Breville Bambino vs Breville Barista Express
Updated November 13, 2026
The biggest difference: the Breville Barista Express has a built-in grinder, while the Breville Bambino needs a separate burr grinder. Also, the Breville Bambino heats up in about 3 sec, versus about 1 min for the Breville Barista Express; the Breville Bambino lists for $400 less ($299.95 versus $699.95); and the Breville Bambino is 4.8 in narrower (7.7 in wide versus 12.5 in).
Breville Bambino
Choose it if: Beginners or small kitchens that already own a good espresso grinder and want fast, affordable shots.
Skip it if: Anyone who wants a built-in grinder or hands-off milk frothing.
- Ready to brew in about 3 seconds, so you can steam right after pulling a shot
- Very compact and among the cheapest ways into real 54 mm espresso
- Pre-infusion makes shots forgiving of imperfect grinding and tamping
- No grinder, so a separate espresso-capable grinder adds cost
- Limited control: no temperature or pre-infusion adjustment, no pressure gauge
Breville Barista Express
Choose it if: Learners who want an all-in-one bean-to-cup setup with a grinder and a strong manual steam wand.
Skip it if: People who want quick, low-effort drinks without a learning curve or regular cleaning.
- Integrated conical burr grinder means no separate grinder purchase
- Capable manual steam wand that produces good microfoam
- PID temperature control, pressure gauge and manual overrides give room to grow
- Real learning curve to dial in grind, dose and tamp
- Slower warm-up than ThermoJet models and slow back-to-back milk drinks
Specs side by side
| Spec | Bambino | Barista Express |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Manual semi-automatic | Semi-automatic with built-in grinder |
| Heating system | ThermoJet | Thermocoil |
| Heat-up time | 3 sec | 1 min |
| Built-in grinder | No | Yes |
| Milk system | Manual steam wand | Manual steam wand |
| Portafilter | 54 mm | 54 mm |
| Water tank | 47 oz | 67 oz |
| Size (W × D × H) | 7.7 × 12.6 × 12.2 in | 12.5 × 13.2 × 15.8 in |
| Weight | 10.4 lb | 23 lb |
| US warranty | 1 yr | 1 yr |
| List price | $299.95 | $699.95 |
Highlighted cells mark the better figure where one is clearly better. Specs come from the manufacturers; we don't run hands-on tests. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Breville Bambino and the Breville Barista Express?
The biggest difference: the Breville Barista Express has a built-in grinder, while the Breville Bambino needs a separate burr grinder. Also, the Breville Bambino heats up in about 3 sec, versus about 1 min for the Breville Barista Express; the Breville Bambino lists for $400 less ($299.95 versus $699.95); and the Breville Bambino is 4.8 in narrower (7.7 in wide versus 12.5 in).
Is the Breville Bambino or the Breville Barista Express better?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose the Breville Bambino if you want: Beginners or small kitchens that already own a good espresso grinder and want fast, affordable shots. Choose the Breville Barista Express if you want: Learners who want an all-in-one bean-to-cup setup with a grinder and a strong manual steam wand.
Which is cheaper, the Breville Bambino or the Breville Barista Express?
By manufacturer list price, the Breville Bambino ($299.95) is cheaper than the Breville Barista Express ($699.95). Sale prices change often, so check the current price on Amazon.
Do I need a grinder with the Breville Bambino?
Yes. The Breville Bambino has no built-in grinder, so pair it with a burr grinder that can grind fine enough for espresso, or budget about $200 for one.