Breville Bambino Plus Review

The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, with its brushed stainless steel finish, represents a compact yet powerful addition to the home barista’s toolkit. Breville, a brand renowned for its high-quality kitchen appliances, has engineered the Bambino Plus to provide an authentic café-quality coffee experience at home. Measuring just 7.6 inches deep by 12.5 inches wide and 12.2 inches high, this machine is designed to fit comfortably on most kitchen countertops without sacrificing performance.

This espresso machine is packed with features typically found in more commercial-grade equipment, including a fast heat-up time, precise temperature control, and an advanced steam wand for creating microfoam milk. Let’s delve into why this is the best espresso machine under 500 by exploring its key features, specifications, pros and cons, a detailed conclusion, and frequently asked questions.

Key Features

1. ThermoJet Heating System

   • The Breville Bambino Plus boasts a ThermoJet heating system that reaches the ideal extraction temperature in just 3 seconds, allowing you to brew your espresso quickly and efficiently.

2. Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing

   • Equipped with a steam wand capable of automatic microfoam milk texturing, the Bambino Plus provides the flexibility to create silky smooth foam for your lattes and cappuccinos. The steam wand features adjustable milk temperature and texture settings, enhancing your drink customization options.

3. PID Temperature Control

   • Precise PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control ensures optimal espresso extraction by maintaining water temperature within a tight range, guaranteeing consistent and delicious results every time.

4. Pre-Infusion Function

   • The pre-infusion function applies low water pressure at the start of the extraction process to evenly saturate the coffee grounds, resulting in a balanced and flavorful espresso.

5. Compact Design

   • Despite its powerful features, the Bambino Plus maintains a compact footprint, making it suitable for kitchens of all sizes. Its sleek brushed stainless steel design complements modern kitchen aesthetics.

6. Low-Pressure Pre-Infusion

   • This feature gradually increases water pressure to gently expand the coffee grounds before applying full pressure, ensuring an even extraction and rich flavor.

7. 1-Liter Water Tank

   • The machine comes with a 1-liter removable water tank, making it easy to refill and clean.

8. Automatic Cleaning

   • The Bambino Plus includes an automatic cleaning function for the steam wand, simplifying maintenance and ensuring hygienic operation.

Specifications

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fast Heating: The ThermoJet system heats up in 3 seconds.
• Compact Size: Fits comfortably in most kitchens.
• Microfoam Milk: Professional-quality milk frothing.
• Precise Control: PID temperature control for consistent results.
• Easy Maintenance: Automatic cleaning function.

Cons:

• Limited Capacity: Smaller water tank requires more frequent refilling.
• Manual Operation: Not fully automated, requires some barista skills.
• Price: Higher price point for a home machine.

The Breville Bambino Plus is a remarkable espresso machine that stands out in its category due to its impressive combination of speed, precision, and compact design. It brings the essential elements of a professional-grade espresso maker into the home kitchen, allowing users to craft high-quality coffee beverages without needing a large, complex machine.

The standout feature of the Bambino Plus is its ThermoJet heating system, which is capable of reaching optimal brewing temperature in just three seconds. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with busy mornings or for anyone who craves their coffee quickly without compromising on quality.

Automatic microfoam milk texturing is another highlight, as it provides the ability to create barista-quality froth for lattes and cappuccinos. The steam wand’s adjustable settings allow for customization based on personal preference, making it easy to achieve the perfect milk texture whether you’re making a rich cappuccino or a silky latte.

PID temperature control is essential for achieving consistent espresso shots, and the Bambino Plus delivers with precision. By maintaining water temperature within a narrow range, the machine ensures that each shot is extracted at the optimal temperature, which is critical for flavor and aroma.

The pre-infusion function is an added benefit, especially for those who value the subtle complexities of espresso. By applying low pressure before the full extraction, the machine ensures an even saturation of coffee grounds, which leads to a more balanced flavor profile.

Despite its robust feature set, the compact design of the Bambino Plus means it can fit in nearly any kitchen. Its brushed stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance, making it not just a functional appliance but also a stylish one.

However, the machine is not without its drawbacks. The 1-liter water tank may require frequent refilling, particularly in households with multiple coffee drinkers. Additionally, while the machine offers a high degree of control, it is not fully automated, which means it may have a learning curve for those new to espresso making. Lastly, the price point may be a consideration, as it is on the higher end for home espresso machines.

In conclusion, the Breville Bambino Plus is an excellent choice for those who want to bring the café experience home. Its blend of speed, precision, and aesthetic appeal make it a standout option in the market. Whether you’re an espresso aficionado or a latte lover, this machine is capable of delivering high-quality results that will satisfy even the most discerning coffee drinkers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Breville Bambino Plus compare to other Breville models?

The Breville Bambino Plus is designed to offer a more compact and user-friendly experience compared to some of Breville’s larger models like the Barista Express or the Oracle. While it lacks an integrated grinder, which some other models have, the Bambino Plus compensates with its rapid heating system and automatic milk frothing. It’s ideal for users who prioritize speed and convenience but still want a high-quality espresso experience.

Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Bambino Plus?

Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee with the Bambino Plus. However, for the best results, it is recommended to use freshly ground coffee. The freshness of the grind plays a significant role in the flavor and aroma of the espresso. If you don’t have a grinder, you might consider investing in a good quality burr grinder to complement the Bambino Plus.

How difficult is it to clean the Breville Bambino Plus?

Cleaning the Breville Bambino Plus is relatively straightforward, thanks to its automatic cleaning function for the steam wand. The drip tray, portafilter, and water tank are all removable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. Regular descaling is also recommended to keep the machine running smoothly. The user manual provides detailed instructions on the cleaning process.

What type of milk works best with the Bambino Plus steam wand?

The Bambino Plus steam wand works well with various types of milk, including whole milk, skim milk, and plant-based alternatives like almond, soy, and oat milk. Whole milk tends to produce the best microfoam due to its higher fat content, but with the right technique, you can achieve good results with other types of milk as well. The key is to practice and find the right setting that works for your preferred milk type.

Is the Breville Bambino Plus suitable for making multiple drinks in a row?

The Bambino Plus can handle making multiple drinks in a row, but its 1-liter water tank may require refilling more frequently if you’re making several beverages. The rapid heat-up time and efficient steam wand make it possible to prepare back-to-back drinks with minimal downtime. However, for high-volume use, you might need to manage the water and coffee supply carefully.