Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
84
BUYARY SCORE
Fast-heating, compact espresso machine with automatic milk frothing praised for ease and quality, ideal for small spaces.
The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is a compact powerhouse that turns cramped kitchens into café-quality hubs. Tailored for beginners craving rapid 3-second heat-up and foolproof, automatic milk frothing, it blends speed with style in a sleek stainless steel frame. Experts applaud its precise PID temperature control and rich espresso shots from the robust 54mm portafilter, though some users flag durability quirks and missing grinder as minor trade-offs. At under $400, it’s a savvy investment for those valuing convenience without sacrificing flavor—making this little dynamo an enticing brew buddy whose reputation steams hot across thousands of reviews.

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Publications
5 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
92
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.
93
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.
92
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.
93
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.
92
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.
93
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.
YouTube
11 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
77
Tom’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.
78
Marco 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.
77
Tom’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.
78
Marco 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.
77
Tom’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.
78
Marco 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.
77
Tom’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.
78
Marco 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.
77
Tom’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.
78
Marco 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.
77
Tom’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.
78
Marco 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.
Social
7 INFLUENCER REVIEWS
77
RyanTag | 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.
86
Noah 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.
77
RyanTag | 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.
86
Noah 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.
77
RyanTag | 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.
86
Noah 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.
77
RyanTag | 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.
86
Noah 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.
Store Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 STORE
84
Amazon reviewers consistently praise the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine for delivering reliably excellent espresso shots with minimal fuss. Users highlight its rapid heat-up time and stable brew temperature, which ensure smooth, flavorful coffee without the need for complicated modifications. Many appreciate the machine’s intuitive controls and the auto-frothing feature that simplifies crafting lattes and cappuccinos, while its compact design fits neatly into small kitchen spaces. Several customers share unique tips, such as using a magnetic portafilter funnel for easier dosing and a knock box to speed up shot preparation, which enhances the overall experience. Reviewers also note that the machine’s multiple filter baskets reduce clogging issues common in other models, and the instant-heat system prevents temperature fluctuations during brewing. Some users mention the lack of an empty water tank indicator and occasional water usage quirks during the steam wand’s auto-purge cycle, but they find workarounds that don’t detract from daily use. While many find the machine’s build quality solid where it counts, a notable portion of Amazon buyers report durability concerns, including early failures of the heating element and steam system. Opinions on value vary, with some considering the price justified by the consistent coffee quality and ease of use, whereas others feel the cost and expensive accessories limit its appeal. Overall, Amazon customers embrace the Bambino Plus as a dependable, user-friendly espresso maker that elevates home brewing without demanding barista-level tinkering.
4.1 Stars / Many verified reviews
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
82
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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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