Bambino Plus vs Barista Express

Breville Bambino Plus vs Barista Express

Both are popular first espresso machines from Breville, and both use a 54 mm portafilter. The biggest differences are the grinder and how you texture milk.

By Coffee Gear Scout Editors · Specs checked 30 October 2026 · Researched from manufacturer specifications, not hands-on tested

Choose the Bambino Plus Espresso Machine if…

You mostly make lattes, cappuccinos or flat whites

You want milk frothed automatically

Counter space is tight (7.7 in wide)

You already own, or plan to buy, an espresso grinder

Choose the Barista Express Espresso Machine if…

You want one appliance that grinds, brews and steams

You don't want to buy a separate grinder

You're happy to learn manual milk steaming

You want a large 67 oz water tank

Side-by-side comparison

Breville Bambino Plus vs Barista Express: side-by-side comparison
Attribute	(opens Amazon in a new tab) Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine Researched	(opens Amazon in a new tab) Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine Researched
Grinder	Not included: add an espresso grinder	Built-in conical burr grinder
Milk texturing	Automatic steam wand (adjustable temperature and texture)	Manual steam wand
Heating	ThermoJet: ready in about 3 seconds (per Breville)	Digital temperature control (PID)
Pre-infusion	Low-pressure pre-infusion	Low-pressure pre-infusion
Portafilter	54 mm (19 g baskets)	54 mm (single- and dual-wall baskets)
Power	1560 W	1600 W
Warranty	2 years (limited)	1 year (limited)
Dimensions (W × D × H)	196 × 318 × 310 mm	351 × 318 × 404 mm
Weight	4.99 kg	10.02 kg
Voltage (US version)	110–120V	120V
Built-in grinder	No	Yes
Makes	Espresso, Milk drinks	Espresso, Milk drinks
Maintenance	Medium	Medium
Learning curve	Beginner	Beginner
Best for	Beginners who want lattes and flat whites with a short learning curve, in a kitchen with little counter space.	People who want one machine that grinds, brews and steams, and are happy to learn to texture milk by hand.
Where to buy	$499.95 on Amazon Price as of Oct 31, 2026 1:45 PM UTC – Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. View on Amazon.com (opens Amazon.com in a new tab, affiliate link) Check the current price on the retailer's site. Affiliate link.	$699.95 on Amazon Price as of Oct 31, 2026 1:45 PM UTC – Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. View on Amazon.com (opens Amazon.com in a new tab, affiliate link) Check the current price on the retailer's site. Affiliate link.

Which should you choose?

For most beginners, the Breville Bambino Plus is the easier start: automatic milk texturing removes the hardest skill, and it fits almost any kitchen. Budget for a grinder like the Baratza Encore ESP, or start from the ready-made Compact Espresso Setup.

The Breville Barista Express is the better pick if you want everything in one box and are happy to practise steaming milk. Its grinder is convenient but can't be upgraded later. See the All-in-One Espresso Setup.

Read our full guide to the best espresso machines for beginners.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better for beginners, the Bambino Plus or the Barista Express?

For most beginners, the Breville Bambino Plus: it heats up in about 3 seconds (per Breville) and froths milk automatically. The Barista Express suits beginners who want a built-in grinder and are willing to learn manual steaming.

Does the Bambino Plus have a grinder?

No. You need a separate grinder that can grind fine enough for espresso, such as the Baratza Encore ESP or the 1Zpresso J-Ultra.

Which one makes better milk drinks?

The Bambino Plus is easier: its automatic wand textures milk for you. The Barista Express's manual wand gives more control once you have practised.

Do the Bambino Plus and Barista Express use the same accessories?

Yes, both use a 54 mm portafilter. Standard 58 mm tampers, funnels and puck screens won't fit either machine. See what fits a 54 mm portafilter.

Which is smaller?

The Bambino Plus: about 7.7 in (19.6 cm) wide and 12.2 in tall, compared with roughly 13.8 in wide and 15.9 in tall for the Barista Express.

Which has the longer warranty?

The Bambino Plus, with a 2-year limited warranty. The Barista Express has a 1-year limited warranty.