The focus of this article is to bring clarity to people thinking about buying a Breville espresso machine and who are confused with Bambino and its plus version. You will discover a clear chart of differences between Breville Bambino vs Breville Bambino Plus here.
Considered the miracle of chemistry in a cup, espresso is a beverage that many of us can’t imagine our mornings without. However, when it comes to the maker of this brew-ti-ful beverage – the espresso machines, we often think of a big, heavy gizmo loaded with expensive technology. This thought somehow paves our way toward the nearby cafes to encounter the delectability of espresso.
Wait! Do espresso machines necessarily need to be giant-sized and expensive? Well, not always, especially when you look at the Breville army’s comrade-in-arms – the Breville Bambino vs. Bambino plus! With a relatively small footprint and high competition, both the gizmos are meant to deliver contentment to its consumer.
However, there comes a conflict in mind when it’s about choosing between the two, and probably this is the reason that brought you here to this Breville Bambino vs. Bambino plus analysis report. Moving forward, we will take you through a detailed differentiation between both gadgets based on various aspects so that you can make a confident buying decision. Here we go!
A Glance at Both the Espresso Machines
Breville Bambino
The Breville Bambino is one of the most simplistic interfaced espresso machines that impresses with its compact size and user-friendliness. Therefore, it’s ideal for both beginners and experts in the home brewing domain to explore various dimensions of espresso art.
The gadget comes with trailblazing heating technology, which is fast in heating and contributes to a manual steam wand to produce textured milk and beautiful latte art. Furthermore, it boasts digital temperature control technology, which performs phenomenally for optimum extraction temperature.
Besides, to ensure perfect extraction of flavor compounds, there’s an optimal water pressure that builds up slowly until the end when you pull the shot. Overall, the Breville Bambino is undoubtedly a tremendous entry-level espresso machine that will ensure that you don’t have any such grievances when you choose to enjoy delectable espresso at home.
Breville Bambino Plus
With a minimal footprint compared to various espresso machines, the Breville Bambino Plus, with its proprietary heating system, delivers a fast heat-up time and will make you encounter significant doses of caffeine. Its steam wand is powered by the aforementioned heating system, which helps you flaunt elegance in latte art and silky smooth micro-foam milk.
You will like the automatic milk frothing wand, which will serve you the desired milk froth in no time. All you need to do is adjust milk temperature and texture, and you are good to go. Well, that’s not the end, as this gizmo also has a perfect pressure and temperature control which ensures the best possible flavor extraction and smooth brewing process.
Engineered to perfection, the Breville Bambino Plus is an excellent choice for anyone looking to turn their kitchen into a cafe in terms of the delectability of espresso.
Now, to sort out your query about choosing either of the two gadgets, let’s look at the similarities and differences they come with. Also, we will be giving points to both gadgets in every aspect to make it even easier for you.
The Differences and Resemblances – Breville Bambino vs Breville Bambino Plus
Granted, both the gadgets look gorgeous and are not significantly different in terms of their design, footprint, and speed. Though, there are much more similarities that you will find out now!
Semi-Automatic/Automatic
Both the Bambino and Bambino Plus can be tagged as semi-automatic or automatic espresso machines. You can rely on the electric pressure pump for optimal espresso extraction, unlike the manual application of high pressure on water like a manual espresso machine. Besides, there are automatic presets that you can surely use or even rescind for manual shot pulling.
However, when it comes to milk frothing, the Bambino Plus has an automatic wand with two buttons that allow you to choose between three temperature and three texturing levels. In the case of Bambino, you will have to carry out frothing manually, which can be a little difficult if you are new to it. Though, with time, you can surely master the art.
Score
- Breville Bambino – 0 (Cumulative Score – 0)
- Breville Bambino Plus – 1 (Cumulative Score – 1)
Low-Pressure Pre-infusion
A rewarding feature, the Low-pressure pre-infusion technology is vital when it’s about extracting coffee compounds precisely. Espresso machines with this technology slowly build water pressure from the beginning till the end of the brewing cycle rather than applying the pressure at once, thus making you enjoy a far better taste. Thankfully, both the gizmos have this technology equipped.
Score
- Breville Bambino – 1 (Cumulative Score – 1)
- Breville Bambino Plus – 1 (Cumulative Score – 2)
Bar Pressure and Digital Temperature Control PID
Not only do the Bambino and Bambino Plus boast 15 bar Italian pumps, but it’s a common feature you will find across any espresso machine from the brand. However, the pump will be delivering only 9 bars of pressure as it’s considered perfect for brewing espresso. Now talking about the electronic PID precise temperature control, both the machines have it with them, ensuring that the water temperature stands stable at 199.4 degrees F for the best extraction.
Score
- Breville Bambino – 1 (Cumulative Score – 2)
- Breville Bambino Plus – 1 (Cumulative Score – 3)
Filter and heating system
With a capacity to hold 19-22 grams of coffee (ideal for 1-2 cups), both the machines have a premium, commercial-quality 54mm portafilter. Now talking about the heating system, the Bambino line has nailed this arena with its ThermoJet heating system, which can bring water to the ideal temperature in just 3 seconds. Therefore, you can start brewing your espresso when you turn on these semi-automatic espresso machines.
Score
- Breville Bambino – 1 (Cumulative Score – 3)
- Breville Bambino Plus – 1 (Cumulative Score – 4)
Accessories they come with
To assist you with brewing and cleaning, both the gadgets come with useful additional accessories as mentioned below –
Similar accessories with both the machines –
- Portafilter
- Tamper
- One-cup and two-cup dual-wall filter baskets
- Cleaning tools
Additional accessories with the Bambino Plus –
- Razor™ precision dosing tool
- 16fl oz stainless steel milk jug
The Bambino Plus comes with better quality accessories and even more count than the Bambino. Therefore, it saves you money in buying additional equipment, and thus the Bambino Plus scores a point here.
Score
- Breville Bambino – 0 (Cumulative Score – 3)
- Breville Bambino Plus – 1 (Cumulative Score – 5)
Capacity
The Breville Bambino comes with a 47oz (1.4l)water reservoir, whereas the Bambino Plus has a higher capacity of 64oz (1.9l). Therefore, the Bambino Plus is perfect if you need a larger water capacity. However, the Bambino’s capacity is also sufficient for day-to-day use (depends on your usage).
Score
- Breville Bambino – 0 (Cumulative Score – 3)
- Breville Bambino Plus – 1 (Cumulative Score – 6)
Value for Money
This is one of the most critical aspects as there’s a sizable gap between the price of both machines. The Bambino espresso maker is undoubtedly value for money considering its performance in brewing espressos and milk frothing compared to various devices out there in the market. Additionally, it comes at almost 60% of the price of the Bambino Plus, which makes it a lucrative deal to go for.
On the other hand, the Breville Bambino Plus stands more user-friendly in terms of coffee brewing and milk frothing making it very favorable for newbies. Of course, you can find semi-automatic machines or entry-level super-automatic machines if you wish to brew your hands-free. However, the Bambino Plus still stands as a formidable competitor in automatic and brewing performance – all in a very compact size.
To conclude, at its price range, the Bambino is an espresso machine to which you will rarely find any competition in terms of espresso shots and design. Additionally, it comes with Breville’s latest technology and a commercial-style steam wand. The Bambino Plus is way more expensive but user-friendly at the same time.
Overall, the Bambino undoubtedly offers better value for money which saves you a lot on upfront cost and pays for itself in the long run by diminishing the need for upgrading sooner or visiting cafes.
Score
- Breville Bambino – 1 (Cumulative Score – 4)
- Breville Bambino Plus – 0 (Cumulative Score – 6)
Breville Bambino vs Breville Bambino Plus – Differences at a glance
| Area of Difference | Bambino | Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 7.7″ x 12.6″ x 12.2″ (19.6 x 32 x 31 cm) | 7.7″ x 12.6″ x 12.2″ (19.6 x 32 x 31 cm) |
| Weight | 10.91 lbs | 14.4 lbs |
| Low-pressure Pre-infusion | ✅ | ✅ |
| Optimal Water Pressure | ✅ | ✅ |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Water tank capacity | 47oz | 64oz |
| Heating System | ThermoJet | ThermoJet |
| Volumetric Control | ✅ | ✅ |
| PID Temperature Control | ✅ | ✅ |
| Instant hot water | ✅ | Depends on the version |
| Steam wand | Manual | Automatic |
| Milk texture and temperature adjustment | ❌ | ✅ |
| Interface | 1 & 2-cup brews and hot water and steam buttons | 1 & 2-cup brews, steam button, and milk temperature and milk foam adjustment buttons |
| Drip tray | Sturdy | Flimsy (due to temperature sensor) |
| Accessories | 4 | 6 |
Verdict
Breville, as a brand, has managed to build a solid reputation as the manufacturer of the avant-garde espresso machines, and both Bambino and Bambino Plus are fine examples of this fact. Whether you choose Bambino or its elder brother, the Bambino Plus, there’s one assurance that you won’t regret the buying decision.
The Bambino is an ideal pick if you mostly brew espresso and don’t mind steaming milk manually. However, suppose milk-based espresso drinks delight you more. In that case, it’s suggested to go for the Bambino Plus as the automatic milk frother works phenomenally. Still, yes, this convenience will come with a decent extra cost compared to the Bambino.
Therefore, choose wisely based on your preference and enjoy your cuppa joe with top-notch technology from Breville. Be it the Bambino or Bambino Plus, neither of the machines will leave any stone unturned regarding perfection, performance, and professional level brewing.
