Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine Review Compact Design with Exceptional Coffee Quality

Description

Compact Design and Build Quality

The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BTR, Black Truffle looks sleek, modern, and blends seamlessly with my kitchen decor. Its compact footprint, measuring just 7.5 inches wide, means it doesn’t hog precious counter space. Despite its small size, the machine feels durable and well-constructed. The Black Truffle finish adds a touch of elegance, and the buttons on the control panel are incredibly intuitive. I’ve used other espresso machines in the past, and many felt cumbersome or overly complicated, but this one strikes a perfect balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The stainless steel portafilter and included components, like the milk frother, are sturdy and easy to clean. While compact, the machine doesn’t feel flimsy or underpowered, which is a common issue with smaller espresso makers. Setting it up was straightforward, and it even includes a reusable filter, which is a big plus for someone like me who tries to minimize waste.

Performance and Espresso Quality

I was genuinely impressed by what this compact machine could deliver. With its ThermoJet heating system, the Bambino Plus heats up in just 3 seconds. That’s a game-changer for someone like me who doesn’t have a lot of patience in the morning. The low-pressure pre-infusion ensures a balanced espresso extraction by gradually increasing pressure, and I could taste the difference compared to other machines I’ve tried. The PID temperature control guarantees the water is delivered at the ideal temperature, making every shot consistent and flavorful.

The 54mm portafilter with a 19-gram capacity plays a big role in delivering café-quality coffee. I tested it with different coffee grounds, and the flavor was consistently rich and well-rounded. Even my coffee-enthusiast friend, who’s picky about his espresso, gave it a thumbs-up. However, I did notice that achieving the perfect grind size requires some trial and error if you’re using a separate grinder.

Automatic Milk Frothing and Latte Art

One of my favorite features is the automatic microfoam milk texturing. The steam wand allows you to customize the milk temperature and texture, which is perfect for a latte or cappuccino lover like me. I’ve never been great at creating latte art, but this machine’s microfoam made it surprisingly easier. The texture was smooth, creamy, and just the right consistency for pouring designs.

I tested the milk frother on both dairy and plant-based milks, and while it worked well with most, it seemed to struggle slightly with almond milk, which didn’t froth as consistently. The auto-purge system is another thoughtful feature, ensuring the machine is ready for the next brew without any fuss.

Positives

Here are some key benefits I found during my testing:

• Compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens or apartments.
• Rapid heat-up time of just three seconds saves time during busy mornings.
• Customizable milk frothing for latte art and creamy beverages.
• Balanced espresso extraction thanks to low-pressure pre-infusion and PID temperature control.

Drawbacks

While the machine impressed me overall, there are some areas for improvement:

• The milk frother struggles with certain plant-based milks, which might be a drawback for non-dairy drinkers.
• It’s not ideal for making large quantities of espresso at once due to its compact design.
• The portafilter requires precise grinding, which can be tricky without a high-quality grinder.

Rival Brands

Comparing the Bambino Plus to its competing products, I noticed that it outshines several models in terms of heat-up time and footprint. For instance, competitors like the De’Longhi Dedica have a similar compact design but lack the rapid ThermoJet system, making the Bambino Plus far quicker to deliver espresso. On the other hand, the Gaggia Classic Pro is known for its robust build and manual control, but it doesn’t offer the same level of user-friendly automation, especially when it comes to milk frothing.

However, certain high-end models like the Breville Barista Pro include an integrated grinder, which the Bambino Plus does not. If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution, that might be a better fit, though it comes at a higher price point and takes up more space. For someone like me who already owns a separate grinder, the Bambino Plus feels like a better value without unnecessary extras.

Value for Money

In terms of cost-effectiveness, I’d say this machine delivers a lot of bang for the buck. Its compact size, thoughtful features, and consistent performance make it a worthy investment for both beginners and experienced espresso enthusiasts. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the quality it brings to home-brewed coffee justifies the price. Compared to buying daily coffee from a café, it pays for itself over time.

I’d recommend it for anyone who values speed, convenience, and excellent espresso but doesn’t need the bells and whistles of larger, more expensive machines.

Additional information