The Breville Bambino Plus and Breville Barista Express are two very different approaches to home espresso.

The Bambino Plus is compact, fast, and designed around convenience. It has a 3-second ThermoJet heating system, PID temperature control, a 54mm portafilter, and automatic milk texturing. 

The Barista Express is larger and more involved. It combines an espresso machine with an integrated conical burr grinder, 16 grind settings, a pressure gauge, manual steam wand, and adjustable grind dosing. 

That creates an important question.

Is the more compact Bambino Plus the better choice, or does the all-in-one Barista Express offer more value?

For most buyers, the answer depends on one thing above all else: whether you already own a good espresso grinder.

If you already have a capable grinder, the Bambino Plus becomes very attractive.

If you need both a grinder and espresso machine, the Barista Express can offer a simpler complete setup.

Breville Bambino Plus vs Barista Express at a Glance

Feature	Breville Bambino Plus	Breville Barista Express
Machine type	Semi-automatic	Semi-automatic
Built-in grinder	No	Yes
Grinder type	—	Steel conical burr
Grind settings	—	16
Heating system	ThermoJet	Thermocoil
PID temperature control	Yes	Yes
Heat-up time	About 3 seconds	Longer traditional startup
Portafilter	54mm	54mm
Milk system	Automatic + manual	Manual
Water tank	1.9L / 64 oz	2L / 67 oz
Bean hopper	—	1/2 lb
Pressure gauge	No	Yes
Low-pressure pre-infusion	Yes	Yes
Automatic dosing	No grinder	Yes
Hot water outlet	Through steam wand	Dedicated outlet
Dimensions	11.9 × 7.4 × 14.3 in	15.9 × 13.1 × 12.4 in
Weight	10.91 lb	22.09 lb
Best for	Compact setup and convenience	All-in-one espresso setup
Grinder required	Yes	No
Overall advantage	Speed and simplicity	Integrated grinder and control

The Biggest Difference Between the Bambino Plus and Barista Express

The biggest difference is simple.

The Barista Express has a built-in grinder. The Bambino Plus does not.

That single feature changes the entire buying decision.

The Bambino Plus expects you to supply your own espresso grinder. This gives you more freedom to choose a grinder that matches your budget and brewing goals.

The Barista Express puts the grinder directly into the machine. You can grind fresh beans, dose them into the portafilter, tamp, brew, and steam milk from one unit.

That makes the Barista Express a more complete package. However, an integrated grinder also means you are committed to the grinder built into the machine.

If you already own a good grinder, paying extra for another one may not make much sense. If you are starting from zero, the Barista Express becomes much more compelling.

For a deeper explanation of grinder requirements, see our guide on do you need a grinder for an espresso machine.

Internal link: do you need a grinder for an espresso machine → Do You Need a Grinder for an Espresso Machine?
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Breville Bambino Plus: What It Does Best

The Bambino Plus focuses on getting you from cold machine to espresso quickly. Its ThermoJet heating system reaches operating temperature in about three seconds. It also uses PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion before a 9-bar extraction.

That combination makes the machine especially appealing to people who want a straightforward daily workflow. You do not need to wait several minutes for a traditional boiler to warm up.

The machine also uses a simple control panel with one-cup, two-cup, and steam buttons. Its 54mm portafilter is designed around an 18g coffee dose. The other major advantage is milk preparation.

The automatic steam wand can adjust milk temperature and texture, while manual steaming remains available when you want more control. 

This makes the Bambino Plus particularly strong for beginners and milk-drink fans.

Breville Barista Express: What It Does Best

The Barista Express takes a more traditional all-in-one approach. Its integrated steel conical burr grinder gives you 16 grind settings. It can grind directly into the 54mm portafilter, while the adjustable grind amount lets you control the dose.

The machine also includes an espresso pressure gauge. That gauge gives you visual feedback during extraction. You also get low-pressure pre-infusion, PID temperature control, volumetric shot control, and a manual steam wand.

The result is a machine that gives you more control within one package. It is larger than the Bambino Plus. It is also more involved.

But that can be an advantage if you want to learn the complete espresso workflow.

Espresso Quality: Which Makes Better Espresso?

This is not an easy win for either machine. Both can produce excellent espresso.

The Bambino Plus has a strong brewing system with PID temperature control, low-pressure pre-infusion, and 9-bar extraction.

The Barista Express also uses PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion.

So the machine itself is not the only factor. The grinder can have a bigger impact on your final cup.

The Barista Express gives you a built-in grinder that is convenient and capable.

The Bambino Plus lets you choose a separate grinder. That gives the Bambino Plus a potential advantage for buyers who want to build a more advanced setup over time.

Winner for convenience: Barista Express

Winner for grinder flexibility: Bambino Plus

Winner overall for espresso potential: Tie, depending on the grinder

Built-In Grinder: Barista Express Has the Advantage

This is the category where the Barista Express clearly wins. Its integrated steel conical burr grinder has 16 grind settings. It can grind directly into the portafilter and automatically dose the selected amount. That removes the need to buy a separate grinder.

For a first-time buyer, this can simplify the entire setup. You buy one machine. You add beans. You can start learning espresso.

The Bambino Plus requires a separate grinder. That means another purchase, another appliance, and more countertop space. However, the separate-grinder approach has an important long-term benefit. You can upgrade the grinder without replacing your espresso machine.

Winner: Barista Express

But Is the Barista Express Grinder Good Enough?

For many home users, yes. The built-in grinder gives you control over grind size and grind amount. It is designed specifically for the espresso workflow built around the machine.

But it should not be viewed as the final word in espresso grinding. A dedicated grinder gives you more flexibility. You can choose a grinder based on grind consistency, adjustment range, retention, workflow, and future upgrade plans.

This is one reason the Bambino Plus can make more sense for enthusiasts who already own a grinder.

Heating System and Temperature Control

Both machines use temperature-control technology.

The Bambino Plus uses a ThermoJet system with PID temperature control. It is ready to start in approximately three seconds.

The Barista Express uses a Thermocoil system with PID temperature control. Its system is designed to control water temperature during brewing.

The important difference is speed. The Bambino Plus wins easily for rapid startup. The Barista Express takes longer to get ready.

That matters if you make espresso before work every morning.

It matters less if you enjoy a slower preparation routine.

If you want to understand why PID matters, our guide to PID temperature control in an espresso machine explains the technology in simple terms.

Internal link: PID temperature control in an espresso machine → What Is PID Temperature Control in an Espresso Machine?
Slug: /what-is-pid-temperature-control-in-an-espresso-machine/

Winner for speed: Bambino Plus

Winner for temperature technology: Tie

Milk Steaming: Bambino Plus vs Barista Express

This is another major difference.

The Bambino Plus has an automatic steam wand. You can choose from three milk temperatures and three texture levels. The machine can then create microfoam automatically. Manual steaming is also available.

The Barista Express has a manual steam wand. You control the position of the wand and the amount of air entering the milk. That requires more practice.

But it also gives you more direct control over the milk texture.

If you want to learn latte art, the Barista Express can be an excellent training platform.

If you want consistently textured milk without much practice, the Bambino Plus is easier.

Winner for beginners: Bambino Plus

Winner for hands-on control: Barista Express

Which Is Better for Lattes?

Both machines can make good lattes. The difference comes down to the workflow.

The Bambino Plus makes milk preparation easier because its automatic steam wand handles much of the process.

The Barista Express requires manual steaming. That gives you more control but increases the learning curve.

For someone making one or two lattes each morning, the Bambino Plus is extremely convenient.

For someone who wants to practice milk texturing and latte art, the Barista Express is more engaging.

If milk drinks are your priority, you can also compare more options in our guide to best espresso machines for lattes.

Internal link: best espresso machines for lattes → Best Espresso Machines for Lattes
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Portafilter: Both Use 54mm

Unlike some other espresso machine comparisons, there is no major portafilter-size difference here.

Both machines use a 54mm portafilter. That makes accessories easier to compare. It also means neither machine gets a clear advantage from portafilter diameter.

The Bambino Plus is designed around an 18g dose and includes single- and dual-wall baskets.

The Barista Express also includes 54mm single- and dual-wall baskets.

If you want to understand how portafilter size affects espresso preparation, see our guide on what a 58mm portafilter is and why it matters.

Internal link: what a 58mm portafilter is and why it matters → What Is a 58mm Portafilter and Why Does It Matter?
Slug: /what-is-a-58mm-portafilter-and-why-does-it-matter/

Winner: Tie

Ease of Use

The Bambino Plus is easier to use. Its control system is intentionally simple. You have dedicated one-cup, two-cup, and steam controls. The machine also automates milk texturing.

The Barista Express gives you more controls. You need to choose the grind setting. You adjust the grind amount. You tamp the coffee. You monitor the pressure gauge. You manually texture milk.

None of this is difficult once you learn it. But there are more steps.

Winner: Bambino Plus

Learning Curve

The Barista Express has the steeper learning curve. That is not necessarily a negative.

Learning how grind size affects extraction can make you a better home barista. Learning how to distribute and tamp coffee teaches you about puck preparation. Learning the steam wand teaches you how to create microfoam.

The Bambino Plus still allows manual espresso preparation. But it removes some of the work from the process.

So the better choice depends on what you want from your machine.

Want convenience? Choose Bambino Plus.

Want a more hands-on learning experience? Choose Barista Express.

Size and Counter Space

This is one of the biggest practical advantages of the Bambino Plus.

The Bambino Plus measures approximately 11.9 × 7.4 × 14.3 inches (W × D × H).

The Barista Express measures approximately 15.9 × 13.1 × 12.4 inches (W × D × H).

That is a substantial difference. The Barista Express needs more counter depth because of its integrated grinder and larger overall body. The Bambino Plus is much narrower and easier to fit into a crowded kitchen.

You should still consider vertical clearance because the Bambino Plus is taller.

Winner for compact countertops: Bambino Plus

If countertop space is your main concern, see our guide to best compact espresso machines.

Internal link: best compact espresso machines → Best Compact Espresso Machines
Slug: /best-compact-espresso-machines/

Water Tank and Bean Capacity

The Barista Express has a slight advantage in water capacity. Its water tank holds 67 oz, compared with 64 oz for the Bambino Plus. But the more important difference is the bean hopper.

The Barista Express has a 1/2 lb bean hopper.

The Bambino Plus has no hopper because it has no grinder.

That makes the Barista Express better for a complete bean-to-cup workflow.

Winner: Barista Express

Pressure Gauge: Barista Express Has More Feedback

The Barista Express includes an espresso pressure gauge. It gives you visual feedback while the shot is extracting.

The Bambino Plus does not have a pressure gauge. That does not mean the Bambino Plus cannot produce good espresso. It simply gives you less visual information during extraction.

For beginners, fewer controls can actually be helpful.

For users who enjoy dialing in espresso manually, the gauge can be useful.

Winner for feedback: Barista Express

Shot Control

Both machines provide one- and two-shot controls.

The Bambino Plus uses simple volumetric buttons.

The Barista Express also provides preset shot volumes with manual override and programmable shot volumes.

The Barista Express therefore gives you more control.

But the Bambino Plus keeps the interface simpler.

Winner for control: Barista Express

Winner for simplicity: Bambino Plus

Build and Weight

The difference is obvious when you move the machines.

The Bambino Plus weighs about 10.91 pounds.

The Barista Express weighs about 22.09 pounds.

The Barista Express is more than twice as heavy. That extra weight helps it feel stable on the counter.

The Bambino Plus is much easier to move or store.

If you want a machine that stays in one place, the Barista Express feels more substantial.

If you regularly need to clear counter space, the Bambino Plus is more convenient.

Winner for portability: Bambino Plus

Winner for substantial build: Barista Express

Cleaning and Maintenance

Both machines need regular maintenance. You should clean the portafilter, group area, drip tray, steam wand, and other coffee-contact surfaces.

The Barista Express has a dedicated cleaning/descale indicator and includes cleaning accessories.

The Bambino Plus also includes cleaning tools and a cleaning disc.

The Barista Express has one additional maintenance consideration. You also need to keep its integrated grinder clean. That adds another component to the routine.

The Bambino Plus avoids grinder maintenance because the grinder sits outside the machine.

For a complete maintenance routine, our guide on how to clean an espresso machine will cover the process step by step.

Internal link: how to clean an espresso machine → How to Clean an Espresso Machine
Slug: /how-to-clean-an-espresso-machine/

Winner for simpler maintenance: Bambino Plus

Which Is Better for Beginners?

This depends on whether the beginner already owns a grinder.

If you do not own a grinder:

Barista Express makes more sense. It gives you an integrated grinder and espresso machine in one package.

If you already own a grinder:

Bambino Plus is the better choice. You get a faster machine with PID control and automatic milk texturing without paying for another grinder.

For first-time buyers who want a ready-made setup, the Barista Express is convenient.

For beginners who want a simpler espresso machine and are willing to buy a grinder separately, the Bambino Plus is easier to live with.

Our guide to best espresso machines for beginners covers the wider beginner market.

Internal link: best espresso machines for beginners → Best Espresso Machines for Beginners
Slug: /best-espresso-machines-for-beginners/

Which Is Better for Experienced Home Baristas?

The answer changes for experienced users.

The Barista Express gives you an integrated grinder, pressure gauge, manual steam wand, grind adjustment, and dose control. That creates a complete manual workflow.

But experienced users often prefer a separate grinder. A dedicated grinder can give you more control over the grinding process.

That makes the Bambino Plus an interesting option for someone who already has quality grinding equipment.

Experienced user with a good grinder:

Bambino Plus

Experienced user starting a complete setup:

Barista Express

Bambino Plus vs Barista Express: Specifications

Specification	Breville Bambino Plus	Breville Barista Express
Model	BES500	BES870
Machine type	Semi-automatic	Semi-automatic
Built-in grinder	No	Yes
Grinder	—	Steel conical burr
Grind settings	—	16
Portafilter	54mm	54mm
Coffee dose	18g	Adjustable
Heating system	ThermoJet	Thermocoil
PID	Yes	Yes
Pre-infusion	Low pressure	Low pressure
Extraction pressure	9 bar	High-pressure extraction
Water tank	1.9L / 64 oz	2L / 67 oz
Bean hopper	—	1/2 lb
Milk system	Automatic + manual	Manual
Pressure gauge	No	Yes
Hot water	Via steam wand	Dedicated outlet
Dimensions	11.9 × 7.4 × 14.3 in	15.9 × 13.1 × 12.4 in
Weight	10.91 lb	22.09 lb
Construction	Stainless steel	Brushed stainless steel
Power	1560W	1600W
Warranty	2 years	1 year

Breville Bambino Plus Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Extremely fast 3-second heat-up	Requires a separate grinder
PID temperature control	No built-in grinder
Automatic milk texturing	No pressure gauge
Manual steaming option	Less hands-on workflow
Very compact	Smaller water tank
Simple controls	Additional grinder adds cost
18g 54mm setup	Less complete as a standalone package
Excellent for beginners	Separate grinder takes more counter space

Breville Barista Express Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Built-in conical burr grinder	Large countertop footprint
16 grind settings	Much heavier
PID temperature control	Slower startup
Pressure gauge	Manual milk steaming
Manual microfoam control	Grinder is not easily replaceable
Low-pressure pre-infusion	More complex workflow
Dedicated hot water outlet	Requires grinder cleaning
Complete all-in-one setup	Less compact

Which One Gives Better Value?

This is where the comparison gets interesting.

The Bambino Plus costs less as an espresso machine. But it does not include a grinder. That means your real setup cost includes the machine plus a separate grinder.

The Barista Express costs more than the Bambino Plus, but it already includes a grinder.

Current U.S. manufacturer pricing lists the Bambino Plus at $499.95, while the Barista Express is currently listed at $699.95. Prices can change with sales, colors, and retailers.

So the price difference is not the entire story.

If you need a grinder, the Barista Express can be a better-value complete package.

If you already have a grinder, spending more on the Barista Express may be unnecessary.

Our Verdict

Typical price: Bambino Plus around $500; Barista Express around $700.

The Breville Bambino Plus is our winner for buyers who already own a good grinder or want a compact setup. It heats in about three seconds, offers PID temperature control, uses low-pressure pre-infusion followed by 9-bar extraction, and makes milk steaming much easier.

The Breville Barista Express is our winner for buyers who want an all-in-one espresso setup. Its integrated grinder, 16 grind settings, pressure gauge, manual steam wand, and adjustable dosing give you a complete workflow without buying a separate grinder.

Best for compactness and speed: Bambino Plus

Best for all-in-one convenience: Barista Express

Best for manual control: Barista Express

Best for automatic milk texturing: Bambino Plus

Best if you already own a grinder: Bambino Plus

Best if you need a grinder too: Barista Express

Overall winner for most new buyers: Breville Barista Express

The reason is simple.

For someone starting from scratch, the integrated grinder makes the Barista Express a more complete purchase.

But if you already own a quality espresso grinder, I would choose the Bambino Plus instead.

That combination gives you a smaller machine, faster startup, excellent temperature control, and a separate grinder that you can upgrade independently.

Final Thoughts

The Breville Bambino Plus and Barista Express are both strong home espresso machines, but they solve different problems. The Bambino Plus is the better espresso machine if you want speed, compactness, simple controls, and easy milk steaming. The Barista Express is the better complete package if you also need a grinder and want a more hands-on espresso workflow.

For a first setup with no grinder, I would choose the Barista Express. For an existing home barista who already owns a capable grinder, I would choose the Bambino Plus. That distinction makes the buying decision much easier.

Frequently Asked Questions