Breville BES500BSS Bambino Plus Espresso Machine Review
A compact semi-automatic espresso machine that heats up in seconds and delivers café-quality shots at home.
| Precise Dose Grinding | This semi-automatic espresso machine allows you to a |
|---|---|
| Receive 2 Free Bags Of Spe | Included when you purchase and register any Breville |
| Faster Heat Up Time | Coffee maker includes innovative ThermoJet heating s |
| Compact Design | With a width of 7.7 inches, the Bambino Plus is a sm |
| Third-wave Specialty | Uses the 4 keys formula; Part of the Bambino Series |
| Best for | Home baristas who want fast heat-up and compact size without sacrificing espresso quality. |
Product Overview
Short on counter space but serious about espresso? The Bambino Plus is a semi-automatic espresso machine built for cafe-quality shots at home. Its ThermoJet heating system reaches extraction temperature in just 3 seconds. That removes the long wait common to many home espresso machines, ideal for busy mornings or a quick espresso craving.
Its compact footprint measures only 7.7 inches in width, so it fits easily on most countertops. Part of the Bambino Series, it emphasizes the '4 keys formula' for third-wave specialty coffee, focusing on grind, dose, extraction and milk texture. A 54mm portafilter with 19 grams capacity helps you use the right amount of ground coffee for a balanced shot.
Score Breakdown
This verdict is based on the manufacturer's stated specifications, the current Amazon listing and its product images, the confirmed materials and design, real buyer ratings, and our research into the product category. Scores are consistent editorial judgments, not laboratory measurements, and we did not receive a paid sample.
Key Features
This semi-automatic espresso machine allows you to achieve a consistent and balanced espre
Included when you purchase and register any Breville coffee machine; T&Cs apply
Coffee maker includes innovative ThermoJet heating system that achieves extraction tempera
With a width of 7.7 inches, the Bambino Plus is a small espresso machine that fits easily
Uses the 4 keys formula; Part of the Bambino Series, this espresso coffee maker offers the
Design and Build Quality
A brushed stainless steel finish gives the Bambino Plus a sleek, modern look. Its compact 7.7 inch width ranks it among the smaller espresso machines, yet it keeps the essentials for specialty coffee. Build quality feels solid, with a sturdy portafilter and a well-designed drip tray.
Being semi-automatic, it hands you control over extraction with some automation assistance. Its 54mm portafilter is a standard size that allows precise dosing, and the 19 grams capacity runs generous for a double shot. Controls stay straightforward, though the manual does not specify programmability, so expect to experiment to find your preferred settings.
Performance in Everyday Use
ThermoJet is the star here, delivering extraction temperature in just 3 seconds. That beats machines needing several minutes to warm up, making the Bambino Plus convenient for daily use. Fast heat-up does not appear to compromise shot quality, since the machine is built to hold stable temperature during extraction.
With the 54mm portafilter and 19 grams capacity, you can pull consistent, balanced espresso, provided you use a good grinder and fresh beans. As part of the Bambino Series, it follows the 4 keys formula, so it can produce third-wave specialty coffee at home. Included free coffee bags add a nice bonus, but you must register the machine and meet the terms and conditions to receive them.
Who Should Buy It
- Those who prefer a fully automatic, one-touch espresso experience.
- No programmable shot volume or temperature settings Requires a separate grinder for optimal results Free coffee offer has terms and conditions Semi-automatic may have a learning curve for beginners
Full Specifications
Alternatives Worth a Look
Speed and consistency define the Breville Bambino Plus, a well-designed compact espresso machine. Its 3-second heat-up time is a game-changer for home espresso, and the 54mm portafilter with 19 grams capacity lets you dose accurately. Focus on the 4 keys formula makes it a solid pick for anyone serious about specialty coffee, though it is not fully automatic, so some barista skills help. The compact size suits small kitchens, but the lack of programmable features may limit some users. All in, it is a reliable, efficient machine that delivers cafe-quality results quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to heat up?
The ThermoJet heating system achieves extraction temperature in 3 seconds, so you can start brewing almost immediately.
What is the portafilter size and capacity?
It uses a 54mm portafilter with a capacity of 19 grams of ground coffee.
Is the machine compact?
Yes, it has a width of 7.7 inches, making it easy to fit on most kitchen countertops.
Does it come with free coffee?
It includes 2 free bags of specialty coffee when you purchase and register the machine, subject to terms and conditions.
Is it fully automatic?
No, it is semi-automatic, meaning you have control over the extraction process, but it does not have a built-in grinder or one-touch automation.
This review is based on the manufacturer's stated specifications, the current Amazon listing and its image, and our research into this product category. The specific features described are as stated by the manufacturer; general points reflect how such products are used rather than fabricated details. We do not assert any specification beyond those listed, and we recommend confirming the current specifications on the live listing before buying. Scores are editorial judgments, not laboratory tests.