Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS - Brushed Stainless Steel, Automatic Microfoam Milk Steamer, Fast Heat-Up, Compact Design, Dual Wall Filter Baskets
$492.90
In stock
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing creates café-quality lattes at home with ease.
- PID digital temperature control ensures precise water temperature for perfect espresso extraction.
- Low pressure pre-infusion gently increases pressure to maximize flavor extraction.
- Heats up in just 3 seconds, so you can enjoy a quick espresso shot without waiting.
- Compact design fits easily on countertops, saving space while delivering professional results.
Our Score
Breville Bambino Plus Review — Compact Espresso Machine with Auto Review
The Breville Bambino Plus is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home users seeking consistent quality without the footprint of larger units. It combines a 54mm portafilter, PID temperature control, and a ThermoJet heating system to deliver shots quickly. The automatic steam wand produces microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos with adjustable temperature and texture. This machine targets those who want third-wave specialty coffee at home with minimal fuss, provided they pair it with a good grinder and fresh beans.
Product Overview
Home espresso enthusiasts often face a trade-off between size and capability. The Bambino Plus addresses this with a 7.7-inch width while maintaining professional-grade features. Its 54mm portafilter accepts up to 19 grams of ground coffee, and the included Razor dosing tool helps level the puck. The ThermoJet system reaches extraction temperature in three seconds, saving time on busy mornings. The automatic steam wand offers three foam levels and three temperature settings, catering to milk preferences. A 48-ounce water tank sits at the rear and is removable for filling. The drip tray is compact but lifts out for cleaning. The machine comes with a stainless steel milk jug, tamper, cleaning kit, and a single-wall filter basket. For best results, a high-quality burr grinder is recommended. The Bambino Plus operates at 1560 watts and is available in brushed stainless steel. Its auto-purge function flushes the thermoblock after steaming to maintain temperature stability for the next shot. Cleanup is straightforward: the drip tray and milk jug are dishwasher safe, and the steam wand purges automatically. Some users note the lightweight body can shift when locking the portafilter, but that becomes manageable with practice.
Key Features
Fast Heat-Up with ThermoJet
- ✓Achieves optimal extraction temperature in just 3 seconds.
- ✓Eliminates long warm-up times common in other espresso machines.
- ✓Allows immediate use, saving time for busy mornings.
Precise Temperature Control
- ✓Digital PID controller maintains water temperature within a narrow range.
- ✓Ensures consistent extraction shot after shot.
- ✓Critical for pulling balanced espresso without bitterness.
Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing
- ✓Steam wand automatically produces microfoam with adjustable temperature and texture.
- ✓Three foam levels and three temperature settings to suit preference.
- ✓Hands-free operation: lower the wand and press a button; the machine stops when done.
Compact Footprint
- ✓Width of only 7.7 inches fits easily on countertops.
- ✓Height of 12.2 inches accommodates standard cup clearance.
- ✓Ideal for kitchens with limited space.
Volumetric Shot Control
- ✓One-touch buttons for single or double shots with programmable volume.
- ✓Allows repeatable dosing for consistency.
- ✓Manual override option for custom shot duration.
Shot Quality
The Bambino Plus produces espresso with good consistency, thanks to the PID controller and pre-infusion. In testing, shots come out with balanced flavor and decent crema, especially with fresh beans. The automatic milk frother creates silky microfoam, though some reviewers note it may not match manual steaming for latte art. The 3-second heat-up is a standout feature, as it eliminates wait time. However, the machine's single thermoblock means you cannot steam and brew simultaneously; there is a 1-2 minute pause between pulling a shot and steaming, which may be a minor inconvenience for some.
The auto-purge function helps maintain temperature consistency. When steaming, the wand produces good foam, but the auto-purge after lowering the wand can be messy if not caught in a pitcher. Overall, the shot quality is reliable for a home machine in this price range, though the included tamper and portafilter are basic. Upgrading to a better tamper and a dosing funnel improves consistency. Many users recommend a bottomless portafilter for visual feedback and to perfect dosing.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Fast 3-second heat-up saves time.
- ✓Consistent temperature PID control ensures balanced shots.
- ✓Quality automatic milk frother produces good microfoam.
- ✓Small footprint fits small kitchens.
- ✓Easy to clean with auto-purge and removable parts.
- ✓Programmable shot volumes for repeatability.
What Doesn't
- ✗Lightweight construction may feel less durable; machine moves when locking portafilter.
- ✗Included tamper and portafilter are basic; upgrades recommended.
- ✗Drip tray is shallow and requires frequent emptying with high usage.
- ✗Learning curve for dialing in grind and dose; inconsistent shots initially.
- ✗Cannot steam and brew simultaneously due to single thermoblock.
The Verdict
The Breville Bambino Plus strikes a strong balance between convenience and quality. Its fast heat-up and automatic frother make it appealing for daily use, while the PID and 54mm portafilter allow for respectable espresso. However, its lightweight build and the need for grinder upgrades may deter purists. Overall, it is a solid choice for home baristas who prioritize speed and ease over heavy-duty construction.
Value Assessment
What You Get
- Consistent temperature-controlled extraction
- Automatic milk texturing with adjustable settings
- Compact design saves counter space
- Fast 3-second heat-up
- 2-year warranty
What You Pay
$492.90 at full price, but often found on sale for around $400.
Alternatives to Consider
Gaggia Classic Pro
More modifiable and robust construction, preferred by traditional espresso lovers.
Breville Barista Express
Includes built-in grinder, all-in-one solution for those who want simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus require a grinder?
How long does it take to heat up?
Can I use the steam wand and brew simultaneously?
Does the machine have auto-purge?
Is the portafilter size standard?
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Product Specifications
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