenient features like auto milk frothing and a three-way solenoid valve. Many appreciate its compact design and ease of use, making it suitable for beginners and casual home baristas. However, some users note limitations such as a small drip tray, occasional inconsistency in shot quality, and the non-adjustable PID, which may prompt more experienced users to seek upgrades. While praised for value and reliability, a few report issues with durability and customer service, reflecting a balance of satisfaction and critique.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Rapid ThermoJet warm‑upPromoted as ready in ~3 seconds
- •54mm portafilter for fuller extractionDesigned to accept 18–19 g doses
- •Automatic microfoam steam wandDesigned to deliver hands‑free latte microfoam
- •PID temperature controlAdvertised to maintain steady brew temperature
- •Compact countertop footprintDesigned to fit narrow counters
- •Large removable water tankPromoted as holding 64 fl. oz.
Considerations
- •Pressurized filter baskets limit shot controlFixed pressurized baskets reduce shot tuning
- •No integrated grinderRequires separate grinder purchase
- •Durability and early‑failure reportsUsers report heating or steam faults
- •Small drip trayRequires frequent emptying
- •Limited user temperature adjustmentPID largely non‑adjustable by users
- •Water‑use and tank indicator quirksAuto‑purge uses water; no empty‑tank alert
Breville’s reputation for blending sleek design with smart engineering shines through this compact espresso machine, tailored for home baristas craving café-quality shots without the fuss. Perfectly sized to slip onto tight countertops, it boasts a blazing 3-second ThermoJet heat-up that banishes morning wait times and a PID temperature control system ensuring every extraction hits the sweet spot. The sturdy 54mm portafilter holds enough grounds to coax rich flavors from your beans, while an automatic steam wand crafts microfoam like a pro—ideal for latte lovers seeking hands-free frothing magic. Though it lacks an integrated grinder, its thoughtful features like a roomy removable water tank make daily use effortless. Whether you’re apartment-bound or just after speedy precision with style, this machine strikes a savvy balance between performance and footprint. Ready to see how speed meets silky foam and solid build? Let’s unpack what makes this little powerhouse stand tall in the crowded world of home espresso machines.
Milk frothing performance (automatic steam wand)
Froth fanatics rejoice: the automatic steam wand on this machine offers hands-free microfoam magic with three adjustable temperatures and textures ideal for silky lattes or cappuccinos alike. It steams about 170–180ml milk within just under a minute while auto-purging after use keeps things tidy—a boon especially for beginners craving latte art without fuss. Although aficionados might find non-dairy frothing less perfect than manual methods, most praise its consistency as an effortless shortcut to café-worthy milk foam right at home.
Heating system and temperature stability
Say goodbye to cold starts with the Breville Bambino Plus's revolutionary 3-second ThermoJet heating system, which zaps your espresso machine to life almost instantly. This rapid warm-up, paired with precise PID temperature control, ensures water hits that sweet spot around 93°C for consistent, balanced shots every time. While some users note minor quirks like a small drip tray and initial flushes needed due to a cooler grouphead, overall this tech delivers stable temps that keep your coffee flavorful and frustration-free — truly a game-changer in speed and precision.
Dimensions and countertop footprint
Space savers will cheer: measuring just 7.7 inches wide by about a foot deep makes this espresso powerhouse fit snugly on crowded counters or petite apartments where real estate rules supreme. Despite its compact size—which experts affirm suits tight kitchens perfectly—it doesn’t skimp on functionality including cup clearance tall enough (5") for larger mugs plus integrated warming surfaces atop so you can prep drinks efficiently in limited space while keeping stylish minimalism intact.
Build quality and materials
Crafted from brushed stainless steel, the Bambino Plus boasts both durability and sleek aesthetic appeal suited to any kitchen setup. Weighing roughly 15 pounds yet maintaining compactness underscores thoughtful engineering aimed at lasting reliability without bulkiness. Some buyers report concerns over early component wear such as heating elements but generally applaud its solid construction complemented by user-friendly maintenance features like easy-access water tanks—the result is a premium feel that balances ruggedness with style flawlessly across daily brews.
Espresso extraction and portafilter/dose
Brewing café-quality espresso is an art made easier by the Bambino Plus’s sturdy 54mm stainless steel portafilter holding up to 18 grams of grounds—perfect for full-flavored extractions. Its smart low-pressure pre-infusion gently wakes those beans before ramping up pressure via a robust 15-bar Italian pump capped at 9 bars during extraction, promoting rich complexity without bitterness. Users appreciate programmable volumetric controls for one or two shots, though some lament the fixed pressurized baskets; still, it strikes an excellent balance between ease and quality.
Conclusion
When speed meets precision, you get a heating system and temperature stability that wakes your espresso with a 3-second ThermoJet blast and locks in flavor via sharp PID control. The robust 54mm portafilter handles full doses like a pro, coaxing rich extractions that balance ease with complexity—though the fixed baskets trim some shot-tuning wiggle room. Milk lovers will find solace in the automatic steam wand’s silky microfoam, effortlessly elevating lattes without demanding barista-level finesse. Built tough from stainless steel, this machine strikes an enviable harmony between durability and style within its compact countertop footprint, perfect for kitchens where space is gold. The generous removable water tank rounds out daily convenience but be ready to juggle minor quirks like a small drip tray and no built-in grinder. Ideal for those craving café quality minus the fuss, it’s an elegant bridge between beginner-friendly automation and serious home brewing ambition—a smart pick for compact spaces hungry for big coffee moments.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Extraction Consistency
4/5
Temperature Stability
4/5
Steam Wand Performance
4/5
Build Durability
4/5
Value
Price-to-Quality Ratio
4/5
Maintenance Cost
4/5
Warranty and Support
4/5
Design
Visual Design Appeal
4/5
Ergonomics and User Interface
4/5
Footprint and Counter Fit
4/5
Health
Materials Safety
3/5
Water Filtration Integration
2/5
Safety
Burn and Scald Protection
4/5
Electrical Safety and Certifications
3/5
Sustainability
Energy Efficiency
4/5
Repairability and Parts Availability
4/5
Experience Style
Ease of Use
5/5
Customization and Control Options
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
8 Questions
Find Yours
What is your current experience level with espresso making?
Answer to find your best matches.
