Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine Bundle with Baratza Encore ESP Grinder - Automatic Microfoam Milk Steamer, Digital PID Temperature Control, Pre-Infusion, Low Pressure Pre-Infusion, Brushed Stainless Steel
$649.95
In stock
- Pull café-quality espresso in seconds with the Bambino Plus's rapid heat-up system.
- Achieve precise grind size for optimal extraction with the Baratza Encore ESP grinder.
- Enjoy silky microfoam automatically with the Bambino Plus's built-in steam wand.
- Save counter space with this compact bundle's combined footprint for espresso and grinding.
- Customize your shot and grind settings easily for consistent results every time.
Our Score
Best For
Breville Bambino Plus Bundle with Baratza Encore ESP Review — Complete Review
The Breville Bambino Plus Bundle pairs a fast-heating espresso machine with the Baratza Encore ESP grinder, delivering a complete home espresso solution out of the box. Designed for those moving beyond pod machines or entry-level setups, this combo offers professional-style features like automatic milk frothing and 40 grind settings. The ThermoJet heating system reaches optimal temperature in three seconds, reducing wait time significantly. With included single and dual wall filter baskets, a stainless steel milk jug, and a dosing cup, the bundle provides tools for consistent, quality espresso. It aims to simplify specialty coffee at home while maintaining the flexibility to grow your skills.
Product Overview
This bundle combines two well-regarded products: the Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine and the Baratza Encore ESP grinder. The grinder features 40 settings, with 1–20 calibrated for espresso and 21–40 for filter methods. The dosing cup with a 58mm adapter ring minimizes mess when transferring grounds to the 54mm portafilter. The machine's ThermoJet heating system is a standout, achieving brew temperature in seconds and using less energy than traditional thermoblocks. Its automatic steam wand, Auto MilQ, adjusts milk temperature and texture across three levels, producing microfoam suitable for latte art. The 15-gram Italian pump delivers 9-bar extraction after a low-pressure pre-infusion. The bundle includes a tamper, the Razor precision dosing tool, cleaning accessories, and instructions via an interactive 3D app. Both machines have a compact footprint, fitting easily on standard countertops. The 64-ounce water tank is removable for filling. Notably, the machine is lightweight, which some reviewers note requires two-handed use when locking the portafilter. The grinder retains a small amount of coffee; aftermarket bellows can reduce this. Overall, the bundle targets home users who want café-quality espresso without a steep learning curve.
Key Features
ThermoJet Fast Heating
- ✓Reaches extraction temperature in 3 seconds
- ✓Delivers consistent heat for multiple shots
- ✓Reduces energy use by up to 32% compared to thermoblock systems
Auto MilQ Steam Wand
- ✓Automatically textures milk to three temperature and three texture levels
- ✓Produces microfoam with over one million micro bubbles per ml
- ✓Allows manual steaming for advanced control
Baratza Encore ESP Grinder
- ✓40 grind settings with high-resolution adjustments for espresso (1-20)
- ✓European precision steel burrs for uniform particle size
- ✓Includes dosing cup with 58mm adapter for portafilter
54mm Portafilter System
- ✓Professional-sized 54mm stainless steel portafilter
- ✓Includes both single and dual wall filter baskets
- ✓Accepts 18g coffee dose for full-flavored shots
Low Pressure Pre-Infusion
- ✓Gradually increases pressure for even extraction
- ✓Followed by full 9 bar extraction via 15 Italian pump
- ✓Promotes rich crema and balanced flavor
Compact Design
- ✓Slim profile saves counter space
- ✓Removable water tank (64 oz) for easy refilling
- ✓Lightweight construction (10.5 lbs) but requires bracing during portafilter locking
Complete Accessory Kit
- ✓Includes tamper, milk jug (16 oz), dosing cup, cleaning tools
- ✓Razor precision dosing tool for leveling grounds
- ✓Single wall and dual wall baskets for different coffee types
Shot Quality
The bundle excels in delivering consistent espresso shots with minimal effort. The ThermoJet system ensures the machine is ready almost instantly, a convenience noted by multiple reviewers. With the single wall basket and a grind setting around 13–16, users report smooth, well-extracted shots with good crema. The low-pressure pre-infusion helps prevent channeling, even with medium to dark roasts. The Auto MilQ wand produces silky microfoam reliably; reviewers praise its ease of use and the quality of milk texture for lattes and cappuccinos.
Some quirks exist. If the grind is too fine (below the recommended range), water can spray from the portafilter, requiring adjustment. The machine's light weight means it moves when locking the portafilter; bracing with one hand is necessary. Changing the extraction time presets is reportedly tricky, with one reviewer unable to modify the double shot length. The grinder retains 0.5–1.0g of coffee, which can be mitigated with bellows. Despite these issues, most find the bundle a significant upgrade from entry-level machines, offering a user-friendly path to quality espresso.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Extremely fast heat-up time (3 seconds)
- ✓Automatic milk frothing produces excellent microfoam
- ✓Precision grinder with 40 settings covering espresso to cold brew
- ✓Includes essential accessories like dosing cup and milk jug
- ✓Compact size fits small kitchens
- ✓Good value for an integrated espresso and grinder setup
- ✓Low pressure pre-infusion improves extraction consistency
What Doesn't
- ✗Machine lightweight and needs bracing when using portafilter
- ✗Grinder retains some grounds; bellows accessory recommended
- ✗Adjusting shot volume presets may require trial and error
- ✗Water spray risk if grind too fine for single wall basket
- ✗Instructions can be complex despite 3D app
The Verdict
The Breville Bambino Plus Bundle delivers a compelling all-in-one solution for home espresso. It combines the speed and convenience of the Bambino Plus with the grind precision of the Encore ESP. For beginners, it removes the guesswork of matching grinder and machine. Experienced users will appreciate the ability to dial in shots manually. The main trade-offs are the machine's light weight and the grinder's retention, but these are manageable. At its price point, the bundle represents solid value, effectively replacing a trip to the café with consistent, cafe-quality drinks at home.
Who Is This For?
Home baristas upgrading from a pod machine
The bundle offers a complete, easy-to-use setup with fast heat-up and automatic frothing, making espresso accessible.
Value-conscious coffee enthusiasts
At $649.95, you get a capable machine and grinder together, cheaper than buying separately and often on par with higher-end setups.
Those who want milk-based drinks
The Auto MilQ wand delivers consistent microfoam, simplifying lattes and cappuccinos.
Is It Worth It?
What You Get
- Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine with ThermoJet heating
- Baratza Encore ESP grinder with 40 settings and precision burrs
- Complete accessory kit including portafilter, tamper, milk jug, and dosing cup
- Interactive 3D setup app for easy assembly
- Auto MilQ steam wand for adjustable milk texture
What You Pay
$649.95 for the bundle, typically less than buying separately
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-ground coffee with this machine?
What grind setting should I start with for espresso?
How do I change the shot volume presets?
Is the grinder suitable for other brew methods?
Does the bundle come with a warranty?
(3) Comments
Product Specifications
Last updated:
