Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine Review Stylish Design and Barista-Level Performance

Description

Stylish Yet Compact Design

The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500DBL immediately catches the eye with its Damson Blue finish, offering a modern and sleek appearance. Its compact footprint of just 7.5 inches in width ensures it fits snugly on my countertop, leaving ample space for other kitchen essentials. Despite its smaller size, the machine doesn’t compromise on quality or functionality. I appreciate that it feels sturdy and well-built, weighing around 11 pounds, which keeps it stable during operation. The control panel is straightforward, with intuitive buttons for 1 or 2 cups, steam adjustment, and milk texture controls. The thoughtful design is perfect for anyone who values style and practicality in their kitchen.

Performance and Optimal Espresso Extraction

This espresso machine truly shines in its performance. The ThermoJet heating system is a game changer, reaching the optimal extraction temperature in just three seconds. I was impressed by how the digital temperature control (PID) maintained precision, ensuring a consistently balanced extraction. The low-pressure pre-infusion gradually increases water pressure, which genuinely improves the flavor profile of my coffee. Whether I used the single-wall or dual-wall filter baskets, the results were consistently rich and satisfying.

I also tested the 54mm porta-filter, which holds 19 grams of coffee, and found it delivered a robust, café-quality flavor. The attention to detail in this machine is evident, and it’s perfect for those who want to replicate barista-quality espresso at home without the complexity of professional equipment.

Automatic Milk Frothing Magic

One of my favorite features is the automatic microfoam milk texturing. The steam wand adjusts both the temperature and texture of the milk, allowing me to create creamy, velvety microfoam effortlessly. It’s perfect for latte art, which has become my new hobby (though my art needs a LOT of improvement). The stainless steel milk jug (16 fl.oz) included in the box feels premium and complements the machine’s overall design.

I found the automated milk frothing feature especially helpful on lazy mornings when I didn’t feel like manually steaming milk. It’s also customizable, so I could experiment with different textures and temperatures to suit my preferences. From cappuccinos to flat whites, this machine handles it all with ease.

Key Benefits

• Compact and elegant design that fits smaller spaces.
• ThermoJet heating system ensures quick heat-up in 3 seconds.
• Automatic milk frothing simplifies making café-style drinks.
• Digital temperature control for precise espresso extraction.
• Pre-infusion technology for balanced and consistent flavors.

Downsides

While the Breville Bambino Plus impressed me overall, there are a few areas for improvement.

• The water tank is a bit small, requiring frequent refills if you’re making multiple drinks.
• It’s not the quietest machine; the pump noise might bother some users.
• The learning curve for adjusting milk froth settings took me some trial and error.

Product Competitors

Comparing this espresso machine to others like the De’Longhi Dedica or the Gaggia Classic Pro, the Bambino Plus holds its own in many ways. The ThermoJet system outpaces the heating times of its competitors, making it ideal for quick espresso lovers. In contrast, the Gaggia Classic Pro offers more manual control for those who like a hands-on experience, but it lacks the automatic milk texturing feature.

The De’Longhi Dedica is similarly compact and stylish but doesn’t match the Bambino Plus in terms of performance consistency or microfoam quality. While both machines are priced in the same range, the Breville’s PID control and pre-infusion technology provide a more elevated espresso experience.

Worth Every Penny

This espresso machine strikes a great balance between performance and affordability. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the features you get—like the automatic microfoam, quick heat-up time, and solid build quality—make it worth the investment. For me, the ability to enjoy specialty coffee at home without the hassle of manual adjustments is invaluable.

If you’re looking for a compact espresso maker that doesn’t skimp on barista-level features, this one deserves a spot on your countertop. It’s an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts who want convenience, quality, and a touch of elegance in their daily coffee ritual.

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