Ah, the never-ending quest for the perfect cup of coffee at home. You’ve tried countless brewing methods and devices, but they all seem to fall short when it comes to replicating that barista-quality espresso you crave.
Well, dear coffee enthusiast, perhaps it’s time to consider the Breville Bambino Plus—an affordable and practical micro-mini espresso machine that may just change your morning routine for good.
The Breville Bambino Plus has captured the attention of many with its sleek stainless steel design and user-friendly controls, making it a top choice for beginners who want convenience without sacrificing quality. But how does it truly stack up against other espresso machines in terms of functionality?
Get ready to embark on a caffeinated journey through our comprehensive Breville Bambino Plus review—you might just find yourself falling in love with a new brewing buddy.
Key Takeaways:
- The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact and user-friendly micro-mini espresso machine that offers convenience without sacrificing quality.
- It features a sleek stainless steel design with illuminated buttons for intuitive operation and takes up minimal counter space.
- The Bambino Plus does not have a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to invest in a separate one for the best espresso experience.
- Despite not reaching barista-quality levels, the Breville Bambino Plus delivers consistent and satisfying espresso taste.
- This espresso machine is ideal for beginners or those with limited space, offering ease of use and automatic milk frothing capabilities.
- Maintenance is straightforward, with simple cleaning, descaling, and backflushing procedures to ensure optimal performance.
- Overall, the Breville Bambino Plus offers good value for those seeking a reliable and convenient home espresso machine.
The Breville Bambino Plus
Diving into the Breville Bambino Plus, let’s explore its design, specifications, and whether it includes a grinder.
You’ll learn about the espresso taste it produces, who this machine is best suited for, and weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.
Get ready for a thorough and knowledgeable analysis of this compact espresso machine from all angles.
Design
You might think a compact espresso machine can’t have an impressive design, but that’s where you’d be wrong – with the Bambino Plus, you’ll find a sleek and stylish look that easily fits into any kitchen space.
In this Breville Bambino Plus review, we’ll cover some of the standout design features that make this espresso maker both aesthetically pleasing and functional:
- Stainless steel construction: The Bambino Plus is made of high-quality stainless steel, giving it a durable and modern appearance while also making it easy to clean.
- Illuminated buttons: The front display features illuminated one-shot, two-shot, and steam preset buttons for intuitive operation.
- Compact footprint: Measuring only 7.7 inches wide by 12.6 inches deep by 12 inches tall, the Bambino Plus takes up minimal counter space in your kitchen without sacrificing functionality.
- Easy-to-read indicators: Scale indicators on the water tank and milk frother help ensure precise measurements for consistently delicious espresso drinks.
By blending style with practicality in its design, the Breville Bambino Plus proves that even a compact espresso machine can make a strong impression in your kitchen.
Does it have a grinder?
When it comes to grinding your coffee beans, unfortunately, the Bambino Plus doesn’t come with a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to invest in a separate one for that perfect espresso experience. To make sure you get the most out of your Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine, consider investing in a high-quality burr grinder that allows you to adjust the grind size according to your preference. This will help you achieve the best possible extraction and flavor for your espresso at home. Here is a comparison table of some popular grinders that pair well with the Bambino Plus:
| Grinder Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Breville Smart Grinder Pro | 60 grind settings, timer functionality, consistent grind | Expensive, large footprint |
| Baratza Sette 270 | Fast grinding speed, extremely precise adjustments, great consistency | Pricey, louder than other models |
| Rancilio Rocky | Durable build quality, reliable performance over time | No timer or weight-based dosing options |
| Eureka Mignon Specialita | Quiet operation, accurate dosing system with timer or weight-based options | Higher price point |
| Capresso Infinity Conical Burr Grinder | Affordable option for beginners, good overall performance for its price range | Limited grind adjustment options |
By choosing the right grinder to pair with your Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine and experimenting with different grind sizes and techniques, you can create delicious espressos at home without needing a built-in grinder in your machine.
Specifications
Let’s take a closer look at the specifications of this espresso machine, shall we? The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact and user-friendly machine that offers convenience without compromising on quality.
With stainless steel construction, it has a sleek and modern appearance. This espresso machine features pre-set push-button controls for one-shot, two-shot, and steam presets, as well as milk-steaming presets with temperature and texture settings.
Its water tank holds 64 fluid ounces and it comes with dual-wall portafilter baskets to ensure consistent brewing performance. In our in-depth analysis and review of the Breville Bambino Plus, we found that while it may not be barista-quality, it is an excellent starter machine for those looking to make cafe-worthy espresso drinks at home.
Espresso taste
In terms of espresso taste, the Breville Bambino Plus manages to deliver a satisfying flavor experience, although it may not reach the heights of professional barista-quality results.
This compact machine has been praised for its ability to produce good espresso with consistency and ease, making it an excellent choice for those who want cafe-quality coffee at home without the need for extensive barista training or skills.
The Bambino Plus offers a stable brewing temperature and preinfusion process that contribute to its consistent espresso taste. However, keep in mind that pairing this machine with a capable coffee grinder and investing in high-quality beans will help you achieve even better tasting results.
Who is it for?
If you’re someone who wants a reliable, user-friendly espresso machine that delivers consistent flavor without breaking the bank, then the Breville Bambino Plus could be the perfect choice for you. This entry-level machine offers a great balance of ease of use and cafe-quality espresso, making it an ideal option for those looking to dip their toes into the world of home espresso-making.
Here are some reasons why the Breville Bambino Plus might be right for you:
- Compact design: The Breville Bambino Plus is small enough to fit in most kitchens without taking up too much counter space.
- Consistent brewing: With built-in PID and preinfusion features, this machine ensures that your espresso shots are consistently delicious by maintaining stable brewing temperatures and pressure levels.
- Automatic milk frothing: The Bambino Plus features an automatic milk frother with temperature and texture settings, so you can easily create perfectly steamed and frothed milk for your favorite cafe-style beverages.
- Ease of use: With intuitive push-button controls, quick heating times, and easy setup and cleaning processes, making espresso has never been simpler – even if you’re new to the game.
Pros and Cons
So, what are the upsides and downsides of this compact espresso machine? Let’s dive into the pros and cons to see if it’s worth your investment.
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Compact size, making it ideal for smaller spaces
- Automatic milk frother with temperature sensor
Cons
- Espresso shot could be improved
- Material quality is less than ideal
- Not barista quality
In this in-depth analysis of the Breville Bambino Plus review, we’ve seen that there are some significant advantages to this espresso machine. Its ease of use and compact design make it an excellent choice for those just starting out or with limited space. The automatic milk frother also adds a level of convenience that many users will appreciate.
However, certain aspects like the material quality and lack of barista-level performance may be drawbacks for more experienced coffee enthusiasts.
Using and Maintaining the Breville Bambino Plus
To keep your Breville Bambino Plus running smoothly and producing delicious espresso, it’s essential to regularly clean, descale, and backflush the machine.
Don’t forget to turn it off when not in use to prolong its life and ensure safety.
By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you’ll enjoy a consistently high-quality coffee experience while extending the longevity of your investment.
Cleaning
When it comes to cleaning, the Breville Bambino Plus is fairly straightforward and hassle-free if you follow the instructions provided in the manual.
To keep your machine in optimal condition, regularly empty and clean the drip tray, descale the machine as needed based on water hardness levels, and be sure to purge any excess milk from the steam wand after each use by using the auto-purge function or manually steaming a little water through it.
By taking these simple steps to maintain your Breville Bambino Plus, you’re ensuring that your espresso maker stays clean and functions efficiently for a consistently delicious coffee experience.
Descaling
Keeping your espresso machine free of limescale buildup is like taking care of a cherished houseplant – it requires consistent attention and care to ensure it thrives. By regularly descaling your Breville Bambino Plus, you’ll not only prolong its life but also enjoy rich, delicious cafe-quality espresso every time you brew.
Descaling is an essential maintenance task for any espresso machine, as mineral deposits can accumulate over time and affect the performance of the appliance. To keep your Bambino Plus in tip-top shape, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for descaling frequency and use a suitable descaling solution specifically designed for coffee machines.
In doing so, you’ll continue to enjoy great-tasting espresso while keeping your beloved machine running smoothly for years to come.
Backflushing
Regularly backflushing your espresso machine is another vital maintenance step that ensures optimal performance and delicious results in every cup. With the Breville Bambino Plus, you’ll need to remove the portafilter from the group head and attach a blind filter (a solid basket without holes) to perform this task.
Fill the water tank with clean water, then place the portafilter with the blind filter back into the group head. Run a few short cycles of water through by activating the one-shot or two-shot buttons, allowing pressure to build up in between each cycle. This process forces water through various parts of your machine, helping dislodge any built-up coffee residue and keeping your Bambino Plus functioning at its best.
Turning off
Before calling it a day, don’t forget to power off your Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine to ensure its longevity and safe usage. It’s essential to properly shut down the machine, especially after using the automatic steam wand for milk frothing.
By turning off your espresso machine, you’re allowing it to cool down and reset all temperature settings so that everything will be ready for another round of perfect coffee-making when you need it next time. Taking this simple step ensures that your Breville Bambino Plus stays in top-notch condition while providing consistently delicious coffee with every use.
Our Verdict and Analysis
In our analysis, we’ll dive into the key aspects of the Breville Bambino Plus that matter most. These include espresso quality, ease of use, ease of cleaning, and overall value. We understand that you want a machine that can deliver not only great-tasting espresso but also one that’s user-friendly and easy to maintain. So let’s take an in-depth look at how well the Bambino Plus fares in these important categories.
Espresso quality
As you sip on a freshly brewed espresso from this compact machine, you’ll notice the quality might not be perfect, but it’s certainly impressive for its size and price range.
The Breville Bambino Plus manages to deliver enjoyable espresso drinks that can rival some traditional espresso makers while offering the convenience of an automatic espresso machine.
Although it may not satisfy the most discerning coffee connoisseurs, it does provide a solid foundation for those looking to explore the world of home-brewed espresso without breaking the bank or sacrificing too much counter space.
With proper technique and attention to detail, you can achieve consistently good results that will make your daily caffeine fix all the more satisfying.
Ease of use
You’ll appreciate how user-friendly this little machine is, making it a breeze to whip up your favorite espresso drinks in no time. The Breville Bambino Plus boasts several features that contribute to its ease of use, ensuring you don’t have to be a barista to achieve coffee shop-quality results at home.
Some highlights include:
- Intuitive controls: The illuminated push-button controls and pre-set options make selecting your desired beverage and customizing its settings simple, even for entry-level users.
- Automatic milk frother: With three adjustable temperature levels and the ability to create microfoam, the Bambino Plus takes the guesswork out of milk steaming – a task that can be tricky for beginners.
- Easy maintenance: Cleaning and descaling are straightforward processes thanks to clear instructions in the user manual and built-in indicators on the machine.
Ease of cleaning
Keeping your espresso machine clean is a breeze with the straightforward cleaning and descaling processes, as well as helpful indicators on the device to guide you along the way. The Breville Bambino Plus makes ease of cleaning one of its top priorities, ensuring that you can maintain its performance and longevity without hassle.
With a removable drip tray for easy emptying and an accessible water tank, routine maintenance is simple. Additionally, the stainless steel milk jug can be quickly rinsed after use, preventing any leftover milk from clogging the frothing system.
By following the recommended cleaning procedures for this espresso machine, you’ll be able to keep your Bambino Plus in tip-top shape and continue enjoying delicious coffee concoctions with minimal effort.
Value
When considering the value of this espresso machine, you’re getting a solid investment in both functionality and convenience for your coffee-making journey. The Breville Bambino Plus offers an impressive balance of features for its price point, making it a great choice if you want to bring cafe-quality coffee into your home without breaking the bank.
In this in-depth analysis, we can highlight three key aspects that contribute to its value:
- Compact design and user-friendly interface: Ideal for those with limited counter space or who are new to espresso machines.
- Automatic milk frothing and temperature control: Allows you to create consistently delicious lattes and cappuccinos with ease.
- Pre-infusion technology: Helps ensure a smooth, balanced extraction every time.
While not perfect, the Breville Bambino Plus is certainly worth considering as an introduction to the world of at-home espresso brewing.
FAQ: Breville Bambino Plus Review
What is the Breville Bambino Plus?
The Breville Bambino Plus is an espresso machine designed for home use that offers café-quality coffee in a compact and user-friendly design.
Where can I buy the Breville Bambino Plus?
The Breville Bambino Plus can be purchased from various retailers both online and in physical stores. Some popular options include Amazon, Best Buy, and the official Breville website.
Can you give me a detailed Breville Bambino Plus review?
Absolutely! The Breville Bambino Plus is highly regarded for its ease of use, fast heat-up time, and consistent extraction. It also has a steam wand for milk frothing and a compact footprint, making it a great choice for those with limited counter space.
How does the milk froth on the Breville Bambino Plus?
The Breville Bambino Plus has a built-in steam wand that allows you to froth milk to your desired consistency. Simply position the steam wand in the milk and turn the dial to start frothing.
What is the difference between the Breville Bambino Plus and the Sage Bambino Plus?
There is no difference between the Breville Bambino Plus and the Sage Bambino Plus. They are the same machine marketed under different brand names in different regions.
How does the Bambino Plus espresso taste compared to other machines?
The Bambino Plus is known for producing espresso shots that are rich, flavorful, and of high quality. Many users find the taste comparable to that of professional espresso machines.
What is the difference between the Bambino and the Bambino Plus?
The Bambino Plus is an upgraded version of the Bambino model. It offers additional features such as a faster heat-up time and a more advanced steam wand for milk frothing.
How does the Bambino Plus compare to other espresso machines in its price range?
The Bambino Plus is widely regarded as one of the best espresso machines in its price range. It offers a great balance of performance, ease of use, and build quality, making it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts.
What sets the Breville Bambino Plus apart from other espresso machines?
The Bambino Plus stands out for its compact size, user-friendly interface, and fast heat-up time. It also comes with a built-in grinder and a steam wand for milk frothing, giving you a complete coffee-making experience.
Why should I choose the Bambino Plus over other espresso machines?
If you’re looking for a reliable and compact espresso machine that consistently produces excellent shots of espresso, the Bambino Plus is an excellent choice. Its user-friendly design and advanced features make it a top pick for both beginners and experienced coffee enthusiasts.
Can I use the Breville Bambino Plus for making traditional espresso drinks?
Yes, the Breville Bambino Plus is designed to make traditional espresso drinks like a shot of espresso, double shot of espresso, and other classic recipes. It offers the necessary features and functionality to achieve cafe-quality results.
Conclusion
You’ve seen the ins and outs of the Breville Bambino Plus, and it’s clear that this compact espresso machine has a lot going for it. With its user-friendly design, automatic milk frother, and preset controls, you’ll be whipping up delicious coffee in no time.
However, keep in mind that while it may not offer barista-quality espresso or endless customization options, it still provides a satisfying experience tailored to those who value convenience and simplicity.
Weigh your priorities carefully as you consider this nifty little machine for your daily caffeine fix.
