Overview
The Breville Bambino Plus is a remarkably compact machine that punches well above its size class with genuine PID temperature control, automatic microfoam, and a 3-second heat-up time via the ThermoJet system. The automatic steam wand is the standout feature — it textures milk to a set temperature with hands-free operation, producing microfoam quality that surpasses many machines at twice the price. The Bambino Plus's compact footprint makes it the smallest Breville with the 54mm portafilter system, fitting in kitchens where space is at an absolute premium. Low-pressure pre-infusion helps compensate for imperfect grind distribution. The digital temperature control maintains extraction precision that budget machines lack. Dual wall and single wall baskets are included, allowing beginners to start with pressurized extraction and graduate to standard as their technique improves. The Bambino Plus has become a community favorite as a travel machine and starter espresso setup, frequently recommended on enthusiast forums as the best value entry point into real espresso.
The Breville Bambino Plus comes equipped with PID temperature control for precise brewing, pre-infusion for even extraction. It features a thermocoil boiler system made of stainless steel. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.
Priced at $499, the Breville Bambino Plus is designed for home baristas looking for quality without breaking the bank. As a semi-automatic machine, it gives you control over the brewing process while handling pressure and temperature automatically.
In terms of build quality, the Breville Bambino Plus is a substantial machine, weighing in at 5.2 kg, manufactured in Australia, drawing 1600W of power. With dimensions of 196 x 321 x 310 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 1900 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction temperature shot after shot
- Pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee puck before full pressure, improving extraction evenness
- Stainless steel boiler is corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain
Cons
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
- Non-standard 54mm portafilter limits third-party basket and accessory options
- Auto-frothing wand doesn't offer the manual control needed for true latte art
Full Specifications
| Brand | Breville |
|---|---|
| Model | Breville Bambino Plus |
| Category | Semi-Auto |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Australia |
| Year Introduced | 2019 |
| Boiler Type | Thermocoil |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | Yes |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | 54mm Breville |
| Portafilter Diameter | 54 mm |
| Steam Wand | Auto |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 1900 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 196 x 321 x 310 mm |
| Weight | 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1600 W |
| Voltage | 120V |
| MSRP | $499 |
Our Verdict
The Breville Bambino Plus from Breville is a capable machine in its category. At this entry-level price point, it offers a solid introduction to home espresso. Remember that the grinder matters at least as much as the machine — budget accordingly. Consider your workflow needs (straight espresso vs. milk drinks), counter space, and grinder pairing when making your final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Breville Bambino Plus good for beginners?
The Breville Bambino Plus is a solid entry point for beginners at $499. It's affordable enough to learn on without a major financial commitment. Pair it with a capable grinder and you'll be making genuine espresso quickly.
How often does the Breville Bambino Plus need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder should I pair with the Breville Bambino Plus?
At this price point, budget at least as much for a grinder as the machine itself. Popular choices include the Eureka Mignon series ($200-$400), Baratza Sette 270 ($300-$400), or a hand grinder like the 1Zpresso JX Pro ($160) for excellent grind quality on a budget.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Breville Bambino Plus
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level: