r/negative
To get decent espresso you need a $1,000 grinder, a $100 tamper, a $40 mister, a $300 scale, and a $3,000 machine. Then the equivalent of a graduate degree in organic chemistry lab techniques.
Breville Bambino Plus BES500
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel, 64 oz Water Tank
By Breville
358mentions63%positive$479.99typicalr/espresso+8pros/−6cons
About this product
The Breville Bambino Plus is a mid-range espresso machine priced at $479.99, ranking #2 in Coffee Makers on Reddit. It is known for its rapid 3-second heat-up time, making it convenient for quick espresso preparation. Redditors consistently highlight its accessibility and value.
Best for: Convenient, quick espresso and easy latte art.
Pros
- 3-second heat-up time
- Automatic milk steaming for latte art
- Convenient and easy basic maintenance
- Good value for the price point
- Plenty of aftermarket accessories available
Cons
- Not consistent for back-to-back shots
- Some users outgrow it, desiring better espresso
- May lead to more expensive upgrades long-term
Verdict
“Buy if you prioritize convenience and quick espresso, especially when paired with a good grinder.”
AI-generated summary based on Reddit discussions about Breville Bambino Plus BES500. Last updated Apr 20, 2026.
What one Redditor said
“I just got a bambino too! A tip to remove the filter: grab another filter, flip it upside down, put its rim under the rim in the portafilter in that little indented spot, and pry off.”
Where Reddit talks about it
359 comments · 8 subreddits
r/espresso40%
304 mentions↑ 1.5K
r/marshallsfinds43%
14 mentions↑ 174
r/latteart25%
12 mentions↑ 22
r/coffeestations100%
10 mentions↑ 55
r/BrevilleCoffee0%
10 mentions↑ 14
r/CoffeePH0%
2 mentions↑ 7
Reddit reviews
+ 145~ 159− 55
r/positive
I knew nothing about espresso until I pulled a shot over Christmas with my Bambino plus, I always liked coffee without taking it too seriously and tried all the different types of pouring methods but
r/positive
For 99.9% of people, a Niche Zero and a Bambino Plus will be plenty. I bought the setup years ago and I haven't felt the need to upgrade once. However, I know two people with Bambinos who are over it
r/espressoneutral5
I paired my bambino with the df54. I like it but also i find static management tricky
r/espressoneutral7
Thinking that maybe I should buy the bambino to pair it with the Niche Zero and taking the Touch to my office!
r/espressopositive6
I have the Bambino/Niche combo and it is excellent.
r/espressonegative1
Is there no pressure gauge on the BP? How do you gauge pressure if it doesn’t have it? ... It’s dumb but that’s what’s held me back on getting the Bambino.
r/coffeestationspositive7
The insanely fast heating + PID makes it a no brainer for the price, it looks decent enough, it doesn’t feel heavy, but it doesn’t particularly feel cheap or low quality
r/coffeestationspositive6
I had the Bambino non-plus and I loved it
r/coffeestationspositive7
It's a perfectly fine machine for its price and whether you need to upgrade or not really depends on how you like your espresso and how much control you want. The super fast heat up makes it an extrem
r/coffeestationspositive4
I have a Bambino plus and pull 3 great shots with it every morning. ... but I am very happy with it now.
r/coffeestationspositive3
My sister has a Bambino + and loves it. She has limited space and buys pre-ground from the shop she used to work in. ... She still swears by her Bambino.
r/marshallsfindsneutral17
A bambino is $300 regular price. $40 is amazing though!!
r/marshallsfindsneutral43
It’s a bambino plus that includes automatic steam ward which retails for 399.99, more than the traditional bambino.
r/marshallsfindspositive7
I have a Breville bambino and it’s a great machine!
Showing 15 of 359 reviews
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Head-to-head
Breville Bambino Plus BES500 vs alternatives
How it stacks up against the top-ranked alternatives in the same category.
#1Aeropress
vs Aeropress Original Coffee Press
0% sentiment·175 fewer mentions
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#3Sage
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+14% sentiment·233 fewer mentions
#16Rancilio
vs Rancilio Silvia
-37% sentiment·+357 more mentions
Frequently asked
Breville Bambino Plus BES500: What people ask
Is the Breville Bambino Plus worth it?
Redditors generally agree it is, especially when paired with a good grinder. Many find it 'plenty' for their needs and appreciate its convenience features, with 100% positive sentiment observed in mentions.
Who is the Bambino Plus best for?
It's ideal for those prioritizing convenience, quick heat-up times, and automatic steaming for latte art. It's often recommended for beginners or those not wanting to spend significantly more on an espresso setup.
What are the biggest complaints about the Bambino Plus?
Some users note it's not consistent for back-to-back shots. A few Redditors eventually outgrow it, desiring more advanced espresso capabilities which can lead to expensive upgrades later.
What should I pair with the Bambino Plus?
Several Redditors emphasize pairing it with a good quality grinder to get the best results. This combination is often cited as sufficient for '99.9% of people' who want a capable home espresso setup.
Does it have any unique features?
Yes, its standout features include a rapid 3-second heat-up time and automatic milk steaming for latte art. These contribute significantly to its convenience and ease of use for daily coffee preparation.
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