Breville Bambino Plus BES500 vs Gaggia Classic Evo 2024
Side-by-side comparison of two espresso machines
| Specification | Breville Bambino Plus BES500 | Gaggia Classic Evo 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Breville | Gaggia |
| Price (MSRP) | $500 | $549 |
| Category | Semi-Auto | Semi-Auto |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock | Single Boiler |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel | Aluminum |
| Boiler Capacity | N/A | 100 ml |
| Pump Type | Vibratory | Vibratory |
| PID Control | Yes | Yes |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | No | No |
| Flow Control | No | No |
| Group Head | 54mm Breville | 58mm commercial |
| Portafilter | 54 mm | 58 mm |
| Steam Wand | Auto | Commercial |
| Water Source | Reservoir | Reservoir |
| Reservoir | 1900 ml | 2100 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No | Yes |
| Dimensions | 198 x 320 x 310 mm | 230 x 240 x 380 mm |
| Weight | 5.9 kg (13 lbs) | 8.0 kg (17.6 lbs) |
| Power | 1600W | 1300W |
| Made In | Australia | Italy |
Expert Analysis
The Gaggia Classic Evo 2024 ($549) and Breville Bambino Plus ($500) are updated versions of their respective classics. The Evo 2024 adds PID temperature control and pre-infusion to the legendary Gaggia platform with a 58mm commercial group at 8.0 kg and 1300W. The Bambino Plus uses a thermoblock with PID, pre-infusion, and auto-steaming at 5.9 kg and 1600W. The Evo 2024's addition of PID eliminates the main criticism of previous Gaggia Classics — temperature inconsistency. The Bambino Plus's auto-steaming is convenient but limits microfoam control. The Evo 2024's 58mm group head accesses the full aftermarket basket ecosystem. The Bambino's 54mm is Breville-proprietary. The Bambino heats in 3 seconds; the Evo needs 5-8 minutes. The Evo's heavier chassis provides better thermal stability during extraction. Verdict: The Gaggia Classic Evo 2024 is now the definitive entry-level prosumer machine — PID, 58mm group, and commercial steam wand at $549. The Bambino Plus remains the convenience champion for speed and auto-steaming.
Boiler Design: The Breville Bambino Plus BES500 uses a thermoblock system while the Gaggia Classic Evo 2024 employs a single boiler configuration. This is a fundamental difference that affects workflow, steaming capability, and temperature stability.
Size & Weight: The Gaggia Classic Evo 2024 is the heavier machine at 8.0 kg compared to 5.9 kg for the Breville Bambino Plus BES500. Consider your available counter space and whether you need to move the machine frequently.
Our Verdict
Choosing between the Breville Bambino Plus BES500 and the Gaggia Classic Evo 2024 depends on your priorities. If budget is your primary concern, the Breville Bambino Plus BES500 offers excellent value. However, if you're willing to invest more for additional features and build quality, the Gaggia Classic Evo 2024 delivers a premium experience. Both are capable machines that can produce excellent espresso in the right hands.
Pros & Cons
Breville Bambino Plus BES500
- PID temperature control
- Pre-infusion capability
- Vibratory pump (noisier)
- Non-standard portafilter size
Gaggia Classic Evo 2024
- PID temperature control
- Pre-infusion capability
- Standard 58mm portafilter
- Single boiler — wait between brew and steam
- Vibratory pump (noisier)