Breville Bambino Plus (BES500) review

The Bambino Plus is the compact choice for people who want automatic milk without a large machine. Breville's ThermoJet heater is ready to start in 3 seconds, and Breville says it is up to 44.3 percent more energy efficient than a Thermoblock in its own benchmark testing. The automatic steam wand offers 3 milk temperatures and 3 texture levels, and you can switch to manual texturing as your skills grow. Shots use a 54mm stainless steel portafilter with an 18g dose, low-pressure pre-infusion and 9 bar extraction, controlled with one-touch 1 and 2 shot buttons. At 11.9 by 7.4 by 14.3 inches, it fits where larger machines will not. The catch is the missing grinder: you need a burr grinder or fresh pre-ground coffee, which raises the real cost above the $499.95 price on Breville's US store when checked. We compared documented features and published prices.

Who it is for

Small kitchens and owners who already have a grinder

Price

$499.95 on the Breville US store when checked.

the Bambino® Plus $499.95 Add to cart
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 11, 2026.

Key features

• ThermoJet heating system ready to start in 3 seconds
• Automatic steam wand with 3 milk temperatures and 3 texture levels
• Low-pressure pre-infusion followed by 9 bar extraction
• 54mm stainless steel portafilter for an 18g dose
• One-touch volumetric control for 1 and 2 shots

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Hands-free microfoam with a manual mode for practice
• Strength: 11.9 by 7.4 by 14.3 inches fits narrow counters
• Strength: Heats in about 3 seconds, per Breville
• Weakness: No built-in grinder, so a separate burr grinder is needed
• Weakness: No adjustable brew temperature is documented
• Weakness: Smaller footprint means a smaller drip tray and tank to manage

Key facts

• Price: $499.95 when checked
• Heat-up: 3 seconds, ThermoJet
• Milk: Auto, 3 temperatures x 3 textures
• Grinder: None
• Dimensions: 11.9 x 7.4 x 14.3 in

Where it ranks

Breville Bambino Plus (BES500) is No. 2 in our Best Espresso Machines verdict.