Breville Barista Touch vs Breville Bambino Plus

Choosing between the Breville Barista Touch and the Breville Bambino Plus comes down to how much convenience, control, and counter space you want in your daily coffee routine. These two espresso machines represent different ends of Breville’s home espresso lineup.

The Barista Touch is the more advanced, all-in-one solution with a built-in grinder, intuitive touchscreen, and automatic milk steaming—designed for people who want café-quality drinks without needing to master barista skills. On the other hand, the Bambino Plus strips things down to the essentials: no grinder, a minimal button layout, and compact design, but still delivers high-quality espresso and impressive automatic milk texturing.

Despite their differences in features and price (nearly double for the Barista Touch), both machines use Breville’s core ThermoJet heating and PID technology to ensure consistent results. This review breaks down how they stack up across all the critical categories to help you decide which one fits your needs best.

Breville Barista Touch vs Breville Bambino Plus Comparison Chart

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Specification	Breville Barista Touch	Breville Bambino Plus
	Check the best price on Amazon	Check the best price on Amazon
Type	All-in-one espresso machine with built-in grinder	Espresso machine (no grinder)
Dimensions (W x D x H)	12.5” x 13.25” x 16”	7.6” x 12.5” x 12.2”
Weight	26.8 lbs (12.15 kg)	11.4 lbs (5.17 kg)
Boiler System	ThermoJet (3 sec heat-up)	ThermoJet (3 sec heat-up)
Pump Pressure	15-bar Italian pump (regulated to 9 bars for brewing)	15-bar Italian pump (regulated to 9 bars)
PID Temperature Control	Yes	Yes
Portafilter Size	54 mm	54 mm
Grinder	Integrated conical burr grinder	Not included
Grind Settings	30-step grind adjustment	N/A
Touchscreen Display	Yes (full-color)	No
Drink Presets	Yes (6+ customizable profiles)	No
Custom User Profiles	Yes (up to 8)	No
Milk Frothing	Automatic steam wand with 11 temp & 8 texture levels	Automatic steam wand with 3 temp & 3 texture levels
Steam Wand Type	4-hole stainless steel tip	1-hole stainless steel tip
Water Tank Capacity	67 oz (2.0 L)	64 oz (1.9 L)
Bean Hopper Capacity	8 oz (227 g)	N/A
Included Accessories	Portafilter, baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning kit, Razor tool	Portafilter, baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tool
Pre-Infusion	Yes (automatic)	Yes (automatic)
Auto Shut-Off / Sleep Mode	Yes	Yes
Materials	Brushed stainless steel + plastic trim	Brushed stainless steel + plastic trim
Noise Level	Moderate (due to grinder)	Quiet
Energy Efficiency	High, with auto-sleep & ThermoJet	Very high, low idle power usage
Maintenance Alerts	Yes (on-screen prompts)	Basic indicator lights
My individual reviews	Breville Barista Touch review	Breville Bambino Plus review

Design & Build Quality

When comparing the Breville Barista Touch and the Breville Bambino Plus, the design and build quality speak volumes about their intended use cases. One is a full-featured espresso workstation built for convenience and control, the other a compact, minimalist machine designed to deliver quality without unnecessary bulk. While both machines feature Breville’s signature stainless-steel aesthetic and attention to detail, their differences in size, materials, layout, and physical interaction offer very different experiences.

Breville Bambino Plus: Sleek, Minimal, and Compact

The Bambino Plus is an exercise in minimalism. It’s one of the slimmest espresso machines you can buy without venturing into travel-size or single-serve territory. Measuring just about 7.6 inches wide, 12.5 inches deep, and 12.2 inches tall, it easily fits under low cabinets and in tight kitchen spaces. Weighing roughly 11 pounds, it’s also light enough to move around or tuck away when not in use—something that’s important for apartment dwellers or anyone working with limited counter space.

Despite its small footprint, the Bambino Plus doesn’t feel cheap. The brushed stainless-steel body gives it a clean, professional look. The machine is available in a few color variations, but the silver finish remains the most popular. The exterior shell is a combination of stainless steel and plastic trim, but the plastics are high-grade and don’t feel flimsy. The machine has a fairly shallow drip tray that’s easy to remove and clean, but it does need to be emptied regularly if you’re pulling multiple shots or steaming milk frequently.

The water reservoir is located at the back and holds 64 ounces (1.9 liters)—generous for such a compact machine. The reservoir is removable and has a built-in handle, making it easy to refill at the sink. However, because of its rear placement, it can be a bit tricky to access if the machine is tucked under cabinets.

The portafilter is a 54 mm size—slightly smaller than the commercial-standard 58 mm used in higher-end machines, but still larger than what you’ll find in most entry-level consumer machines. The portafilter is made of stainless steel and feels substantial in the hand, but locking it into the group head takes some getting used to. It can feel a little tight, and the machine itself can shift slightly if you’re not holding it down while locking in.

Breville includes both single and dual-wall filter baskets, which is a nice touch for beginners and intermediate users alike. Dual-wall baskets are more forgiving and help produce consistent pressure and crema, even with pre-ground coffee. Single-wall baskets give you more control and better results when using freshly ground beans from a high-quality grinder.

Buttons are clearly labeled and responsive, with tactile feedback that adds to the machine’s premium feel. The front panel is simple: one button each for single shot, double shot, and steam. Three LED indicators above the steam button let you know which milk temperature and texture settings you’ve selected. It’s a smart layout that keeps things simple without sacrificing essential control.

Breville Barista Touch: Premium Materials and Integrated Convenience

The Barista Touch immediately looks more advanced and premium when placed next to the Bambino Plus. It’s a larger machine by design, because it integrates a conical burr grinder, digital touchscreen, and milk steaming system all into one unit. The dimensions come in at roughly 12.5 inches wide, 13.25 inches deep, and 16 inches tall. It weighs significantly more—closer to 26 pounds—which makes it feel sturdier but also less mobile.

The body is also made of brushed stainless steel with plastic trim in key areas such as the hopper lid, back panel, and bottom casing. The overall fit and finish are excellent. The machine feels solid when in use—there’s no wobble when locking in the portafilter, no cheap or creaky parts, and the surfaces feel smooth and well-machined. Everything from the bean hopper lid to the steam wand pivot points feels intentional and built to last.

The large water tank sits at the back but has a capacity of 67 ounces (2 liters), slightly more than the Bambino Plus. It also includes a water filter that can be replaced every two to three months, depending on usage. The tank has a handle and lifts out easily, though like the Bambino, rear access can be tricky in low-clearance spaces.

The most visible design difference is the large, color touchscreen mounted on the front panel. This is the machine’s command center, allowing you to select drink types, customize parameters, and save your favorite drinks under user profiles. The screen is bright, responsive, and well-organized. It gives the machine a modern, professional feel that goes beyond typical home espresso machines.

The Barista Touch also features a built-in conical burr grinder with a 1/2-pound bean hopper mounted at the top. The grinder dispenses directly into the portafilter via a cradle, which makes workflow efficient and relatively clean. There are 30 grind size adjustments available via a dial, offering far more range than most all-in-one espresso machines. The grind setting dial is located on the side of the machine and has clear markings that allow for repeatable adjustments.

Another benefit to the integrated design is the dedicated tamper and magnetic tamper holder, which keeps your accessories organized and within easy reach. The included portafilter is a full 54 mm stainless-steel model—similar in size to the Bambino’s, but slightly heavier and with more durable feel. Breville also includes a stainless-steel milk jug, a Razor dosing tool, and both pressurized and non-pressurized baskets.

The milk steaming wand on the Barista Touch is automated like the Bambino Plus, but it offers more precise control. You can select from eight milk texture levels and 11 temperature settings, all controlled from the touchscreen. The wand is fully articulating and automatically stops when the programmed temperature is reached. It also has a purge function to clean itself after each use, a feature that adds to the premium experience.

One thoughtful design touch is the integrated storage compartment behind the drip tray, where you can store filter baskets, the Razor tool, and cleaning accessories. The drip tray itself is much deeper than the one on the Bambino Plus and includes a float indicator to let you know when it’s full. This helps reduce overflow incidents and cuts down on mess.

Side-by-Side Design Considerations

In terms of visual appeal, both machines have a modern, semi-professional look that works in almost any kitchen. However, the Barista Touch clearly looks and feels more upscale due to its integrated touchscreen and larger footprint. If aesthetics matter and you want a machine that looks like it belongs in a high-end café, the Touch has an edge.

In terms of practicality, the Bambino Plus wins for users who value space, portability, and simplicity. It fits into smaller kitchens, takes up less real estate, and doesn’t dominate the countertop. It also has fewer components, making it easier to clean and maintain.

If you prefer a more tactile, analog interaction with your espresso machine, the Bambino Plus offers a more hands-on experience with its manual buttons and lighter form factor. If you’re more tech-oriented and appreciate guided workflows, customization, and user profiles, the Barista Touch provides an intuitive, digital-forward experience that feels like something out of a high-end smart appliance lineup.

Durability & Longevity

Both machines are built to last, but they excel in different ways. The Bambino Plus, with fewer internal components and no built-in grinder, has fewer points of failure. It’s a simpler machine that many users find keeps running smoothly for years with basic maintenance.

The Barista Touch, while more complex, is well-built and thoughtfully designed. Its integrated parts feel robust, and the digital interface is polished and reliable. However, because it includes more components—like a grinder and touchscreen—it requires a bit more attention in terms of upkeep. Fortunately, Breville has a good track record with part availability and customer support, making repairs and replacements relatively painless if needed.

Conclusion on Design & Build Quality

In terms of design and build quality, both machines are excellent in their own right—but for different users. The Bambino Plus is compact, straightforward, and beautifully minimal, perfect for someone who wants a reliable espresso machine without clutter. The Barista Touch is a larger, more premium machine with integrated features and high-end finishes that deliver an all-in-one, café-style experience right from your kitchen. Your choice here depends on how much space you have, how involved you want to be in the brewing process, and how much value you place on aesthetics and integrated features.

User Interface & Ease of Use

When it comes to making great espresso at home, usability is just as important as performance. You can have the most advanced machine in the world, but if it’s frustrating or confusing to use, it ends up gathering dust. This is especially true for home baristas who want consistency, speed, and some level of control—without going full commercial. In the case of the Breville Bambino Plus and the Breville Barista Touch, both machines are designed to streamline the espresso-making process, but they do so in very different ways.

The Bambino Plus leans into simplicity, minimalism, and approachability. It’s practically plug-and-play. The Barista Touch, on the other hand, offers a more advanced user experience, with touchscreen navigation, deep customization options, and built-in automation designed to cater to beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Let’s dive into how each machine handles everyday usability—from button layouts and drink selection to learning curve and workflow.

Breville Bambino Plus: Intuitive and Beginner-Friendly

The Bambino Plus is one of the most beginner-friendly espresso machines on the market. It’s clear Breville designed it for people who are just getting started with home espresso, as well as those who want fast, repeatable results without needing a manual or a training course.

The front panel has just three buttons: single shot, double shot, and steam. That’s it. Each button is clearly labeled and backlit, and pressing them gives a satisfying tactile click. If you want to pull a single espresso shot, you press the single-shot button. If you want steamed milk, press the steam button. The interface doesn’t overwhelm you with options—it gives you what you need and nothing more.

Above the steam button, there are three small LEDs that indicate milk texture (low, medium, high foam) and milk temperature (warm, ideal, hot). You can toggle between these by holding the steam button until the desired settings light up. It’s not as flashy or precise as a digital menu, but it works well, and the machine remembers your last setting.

Another strength of the Bambino Plus interface is its responsiveness. Press a button and the machine reacts instantly. Thanks to the ThermoJet heating system, you’re not waiting around for it to warm up—it’s ready in about 3 seconds. This makes it one of the fastest machines on the market in terms of time-to-coffee. It also switches from brewing to steaming almost instantly, with no need to purge or wait between modes.

The shot buttons are pre-programmed to deliver standard espresso volumes (roughly 1 oz for a single, 2 oz for a double), but you can customize them. To do this, you simply press and hold the shot button until it starts brewing, then press again when you want it to stop. The machine then remembers this new volume for future brews. It’s a simple way to program your shots without needing a screen or dial.

Breville also includes both pressurized (dual-wall) and non-pressurized (single-wall) filter baskets, which affect ease of use. Beginners can use the dual-wall baskets to get consistent crema even with pre-ground coffee or uneven tamping. More advanced users can switch to single-wall baskets for better extraction control. This flexibility adds to the machine’s usability over time as users improve their skills.

One downside is that the Bambino Plus doesn’t have a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to use an external one. This means adjusting grind settings is a separate process, and dosing/tamping must be done manually. For some users, this may seem like extra work; for others, it’s an advantage, as it allows you to invest in a high-quality grinder and gain more control over the shot.

Cleaning and maintenance are also straightforward. The interface includes a cleaning indicator, and the machine automatically flushes the group head after each use. The simple control layout means fewer parts to malfunction or require troubleshooting.

In short, the Bambino Plus offers a low-friction experience for anyone who wants great espresso with minimal hassle. Its interface is limited in features, but perfectly matched to its mission: simplicity and speed.

Breville Barista Touch: Guided Customization with Touchscreen Control

The Barista Touch offers a completely different user interface—more sophisticated, more interactive, and designed for users who want both ease and control. The main event here is the full-color touchscreen located on the front of the machine. It replaces most physical buttons and dials with an intuitive menu system that guides you through every step of the drink-making process.

From the home screen, you can choose from several preset beverages: espresso, long black, latte, flat white, cappuccino, and more. Selecting one of these options takes you to a sub-menu where you can adjust grind size, coffee strength (i.e., shot volume), milk texture, and milk temperature. Once you’ve customized a drink to your liking, you can save it to one of eight user profiles. Each profile stores your unique settings, making it easy to recreate your favorite drinks every time.

The touchscreen is highly responsive and well-designed. The icons are large, the text is clear, and the menus are logically arranged. Navigating the interface feels more like using a smartphone than a traditional kitchen appliance. There’s virtually no learning curve. Even if you’ve never made espresso before, the interface walks you through the process step-by-step. It even includes helpful animations that show how to insert the portafilter, tamp the grounds, and steam milk.

One of the biggest advantages of the Barista Touch is its integration between grinder, espresso, and milk functions. Because the machine includes a built-in conical burr grinder, it automates dosing as well. You simply insert the portafilter into the cradle, press a button, and the machine grinds a programmed dose directly into the basket. You can adjust grind size using a physical dial on the side of the machine, and the touchscreen lets you tweak grind time to dial in your dose.

Once you’ve ground your coffee and tamped it, the machine will automatically pull a shot based on your saved volume settings. Like the Bambino Plus, you can customize these by running a manual shot and saving the timing. The key difference is that on the Barista Touch, this process is visual and guided—no guesswork required.

The milk steaming process is equally seamless. The touchscreen allows you to set both the milk temperature (ranging from 104°F to 167°F) and milk texture (ranging from very fine to extra frothy). These settings are incredibly useful if you prefer lattes over cappuccinos, or if you use milk alternatives like oat or almond, which require slightly lower steaming temperatures. Once your preferences are set, the steaming wand takes over and automatically heats and textures your milk to spec, stopping when it reaches the programmed temperature.

Another area where the Barista Touch shines is workflow efficiency. It’s designed to reduce the number of manual steps between turning on the machine and sipping your coffee. You don’t have to switch between modes manually. You don’t have to time your shots. You don’t need to guess if your milk is too hot or not frothed enough. Everything is streamlined through the UI.

That said, there are a few limitations. While the touchscreen is great for ease of use, it lacks the tactile immediacy of physical buttons. Some users prefer knobs and levers for quick adjustments without navigating menus. And while the integrated grinder is convenient, it’s not as consistent or powerful as a standalone grinder in the same price range. That said, for most users, the tradeoff is more than worth it for the speed and convenience it brings.

Cleaning and maintenance are also guided through the interface. The touchscreen alerts you when it’s time to clean the machine, replace the water filter, or descale. It also walks you through the cleaning cycle with clear step-by-step instructions. These prompts help reduce the chances of neglecting key maintenance tasks and extend the lifespan of the machine.

Head-to-Head Usability Summary

Feature	Breville Bambino Plus	Breville Barista Touch
Interface Type	Physical buttons	Color touchscreen
Preset Drinks	No	Yes (6+ customizable)
Customization	Manual programming only	Full control over milk temp, texture, grind time
User Profiles	No	Yes (up to 8)
Shot Programming	Manual (hold to set)	Touchscreen-guided, programmable
Milk Control	3 foam levels + 3 temps	8 texture levels + 11 temps
Learning Curve	Very low	Low, guided via screen
Grinder Integration	No	Yes, with dose control
Cleaning Prompts	Indicator light	On-screen alerts and guided steps

Conclusion on User Interface & Ease of Use

In the realm of user interface and ease of use, the Bambino Plus wins on simplicity, clarity, and instant usability. It’s perfect for those who want a hands-on but straightforward approach—insert portafilter, press button, done. The Barista Touch, on the other hand, offers a more luxurious and interactive experience, with deep customization, automation, and a guided UI that removes most of the guesswork from making high-quality espresso and milk drinks. For users who want full control without the hassle, the Barista Touch is hard to beat. Ultimately, it depends on whether you value tactile simplicity or touchscreen sophistication.

Coffee Quality & Brewing Performance

When comparing the Breville Barista Touch and the Breville Bambino Plus, few categories matter as much as coffee quality and brewing performance. You can have all the smart features and beautiful design in the world, but if the coffee falls short, the machine isn’t worth it—especially in the espresso world, where flavor, texture, and consistency make or break the experience.

Both machines are engineered with Breville’s signature attention to precision, using similar core technologies like the ThermoJet heating system and PID temperature control. However, the way they implement these technologies—and the degree of control they offer—differs, leading to two very distinct brewing experiences.

Let’s break it down in detail, looking at pressure, temperature stability, shot consistency, flavor, workflow, and how each machine handles different variables in the brewing process.

Heating System and Temperature Stability

Both machines are equipped with Breville’s ThermoJet heating system, which is one of the fastest home espresso boiler technologies available. This system can reach operating temperature in about 3 seconds—dramatically reducing wait time compared to traditional thermoblock or boiler-based machines that may take 1–5 minutes or longer.

On both the Barista Touch and the Bambino Plus, this quick heating doesn’t sacrifice performance. The key factor is that the machines also incorporate a PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller, which is a fancy term for a smart thermostat. Instead of fluctuating between temperature highs and lows like cheaper machines, the PID keeps the brew water at a consistent ~200°F, the ideal brewing temperature for espresso.

This consistency matters. Fluctuating temperatures can ruin a shot—too cold, and you get sour, under-extracted coffee; too hot, and the shot tastes bitter and burnt. In practice, both machines do an excellent job of holding steady heat, producing shots that are balanced, smooth, and full of flavor.

Brew Pressure and Extraction Control

Both machines use a 15-bar Italian-made pump, though espresso only requires 9 bars at the group head. What matters more is whether the machine regulates pressure effectively throughout the shot. This is where both models perform well for their class.

The Bambino Plus and Barista Touch both have pre-infusion functionality, which means they begin each shot with a few seconds of low pressure to gently saturate the grounds before ramping up to full pressure. This results in a more even extraction, reducing channeling and helping achieve better crema and flavor. The pre-infusion time isn’t adjustable on the Bambino Plus, but the Touch allows some user control depending on the mode and customization settings.

For the average user, both machines offer very satisfying extractions. The espresso they produce is rich in flavor and body, with thick, golden crema that compares favorably to café-level machines—especially when paired with freshly ground, high-quality beans.

That said, the Barista Touch does allow for slightly finer control. Because you can adjust shot time and grind settings within the touchscreen interface, you’re able to tweak extraction length and dose far more precisely than on the Bambino Plus, which relies on manual programming via button-holding.

This matters most to users chasing perfect shots—maybe you want a 1:2 brew ratio with a 27-second extraction for a complex medium roast. The Barista Touch makes those micro-adjustments easier to dial in. The Bambino Plus can still produce excellent results, but it requires more attention to timing and grind/dose externally.

Portafilter and Filter Baskets

Both machines use Breville’s 54mm portafilter, a non-commercial size that’s slightly smaller than the standard 58mm used in prosumer machines. While some espresso purists prefer the larger size, Breville’s 54mm design is surprisingly capable and well-made.

Each machine comes with both pressurized (dual-wall) and non-pressurized (single-wall) filter baskets. The dual-wall baskets are designed to simplify the process for beginners—they build pressure internally, which allows for more forgiving extractions even with pre-ground coffee or less-than-perfect tamping. They’re ideal if you’re still developing your technique or don’t have a great grinder yet.

However, for the best flavor and crema, you’ll want to graduate to the single-wall baskets, which rely on grind consistency and tamp pressure to produce high-quality shots. With a good burr grinder, both machines deliver fantastic espresso using these baskets, but again—the Barista Touch gives you more granular control over dose and shot time, helping to refine the flavor further.

Shot Quality and Flavor Profiles

In side-by-side tests, both machines produce full-bodied, well-balanced espresso that holds up to scrutiny. You get rich crema, aromatic complexity, and a pleasant finish when using freshly ground beans and dialed-in settings.

The Bambino Plus, despite its lower price and simpler controls, consistently surprises people with the quality of its espresso. Thanks to the PID, fast heat-up, and effective pre-infusion, it nails the fundamentals. Pull a well-dosed shot using fresh beans and a decent grinder, and you’ll get espresso that rivals what you’d find in many coffee shops.

The Barista Touch, meanwhile, offers a slightly more refined flavor experience—not because of dramatically different core brewing components, but because it gives you more control over each variable. You can adjust the grind time, tweak shot length, and dial in custom milk settings for each drink. It’s this added layer of control that can elevate your espresso from excellent to exceptional.

For instance, if you’re using a light-roasted Ethiopian bean, you might want a longer pre-infusion and a slightly longer extraction to bring out fruitiness. The Barista Touch lets you create and save that exact drink profile, so you can reproduce it every time.

On the Bambino Plus, you can still achieve that shot, but it might require more trial-and-error, manual timing, and repeated adjustments to your external grinder.

Shot-to-Shot Consistency

Consistency is a huge part of brewing performance. Nobody wants great espresso one day and a weak, sour shot the next—especially when using the same beans and grinder.

Both machines do well in this area, but again, Barista Touch has a slight advantage due to its integrated workflow. Because the grinder, dosing, and brew times are all programmable and repeatable within the machine itself, it minimizes user error. The touchscreen walks you through each step, so if something goes off, it’s usually easy to troubleshoot.

The Bambino Plus is also consistent—as long as your grind and tamp are consistent. Since it doesn’t include a grinder or automatic dosing, the results rely more on your skill and equipment. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—it’s part of the learning curve of home espresso—but it does mean the Touch has a smoother path to consistency for new users.

Workflow and Speed

Both machines are fast, thanks to the ThermoJet system. In real-world use, it takes under 10 seconds from turning on the machine to pulling a shot. Steaming milk is similarly quick—ready in about 3–5 seconds. This makes both machines incredibly convenient for busy mornings.

The Bambino Plus allows quick back-to-back operation, but you’ll need to dose and grind externally, which adds a few minutes to the workflow. This may not matter for a single user, but if you’re making drinks for two or more people, the time adds up.

The Barista Touch streamlines the entire process. Grind, tamp, brew, steam—everything happens in sequence, with minimal hands-on time. You can go from bean to cup in about 90 seconds, which is impressive for a machine with this level of customization.

Handling Different Beans and Roast Profiles

Another important aspect of brewing performance is versatility. Some machines are only good with dark roasts or pre-ground coffee. Others can handle the full spectrum of beans—light, medium, dark, single origin, blends—and adjust accordingly.

Here, both machines do well, but the Barista Touch shines when it comes to adapting to specific beans. With its customizable shot times, milk profiles, and grinder settings, you can fine-tune your brew to highlight the strengths of any roast. It’s especially helpful when experimenting with light or medium roasts that require more careful extraction.

The Bambino Plus, while less adjustable, is surprisingly forgiving. It handles a wide range of beans well, even when grind size or dose isn’t perfect. Its strong baseline performance means you still get a solid shot, even if the bean is unfamiliar or tricky to dial in.

Final Thoughts

Both the Breville Barista Touch and the Bambino Plus deliver excellent espresso, powered by solid internal technology like PID control, pre-infusion, and the fast-heating ThermoJet system. If you’re using fresh beans and a proper grind, both can produce rich, flavorful espresso with gorgeous crema and impressive shot consistency.

The Bambino Plus is ideal for users who want a compact, affordable machine that can deliver premium results—especially if they already have or are willing to invest in a good grinder. It’s fast, easy to use, and capable of excellent espresso with minimal complexity.

The Barista Touch, by contrast, is for those who want full control and convenience rolled into one machine. With its integrated grinder, programmable profiles, and guided touchscreen interface, it allows you to customize every detail of the shot and milk texture—while still making the process approachable for beginners.

In short: the Bambino Plus makes great espresso. The Barista Touch makes it easier, more customizable, and repeatable—especially for those who love to experiment.

Grinder Features & Performance

The grinder is arguably the most critical part of any espresso setup. You can have the best espresso machine in the world, but if your grind is inconsistent, too coarse, or too fine, your shots won’t be worth drinking. Grind size, grind consistency, and dosing control all affect extraction, flavor, and overall shot quality. So when comparing the Breville Barista Touch and the Breville Bambino Plus, it’s important to understand how each machine handles grinding—or doesn’t—and what that means for your daily workflow.

One of the biggest distinctions between these two machines is that the Barista Touch has a built-in grinder, while the Bambino Plus does not. That single difference has a ripple effect on ease of use, flexibility, future upgrades, and long-term performance.

Let’s explore how each machine addresses grinding, how they perform with different grinders (built-in or external), and what it all means for your espresso quality.

Breville Barista Touch: Built-in Grinder Integration

The Barista Touch features an integrated conical burr grinder mounted at the top of the machine. The bean hopper holds about 8 ounces (227 grams) of beans and feeds directly into the grinder chute, which dispenses ground coffee straight into the portafilter. This setup is designed to streamline the brewing process—grind, tamp, and pull your shot in a matter of seconds.

Grinder Design and Burr Type

The Barista Touch uses stainless steel conical burrs, which are effective for espresso-level grinding and produce consistent results within their range. Conical burrs are known for their ability to grind at lower RPMs, which reduces heat buildup and helps preserve coffee flavor. While they’re not on par with high-end flat burr grinders in terms of uniformity and retention, they’re miles ahead of blade grinders or entry-level burr systems.

The burrs are housed in a sturdy mechanism, and grinding noise is moderate—not whisper-quiet, but not jarring either. It’s quieter than many standalone grinders in the same price bracket.

Grind Settings and Adjustment Range

The Barista Touch provides 30 distinct grind settings, adjustable using a dial on the machine’s side. This gives users decent flexibility to dial in their grind size for various beans and roast levels. It covers a wide enough range for espresso-specific grinds, from medium-fine to fine, though it doesn’t go coarse enough for French press or pour-over.

In practice, the 30-step range is serviceable but somewhat limited if you’re trying to dial in very light roasts or prefer extreme precision. Compared to premium standalone grinders like the Niche Zero, Baratza Sette, or Eureka Mignon, the resolution between settings is broader, meaning it may take more effort to find the exact “sweet spot” for your bean and espresso target.

Still, for most users—including advanced beginners and intermediate home baristas—the grinder gets the job done well. For traditional medium-dark espresso blends, you’ll find a usable setting quickly and can adjust with confidence.

Dose Control and Programmability

One of the biggest strengths of the Barista Touch’s grinder is its integration with the touchscreen interface. Once you select a drink from the menu, the machine automatically doses a predetermined amount of coffee into the portafilter.

You can fine-tune the dose timing via the screen. This allows you to adjust how many seconds the grinder runs for, which directly affects the volume of coffee dispensed. It doesn’t measure by weight—only time—but with a little trial and error, you can dial in fairly precise doses.

This combination of grind time + grind size gives the user solid control over extraction variables. While not as refined as a scale-based system or ultra-fine grind adjustment, the Barista Touch makes up for it with its convenience and consistency.

You also get the benefit of hands-free grinding. The portafilter locks into a cradle, and the grinder activates with a single tap or via the touchscreen interface. This minimizes mess and simplifies the workflow for people pulling multiple shots.

Workflow Advantages

The real advantage of the built-in grinder isn’t just convenience—it’s how much it simplifies the espresso workflow. With the Barista Touch, you go from whole bean to pulled shot in under a minute, with minimal steps in between. There’s no need to measure beans, transfer grounds, or manually time your grind. Everything is built-in, coordinated, and stored in your drink profile.

For users who prioritize speed and consistency over deep tinkering, this setup is ideal. You wake up, turn on the machine, and you’re two button presses away from espresso.

Limitations of the Built-in Grinder

That said, the integrated grinder isn’t without its limitations. While it’s convenient, it’s not a high-end grinder, and it’s not easily upgradeable. The burrs aren’t meant to be swapped, and you can’t upgrade them without voiding your warranty or dismantling the machine.

More serious users who later develop a passion for single-origin light roasts or ultra-precise shot dialing may outgrow this grinder’s capabilities. You also lose flexibility in grind style—this machine is built for espresso and nothing else. If you want to switch between espresso and French press, you’ll need a second grinder anyway.

Another consideration is maintenance. Built-in grinders require regular cleaning, especially if you use oily beans. Coffee oils can build up in the chute and burrs, impacting grind quality and causing clogging over time. Breville recommends brushing and vacuuming out the burr chamber every couple of weeks, depending on usage.

Breville Bambino Plus: External Grinder Required

Unlike the Barista Touch, the Bambino Plus does not include a grinder. This may seem like a downside at first—especially if you’re used to all-in-one machines—but it’s actually a huge advantage for users who care about coffee quality, flexibility, and long-term growth.

Grinder Flexibility and Upgrade Path

Because you must pair the Bambino Plus with a separate grinder, you can choose one that fits your needs, budget, and preferences. You’re not locked into any particular brand or mechanism. Want a burr grinder that grinds by weight? Go for it. Prefer a single-dose workflow with zero retention? There’s a grinder for that.

Some popular grinder pairings with the Bambino Plus include:

• Baratza Encore ESP (for entry-level espresso grinding)
• Baratza Sette 270 or 270Wi (for precise dose control and fast grinding)
• Niche Zero (for ultra-low retention and top-tier consistency)
• Eureka Mignon Specialita (for quiet operation and stepless adjustment)

This flexibility means you can upgrade your grinder without replacing your machine. It also allows you to experiment with different grind profiles and roast styles in a way that’s limited with an integrated grinder system.

Greater Control Over Grind Quality

With a high-quality standalone grinder, you’ll get superior grind uniformity, which leads to better extraction. The particle size distribution is tighter, reducing fines (dust) and boulders (large particles) that can disrupt shot consistency.

This level of control is especially useful when using the single-wall filter baskets that come with the Bambino Plus. Because these baskets rely on the grind itself to build pressure (as opposed to pressurized dual-wall baskets), a consistent grind is critical.

When paired with a good grinder, the Bambino Plus can easily produce espresso that rivals far more expensive machines—often better than what the Barista Touch can deliver, simply because of the grinder quality.

Manual Dosing Workflow

The tradeoff with using an external grinder is that you now have a more manual workflow. You need to dose your beans (or rely on your grinder’s timer/scale), grind into a portafilter or dosing cup, level and tamp manually, and then insert into the machine. This adds steps—and mess—but also gives you total control.

Some users love this tactile involvement. It’s part of the craft of espresso. Others find it tedious. Whether it’s a pro or a con depends entirely on what you want out of your espresso routine.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Breville Barista Touch	Breville Bambino Plus
Grinder Type	Built-in conical burr	None (external required)
Hopper Capacity	8 oz	N/A
Grind Adjustment	30 steps	Depends on external grinder
Grind Consistency	Good (entry-to-mid level)	Varies; can be excellent
Dose Control	Time-based, programmable	Depends on grinder (time or weight)
Integration	Fully integrated into UI	Manual process
Workflow Speed	Faster, streamlined	Slower but customizable
Upgrade Flexibility	Limited (non-upgradable)	Fully upgradable
Maintenance	Requires internal cleaning	Depends on external grinder
Long-Term Value	Excellent for casual use	Best for tinkerers and serious users

Final Thoughts

When it comes to grinder features and performance, the Barista Touch wins on convenience, integration, and ease of use. It’s perfect for users who want a one-stop espresso solution without having to learn too much about grinding. It allows quick, consistent shots with minimal effort and no external equipment.

The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, wins on flexibility, control, and long-term value. By separating the grinder from the machine, it allows you to choose your own gear, upgrade as needed, and chase better espresso over time. With the right grinder, it’s capable of producing better shots than the Barista Touch—and teaching you more about coffee in the process.

Ultimately, the better choice depends on your priorities. If you want convenience and all-in-one simplicity, go with the Barista Touch. If you want flexibility, upgrade potential, and the best possible espresso quality for the money, pair a Bambino Plus with a great standalone grinder—you won’t regret it.

Milk Frothing & Specialty Drinks

When comparing the Breville Barista Touch and the Breville Bambino Plus, the milk frothing system is one of the most defining features—especially for anyone who enjoys lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites, or experimenting with milk alternatives. These drinks depend not just on espresso quality but also on how well a machine can steam and texture milk. Poor frothing leads to foamy, bubbly milk or scalding temperatures, both of which kill drink quality. Great milk texture means silky microfoam, ideal temperatures, and proper aeration—crucial for both taste and latte art.

Both machines are equipped with automatic steam wands, a feature that’s rare in this price range and a huge benefit for home baristas who don’t want to spend months learning traditional steam wand technique. But the way the Barista Touch and Bambino Plus handle milk is slightly different, and that difference can matter—especially if you have specific milk preferences or want to replicate your café favorites at home.

Let’s dive into how each machine performs in milk frothing, how it handles various specialty drinks, and what kind of experience each offers for milk-forward coffee lovers.

Breville Bambino Plus: Simplicity with Solid Results

The Bambino Plus has earned its reputation as one of the easiest machines for milk frothing, particularly for beginners. The automatic steam wand is a standout feature that takes the guesswork out of steaming milk. Instead of relying on feel, sound, or visual cues—like traditional manual wands—you simply press a button and let the machine handle the rest.

Steam Wand Design

The Bambino Plus comes with a single-hole, stainless steel steam wand. It has a flexible, pivoting joint that gives you enough maneuverability to adjust the angle of your milk jug. The wand is connected to Breville’s ThermoJet boiler, which heats up in about 3 seconds, making it one of the fastest machines in its class for steam readiness.

What really sets it apart is the automatic milk frothing system, which lets you select:

• Three temperature settings: Warm (~130°F), Ideal (~140°F), and Hot (~150°F)
• Three texture levels: Low foam (flat white), Medium foam (latte), High foam (cappuccino)

You choose your preferences using the buttons above the steam button on the control panel. Once selected, the machine handles everything from steam injection to temperature shutoff. It stops automatically when your chosen temperature is reached and purges the wand afterward to prevent clogging.

The result is milk that is surprisingly well-textured, especially for an automatic system. The microfoam is dense but silky, making it suitable for basic latte art and excellent mouthfeel. While it doesn’t always reach the perfect glossy sheen of a hand-steamed pitcher from a seasoned barista, it comes close—and with minimal effort.

Performance with Dairy and Alternatives

The Bambino Plus performs well with whole milk, 2%, and even skim, but it also does a solid job with non-dairy options like oat, almond, soy, and coconut milk. That’s a major win, considering many steam wands—especially cheaper ones—struggle to properly texture plant-based milks due to their different protein and fat structures.

It may take a bit of experimentation to find the ideal temperature and foam setting for each milk type, but once you do, the results are consistent. Oat milk in particular froths well at the “ideal” temp with medium foam, producing velvety milk with just the right level of sweetness.

Manual Override

If you want to take more control, the Bambino Plus does allow for manual steaming. Simply turn off the automatic milk settings by holding the steam button, and you can steam the milk yourself. This opens the door for more experienced users to practice steaming technique or attempt more advanced latte art. However, the single-hole tip limits the power compared to a traditional commercial wand, and the milk pitcher included is small—so latte art beyond basic hearts and rosettas can be tricky.

Breville Barista Touch: Precision and Customization

The Barista Touch builds on the strengths of the Bambino Plus and takes automatic milk frothing several steps further. If milk drinks make up the majority of your coffee routine, this machine is arguably one of the best home options short of stepping into prosumer or commercial gear.

Advanced Milk Customization

The touchscreen interface gives you a high degree of control over milk preparation. When making a drink, you can choose:

• 11 temperature settings (from ~110°F to 170°F in 5°F increments)
• 8 texture settings (from flat to foamy)

That’s more than triple the range of the Bambino Plus. The increased precision is not just a luxury—it actually helps tailor drinks for different preferences, bean types, and milk alternatives.

For example:

• A flat white with whole milk might work best at 135°F with texture level 3.
• A cappuccino with almond milk might need 140°F with texture level 6 to get proper volume and stability.
• A latte with oat milk can be dialed in at 140°F with texture level 4 for a rich, creamy finish.

The touchscreen lets you save these settings per drink, so once you’ve dialed in your perfect combo, it’s available at a tap. This is ideal for households where different people have different drink preferences, or for users who like switching between coffee styles regularly.

Steam Wand Design and Performance

The steam wand on the Barista Touch is a 4-hole stainless steel tip, which provides more steam power and better milk circulation compared to the Bambino’s single-hole design. This leads to faster milk steaming times and more consistent microfoam.

Like the Bambino Plus, the wand is automatic and has a self-purge function. But because the Barista Touch lets you precisely control steaming parameters, it often achieves better foam texture and milk temperature consistency—important for latte art and flavor.

The more powerful wand also means the machine handles larger milk volumes more effectively. Whether you’re steaming for one cappuccino or two lattes, the Barista Touch gets it done quickly without losing quality.

Specialty Drinks and Workflow Integration

One of the most powerful aspects of the Barista Touch is how it integrates milk frothing into its overall drink creation process. When you choose a drink from the touchscreen menu—like a flat white, cappuccino, or latte—it automatically sets the espresso shot volume, grind dose, milk temp, and texture level to match. You can accept the default or tweak any parameter before brewing.

Once your shot is pulled, the machine walks you through the milk frothing stage, and then you’re ready to pour. The process is highly intuitive, and the fact that it’s all programmable means even inexperienced users can replicate complex café drinks with no prior training.

If you’re into specialty drinks—mochas, flavored lattes, chai lattes, macchiatos, or custom drinks—the Barista Touch provides a great foundation. You can create your own profiles, save them with custom names, and recall them instantly. This level of control is nearly impossible on the Bambino Plus without external timers, scales, and manual note-taking.

Milk Frothing Head-to-Head

Feature	Bambino Plus	Barista Touch
Wand Type	1-hole stainless steel	4-hole stainless steel
Steam Activation	Button with auto or manual mode	Touchscreen-controlled, fully automatic
Texture Settings	3 levels (low, medium, high)	8 levels (fine-tuned)
Temperature Settings	3 levels (warm, ideal, hot)	11 settings (~110°F to 170°F)
Self-Purge	Yes	Yes
Steaming Speed	Fast (~30–45 seconds)	Very fast (~20–30 seconds)
Latte Art Potential	Moderate (good for beginners)	High (smoother texture, better power)
Milk Alternatives	Good results with trial and error	Excellent with customized settings
Workflow Integration	Standalone steaming	Integrated with drink presets

Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who makes the occasional latte or cappuccino and wants fast, easy results, the Bambino Plus is a fantastic option. Its automatic milk frothing takes the stress out of steaming, delivers solid microfoam, and gives you basic control over texture and temp. It’s particularly great for beginners or anyone who doesn’t want to fuss with a manual wand.

However, if milk-based drinks are your go-to and you want precision, consistency, and the ability to customize each drink, the Barista Touch is hard to beat. The advanced steaming control, combined with programmable drink profiles and a more powerful wand, puts it in a different league. It gives you better texture, more consistency across drink types, and a smoother workflow—especially when making drinks for multiple people.

In short, the Bambino Plus nails the fundamentals of milk frothing. The Barista Touch perfects them. Choose the one that fits your needs, your budget, and how involved you want to be in crafting that perfect latte or cappuccino.

Maintenance & Cleaning

No matter how good an espresso machine is at brewing, its long-term performance—and the quality of your coffee—depends heavily on how well you maintain and clean it. Over time, coffee oils, milk residue, and mineral buildup can clog internal systems, affect flavor, and shorten the lifespan of even the best machines. In comparing the Breville Barista Touch and the Breville Bambino Plus, maintenance and cleaning routines are crucial points of distinction. Each machine takes a different approach based on its complexity, features, and level of automation.

The good news? Both machines are relatively easy to maintain and are far more user-friendly in this regard than traditional commercial or prosumer espresso machines. Still, there are differences in the day-to-day and long-term upkeep you’ll need to perform—especially considering that the Barista Touch has an integrated grinder and touchscreen system, while the Bambino Plus is a simpler, more streamlined device.

Let’s break down what’s required to keep each machine clean and running efficiently, how easy the tasks are, and how long they typically take.

Breville Bambino Plus: Low-Maintenance and Easy to Clean

The Bambino Plus is widely praised for its minimal maintenance demands. Its small footprint and lack of complex internals (like a built-in grinder or water-flow programming) make it incredibly approachable for beginners. You can learn and perform all of its cleaning tasks within a single session, and Breville includes a comprehensive manual and tools to walk you through it.

Daily Cleaning Tasks

After every use, there are a few quick cleaning habits that help keep the Bambino Plus in top shape:

• Wipe the steam wand immediately after steaming milk. Use a damp cloth to clean off any milk residue, then activate a quick purge by pressing the steam button to expel any milk trapped inside the tip.
• Empty the drip tray. A red “empty me” indicator pops up when the tray gets full. The tray is easy to remove and clean with warm, soapy water.
• Rinse the portafilter and baskets after pulling a shot. Coffee oils build up quickly and can impact flavor. A quick rinse under hot water and a wipe with a clean towel keeps them fresh.

The Bambino Plus also automatically flushes the group head after each shot. This is an excellent feature that helps clear out residual coffee grounds and oils, reducing the likelihood of clogs or burnt flavors in future shots.

Weekly Cleaning Tasks

Once or twice a week, depending on usage, it’s worth doing a deeper clean:

• Remove and rinse the water tank. Make sure no mold or residue builds up.
• Clean the group head gasket and shower screen. Use a group head brush or damp microfiber cloth to clean where the portafilter locks in. If buildup occurs here, it can affect the seal and water dispersion.
• Run hot water through the portafilter without coffee to flush out the system.

Monthly or Periodic Maintenance

Every 1–3 months, you’ll need to go a bit further:

• Backflush with a cleaning disc and espresso machine cleaning tablet. Although the Bambino Plus doesn’t use a 3-way solenoid valve (as on more advanced machines), it still benefits from a mock-backflush. Use the included silicone cleaning disc in the portafilter along with a Breville-approved cleaning tablet. Run the cleaning cycle according to the manual’s instructions.
• Descale the machine. If you use hard water or skip regular filter changes, mineral deposits can build up in the internal system. Descaling involves using a descaling solution (or vinegar/water mix) in the reservoir, then running cycles of water through the group head and steam wand. This takes about 30–40 minutes but is critical for long-term performance.

Steam Wand Maintenance

If milk dries in the steam wand or builds up inside the nozzle, it can block steam entirely. The Bambino Plus’s wand can be unscrewed and soaked in a descaling solution or detergent like Cafiza. Cleaning tools are included for clearing the tip if it clogs.

Fortunately, the Bambino Plus also features auto-purging of the steam wand after every use. This greatly reduces the risk of milk buildup, especially if you’re diligent about wiping the wand immediately after steaming.

Overall Maintenance Experience

The Bambino Plus makes cleaning straightforward and quick. Most users can maintain the machine with minimal effort, and there are no complex grinders or touchscreens to worry about. For anyone new to espresso, this low-maintenance design is a major benefit.

Breville Barista Touch: Higher Maintenance, More Features

The Barista Touch offers much more in terms of features—but with those features comes added complexity, especially when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. The built-in grinder, touchscreen interface, and customizable drink profiles mean more parts that need upkeep and occasional troubleshooting. Fortunately, the machine’s smart interface helps guide you through maintenance tasks with reminders, on-screen instructions, and built-in cleaning cycles.

Daily Cleaning Tasks

Here’s what needs to be done after each use:

• Wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth and allow the machine to purge it automatically.
• Empty the drip tray, which has a red “empty me” indicator just like the Bambino Plus.
• Rinse the portafilter and baskets just as you would with the Bambino Plus.
• Wipe down the touchscreen and housing. Fingerprints and coffee splashes can smudge the interface and body over time.

Because of its more advanced brewing system, the Barista Touch also requires occasional wipe-downs around the grinder area and bean hopper. Grounds can scatter near the chute, especially if your grind setting is fine or the portafilter is overfilled.

Grinder Maintenance

The built-in burr grinder is a major convenience—but it also requires consistent care:

• Weekly or bi-weekly, remove the hopper and brush out any stray grounds. Breville includes a burr brush for this.
• Monthly, remove the top burr (which twists out) and vacuum or brush out the grind chamber. This helps prevent oil buildup and clogs.
• Do not use oily or flavored beans regularly, as they leave residue that’s hard to clean and can damage the grinder over time.

Unfortunately, the Barista Touch doesn’t have a built-in grind chute cleaning feature. You’ll need to stay on top of cleaning manually. If you notice slower grinding or irregular dosing, that’s your sign to check the burrs and chute.

Touchscreen Cleaning and Maintenance

The touchscreen itself doesn’t require much care, but it is sensitive to coffee oils and water spots. Use a microfiber cloth and gentle cleaner to keep it clear and responsive.

From a software standpoint, the Barista Touch includes on-screen maintenance alerts. These include:

• Clean/descale reminders
• Cleaning cycle prompts
• Water filter replacement alerts

This is incredibly useful and helps ensure nothing important is forgotten.

Cleaning Cycles and Descaling

The Barista Touch has built-in cycles for both cleaning and descaling:

• Cleaning Cycle: Insert the provided cleaning disc into the portafilter, add a Breville cleaning tablet, and follow the on-screen prompts. The machine will run a backflush to clean the group head and valves. This should be done every 200–300 shots or once a month, depending on use.
• Descale Cycle: The machine will notify you when it’s time to descale. You’ll fill the tank with a descaling solution, then follow touchscreen instructions to run the solution through the group head, boiler, and steam wand. The whole process takes 30–45 minutes.

These guided cycles remove a lot of guesswork and make it easier for users to stay on top of long-term maintenance.

Steam Wand and Milk Cleaning

Like the Bambino Plus, the Barista Touch features an auto-purging steam wand, which activates after every use. It’s a four-hole wand, so cleaning is even more important due to the additional channels that can clog with milk residue.

You can remove the wand tip for soaking or use the included cleaning tools to clear out blockages. If you’re steaming multiple milk drinks daily, a weekly deep-clean is recommended.

Water Filter Replacement

Both machines come with Breville’s ClaroSwiss water filters, which fit into the base of the water tank. These filters help reduce scale buildup and improve espresso flavor by filtering out chlorine, calcium, and other minerals.

Breville recommends replacing the filter every 60–90 days. The Barista Touch provides reminders and tracks water usage through the touchscreen. The Bambino Plus requires you to track filter life manually.

Final Comparison

Task / Feature	Bambino Plus	Barista Touch
Automatic Steam Wand Purge	Yes	Yes
Group Head Flush	Automatic after every shot	Automatic after every shot
Drip Tray Indicator	Yes (red pop-up)	Yes (red pop-up)
Grinder Cleaning	N/A	Requires regular burr maintenance
Touchscreen Alerts	No	Yes (cleaning, descaling, filter)
Cleaning Tablets Required	Yes (monthly recommended)	Yes (guided via touchscreen)
Descaling Process	Manual	Guided, on-screen instructions
Water Filter Alerts	No	Yes
Overall Difficulty	Very easy	Moderate (due to grinder/UI)

Final Thoughts

If your top priority is minimal maintenance and a fast cleaning routine, the Bambino Plus is one of the most hassle-free machines available. It’s perfect for users who want high-quality espresso without dealing with burr grinders, touchscreens, or extensive internal cleaning.

On the other hand, the Barista Touch is more demanding but rewards you with more features and automation. The built-in grinder, touchscreen, and advanced steam wand all require regular upkeep—but they also make the espresso-making experience smoother and more versatile.

Ultimately, both machines are designed for home use and strike a great balance between performance and practicality. Your choice comes down to how much time and attention you want to give your machine. For low-maintenance espresso with solid results, the Bambino Plus is hard to beat. For a more full-featured, integrated experience with smart prompts and automation, the Barista Touch is worth the extra care.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

When choosing a home espresso machine, energy efficiency and noise levels might not be the first factors that come to mind—but they play a big role in daily usability, especially for early risers, shared living spaces, or energy-conscious households. Both the Breville Barista Touch and the Breville Bambino Plus use Breville’s ThermoJet heating system, which offers remarkable efficiency and speed. However, differences in their design and componentry impact how they perform in these two categories.

Energy Efficiency

Both machines are equipped with Breville’s ThermoJet boiler system, which is designed to be energy-efficient by nature. It heats up in about 3 seconds, meaning there’s no long standby heat-up period, and no need to leave the machine on constantly. Instead of a traditional boiler that stays hot all day, the ThermoJet only heats when needed, using short bursts of power.

The Bambino Plus, being the simpler machine with fewer internal components, draws less energy overall. It doesn’t have a built-in grinder or touchscreen, so standby energy use is lower. It also powers down automatically after a short period of inactivity—ideal for users who value low power consumption.

The Barista Touch, with its integrated grinder and full-color touchscreen, naturally uses more electricity, especially during grinding and milk steaming. However, it also includes auto-sleep and auto-off modes that help conserve energy when not in use.

Noise Levels

In terms of sound, the Bambino Plus is noticeably quieter. It hums lightly during extraction and makes a soft whir when steaming milk. There is a bit of vibration during brewing, but nothing disruptive.

The Barista Touch is louder, mostly due to the built-in grinder, which produces a noticeable mechanical grinding noise. It’s not excessive, but it’s definitely audible—especially in quiet homes. During milk steaming and espresso extraction, it’s similarly quiet to the Bambino Plus.

Overall, the Bambino Plus is the quieter and more energy-efficient of the two, while the Barista Touch trades a bit more noise and energy use for added functionality.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Breville Barista Touch and the Breville Bambino Plus ultimately comes down to your priorities: convenience and all-in-one automation, or simplicity and long-term upgrade potential. Both machines deliver excellent espresso and milk-based drinks, but they take very different routes to get there.

The Barista Touch is ideal for users who want a seamless, guided experience. Its touchscreen interface, built-in grinder, customizable drink profiles, and precise milk steaming options make it feel like a mini café station. It’s perfect for households with multiple users, or anyone who values speed, repeatability, and minimal manual input. With just a few taps, you can go from bean to latte in under two minutes—and the results are consistently impressive. However, that level of integration means more components to clean and slightly higher energy and noise levels.

The Bambino Plus, by contrast, is all about streamlined performance and simplicity. It doesn’t have a grinder or touchscreen, but what it does have—PID-controlled brewing, super-fast heat-up time, and excellent automatic milk steaming—is executed flawlessly. It’s perfect for espresso lovers who already own a great grinder or plan to buy one. It also offers more flexibility to upgrade your setup over time. Maintenance is simpler, the footprint is smaller, and it’s the quieter, more energy-efficient machine.

In short, if you want the most intuitive, all-in-one espresso solution with premium features and automation, the Barista Touch is the clear winner. But if you want high performance, lower cost, and more control over your coffee journey, the Bambino Plus is hard to beat. Either way, both machines prove that you don’t need to spend thousands to get coffee shop quality at home—you just need the right fit for your routine and preferences.