The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact and user-friendly espresso machine designed for home baristas who crave high-quality coffee without breaking the bank. This pint-sized machine packs a punch, delivering rich, full-bodied shots with ease. In this article, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and value to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your coffee needs.

Design and Build

The Breville Bambino Plus boasts a sleek and compact design that won’t take up too much space on your countertop. Measuring 7.5 x 8.6 x 12 inches, this machine is perfect for small kitchens or offices where counter real estate is limited. The stainless steel and glass construction provides a premium look and feel while withstanding daily use.

Key Features

1. Dual Boiler System: This innovative feature allows the Bambino Plus to simultaneously heat water and steam, ensuring that you can brew coffee and froth milk at the same time.
2. Automatic Temperature Control: The machine’s temperature control system ensures optimal brewing temperatures between 195°F and 205°F for precise shot extraction.
3. Semi-Automatic Operation: A manual lever allows for adjustable brewing pressure, giving you control over the shot volume and flavor profile.
4. Steam Wand: With a dedicated steam wand, frothing milk is easier than ever, allowing for silky microfoam and latte art.

Performance

The Breville Bambino Plus consistently delivers high-quality espresso shots with rich crema and bold flavors. The machine’s temperature control system ensures that the brewing water never exceeds 205°F, which helps to prevent over-extraction and bitterness.

In terms of frothing milk, the steam wand performs admirably, producing silky microfoam with ease. However, be prepared for some trial-and-error when adjusting the steam wand’s position and frothing technique.

Maintenance

Cleaning the Bambino Plus is relatively straightforward, thanks to its removable and washable parts. The machine also features an automatic descale alert system, which ensures that you stay on top of regular cleaning and maintenance.

Value

The Breville Bambino Plus offers exceptional value for home baristas who want a compact yet powerful espresso machine without sacrificing quality. At $499 (base model) and going up to $599 (bundle with accessories), this machine is an attractive option compared to other entry-level espresso machines on the market.

Comparison to Competitors

In comparison to its competitors, the Breville Bambino Plus holds its own against more expensive models like the Nespresso Inissia or the De’Longhi EC155. While it may lack some advanced features, its compact design, semi-automatic operation, and dedicated steam wand make it a compelling choice for those who value flexibility and control.

Conclusion

The Breville Bambino Plus is an excellent addition to any home coffee setup, offering a perfect blend of performance, convenience, and affordability. While it may not be the most advanced espresso machine on the market, its compact design and user-friendly interface make it an attractive option for those who want high-quality coffee without breaking the bank.

Technical Specifications:

• Dimensions: 7.5 x 8.6 x 12 inches
• Weight: 15 pounds
• Material: Stainless steel and glass construction
• Power Consumption: 1400 watts
• Temperature Range: 195°F – 205°F
• Steam Wand: Dedicated steam wand for frothing milk
• Automatic Descale Alert System: Yes
• Cleaning: Removable and washable parts
• Price: $499 (base model) to $599 (bundle with accessories)

In conclusion, the Breville Bambino Plus is a top-notch espresso machine that’s perfect for home baristas who crave high-quality coffee without sacrificing convenience. Its compact design, semi-automatic operation, and dedicated steam wand make it an attractive option for those who value flexibility and control.