Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500OLT - Olive Tapenade, Compact Design for Rich Espresso & Microfoam Milk
$499.95
In stock
- Heats up in 3 seconds with ThermoJet technology for instant espresso.
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing creates silky, barista-quality lattes at home.
- Precise espresso extraction with digital temperature control (PID) for balanced flavor.
- Compact design fits small kitchens without sacrificing professional-grade performance.
- Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure for full, even flavor extraction.
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Breville Bambino Plus Review — Compact espresso machine with auto milk Review
The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home users who want quality espresso without the complexity of professional equipment. It stands out with its automatic steam wand that textures milk to barista-level microfoam, making it ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. The machine heats up in just three seconds thanks to the ThermoJet heating system, and digital temperature control (PID) ensures precise extraction. With a small footprint of 12.5 inches wide, it fits easily on most countertops. The Bambino Plus offers a balance of convenience and control, appealing to beginners and experienced users alike who seek consistent results.
Product Overview
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's 4 Keys Formula for third wave specialty coffee: dose control, optimal water pressure, precise temperature, and automatic milk texturing. It features a 54mm portafilter that holds 19 grams of coffee, compatible with standard accessories. The machine operates at 1560 watts and 120 volts, with a water reservoir capacity of 64 ounces (about 4 pounds). Its dimensions are 7.6 inches deep, 12.5 inches wide, and 12.2 inches high, weighing 11.3 pounds. The included automatic steam wand allows adjustment of milk temperature and texture, with an auto-purge function that cleans the steam line after use. The control panel offers one-touch volumetric shot control for single or double shots. The water tank is removable and easy to fill. The Bambino Plus is designed for espresso and milk-based drinks, but it can also be used for hot water via the steam wand. Cleaning is straightforward: the drip tray and water tank are dishwasher-safe, and the machine prompts descaling when needed. While the machine is largely plastic on the exterior, the internal water path is metal, which reviewers note improves durability and taste. The portafilter may feel tight initially but loosens with use. The included tamper is basic, and many users upgrade to a better one. For optimal results, a quality burr grinder is recommended, as the machine does not include a grinder.
Key Features
Fast ThermoJet Heating
- ✓Heats to optimal extraction temperature in 3 seconds
- ✓Reduces wait time between shots
- ✓Energy-efficient with auto shutoff
PID Temperature Control
- ✓Digital PID for precise water temperature stability
- ✓Ensures consistent extraction for balanced flavor
- ✓Removes guesswork from temperature management
Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing
- ✓Steam wand produces creamy microfoam automatically
- ✓Adjustable milk temperature and texture settings
- ✓Auto-purge cleans wand after steaming
Compact Footprint
- ✓Width of 12.5 inches fits small counters
- ✓Low profile under cabinets
- ✓Removable water tank for easy filling
54mm Portafilter with 19g Capacity
- ✓Commercial-size basket for full flavor extraction
- ✓Compatible with standard 54mm accessories
- ✓Stainless steel construction for durability
Low Pressure Pre-Infusion
- ✓Gradual pressure increase at start of extraction
- ✓Enhances flavor balance and crema development
- ✓Reduces channeling and uneven extraction
Volumetric Shot Control
- ✓One-touch single or double shot buttons
- ✓Programmable shot volume for consistency
- ✓Eliminates need to measure manually
Build & Materials
The Bambino Plus wears a mostly plastic exterior, which keeps weight low but may feel less premium than all-metal machines. Despite the plastic shell, the internal water path is entirely metal, including the thermocoil heating system, which reviewers say improves heat retention and avoids plastic taste. The portafilter is stainless steel and the included tamper is plastic and somewhat flimsy, leading many users to upgrade. The water tank is translucent plastic with volume markings, and the drip tray is easy to remove and clean. The steam wand is chrome-plated brass and articulates for easy positioning. Overall, the build is adequate for home use, but some components feel less robust than commercial counterparts.
Shot Quality
The Bambino Plus consistently produces well-extracted shots with balanced flavor and good crema, according to most reviews. The PID controller keeps temperature stable, and the pre-infusion helps prevent channeling. Users report that with fresh beans and a decent grinder, the machine pulls shots that rival cafés. The automatic steam wand creates microfoam suitable for latte art, though it requires cleaning after each use. Some reviewers note a learning curve for dialing in grind size and dose, but once dialed, results are repeatable. The machine handles back-to-back shots well, though the small drip tray may need frequent emptying.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Fast 3-second heat-up time
- ✓Consistent espresso extraction with PID control
- ✓Automatic steam wand produces high-quality microfoam
- ✓Compact size saves counter space
- ✓Easy to clean and maintain
- ✓Auto-purge function keeps steam wand clean
- ✓Volumetric shot control for repeatable results
- ✓Pre-infusion improves extraction
What Doesn't
- ✗Plastic exterior feels less durable
- ✗Included tamper is flimsy
- ✗Portafilter can be tight to lock in initially
- ✗Drip tray is shallow and needs frequent emptying
- ✗Requires a quality grinder for best results
- ✗Some units may have defects out of the box
The Verdict
The Breville Bambino Plus is a strong entry-level to mid-range espresso machine that excels in convenience and consistency. Its fast heat-up and automatic steam wand simplify making espresso drinks, while the PID and pre-infusion ensure quality shots. It's not built like a tank, but for home use it delivers café flavor without breaking the bank. The main trade-offs are the plastic build and the need for an outside grinder. Overall, it's an excellent value for those who want great espresso without a steep learning curve.
Who Is This For?
Home espresso beginners
Easy to learn with automatic functions and consistent results.
Lovers of milk-based drinks
Auto milk frother makes lattes and cappuccinos simple.
Small kitchen owners
Compact footprint fits on most countertops.
Busy morning routines
Quick heat-up and one-touch shots save time.
Value Assessment
What You Get
- Semi-automatic espresso machine with automatic milk texturing
- 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet and PID control
- 54mm portafilter and all necessary accessories
- 2-year limited warranty
- Consistent shot quality rivaling machines costing more
What You Pay
Around $500, plus grinder if not owned (budget $100-200 for a decent burr grinder)
Alternatives to Consider
Gaggia Classic Pro
More traditional, all-metal build and commercial-style steam wand; better for tinkerers but lacks automatic milk frothing.
Breville Barista Express
Built-in grinder for all-in-one convenience; larger footprint but eliminates need for separate grinder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bambino Plus come with a grinder?
Can I use pre-ground coffee?
How long does the machine take to heat up?
Is the steam wand automatic?
Does the machine have a built-in descaling reminder?
What is the warranty?
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Product Specifications
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