Breville Bambino Plus Vs Gaggia Classic Pro

Both the Breville Bambino Plus and Gaggia Classic Pro have their unique strengths, and your analysis is spot-on.

The Breville Bambino Plus is definitely a great choice for those who want a more straightforward, user-friendly experience with consistent results. The automatic steam wand is a fantastic feature for producing quality microfoam without much hassle, making it perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.

On the other hand, the Gaggia Classic Pro does offer a more hands-on, customizable experience for those who enjoy the art of espresso-making. Its manual steam wand can be a great tool for those looking to perfect their skills, but it does come with a bit of a learning curve.

It’s all about what you value more in your espresso-making journey. Whether it’s the convenience and ease of the Breville Bambino Plus or the hands-on, customizable experience of the Gaggia Classic Pro, you can’t go wrong with either choice. Happy brewing! ☕️

Is there anything else you’d like to know about espresso machines or coffee in general? I’m here to help!

Breville Bambino Plus Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Specs & Features Comparison

The Breville Bambino Plus and Gaggia Classic Pro are both highly regarded entry-level espresso machines, each catering to different user preferences. The Breville Bambino Plus, measuring 7.7 x 12.7 x 12.3 inches and weighing 12.3 lbs, is the more compact and lightweight option, making it ideal for small kitchens. In contrast, the Gaggia Classic Pro is slightly larger at 14.2 x 9.5 x 8 inches and heavier at 18.7 lbs, offering a more traditional espresso machine build.

Both models feature button-operated interfaces, but their functionalities differ. The Bambino Plus offers a single one-touch drink option, while the Classic Pro provides two options for more flexibility. When it comes to heating systems, the Bambino Plus stands out with its ThermoJet technology, allowing for an ultra-fast heat-up time of just three seconds. Meanwhile, the Gaggia Classic Pro uses a single aluminum boiler, which, while reliable, takes longer to reach optimal brewing temperature.

Both machines operate at 15 bars of pump pressure and include a pre-infusion feature to enhance espresso extraction. However, milk frothing systems differ significantly— the Bambino Plus boasts an auto-frothing wand with temperature control, making it effortless for beginners to create silky microfoam. On the other hand, the Classic Pro comes with a manual steam wand, which provides greater control for those looking to practice latte art but requires a steeper learning curve.

In terms of capacity, the Bambino Plus has a 1.9-liter water reservoir, slightly smaller than the 2.1-liter tank on the Classic Pro. Both models lack a built-in grinder and bean hopper, so an external grinder is necessary.

Cup clearance is another key difference, with the Bambino Plus offering 4.5 inches, compared to the Classic Pro’s 3.3 inches, making it easier to fit taller cups. The Breville Bambino Plus excels in ease of use, compact design, and its advanced ThermoJet heating system, making it perfect for those seeking convenience.

The Gaggia Classic Pro, on the other hand, shines with its solid stainless steel construction, hot water function, and versatile basket options, appealing to users who prefer a more hands-on approach to espresso making. Both machines are excellent choices, with the final decision depending on whether you prioritize speed and automation or a more traditional barista experience.

Breville Bambino Plus Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Differences

The Breville Bambino Plus and Gaggia Classic Pro are two popular semi-automatic espresso machines, each with its strengths and unique features. In a head-to-head comparison, the Bambino Plus outshines the Classic Pro, winning with a score of 4-1 across key performance categories. Below is a detailed breakdown of their differences.

Both machines lack a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to invest in a quality burr grinder to get the best results. A separate grinder offers flexibility, allowing you to upgrade or experiment with different brands rather than being locked into one system. If you prefer an all-in-one solution, Breville’s Barista Pro or Barista Express are worth considering.

The Gaggia Classic Pro comes with a professional-grade 58mm portafilter, while the Bambino Plus uses a smaller 54mm portafilter, which some users find less premium. The Bambino Plus is lightweight, so securing the portafilter requires a firm grip to prevent the machine from sliding. Additionally, the Classic Pro includes both single- and double-wall filter baskets, whereas the Bambino Plus only includes double-wall baskets, though single-wall baskets can be purchased separately.

The Bambino Plus features a ThermoJet heating system, heating water in under three seconds, while the Classic Pro’s aluminum boiler takes about two minutes. Additionally, the Bambino Plus has a PID controller for temperature stability, ensuring precise heat management.

The Classic Pro lacks this feature, requiring users to master temperature surfing or install a PID upgrade for consistent results. Pre-infusion is crucial for optimal espresso extraction. The Bambino Plus offers adjustable pre-infusion, allowing users to customize the duration based on bean type and roast level. The Classic Pro lacks pre-infusion, but users can manually mimic the process by slightly opening the steam knob before extraction.

Both machines boast stainless steel construction and a compact footprint, with the Bambino Plus being lighter and easier to move. However, this lightweight design means it may shift when locking the portafilter in place.

The Classic Pro is heavier and sturdier, giving it a more premium feel. In terms of dimensions, the Bambino Plus measures 7.7″ x 12.7″ x 12.3″ and weighs 12.3 lbs, while the Classic Pro measures 14.2″ x 9.5″ x 8″ and weighs 18.7 lbs. Both machines have button-operated interfaces and dual spouts, but the Bambino Plus offers a higher cup clearance (4.5 inches vs. 3.3 inches), making it easier to fit taller mugs.

Both machines have large removable water tanks, with the Bambino Plus having a 1.9L capacity and the Classic Pro having a 2.1L capacity. Users with overhead cabinets may find them tricky to access.

The Bambino Plus comes with an automatic steam wand that allows users to select from three temperature and texture settings. A built-in temperature sensor ensures precision, making it incredibly beginner-friendly. Users can also switch to manual mode for more control. In contrast, the Classic Pro features a commercial-style manual steam wand, ideal for experienced users who enjoy crafting microfoam for latte art. However, the wand has a limited range of motion and lacks a 360-degree rotation, making it slightly less convenient. It also does not include a milk jug, whereas the Bambino Plus does.

Both machines can brew espresso and offer hot water dispensing. However, the Classic Pro features a dedicated hot water outlet, whereas the Bambino Plus does not. The Bambino Plus allows users to customize milk temperature and texture, while the Classic Pro has no programmable features, offering a more traditional espresso experience.

The Breville Bambino Plus is the better choice for those seeking fast heat-up time, ease of use, and automatic milk frothing. Its PID temperature control and pre-infusion make it more forgiving for beginners while still offering excellent espresso quality. The Gaggia Classic Pro, on the other hand, is ideal for those who prefer a manual experience with a professional steam wand and a larger 58mm portafilter.

It’s a great option for espresso purists willing to invest time into mastering temperature surfing and manual frothing. Ultimately, if you want convenience and consistency, go with the Bambino Plus. If you prefer manual control and a traditional barista experience, the Classic Pro is the way to go.

Coffee Flavor & Brewing System

Winner: Breville Bambino Plus

Both machines lack a built-in grinder.

Investing in a quality burr grinder is essential.
A separate grinder offers flexibility to upgrade or experiment with different brands.
For an all-in-one solution, consider Breville’s Barista Pro or Barista Express.

Dosing & Tamping

Gaggia Classic Pro

Comes with a professional-grade 58mm portafilter.

Breville Bambino Plus

Uses a smaller 54mm portafilter, which some users find less premium.
The lightweight design requires a firm grip to prevent the machine from sliding.
Includes double-wall filter baskets; single-wall baskets can be purchased separately.
Classic Pro includes both single- and double-wall filter baskets.

Heating System

Winner: Breville Bambino Plus

Bambino Plus

Features a ThermoJet heating system.
Heats water in under three seconds.
Includes a PID controller for temperature stability, ensuring precise heat management.

Classic Pro

Uses an aluminum boiler that takes about two minutes to heat water.
Lacks a PID controller, requiring users to master temperature surfing or install a PID upgrade for consistent results.

Brewing System

Pre-infusion is crucial for optimal espresso extraction.

Bambino Plus

Offers adjustable pre-infusion.
Allows users to customize the duration based on bean type and roast level.

Classic Pro

Lacks pre-infusion but users can manually mimic the process by slightly opening the steam knob before extraction.

Design & Convenience

Winner: Breville Bambino Plus

Both machines boast stainless steel construction and a compact footprint.

Bambino Plus

Lighter and easier to move.
May shift when locking the portafilter in place due to its lightweight design.

Classic Pro

Heavier and sturdier, giving it a more premium feel.

Dimensions & User Interface

Bambino Plus

Dimensions: 7.7″ x 12.7″ x 12.3″
Weight: 12.3 lbs
Button-operated interface
Dual spouts
Higher cup clearance: 4.5 inches

Classic Pro

Dimensions: 14.2″ x 9.5″ x 8″
Weight: 18.7 lbs
Button-operated interface
Dual spouts
Cup clearance: 3.3 inches

Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper

Both machines have large removable water tanks.

Bambino Plus: 1.9L capacity
Classic Pro: 2.1L capacity
Note: Users with overhead cabinets may find them tricky to access.

Milk Frothing System

Winner: Breville Bambino Plus

Bambino Plus

Comes with an automatic steam wand.
Allows users to select from three temperature and texture settings.
Built-in temperature sensor ensures precision, making it beginner-friendly.
Users can switch to manual mode for more control.

Classic Pro

Features a commercial-style manual steam wand.
Ideal for experienced users who enjoy crafting microfoam for latte art.
Limited range of motion and lacks a 360-degree rotation.
Does not include a milk jug, whereas the Bambino Plus does.

Drink Options & Programmability

Winner: Tie

Both machines can brew espresso and offer hot water dispensing.

Classic Pro

Features a dedicated hot water outlet.

Bambino Plus

Lacks a dedicated hot water outlet.

Bambino Plus

Allows users to customize milk temperature and texture.

Classic Pro

Has no programmable features, offering a more traditional espresso experience.

Quick Overview of Breville Bambino Plus

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

The Breville Bambino Plus brings third wave specialty coffee to your home using its signature 4 keys formula. As part of the Bambino Series, it offers a quick path to professional-quality results in a compact design. This espresso machine is all about delivering serious espresso and exceptional value.

Key Features:

Dose Control Grinding: Ensures a consistent and balanced espresso by using the correct amount of ground coffee. The 54mm portafilter with a 19-gram capacity is essential for full-flavored, café-quality coffee.
Optimal Water Pressure: The low-pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start to ensure even extraction of all flavors, resulting in a well-balanced cup.
Faster Heat-Up Time: The innovative ThermoJet heating system reaches the optimal extraction temperature in just 3 seconds.
Precise Espresso Extraction: The digital temperature control (PID) delivers water at the precise temperature needed for optimal espresso extraction.

Pros:

Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for small spaces.
Temperature sensor for precise milk frothing.
ThermoJet fast-heating system for quick readiness.
Adjustable pre-infusion for better extraction.
User-friendly and easy to operate.

Cons:

The portafilter may feel less premium due to its lightweight construction.
Does not include a single-wall basket.
Lacks control over brewing temperature.

With its advanced features and compact design, the Breville Bambino Plus is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy high-quality espresso at home with minimal effort.

Quick Overview of Gaggia Classic Pro

Gaggia RI9380/47 Classic Pro Espresso Machine, 1.3 liters, Cherry Red

The Gaggia Classic Pro is a well-regarded semi-automatic espresso machine, known for its solid construction and professional-grade components. Made in Italy, it brings the café experience into your home with its sturdy build and reliable performance.

Key Features:

Solid Steel Housing: Durable stainless steel construction that ensures longevity and a premium feel.
9 Bar Espresso Extractions: Consistent pressure for optimal espresso extraction.
Stainless Steel 58mm Commercial Portafilter: Professional-grade portafilter for an authentic espresso experience.
Commercial Three-Way Solenoid Valve: Provides better pressure control and dry puck removal.
Commercial Steam Wand: Offers the ability to create quality microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos.

Pros:

Solid stainless steel construction ensures durability.
Easy to use and clean, making it a practical choice for home use.
Compact footprint, ideal for small kitchen spaces.
Includes both single- and double-wall filter baskets.
Features a hot water function for added versatility.

Cons:

Does not include PID temperature control, requiring manual temperature management.
The steam wand’s limited range of motion can be less convenient.

The Gaggia Classic Pro is a fantastic choice for espresso enthusiasts who appreciate a durable, professional-grade machine. Its solid construction, combined with essential features like the commercial portafilter and solenoid valve, make it a reliable option for creating high-quality espresso at home.

Conclusion:

Breville Bambino Plus and Gaggia Classic Pro are both excellent semi-automatic espresso machines, each catering to different needs and preferences. The Breville Bambino Plus stands out with its compact design, fast heat-up time, and user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for beginners and those seeking convenience. Its automatic steam wand, adjustable pre-infusion, and PID temperature control ensure consistent and high-quality espresso extraction with minimal effort.

On the other hand, the Gaggia Classic Pro offers a more traditional, hands-on espresso-making experience with its solid stainless steel construction, professional-grade 58mm portafilter, and commercial steam wand. It’s perfect for espresso enthusiasts who enjoy the art of manual brewing and are willing to invest time in mastering temperature surfing and manual frothing.

Ultimately, if you prioritize ease of use, fast performance, and automation, the Breville Bambino Plus is the way to go. However, if you value a manual approach and a more authentic barista experience, the Gaggia Classic Pro is an excellent choice. Both machines deliver exceptional value and quality, ensuring a satisfying espresso experience at home.