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The one question that decides it: Do you already own (or want to buy) a good espresso grinder? - Yes: the Bambino Plus plus a separate grinder is the more flexible setup. - No, and you want one box: the Barista Express includes a grinder.
We compare these machines using Breville's published specifications, linked below. We haven't lab-tested them, and any hands-on notes we add later will be labelled.
Side by side
| Bambino Plus | Barista Express | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ThermoJet; extraction temp in 3 seconds (Breville) | Thermocoil, PID temperature control |
| Built-in grinder | No | Yes, conical burr, 16 settings |
| Portafilter | 54 mm | 54 mm |
| Milk | Automatic texturing (hands-free), adjustable temp and texture | Manual steam wand |
| Water tank | 1.9 L | 2 L |
| Pre-infusion | Yes [VERIFY wording on Breville CA page] | Low-pressure pre-infusion |
| Footprint | Compact | Larger (grinder and hopper on top) |
| Price in Canada | Check price [CHECK PRICE] | Check price [CHECK PRICE] |
Spec sources: Bambino Plus · Barista Express
Where the Bambino Plus wins
- Speed. A fast heat-up suits one-drink mornings.
- Milk for beginners. Automatic texturing takes a lot of the skill out of steaming milk.
- Upgrade path. Because the grinder is separate, you can upgrade grinder and machine independently later.
- Size. It fits under low cabinets and in small kitchens.
Where the Barista Express wins
- One purchase, one footprint. No grinder shopping or extra counter space.
- Learning manual steaming. If you want latte art, a manual wand teaches the skill.
- Grind-to-portafilter workflow in one machine.
Things to consider
- Total cost: compare Bambino Plus + grinder against Barista Express at today's Canadian prices. The answer changes with sales. Check price [CHECK PRICES]
- Light roasts: people who like lighter, fruitier espresso often want finer grind control than an entry built-in grinder gives. A dedicated grinder helps.
- Warranty and service in Canada: check Breville Canada's warranty terms and where repairs are handled before you buy.
Our pick by situation
- Mostly lattes, small kitchen, already own a grinder: Bambino Plus
- First setup, want everything at once: Barista Express
- Want to grow into the hobby: Bambino Plus plus a quality grinder (see grinder guide), or look at the Gaggia Classic Pro