Choosing between these two depends on one question: do you want to froth your own milk or let the machine do it for you?
Both use the same internal heating system, so your espresso will taste exactly the same on either model.
About Breville
Breville is a global leader in kitchen tech, famous for bringing professional features to home users. Their machines are known for rapid heating and intuitive designs that make specialty coffee accessible to everyone.
Breville Bambino vs Bambino Plus Comparison
| Feature | Breville Bambino | Bambino Plus |
| Machine Type | Semi-Automatic Espresso | Semi-Automatic Espresso |
| Heating System | ThermoJet (3s Heat-up) | ThermoJet (3s Heat-up) |
| Milk System | Manual Steam Wand (1-Hole) | Automatic Hands-Free (4-Hole) |
| Auto-Purge Wand | No (Manual Cleaning) | Yes (Automatic Cleaning) |
| 3-Way Solenoid Valve | No (Wet Coffee Pucks) | Yes (Dry Coffee Pucks) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 47 fl. oz (1.4 L) | 64 fl. oz (1.9 L) |
| Portafilter Type | 54mm Aluminum/Plastic | 54mm Premium Stainless Steel |
| Tamper Included | Lightweight Plastic | Weighted Metal |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 6.3″ x 13.7″ x 12.0″ | 7.7″ x 12.6″ x 12.2″ |
| Warranty | 1-Year Limited | 2-Year Limited |
| Price Range | $299 – $349 | $449 – $499 |
| Best For | Budget-conscious purists | Convenience & Latte lovers |
Key Differences
Milk Automation: The Plus froths milk automatically to your chosen temperature and texture. The standard model requires manual steaming.
Auto-Purge: Only the Plus automatically flushes the steam wand after use, keeping the internal system cleaner with less effort.
Size: The standard Bambino is slightly narrower, making it the better choice for ultra-cramped counters.
Build: The Plus includes a heavy metal tamper and a larger water tank, whereas the standard model is more basic.
Espresso Performance
Both machines reach brewing temperature in three seconds. They use identical 15-bar pumps and 54mm portafilters. You will get the same rich crema and flavor profile from both.
Ease of Use
The Plus is much easier for beginners because it removes the “skill gap” of frothing milk. The standard model is simpler mechanically but requires more practice to master a cappuccino.
Milk System Comparison
The standard Bambino has a traditional 1-hole wand for manual control. The Plus features a 4-hole wand and a sensor that stops steaming at the perfect temperature for your drink.
Find the Bambino instruction Book
Find the Bambino Plus instruction Book
Who Should Buy Each Machine?
| Feature | Breville Bambino | Bambino Plus |
| Machine Type | Semi-Automatic Espresso | Semi-Automatic Espresso |
| Heating System | ThermoJet (3s Heat-up) | ThermoJet (3s Heat-up) |
| Milk System | Manual Steam Wand (1-Hole) | Automatic Hands-Free (4-Hole) |
| Auto-Purge Wand | No (Manual Cleaning) | Yes (Automatic Cleaning) |
| 3-Way Solenoid Valve | No (Wet Coffee Pucks) | Yes (Dry Coffee Pucks) |
| Water Tank Capacity | 47 fl. oz (1.4 L) | 64 fl. oz (1.9 L) |
| Portafilter Type | 54mm Aluminum/Plastic | 54mm Premium Stainless Steel |
| Tamper Included | Lightweight Plastic | Weighted Metal |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 6.3″ x 13.7″ x 12.0″ | 7.7″ x 12.6″ x 12.2″ |
| Warranty | 1-Year Limited | 2-Year Limited |
| Price Range | $299 – $349 | $449 – $499 |
| Best For | Budget-conscious purists | Convenience & Latte lovers |
Final Verdict
The Bambino Plus is the 2026 gold standard for convenience. It handles the hardest part of espresso making (the milk) for you. However, the standard Bambino is the smarter buy if you only care about great espresso and want to save $150.
Alternatives to Consider
For a more professional, all-metal feel, the Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is a legendary manual choice. If you want an integrated grinder, the Breville Barista Express Impress adds assisted tamping to help beginners.
