REVIEW · UPDATED OCTOBER 2026
Breville Bambino Plus Review
A compact machine built to remove decisions, not teach you to make them. Here is who that suits.
The Breville Bambino Plus (BES500BSS) is currently around $500 on Amazon. It is built for people who want a good milk drink quickly, without needing to master technique first.
What you get
Very fast heat-up. Breville's ThermoJet heating system gets the machine ready in a few seconds rather than the ten minutes some traditional machines need. On a busy weekday morning, that is the main appeal.
Automatic milk texturing. You set the temperature and texture level, and the steam wand handles the rest. For many people, this is the biggest reason to buy it, since good milk texture is the hardest part of learning espresso.
Temperature stability. It includes digital temperature control (PID), which keeps shots more consistent than machines without it.
A compact body. It fits comfortably on a small counter.
Where it falls short
A smaller 54mm portafilter. It is less common than the 58mm standard, so there are fewer upgrade options for baskets and accessories if you get more serious later.
A lower ceiling. Because so much is automated, you have less control. Many people never miss this. Those who get deep into espresso often outgrow it.
The price. At around $500, it costs more than some machines that give you more control. You are paying for convenience.
If you do not care about the automatic wand, the standard Bambino (BES450BSS) is a cheaper option at around $300, but it has a manual steam wand, so it takes more practice for milk drinks.
Who should buy it
Buy it if you mostly drink lattes and cappuccinos, want a short learning curve, and value speed. It is one of the easiest ways to get café-style drinks at home.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you want to learn espresso as a hobby, drink mostly straight shots, or want room to upgrade. The Gaggia Classic Pro is a better fit.
Verdict
It is not the cheapest or the most capable machine, but it does what it promises: quick, easy, good-tasting milk drinks. If that is the goal, it is hard to beat at this size.
See how it compares in The Best Budget Espresso Machines.
Prices and availability change. Last checked October 2026.