Breville Barista Express vs Bambino Plus
These two Breville machines sit at the top of every beginner's shortlist. The Barista Express is an all-in-one with a built-in grinder; the Bambino Plus is a compact machine with one of the best auto-frothing steam wands on the market. The choice comes down to one question: do you want the grinder built in, or are you pairing the machine with a better standalone grinder? This guide compares them on the specs that actually change the cup, based on the published numbers and user feedback. Both machines share a Breville 54mm portafilter, thermocoil 3-second heat-up, PID temperature, a 15-bar Italian pump, and an automatic purge on steam - so the differences below are what actually drive the buy decision.
Our top pick
Breville Barista Express (BES870)
All-in-one: built-in conical burr grinder, PID, thermocoil, dose control 3 seconds.
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Editorial note: this guide is compiled from published manufacturer guidance, general best practices, and aggregated owner experience — not hands-on testing. Always follow your machine’s official manual.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Breville Barista Express (BES870) | All-in-one: built-in conical burr grinder, PID, thermocoil, dose control 3 seconds. | View → |
| Breville Bambino Plus (BES450) | Compact auto-milk machine: 3-second heat, automatic steam wand, PID, 54mm portafilter. | View → |
Breville Barista Express (BES870)
Editor’s PickAll-in-one: built-in conical burr grinder, PID, thermocoil, dose control 3 seconds.
- + Built-in grinder
- + PID temp control
- + Dose control
- + 54mm system
- − Large footprint
- − Built-in grinder limits upgrades
- − Heavier
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Compact auto-milk machine: 3-second heat, automatic steam wand, PID, 54mm portafilter.
- + Compact
- + Auto milk texturing
- + Fast heat
- + Quiet for class
- − No grinder included
- − Smaller water tank
- − Auto wand less for latte art
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Buying advice
Buy the Barista Express if you want one box, one warranty, and accept that the built-in grinder is 'good enough for learning' but not a long-term espresso grinder. Buy the Bambino Plus if you already own (or plan to buy) a real espresso grinder like a Baratza Sette or Niche Zero, value counter space, and want genuinely automatic milk for cappuccinos. The trap to avoid: a Bambino Plus plus a cheap blade grinder makes worse espresso than a Barista Express alone.
FAQ
Which has a better grinder?
The Barista Express's built-in conical burr grinder is decent for a beginner but entry-level by standalone standards. If you pair the Bambino Plus with a Baratza Sette 270 or 1Zpresso J-Max, the Bambino setup pulls better shots than the Barista Express.
Which makes better milk drinks?
The Bambino Plus. Its automatic steam wand produces microfoam close to cafe quality with one button, while the Barista Express uses a manual wand that takes practice. For cappuccinos and lattes daily, the Bambino Plus is the stronger pick.
Is the Barista Express worth the extra money?
Only if you value the all-in-one convenience and don't plan to upgrade the grinder. Dollar for dollar spent on espresso quality, a Bambino Plus plus a dedicated burr grinder beats a Barista Express alone.
Can I use the Barista Express grinder for pour-over too?
Yes, but it's messy and the grind range is tuned for espresso. A separate grinder is still the better long-term move.
Do both fit 54mm accessories?
Yes - both use Breville's 54mm portafilter system, so baskets, tampers, and distributors are interchangeable between them.
Ready to start brewing better?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Breville Barista Express (BES870)
All-in-one: built-in conical burr grinder, PID, thermocoil, dose control 3 seconds.
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