Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

Breville

Bambino Plus BES500BSS

3.9
$500
Check Price
VS
Gaggia RI9380/46 E24 Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

Gaggia

RI9380/46 E24

4.2
$451
Check Price

Our Verdict

It's a Tie

Breville boasts a rapid thermoblock for 3-second heat-up and PID control. Choose Gaggia for pro-level compatibility, Breville for speed and convenience.

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

Breville

$500Buy on Amazon
Gaggia RI9380/46 E24 Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

Gaggia

$451Buy on Amazon

Spec Comparison

10 specs compared

Specification
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Gaggia RI9380/46 E24 Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
Gaggia RI9380/46 E24 Espresso
Price$500$451
Rating3.9(2.5k)4.2(3.0k)
Boiler Typethermoblocksingle
Pump Pressure Bars159
Portafilter Size mm5458
Steam WandYesYes
Weight11 lbs20 lbs
Grinder IncludedNoNo
Dimensions12.5" × 12.2" × 7.6"9.5" × 14.2" × 8"
Heat Up Time Mins0.05
PID Temperature ControlYes
Water Reservoir oz70.09

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Pros & Cons

Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

Breville Bambino Plus

Pros
  • Heats to brewing temp in 3 seconds for quick use.
  • PID control ensures precise brew water temperature.
  • Automatic steam wand textures milk consistently.
  • Low pressure pre-infusion improves flavor extraction.
Cons
  • Grinder not included, requires separate purchase.
  • Non-standard 54mm portafilter limits accessory choice.
  • Automatic steam wand limits manual control over milk texture
Gaggia RI9380/46 E24 Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

Gaggia RI9380/46 E24

Pros
  • 9 bar pump pressure for optimal espresso extraction
  • 58mm portafilter matches commercial standards
  • Three-way solenoid valve for dry pucks
  • Solid steel housing ensures durability
Cons
  • Single boiler limits simultaneous brewing and steaming
  • No integrated grinder requires separate purchase

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this comparison

Which is better for quick morning coffee?

The Breville Bambino Plus is better for quick morning coffee, heating to brewing temperature in just 3 seconds. Its automatic steam wand also streamlines milk preparation, saving time during your busy routine.

What's the main difference in portafilter size?

The Gaggia uses a standard 58mm portafilter, matching commercial machines for broader accessory compatibility. The Breville uses a 54mm portafilter, which is less common and might limit your choices for aftermarket baskets and tools.

How do their boiler types affect performance?

Breville's thermoblock boiler provides a rapid 3-second heat-up, ideal for quick use. Gaggia's single boiler requires waiting for it to reach brewing temperature, and then again to steam, limiting simultaneous brewing and steaming.

What is the significance of their pump pressure differences?

Gaggia's 9-bar pump pressure is considered optimal for consistent espresso extraction, as stated in its pros. Breville has a 15-bar pump but uses low-pressure pre-infusion to ensure good extraction. The 9-bar standard is widely preferred by enthusiasts.

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