Breville Bambino Plus — Speedy Espresso

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The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine promises cafe-quality espresso from a compact countertop footprint. We put it through its paces, pulling shot after shot and steaming milk to see if it delivers on convenience and quality. Here’s our take.

Consistent Results, Fast

The Bambino Plus excels at consistent espresso extraction. Its Thermojet heating system reaches optimal brewing temperature (around 200°F) in a mere three seconds, minimizing wait time. The automatic milk frothing is a standout feature, delivering consistently textured microfoam at user-selectable temperatures and textures. This eliminates much of the guesswork involved in manual frothing, making latte art achievable even for beginners. Cleanup is straightforward, with a removable drip tray and automatic purging after each use.

Compromises for Compactness

While the Bambino Plus offers impressive performance for its size, it does make some compromises. The water tank capacity is relatively small, requiring frequent refills during extended use. The included tamper feels lightweight and may not provide the optimal tamping pressure for consistent extraction. The portafilter is also lighter than those found on premium machines, potentially affecting temperature stability during brewing. These small issues don’t ruin the experience, but are noticeable compared to larger machines.

Warranty and Value

Breville offers a standard one-year limited warranty on the Bambino Plus, covering defects in materials and workmanship. While the Bambino Plus falls into the mid-range price category for espresso machines, its speed, consistency, and automatic milk frothing make it a compelling option for those prioritizing convenience and ease of use. It occupies a sweet spot for users who want better than entry-level espresso without the complexity or footprint of a larger, more expensive machine.

If you value speed and consistent results in a compact package, the Breville Bambino Plus is worth considering.