Excellent review of the two machines. I love the ability to set exactly how many ounces of pour with the 1 and 2 buttons on the machine. I have the 1 Button set for 1 ounce and the 2 button set for 3 ounces (for making a double shot of espresso). With the medium roast coffee that I use the larger portafilter with 17-18 grams of coffee and 3 ounces of water makes the perfect double espresso. The lid of the water tank rattles quite loudly and so I put a piece of electrical tape along the edge to fix this problem. The steam wand setup requires having at least 6 ounces of milk and that is OK is using it for 2-3 cups of coffee. For a single cup I put the milk in a microwave and then use a battery powered frother. This reduced by 50% the milk waste.
This review is fantastic! It's so helpful to hear a detailed comparison after a full year of use. The insights into Breville Bambino vs. Bambino Plus are invaluable. Thanks for breaking down the pros and cons so clearly! ☕👏
Thanks for the tips. I ended up getting the Bambino, since I never use the milk frother. It's just annoying having to run a couple blank shots in order to get hot espresso. Other than that, tastes great.
One tip: reprogram your one-cup button to run for 20 seconds, and use that as your "preheat" button. That's enough time to preheat and it makes it simpler. Also, I almost exclusively use the 2-cup button anyway (or manual mode) so reprogramming the 1-cup won't matter.
This video answered all my questions and then some. I really appreciate this style of information delivery. Based on this, I decided to go with the regular Bambino and the Breville Smart Grinder Pro. Thanks!
Just the perfect video for my needs! Very informative, concise, sincerity in your voice and mannerism and no annoying music and no showboating. Very refreshing. Keep up the good work!!!
I've loved my Bambino Plus, for 7 years now. 2.5 lattes per day on average. I took GREAT care of it, running cleaning cycles more often than necessary. BUT, it has finally started to fail. The steaming wand is stopping early, and giving error lights. I am able to just start the steaming cycle again, and yet again, to finish my cup. But I assume it will completely fail at some point. I am replacing this unit with the the Barista Express Impress. Then I will likely dig in take the Bambino plus apart. My goal will be to hopefully replace the part necessary to hand this machine to my daughter as she finally moves out of the house.
I loved having the bambino plus, i never made so many flat whites because steaming milk was so effortless. However some annoying things were the flimsy/lose tray, the fact it spits and splatters at the end of pouring espresso and when the wand self cleans it uses way too much water meaning the tray has be emptied often and wand splashes water everywhere. Basically every time you make coffee with it, even though it's super quick and easy, the machine needs cleaning every time.
The steam wand spitting water for a "clean" is the biggest con to me. It's annoying you have to clean up after the self-cleaning! (Barista Touch doesn't have this issue) I've wondered if you could tape a screen under the grate to disperse the cleaning spray and avoid the splashing...
Can you do a Bambino Plus versus the Gaggia Classic Evo Plus? I am just super torn on which to go for because on the Gaggia I hear it's better at keeping the temperature I think they call it the brew group? It's better at the temperature than the Bambino but I don't know the difference. I do plan on trying to learn to do latte art as I use an Aeropress but need a Keurig for the milk and I will just use a little bit of silk almond creamer for sweetness and then regular milk so I can get rid of that bitter sourness from the aero press. I don't mind learning but I like the bambino heats up quicker so I am really unsure which is the best fit for me. I usually spend 10-15 minutes making my morning coffee anyway but it wouldn't hurt to be able to make it a little quicker. I am just too new to really know the differences and make the best pick.
That video is in editing! You can read our article here: craftcoffeespot.com/espresso/breville-bambino-vs-gaggia-classic-pro/ It’s another close call. I’d go with the Bambino.
@@craftcoffeespot 👀 Hmm 🤔 it's that close huh. I'm definitely on the fence. Since I'm gonna get that DF64 grinder with the diamond burrs for the extra like 50 bucks the Bambino is definitely more appealing. Thank you!
Does standard bambino have opv or 3way solenoid valve? I searched and realized they say the standard bambino doesnt have any unlike bambino plus. But i saw a place in drip tray in standard bambino looks like it has something like opv? Can you clarify this please? It's really a key to me. Because i hate when there is no release pressure in Group head after pulling a shot it makes it wet and soupy puck and worst part is when you remove portafilter it makes a mess. I had this problem with de'longhi dedica.
No, the Bambino does not have a solenoid valve. You can tell because the Bambino takes several seconds to stop pressure and the puck is wet (yuck, I know). Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus has the classic "sneeze" after brewing to release pressure. Both drip trays have red floaters to tell you when to empty the tray - that may be what you're seeing. Good question and agree the wet puck is annoying and messy, BUT the Bambino is more affordable...in the end, it depends on what matters more to you.
@@craftcoffeespot Thanks for the answer! Yeah... That's kind of a big deal, I think. and not everybody talks about it. especially in comparison videos between the Plus and Standard models. In my opinion, this really affects the puck quality and pump's longevity and even the quality of the extraction, as well as the feeling of using the machine. By the way, your review has the best in-depth comparison so far compared to other videos. Good job on that! I can see that standard models have not been designed for backflush actions, therefore they don't have a 3-way solenoid valve. But what confuses me most is the similarity of the drip tray. You mentioned the red floaters indicators, but I didn't mean that; I meant there is something at the end of the drip tray that has the same look and shape as the Plus model, which is designed for a 3-way solenoid valve (for the grouphead pressure release). but it is also there in the standard model! Check this out, and look at the end of the drip tray! encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR-D4X7zSyWxZL8v8ggCP7S8cRbgj_hD4GYAg&usqp=CAU) Can you please check what that is for? Opv maybe? If it's opv, does it have an effect on the puck and the grouphead?
@@mz67 thanks, and I took another look at the back of the drip tray. The Bambino *does* have a small hole at the back of the drip tray, similar to the Plus. It could be an OPV, but I don’t remember the Bambino releasing before and I’ve ground too fine. So it could also be a screw. I haven’t had issues with the pumps in 12+ months, fwiw. Maybe I’ll take this apart when I have more time. That would make this an extensive Bambino comparison.
I can confirm the Bambino DOES have an OPV. I opened the machine and the Bambino has the same T-style OPV similar to the Barista models. Also, I ran a manometer in the Bambino and it ran at 10 bars, similar to other recent ThermoJet models.
I suggest you pull the wand out of the milk just before the steam pump turns off. this way you do not have milk trapped inside the wand and the purge will not be messy. Wrap a wet towel around the wand when you pull out to the milk in one smooth motion and clean of the milk, this prevents the milk from hardening and makes it much easier to clean of.
Hello. Thabk you for your informative video. If you would have bambino plus and an additional grinder would it be a better option than express impress ?
@@donald.trump.3339 we have a video comparing this trade off. It applies to the Impress and you can watch it here: ua-cam.com/video/8PdlSD9zMXM/v-deo.html You can make better espresso if you buy a DF64 with a Bambino Plus. Otherwise, Impress is much easier to use and one device.
I have the bambino plus (purchased 6 months from amazon) with a Baratza Encore Grinder, scale and all the bells and whistles, equipment. I also have a crema 54 mm bottomless porta filter/basket. My issue is I keep getting coffee spitting out of the bottom of porta filter all over the back of the machine and countertop when brewing single and/or double shot expresso. I tried the original porta filter that came with the machine as well, different grind size, same results. Any recommendations?
@@domesdomes2231 first, are you using a WDT? That’ll help a lot. Also, grind finer. Keeping going finer until it clogs. Then go back a step. Also, full up the basket a little more - 18-19g. I suspect the Baratza Encore doesn’t have enough nuance on settings so you’re stuck between too coarse (spray) and too fine (clog). WDT and Dose manipulation - using less coffee on finer setting, or more coffee on coarser setting - can tip it. Also, some beans tend to spray. I find lighter roasts (which includes many “craft” roasters) almost always spray because light roasts have more moisture and water runs through rather than absorb in the puck. Last, spray doesn’t mean bad. I get spraying, but the espresso still tastes great!
Also, can both of the steam wands be purged before use to get the water out of them first? I saw on one video it can be done, but they showed it only on one of them. (I didn't remember which one)
Yea, the Bambino is easier to purge because it's a manual wand. The Bambino Plus you can do it with an empty milk jug underneath on the sensor. Not a big deal, imo.
Doesn't the Bambino come with an aluminum pressurized basket and the Plus with a stainless steel Basket that makes a better tasting espresso, along with the Plus other items with it? Thank you.
The *baskets* are defintely the same. The *portafilters* are different, where the Bambino is lighter and cheaper, but the portafilter handle you hold doesn't affect the taste. Some people don't like the flimsy Bambino portafilter (agree), but I bought a different one on Amazon for $30. You can find it on my Amazon store: www.amazon.com/shop/craftcoffeespot
I know the bambino lacks the ability to back flush compared to the bambino plus since it doesn’t have the 3 way solenoid . Would the pipes on the regular bambino get gunky with time since you can’t backflush it? Or is this not something to worry about?
I use the Bambino regularly, and never have issues. Just run water out the brew head after each espresso and do regular descaling (the machine tells you when to descale).
@@louisv7795 it allows the pressure to release at the end of the brew. So, when you finish brewing on Bambino Plus, it stops instantly, and solenoid valve allows water to release into drip tray. On Bambino, it keeps dripping after the shot as pressure can only release through basket. This means Bambino can be more easily damaged if you accidentally grind coffee too fine and clog basket. However, I have been using both for years and have no issues on Bambino, despite clogging it many times. So, I really think it’s less relevant.
Thank you for the video. I have been using the bambino and the water is now only coming through the steam wand,nowhere else.Do you have any suggestions please ?
@craftcoffeespot purchased the bambino and very happy. Took some time to adjust from a 50mm porta filter (roma) to a 54mm but in the end, the espresso tasted much better. Thanks
@@kikiitv3982 I pulled the trigger with a used bambino. The last owner said it was one month and then it was left in the dust… I have no plans for getting another machine until it broken, but the dimmer mod is a must in the near future
1) Lock in the portafilter, 2) press two cup brew button 3) that’s it…you’ve now run run a shot to pre heat. Unlock and dry the portafilter, and prepare your shot as normal.
Do you mind confirming the sizes of both machines? They look to be the same height in the video but the full article notes that Bambino is 12.2" in height and the plus is 16.9". I only have 33cm clearance on my counter so height is important for me! I checked the Breville website and of course it lists the exact same dimensions for both machines which is obviously not the case. Thanks!
They are both the same height, which should be that 12.2”. The Plus is slightly wider only. Thanks for pointing out the inconsistency and I will correct and confirm it shortly.
I own a Breville Bamino Plus. It sits unused in my cupboard because it quit function after a one months use! None of the instructions provided any resolve, to make the Bambino Plus work like it originally did, in fact it does not work at all, therefore, I'm giving it to the Goodwill for a tax deduction at years end. When it was functioning, I thought the Breville Bambino Plus was perhaps one of the best expresso machines with only a three second warm including very good foam I have used…..you can fool me once Breville but you can’t fool me again.
As of 24, what grinder would you recommend with the bambino? I’ve decided against the plus. I like the sound of Niche but I heard you have to have something to adapt the cup for the 54 port. Thoughts?
You are over-thinking this trade off (I am replying to all your comments here). The Barista Pro is a great espresso machine to get started and you will be very happy with the espresso it produces. Yes, the grinder on the Pro is worse than a standalone grinder, but an all-in-one setup is easier to use. What really matters is how well you LEARN to make espresso, more than getting the "best" setup. Also, you can see my thoughts on standalone grinders vs integrated grinder in this video: ua-cam.com/video/8PdlSD9zMXM/v-deo.html
Ok the Bambino have 15 bar for extraction but it used only 9? Why they built 15 when it ain't gonna used. I read the other machine it have 20 bars, what is that true about it
They're built with high bar because the cheaper vibration pumps only run at 15 or 20 bar. Therefore you need an over-pressure valve to down-regulate this to 9-bar. It's hard to "tune" these valves to 9-bar, but it makes a huge difference. The other option is to use a mechanical pump. But these are big with moving parts and very expensive. There's a reason why big commercial machines are $10k+! Also, why you need to choose the right espresso machine.
@ you’ll figure it out! It’s trial and error to see what you like. You can dose manually and the. reprogram the shot volume once you figure out what works.
@@craftcoffeespot Thanks again, you've been a great help!! I probably need to go with the plus, but between that and the grinder I won't be able to afford it. So, It's going to be the espresso shops once a week or so.
Hi, Question: should I be using the double non pressurized insert basket because i have a very good grinder for espresso grind or pressurized double basket for double shots??
You could, but it'll taste WAY better when grinding fresh. You can check out the Baratza Encore ESP, works perfect with Bambino and you can use it for other coffee too: amzn.to/47V35s5 (affiliate link)
@@gigi9467 Gaggia classic is the same price. And they’re both real machines. Tech has come a long way since GCP. Don’t discount breville bc of a thermocoil. I tested both in another video: ua-cam.com/video/Ed1Ux6NBUJw/v-deo.html
I got Bumbino and I have a Virtuoso plus grinder, but I have been making HORRIBLE shots 😩 why?!?! please help. I got fresh coffee and tried applying all the tips I got from UA-cam.
▪️ Yeah I got a chefman machine thinking "how hard can it be to make espresso"... I'm about ready to say F it and go back to just buying it from shops... 🟥
@@Bassbarbie▪️ Hey I'm guessing I left my original comment right b4 I got the Bambino... But I got the hang of that machine after a few attempts. WAY better the chefman brand. You get what you pay for... Cost about 650 for everything altogether, but I feel like I made the right choice bc I haven't been paying 6 plus dollars for my morning coffee these past ten months... 🟥
▪️ I wound up getting the breville smart grinder. Grind time - 10 seconds 2 shots 25 grind size. Wdt tool stir Heavy spinner thing (4got name of it) to make the top even Presser thingy (just got up from nap, sorry) Screen thingy. This has been working for me to make lattes and americanos... Hope that helps, I know it's way later... 🟥
Plz can u make a new video of bambino plus how to prepare the machine from unbox step by Step fulfill and how to clean also the water filter how to setup also clean how to please ❤have a good day😊
Isn't easier to buy an espresso coffee at the cafeteria around the corner. Someone else would make it, someone else would clean the machine, leaving to someone else the maintenance of it and worries, and yayyy... you get to just enjoying it?? No irony intended. Just a concern.
That's sort of like saying, "Isn't it easier to buy tomatoes rather than grow tomatoes?" Of course, it's easier! But they don't taste as good, and it's not as fun :) Once you learn a Breville, your coffee WILL taste better than most coffee shops. More importantly, it becomes a fun hobby. You appreciate the "craft" of making coffee and enjoy it more. You'll save $$$, as a coffee shop costs $4/cup and even good coffee beans cost 75c/cup. This pays itself off in a year. If you really want easy, buy a super-automatic machine like Philips of Jura. One button and good coffee.
“Durable components all round?” My Bambino plus self destructed within two years. I wasn’t too bothered since I didn’t like it anyway. Both machines look and feel a bit like toys with dreadful portafilters. And if you want hot water from the Bambino plus just remove the portafilter and operate as usual.
@@craftcoffeespot you pull the steam wand outward to manual mode. Then hold down the single cup button and the milk texture button for a few seconds for hot water.
Thank you for such an informative video. It's so refreshing to watch a video that focuses on the machine and not the person doing the video.
Thank you! We’re really focused on being as informative and to-the-point as possible.
Excellent review of the two machines. I love the ability to set exactly how many ounces of pour with the 1 and 2 buttons on the machine. I have the 1 Button set for 1 ounce and the 2 button set for 3 ounces (for making a double shot of espresso). With the medium roast coffee that I use the larger portafilter with 17-18 grams of coffee and 3 ounces of water makes the perfect double espresso.
The lid of the water tank rattles quite loudly and so I put a piece of electrical tape along the edge to fix this problem.
The steam wand setup requires having at least 6 ounces of milk and that is OK is using it for 2-3 cups of coffee. For a single cup I put the milk in a microwave and then use a battery powered frother. This reduced by 50% the milk waste.
This video is just what I needed. Thanks so much!
Thanks man. Legit helpful. Plus all the info a person could need to make a decision
Dude!! Thank you. I as well am non dairy and that was the tipping point to choosing the Bambino. Thanks so much! Great video.
This review is fantastic! It's so helpful to hear a detailed comparison after a full year of use. The insights into Breville Bambino vs. Bambino Plus are invaluable. Thanks for breaking down the pros and cons so clearly! ☕👏
@@CoffeeTeaEspressoAppliance thanks for the feedback!
After several videos on your channel, I'd say thank you! I really enjoy all your tips.
thank you for your support!
Thanks for the tips. I ended up getting the Bambino, since I never use the milk frother. It's just annoying having to run a couple blank shots in order to get hot espresso. Other than that, tastes great.
One tip: reprogram your one-cup button to run for 20 seconds, and use that as your "preheat" button. That's enough time to preheat and it makes it simpler. Also, I almost exclusively use the 2-cup button anyway (or manual mode) so reprogramming the 1-cup won't matter.
This video answered all my questions and then some. I really appreciate this style of information delivery. Based on this, I decided to go with the regular Bambino and the Breville Smart Grinder Pro. Thanks!
@@scratchcratch thank you for the feedback. Happy to help!
Just the perfect video for my needs! Very informative, concise, sincerity in your voice and mannerism and no annoying music and no showboating. Very refreshing. Keep up the good work!!!
I have the plus and absolutely love it.
What grinder?
@@msdixie1972 have the smart grinder pro and the Bambino Plus machine, but recently upgraded to the Niche Zero Grinder and the Gaggia Classic
Evo Pro
Thanks for this comparison video. It is exactly what we were looking for.
I've loved my Bambino Plus, for 7 years now. 2.5 lattes per day on average. I took GREAT care of it, running cleaning cycles more often than necessary. BUT, it has finally started to fail. The steaming wand is stopping early, and giving error lights. I am able to just start the steaming cycle again, and yet again, to finish my cup. But I assume it will completely fail at some point. I am replacing this unit with the the Barista Express Impress. Then I will likely dig in take the Bambino plus apart. My goal will be to hopefully replace the part necessary to hand this machine to my daughter as she finally moves out of the house.
@@kevbelz 7 years is a good run!!
I loved having the bambino plus, i never made so many flat whites because steaming milk was so effortless. However some annoying things were the flimsy/lose tray, the fact it spits and splatters at the end of pouring espresso and when the wand self cleans it uses way too much water meaning the tray has be emptied often and wand splashes water everywhere. Basically every time you make coffee with it, even though it's super quick and easy, the machine needs cleaning every time.
The steam wand spitting water for a "clean" is the biggest con to me. It's annoying you have to clean up after the self-cleaning! (Barista Touch doesn't have this issue) I've wondered if you could tape a screen under the grate to disperse the cleaning spray and avoid the splashing...
Great videos. Exactly the info I was after 🎉
Can you do a Bambino Plus versus the Gaggia Classic Evo Plus? I am just super torn on which to go for because on the Gaggia I hear it's better at keeping the temperature I think they call it the brew group? It's better at the temperature than the Bambino but I don't know the difference. I do plan on trying to learn to do latte art as I use an Aeropress but need a Keurig for the milk and I will just use a little bit of silk almond creamer for sweetness and then regular milk so I can get rid of that bitter sourness from the aero press. I don't mind learning but I like the bambino heats up quicker so I am really unsure which is the best fit for me. I usually spend 10-15 minutes making my morning coffee anyway but it wouldn't hurt to be able to make it a little quicker. I am just too new to really know the differences and make the best pick.
That video is in editing! You can read our article here: craftcoffeespot.com/espresso/breville-bambino-vs-gaggia-classic-pro/
It’s another close call. I’d go with the Bambino.
@@craftcoffeespot 👀 Hmm 🤔 it's that close huh. I'm definitely on the fence. Since I'm gonna get that DF64 grinder with the diamond burrs for the extra like 50 bucks the Bambino is definitely more appealing. Thank you!
Nicely done, informative and fun to watch,
Thanks for the feedback. It motivates me to keep producing content.
Does standard bambino have opv or 3way solenoid valve? I searched and realized they say the standard bambino doesnt have any unlike bambino plus. But i saw a place in drip tray in standard bambino looks like it has something like opv? Can you clarify this please? It's really a key to me. Because i hate when there is no release pressure in Group head after pulling a shot it makes it wet and soupy puck and worst part is when you remove portafilter it makes a mess. I had this problem with de'longhi dedica.
No, the Bambino does not have a solenoid valve. You can tell because the Bambino takes several seconds to stop pressure and the puck is wet (yuck, I know). Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus has the classic "sneeze" after brewing to release pressure. Both drip trays have red floaters to tell you when to empty the tray - that may be what you're seeing.
Good question and agree the wet puck is annoying and messy, BUT the Bambino is more affordable...in the end, it depends on what matters more to you.
@@craftcoffeespot
Thanks for the answer!
Yeah... That's kind of a big deal, I think.
and not everybody talks about it. especially in comparison videos between the Plus and Standard models. In my opinion, this really affects the puck quality and pump's longevity and even the quality of the extraction, as well as the feeling of using the machine.
By the way, your review has the best in-depth comparison so far compared to other videos.
Good job on that!
I can see that standard models have not been designed for backflush actions, therefore they don't have a 3-way solenoid valve.
But what confuses me most is the similarity of the drip tray. You mentioned the red floaters indicators, but I didn't mean that; I meant there is something at the end of the drip tray that has the same look and shape as the Plus model, which is designed for a 3-way solenoid valve (for the grouphead pressure release).
but it is also there in the standard model!
Check this out, and look at the end of the drip tray!
encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR-D4X7zSyWxZL8v8ggCP7S8cRbgj_hD4GYAg&usqp=CAU)
Can you please check what that is for? Opv maybe?
If it's opv, does it have an effect on the puck and the grouphead?
@@mz67 thanks, and I took another look at the back of the drip tray. The Bambino *does* have a small hole at the back of the drip tray, similar to the Plus. It could be an OPV, but I don’t remember the Bambino releasing before and I’ve ground too fine. So it could also be a screw. I haven’t had issues with the pumps in 12+ months, fwiw.
Maybe I’ll take this apart when I have more time. That would make this an extensive Bambino comparison.
I can confirm the Bambino DOES have an OPV. I opened the machine and the Bambino has the same T-style OPV similar to the Barista models. Also, I ran a manometer in the Bambino and it ran at 10 bars, similar to other recent ThermoJet models.
Great comparison, thanks for explaining
Thank you, I also asked about the pressurized baskets if you look under my last question please.
They both come with the same pressurized baskets. No difference on taste there.
Great. Thanks. More info about the hand grinder please. Great idea for camping. Cheers
@@SehrynBelle you can find ideas here: craftcoffeespot.com/grinder/best-manual-coffee-grinder/
The 1zpresso and Timemore are great.
I suggest you pull the wand out of the milk just before the steam pump turns off. this way you do not have milk trapped inside the wand and the purge will not be messy. Wrap a wet towel around the wand when you pull out to the milk in one smooth motion and clean of the milk, this prevents the milk from hardening and makes it much easier to clean of.
Helpful feedback. The messy purge was an issue for me. Thank you.
You are so smart and handsome
Hello. Thabk you for your informative video. If you would have bambino plus and an additional grinder would it be a better option than express impress ?
@@donald.trump.3339 we have a video comparing this trade off. It applies to the Impress and you can watch it here:
ua-cam.com/video/8PdlSD9zMXM/v-deo.html
You can make better espresso if you buy a DF64 with a Bambino Plus. Otherwise, Impress is much easier to use and one device.
I have the bambino plus (purchased 6 months from amazon) with a Baratza Encore Grinder, scale and all the bells and whistles, equipment. I also have a crema 54 mm bottomless porta filter/basket. My issue is I keep getting coffee spitting out of the bottom of porta filter all over the back of the machine and countertop when brewing single and/or double shot expresso. I tried the original porta filter that came with the machine as well, different grind size, same results. Any recommendations?
@@domesdomes2231 first, are you using a WDT? That’ll help a lot. Also, grind finer. Keeping going finer until it clogs. Then go back a step. Also, full up the basket a little more - 18-19g. I suspect the Baratza Encore doesn’t have enough nuance on settings so you’re stuck between too coarse (spray) and too fine (clog). WDT and Dose manipulation - using less coffee on finer setting, or more coffee on coarser setting - can tip it.
Also, some beans tend to spray. I find lighter roasts (which includes many “craft” roasters) almost always spray because light roasts have more moisture and water runs through rather than absorb in the puck.
Last, spray doesn’t mean bad. I get spraying, but the espresso still tastes great!
Here’s my equipment list, with WDT: amzn.to/3qfDdGc
Also, can both of the steam wands be purged before use to get the water out of them first? I saw on one video it can be done, but they showed it only on one of them. (I didn't remember which one)
Yea, the Bambino is easier to purge because it's a manual wand. The Bambino Plus you can do it with an empty milk jug underneath on the sensor. Not a big deal, imo.
Doesn't the Bambino come with an aluminum pressurized basket and the Plus with a stainless steel Basket that makes a better tasting espresso, along with the Plus other items with it? Thank you.
The *baskets* are defintely the same. The *portafilters* are different, where the Bambino is lighter and cheaper, but the portafilter handle you hold doesn't affect the taste. Some people don't like the flimsy Bambino portafilter (agree), but I bought a different one on Amazon for $30. You can find it on my Amazon store: www.amazon.com/shop/craftcoffeespot
I know the bambino lacks the ability to back flush compared to the bambino plus since it doesn’t have the 3 way solenoid . Would the pipes on the regular bambino get gunky with time since you can’t backflush it? Or is this not something to worry about?
I use the Bambino regularly, and never have issues. Just run water out the brew head after each espresso and do regular descaling (the machine tells you when to descale).
Hello again Marco, what does the solenoid valve do on one machine that doesn't do on the other please?
@@louisv7795 it allows the pressure to release at the end of the brew. So, when you finish brewing on Bambino Plus, it stops instantly, and solenoid valve allows water to release into drip tray. On Bambino, it keeps dripping after the shot as pressure can only release through basket.
This means Bambino can be more easily damaged if you accidentally grind coffee too fine and clog basket. However, I have been using both for years and have no issues on Bambino, despite clogging it many times. So, I really think it’s less relevant.
Thank you for the video. I have been using the bambino and the water is now only coming through the steam wand,nowhere else.Do you have any suggestions please ?
@@elainebaldy7202 I’d contact Breville Support ASAP. That is the first time I’ve heard of that issue and it sounds very serious.
Thanks for the great comparison~
Cafe roma vs bambino ? I have the roma since 2007 and was wondering to upgrade to bambino.
@@robertgrlic6505 bambino for sure. I looked at reviewing the Roma, but didn’t care for it. Seemed like a cheap Delonghi ecp model to me.
@craftcoffeespot purchased the bambino and very happy. Took some time to adjust from a 50mm porta filter (roma) to a 54mm but in the end, the espresso tasted much better. Thanks
@@robertgrlic6505 Glad you like it. Bambino is so excellent.
It seems to me that if you only make americanos then the plus is over kill? (that's all I ever make, i never use my wand.)
Yes, only need the Bambino for Americanos. No difference in espresso, in my experience.
I don’t see airy foam ! You must pull the steam wand out and in for a frothy light foam and not creamy foam!👌🏼
You got me on this one. I've always said I'm bad at steaming milk😜
Not the same portafilter on the two. The plus comes with a stainless steel portafilter while the regular comes with an aluminum one.
i got the bambino plus for 280 and a manual chestnut c3 handgrinder for 40usd, at that price even let flair 58 to pass
Bambino + manual grinder = amazing value. That’s a deal!
Where did you find that deal for the bambino plus?
@@kikiitv3982 I pulled the trigger with a used bambino. The last owner said it was one month and then it was left in the dust… I have no plans for getting another machine until it broken, but the dimmer mod is a must in the near future
If I use only oat milk and soy, is the regular Bambino better since your going to need to manual steam anyways
I think the Plus can work with oat and soy. It’s a little more fickle, you’ll need to use the high setting only.
someone teach me how to preheat the bes450 please🙏🏻
1) Lock in the portafilter, 2) press two cup brew button 3) that’s it…you’ve now run run a shot to pre heat. Unlock and dry the portafilter, and prepare your shot as normal.
Will this work for small coffee shop production? Any recommendations?
@@josemanuel2244 I’d look into something else. Find a small La Marzocco will be a better workhorse for how many shots you’ll pull.
Do you mind confirming the sizes of both machines? They look to be the same height in the video but the full article notes that Bambino is 12.2" in height and the plus is 16.9". I only have 33cm clearance on my counter so height is important for me! I checked the Breville website and of course it lists the exact same dimensions for both machines which is obviously not the case. Thanks!
They are both the same height, which should be that 12.2”. The Plus is slightly wider only.
Thanks for pointing out the inconsistency and I will correct and confirm it shortly.
Thanks for getting back to me, Bambino Plus here I come!
Would you recommend the plue or the Nija Lux Cafe?
@@michaelpennington5111 I haven’t reviewed Ninja Lux, so can’t say/
@craftcoffeespot would be a good one to review.. the sales are good.. I would like to hear your thoughts on the product! Peace ✌️
How do I know is pulling 9 bars?
I own a Breville Bamino Plus. It sits unused in my cupboard because it quit function after a one months use! None of the instructions provided any resolve, to make the Bambino Plus work like it originally did, in fact it does not work at all, therefore, I'm giving it to the Goodwill for a tax deduction at years end.
When it was functioning, I thought the Breville Bambino Plus was perhaps one of the best expresso machines with only a three second warm including very good foam I have used…..you can fool me once Breville but you can’t fool me again.
@@lupodisol did you reach out to Breville support? You have a one year warranty.
I'll take it off your hands if you don't want it. Let me know
As of 24, what grinder would you recommend with the bambino? I’ve decided against the plus. I like the sound of Niche but I heard you have to have something to adapt the cup for the 54 port. Thoughts?
You are over-thinking this trade off (I am replying to all your comments here). The Barista Pro is a great espresso machine to get started and you will be very happy with the espresso it produces. Yes, the grinder on the Pro is worse than a standalone grinder, but an all-in-one setup is easier to use. What really matters is how well you LEARN to make espresso, more than getting the "best" setup.
Also, you can see my thoughts on standalone grinders vs integrated grinder in this video: ua-cam.com/video/8PdlSD9zMXM/v-deo.html
Ok the Bambino have 15 bar for extraction but it used only 9? Why they built 15 when it ain't gonna used. I read the other machine it have 20 bars, what is that true about it
They're built with high bar because the cheaper vibration pumps only run at 15 or 20 bar. Therefore you need an over-pressure valve to down-regulate this to 9-bar. It's hard to "tune" these valves to 9-bar, but it makes a huge difference.
The other option is to use a mechanical pump. But these are big with moving parts and very expensive. There's a reason why big commercial machines are $10k+! Also, why you need to choose the right espresso machine.
Thank you , does that extra water going into the Bambino basket , does it get into your expresso and dilute it by chance? Thank you again!
@@louisv7795 yes it does affect taste. You just need to stop it a little earlier, that’s all.
@@craftcoffeespot Thank you very much. Just another thing to remember to do when starting off!
@ you’ll figure it out! It’s trial and error to see what you like. You can dose manually and the. reprogram the shot volume once you figure out what works.
@@craftcoffeespot Thanks again, you've been a great help!! I probably need to go with the plus, but between that and the grinder I won't be able to afford it. So, It's going to be the espresso shops once a week or so.
Hi, Question: should I be using the double non pressurized insert basket because i have a very good grinder for espresso grind or pressurized double basket for double shots??
We have a whole video on baskets! ua-cam.com/video/FxeQf3W-abg/v-deo.htmlsi=5OnfR3wW-Bth4iol
In short, try to use the non-pressurized.
@@craftcoffeespot Heading there now. Thank you kind sir.
Would you test them with the Breville Grinder Pro? It’s my all-purpose grinde, it’s great!
It'd be the same outcome. I used a Baratza ESP grinder, which uses a similar burr to the Smart Grinder Pro.
Cant I just buy the coffee? Without the need of a grinder?
You could, but it'll taste WAY better when grinding fresh. You can check out the Baratza Encore ESP, works perfect with Bambino and you can use it for other coffee too: amzn.to/47V35s5 (affiliate link)
Wow $500!? Thats nuts for less than that u can buy gaggia classic which a real machine, this is a $300 appliance at most
@@gigi9467 Gaggia classic is the same price. And they’re both real machines. Tech has come a long way since GCP. Don’t discount breville bc of a thermocoil. I tested both in another video:
ua-cam.com/video/Ed1Ux6NBUJw/v-deo.html
@@craftcoffeespot that 54mm is why i have a hard time taking it serious also basically a throw away man..
@@gigi9467 don’t knock it until you try it.
I got Bumbino and I have a Virtuoso plus grinder, but I have been making HORRIBLE shots 😩 why?!?! please help.
I got fresh coffee and tried applying all the tips I got from UA-cam.
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Yeah I got a chefman machine thinking "how hard can it be to make espresso"... I'm about ready to say F it and go back to just buying it from shops...
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@@2NDFLB-CLERKuseful comment for me - considering moving away from instant. It does look like there is a learning curve!
@@Bassbarbie▪️
Hey I'm guessing I left my original comment right b4 I got the Bambino... But I got the hang of that machine after a few attempts. WAY better the chefman brand. You get what you pay for...
Cost about 650 for everything altogether, but I feel like I made the right choice bc I haven't been paying 6 plus dollars for my morning coffee these past ten months...
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I wound up getting the breville smart grinder.
Grind time - 10 seconds
2 shots
25 grind size.
Wdt tool stir
Heavy spinner thing (4got name of it) to make the top even
Presser thingy (just got up from nap, sorry)
Screen thingy.
This has been working for me to make lattes and americanos...
Hope that helps, I know it's way later...
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Plz can u make a new video of bambino plus how to prepare the machine from unbox step by Step fulfill and how to clean also the water filter how to setup also clean how to please ❤have a good day😊
Isn't easier to buy an espresso coffee at the cafeteria around the corner. Someone else would make it, someone else would clean the machine, leaving to someone else the maintenance of it and worries, and yayyy... you get to just enjoying it?? No irony intended. Just a concern.
That's sort of like saying, "Isn't it easier to buy tomatoes rather than grow tomatoes?" Of course, it's easier! But they don't taste as good, and it's not as fun :)
Once you learn a Breville, your coffee WILL taste better than most coffee shops. More importantly, it becomes a fun hobby. You appreciate the "craft" of making coffee and enjoy it more. You'll save $$$, as a coffee shop costs $4/cup and even good coffee beans cost 75c/cup. This pays itself off in a year.
If you really want easy, buy a super-automatic machine like Philips of Jura. One button and good coffee.
That could be said about most thingz❤ and like them..once you master it you wonder why you ever thought that way
@@justme-ok3vy Agree! I can't imagine NOT making my own coffee.
“Durable components all round?” My Bambino plus self destructed within two years. I wasn’t too bothered since I didn’t like it anyway. Both machines look and feel a bit like toys with dreadful portafilters. And if you want hot water from the Bambino plus just remove the portafilter and operate as usual.
I’ve been using my machines for two years and no issues. I run them hard too.
Hot water from the brew head will taste like coffee.
Well it’s coffee you’re making. No problem.
I always question comments like this they almost always are user error.
I 've had my for three years without issue, used multiple times a week. My coffee price is getting around pennies a cup. 😂
@@craftcoffeespot you pull the steam wand outward to manual mode. Then hold down the single cup button and the milk texture button for a few seconds for hot water.
Yeah... You look like a guy that would drink oat milk
lol