Quick verdict
If you're new to espresso and you mostly drink lattes or cappuccinos, the Bambino Plus is the machine we'd point most people to first. It's ready almost instantly, it steams silky milk for you, and it takes up very little counter space. The catch: it has no grinder built in, so plan for a grinder or use pre-ground coffee.
Who should buy it (and who shouldn't)
Great for you if…
- This is your first espresso machine
- You drink mostly milk drinks
- You have a small kitchen
- You want coffee fast on weekday mornings
Skip it if…
- You want one button and zero effort (see the Magnifica Evo)
- You don't want to buy a separate grinder
- You often make drinks for several people back to back
What it does well
It's ready almost immediately
Breville's ThermoJet heating system gets the Bambino Plus to brewing temperature in about three seconds. Many traditional machines need a 15 to 30 minute warm-up, so this is the difference between espresso on a rushed Tuesday and espresso only at weekends.
It steams milk for you
This is the headline feature. You set the milk jug on the drip tray, choose a temperature and how foamy you want it, and the steam wand textures the milk automatically, then shuts off. Steaming milk by hand is the hardest skill for beginners, and this skips it entirely while still producing the fine microfoam you need for latte art.
It's forgiving while you learn
It comes with two kinds of filter basket. The "dual-wall" baskets work well with pre-ground coffee and hide small mistakes. The "single-wall" baskets give better results once you have a proper grinder. Gentle low-pressure pre-infusion and digital temperature control also help keep shots consistent.
It's small
At under 8 inches wide, it fits in spaces where a machine with a built-in grinder won't.
Weak spots
- No grinder. Fresh-ground beans make the biggest difference to espresso. Either budget for a grinder or accept slightly flatter results from pre-ground coffee.
- The included tamper is basic. Many owners upgrade to a heavier 54 mm metal tamper. It's cheap and makes tamping easier.
- Small drip tray. It fills up quickly, so you'll empty it often.
- No dedicated hot water spout. Americano drinkers have to add hot water separately.
- Not built for volume. It's perfect for one or two people. For several drinks back to back, a bigger machine is more comfortable.
Key specs
| Type | Semi-automatic espresso machine |
|---|---|
| Heating | ThermoJet, ready in about 3 seconds |
| Portafilter | 54 mm |
| Milk | Automatic steam wand, adjustable temperature and texture |
| Baskets included | Single- and dual-wall, 1 and 2 cup |
| Water tank | About 1.9 L (64 oz), removable |
| Built-in grinder | No |
| Model number | BES500 (the letters after it are the color) |
Specs from Breville's published product information. Check the listing for the exact color and bundle.
What else you'll need
- A burr grinder that can grind fine enough for espresso. An entry-level espresso grinder such as the Baratza Encore ESP pairs well with the Bambino Plus.
- A 54 mm metal tamper (optional, but a nice upgrade).
- Fresh beans roasted within the last few weeks.
Alternatives
- De'Longhi Magnifica Evo: if you'd rather press a button and never think about grind size or tamping.
- Breville Barista Express or Ninja Luxe Café: if you want the grinder built in.
FAQ
Can I use pre-ground coffee in the Bambino Plus?
Yes. Use the dual-wall baskets that come in the box. They're designed for pre-ground coffee. For the best flavor, you'll eventually want a grinder.
Is the Bambino Plus worth it over the regular Bambino?
The main difference is milk. The Plus textures milk automatically, while the regular Bambino uses a manual steam wand. If you drink lattes or cappuccinos and don't want to learn to steam milk, the Plus is worth the extra money.
How long does it take to make a latte?
Usually about two minutes from switching it on, because there's no warm-up wait.
Does it make Americanos?
Yes, but there's no hot water spout, so add hot water from a kettle.
Bottom line
For a first espresso machine focused on milk drinks, the Bambino Plus is hard to beat on ease and speed. Pair it with a decent grinder and it can make café-quality drinks at home.