6 Best Alternatives to the Breville BES500BST Bambino Plus Espresso Machine (2026)
Every spec and price on this page is quoted from the Amazon listing for that model. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback. Nothing here was handled or measured by us.
As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The Breville BES500BST Bambino Plus espresso machine delivers fast heat-up and automatic milk texturing in a compact footprint. If you are searching for breville bes500bst bambino plus espresso machine alternatives, you might want different specifications or a larger build. This guide compares 6 options that share key features with the original model. Each alternative overlaps with the Bambino Plus in core brewing capabilities, such as espresso extraction or milk steaming systems. You can choose based on your preferred grinder integration, machine size, or specific control features. The list includes models with integrated grinders, dual-brew flexibility, and single-serve convenience. These choices address common needs like counter space limitations or the desire for manual control. We selected these products because their published specs align with the functions you value in the Bambino Plus. Whether you need a premium build or a budget-friendly entry point, the data highlights practical differences. Read on to find the machine that fits your kitchen and brewing style.
How the alternatives compare
Breville Barista Express Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Express replaces the Bambino Plus’s compact size with a significantly larger footprint, measuring 16.4 by 16.6 inches. It adds an integrated grinder, which the Bambino Plus lacks, allowing for fresh grinding. This model weighs 23 pounds, more than double the Bambino Plus’s 8 pounds. It offers robust build quality and a larger boiler system. You gain grinding precision but lose counter space and the 3-second ThermoJet heat-up time. Choose this if you prioritize integrated grinding and have ample room, rather than needing a small, fast-heating machine for quick morning routines.
De'Longhi La Specialista Opera
The De'Longhi La Specialista Opera is a substantial machine, weighing 28.1 pounds and measuring 17.5 inches in length. It includes a built-in grinder and precise temperature control, features not present in the Bambino Plus. It also supports cold brew capability. The Bambino Plus uses an automatic steam wand and ThermoJet heating, while this De'Longhi focuses on consistent tamping and extraction quality. You trade the Bambino’s fast heat-up and compact 7.6-inch width for a larger device with more manual control and grinding integration. Select this if you value precise tamping and grinding over speed and small size.
Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine
The Ninja Luxe Café Premier is a 3-in-1 machine that brews espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew. It weighs 31.6 pounds and measures 13.4 by 13 inches. Unlike the Bambino Plus, which is dedicated to espresso and milk drinks, this Ninja offers multi-beverage versatility. It features a dual froth system and guided technology for beginners. The Bambino Plus provides faster heat-up via ThermoJet and a narrower 7.6-inch profile. This Ninja is bulkier and heavier. Pick this if you want one machine for multiple drink types and automated assistance, rather than a dedicated, compact espresso solution with quick recovery times.
Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder
The Breville Barista Express Manual is a large machine, weighing 22.1 pounds and measuring 13.8 inches in length. It includes a built-in grinder and offers manual extraction settings, providing more control than the Bambino Plus’s semi-automatic operation. The Bambino Plus features a ThermoJet system for 3-second heat-up and an automatic steam wand. This manual model requires more skill and time. It is heavier and deeper than the Bambino Plus. Choose this if you are a home barista seeking manual control over grinding and extraction, and do not need the speed or automatic milk texturing of the Bambino Plus.
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine with Frother
The Nespresso Vertuo with Frother is a single-serve machine weighing 13 pounds. It uses capsules, whereas the Bambino Plus uses ground coffee. It includes a milk frother but lacks an automatic steam wand for microfoam texturing. The Vertuo is narrower at 9 inches wide but taller at 12.3 inches. It offers convenience and single-serve consistency without the need for grinding or tamping. The Bambino Plus allows for precise dose grinding and low-pressure pre-infusion. Select this if you prioritize capsule convenience and integrated milk frothing over the ability to use fresh ground coffee and adjust extraction parameters.
Ninja DualBrew Prestige Espresso & Grounds
The Ninja DualBrew Prestige supports both capsules and ground coffee, offering flexibility the Bambino Plus does not. It weighs 9.48 pounds and measures 10.8 inches in width. The Bambino Plus is dedicated to ground coffee with a 54mm portafilter. This Ninja allows you to switch between brewing methods easily. It is slightly wider and taller than the Bambino Plus. The Bambino Plus offers faster heat-up and automatic milk texturing. Choose this if you want the option to use capsules for convenience or ground coffee for volume, rather than a machine focused solely on traditional espresso extraction and milk steaming.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Breville Bambino Plus Compact Espresso Machine Best overall | small kitchens needing fast heat-up and auto milk | |
| 2 | Breville Barista Express Stainless Steel Best premium | Users wanting integrated grinding and robust build | |
| 3 | De'Longhi La Specialista Opera Best budget | precise temperature control and consistent tamping | |
| 4 | Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine Also great | multi-beverage beginners | |
| 5 | Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder Best manual | home baristas seeking manual control | |
| 6 | Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine with Frother Best milk frother | single-serve espresso with milk | |
| 7 | Ninja DualBrew Prestige Espresso & Grounds Best single-serve | flexible brewing with capsules or grounds |
Breville Bambino Plus Compact Espresso Machine
Best for: small kitchens needing fast heat-up and auto milk
- Milk System
- Automatic steam wand
- Heating System
- ThermoJet
- Coffee Input
- Ground coffee
- Shot Control
- 1 or 2 Cups
- Pre-Infusion
- Low pressure pre-infusion
- Machine Type
- Semi-Automatic
The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact espresso machine designed for small kitchens. It features a ThermoJet heating system that reaches extraction temperature in 3 seconds. The automatic steam wand creates microfoam for latte art. It uses ground coffee and offers low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction. Digital temperature regulation ensures consistent results. This machine suits beginners who want quick heat-up times and barista-quality milk textures without a large footprint.
- ThermoJet heating system achieves extraction temperature in 3 seconds
- Automatic steam wand creates barista-quality microfoam
- Low pressure pre-infusion draws out flavors evenly
- Compact width of 7.6 inches fits small countertops
- Heavier build at 8 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Fixed shot control limited to 1 or 2 cups
- You need a machine that heats up in 3 seconds
- You want automatic milk texturing for lattes
- You have limited counter space under 8 inches wide
- You prefer using whole bean beans directly in the machine
- You need multiple shot size options beyond 1 or 2 cups
- You require a machine lighter than 8 pounds
Verdict: Breville Bambino Plus Compact Espresso Machine fits buyers who prioritize fast heat-up times and automatic milk texturing in a compact footprint. It is ideal for small kitchens where counter space is limited but barista-quality milk drinks are desired.
Breville Barista Express Stainless Steel
Best for: Users wanting integrated grinding and robust build
- Pump Pressure
- 15 bar
- Built-In Grinder
- Stainless steel conical burr
- Heating System
- Thermo coil
- Brewing Method
- Espresso
- Dimensions
- 16.6 × 16.4 × 17.5 inches
- Weight
- 23 pounds
The Breville Barista Express is a large espresso machine with a built-in stainless steel conical burr grinder. It uses a 15 bar Italian pump and a 1600W Thermo coil heating system for consistent extraction. The 2-liter water tank supports frequent brewing. This unit suits those who want integrated grinding and precise temperature control in a sturdy stainless steel build.
- Built-in stainless steel conical burr grinder
- 15 bar Italian pump pressure
- 1600W Thermo coil heating system
- 2-liter removable water tank
- Large footprint at 16.4 inches wide
- Heavy build at 23 pounds
- Taller profile at 17.5 inches high
- You want a built-in grinder for fresh beans
- You prefer a stainless steel construction
- You need a 2-liter water capacity
- You have limited counter space
- You prefer a lighter machine
- You want a compact footprint
Verdict: Breville Barista Express Large is a solid choice for home baristas who value integrated grinding and robust heating. It fits users with ample counter space who prioritize build quality and grinder inclusion.
De'Longhi La Specialista Opera
Best for: precise temperature control and consistent tamping
- Pump Pressure
- 19 bar
- Built-In Grinder
- built-in grinder
- Milk System
- commercial-style steam wand
- Shot Control
- single or double dose
- Pre-Infusion
- low pressure pre-infusion
- Features
- Cold Brew
This De'Longhi machine features a built-in grinder with 15 settings and a 19 bar Italian pump. It includes Smart Tamping Technology and Active Temperature Control with three infusion options. The stainless steel build measures 14 by 15 by 17.5 inches. It suits users who want consistent extraction and cold brew capabilities in a compact footprint.
- Built-in grinder with 15 precise settings
- 19 bar Italian pump for optimal extraction
- Smart Tamping Technology for even pressure
- Active Temperature Control with 3 infusion settings
- Commercial-style steam wand for micro-foam
- Heavier at 28.1 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Larger footprint at 14 by 17.5 inches
- Single or double dose limits flexibility
- You want precise temperature control for different beans
- You prefer manual tamping assistance for consistency
- You need a built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- You need a machine under 25 pounds
- You want more than 15 grind settings
- You require automatic dose weighing
Verdict: De'Longhi La Specialista Opera Espresso Machine fits users who value precise temperature control and consistent tamping. It is ideal for those who want a built-in grinder and cold brew capability without sacrificing extraction quality.
Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine
Best for: multi-beverage beginners
- Built-In Grinder
- conical burr
- Milk System
- Dual Froth System
- Shot Control
- double shot or quad shot
- Color
- Stainless Steel
- Brewing Method
- Espresso
- Dimensions
- 13 × 13.4 × 14.6 inches
The Ninja Luxe Café Premier ES601 is a 3-in-1 machine that handles espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew. It features a built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings and a Dual Froth System for hands-free milk texturing. Barista Assist Technology automates dosing, tamping, and temperature adjustments. This stainless steel unit measures 13.4 by 14.6 inches and weighs 31.6 pounds. It suits beginners who want guided, consistent results across multiple beverage types.
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- Dual Froth System for automatic milk texturing
- Barista Assist Technology automates grinding and tamping
- Brews espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew
- Heavier build at 31.6 pounds
- Bulkier footprint measuring 13.4 by 14.6 inches
- Fewer shot options compared to dedicated espresso machines
- You want a single machine for espresso and drip coffee
- You prefer guided, automated brewing steps
- You value automatic milk frothing
- You need a compact machine under 13 inches wide
- You prefer manual control over every brewing variable
- You only drink espresso and want a dedicated unit
Verdict: The Ninja Luxe Café Premier ES601 fits users who want one machine for espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew with automated assistance. Its guided technology and dual froth system make it ideal for beginners seeking consistency without manual effort.
Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder
Best for: home baristas seeking manual control
- Built-In Grinder
- Conical burr
- Milk System
- Steam wand
- Coffee Input
- Beans
- Shot Control
- Single or double shots, manual
- Pre-Infusion
- Low pressure pre-infusion
- Features
- Built-In Grinder
This Breville model combines a conical burr grinder with manual shot control. It features digital temperature regulation and low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction. The brushed stainless steel build measures 12.5 by 13.8 by 15.9 inches and weighs 22.1 pounds. It suits home users who want to grind beans directly into the portafilter for fresh espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes.
- Integrated precision conical burr grinder
- Manual shot control for single or double shots
- Digital temperature regulation (PID)
- Low pressure pre-infusion
- Manual operation requires more user involvement than automatic models
- Large footprint at 12.5 by 13.8 by 15.9 inches
- Heavy build at 22.1 pounds
- You want to grind beans directly into the portafilter
- You prefer manual control over extraction pressure and temperature
- You have counter space for a large machine
- You need a compact machine for small kitchens
- You want fully automatic one-touch brewing
- You prefer lighter equipment for easy moving
Verdict: Breville Barista Express Manual Espresso Machine delivers precise control for home baristas who value fresh grinding and manual extraction settings. It fits users with ample counter space who want to master latte art and espresso technique.
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine with Frother
Best for: single-serve espresso with milk
- Milk System
- Milk frother
- Color
- Black
- Brewing Method
- Espresso
- Dimensions
- 12.2 × 9 × 12.3 inches
- Weight
- 13 pounds
This Nespresso Vertuo machine by De'Longhi brews single-serve espresso and coffee using barcode technology. It includes a milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos. The unit measures 12.3 inches tall and weighs 13 pounds. It offers various cup sizes at the touch of a button. You should choose this if you want consistent single-serve drinks with integrated milk texturing.
- Includes a dedicated milk frother
- Brews multiple single-serve cup sizes
- Barcode reading for consistent extraction
- Compact footprint at 9 inches wide
- Single-serve only, no batch brewing
- Heavier build at 13 pounds
- Limited to proprietary Vertuo capsules
- You want consistent single-serve espresso
- You need a milk frother included
- You prefer barcode-guided brewing
- You brew for multiple people at once
- You want to use fresh ground coffee
- You need a large water reservoir
Verdict: De'Longhi Nespresso Vertuo with Milk Frother fits users who prioritize single-serve convenience and integrated milk texturing over batch brewing capacity.
Ninja DualBrew Prestige Espresso & Grounds
Best for: flexible brewing with capsules or grounds
- Pump Pressure
- 19 bar
- Milk System
- Foldaway frother
- Coffee Input
- Capsules, grounds
- Shot Control
- Single cup to 12-cup carafe, 3 espresso
- Drink Type
- Cappuccino, Latte
- Capacity
- Single-Serve
The Ninja DualBrew Prestige CFN801 is a 2-in-1 system that brews original-style espresso capsules or ground coffee. It uses a 19-bar pump for crema and includes a foldaway frother for milk drinks. You get four capsule styles and nine ground coffee sizes, from single cups to a 12-cup carafe. It weighs 9.48 pounds and measures 8.5 by 10.8 by 16.2 inches.
- 19-bar pump pressure for espresso extraction
- Brews both capsules and ground coffee
- Foldaway frother for milk-based drinks
- Holds up to 20 used capsules
- Brews up to a 12-cup carafe
- 9.48 pound weight is heavier than most compact single-serve machines
- Only offers four espresso capsule styles compared to broader variety options
- 10.8 inch width requires more counter space than slim profiles
- You want to switch between capsules and fresh grounds
- You need a frother for lattes or cappuccinos
- You occasionally brew a full 12-cup carafe
- You only use ground coffee and never capsules
- You need a built-in grinder for fresh beans
- You require a stainless steel boiler for temperature stability
Verdict: Ninja DualBrew Prestige Espresso & Grounds fits households that value brewing flexibility over pure espresso precision. It is a solid pick for users who want capsule convenience and ground coffee volume in one footprint.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Breville Bambino Plus Compact Espresso Machine | Breville Barista Express Stainless Steel | De'Longhi La Specialista Opera | Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine | Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder | Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine with Frother | Ninja DualBrew Prestige Espresso & Grounds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pump Pressure | – | 15 bar | 19 bar | – | – | – | 19 bar |
| Built-In Grinder | – | Stainless steel conical burr | built-in grinder | conical burr | Conical burr | – | – |
| Milk System | Automatic steam wand | – | commercial-style steam wand | Dual Froth System | Steam wand | Milk frother | Foldaway frother |
| Heating System | ThermoJet | Thermo coil | – | – | – | – | – |
| Coffee Input | Ground coffee | – | – | – | Beans | – | Capsules, grounds |
| Shot Control | 1 or 2 Cups | – | single or double dose | double shot or quad shot | Single or double shots, manual | – | Single cup to 12-cup carafe, 3 espresso |
| Pre-Infusion | Low pressure pre-infusion | – | low pressure pre-infusion | – | Low pressure pre-infusion | – | – |
| Machine Type | Semi-Automatic | – | – | – | Manual | – | – |
| Features | – | – | Cold Brew | – | Built-In Grinder | Milk Frother | – |
| Recommended Use | Home | – | – | – | Home | – | – |
| Drink Type | Cappuccino, Latte | – | – | – | Cappuccino, Latte | – | Cappuccino, Latte |
| Color | Black Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Black | Silver/Black |
| Capacity | – | – | – | – | – | – | Single-Serve |
| Brewing Method | Espresso | Espresso | Espresso | Espresso | Espresso | Espresso | Espresso |
| Compatibility | – | – | – | – | – | – | Capsules, Ground Coffee |
| Operation | Automatic | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 7.6 × 12.5 × 12.2 inches | 16.6 × 16.4 × 17.5 inches | 17.5 × 14 × 15 inches | 13 × 13.4 × 14.6 inches | 13.8 × 12.5 × 15.9 inches | 12.2 × 9 × 12.3 inches | 8.5 × 10.8 × 16.2 inches |
| Weight | 8 pounds | 23 pounds | 28.1 pounds | 31.6 pounds | 22.1 pounds | 13 pounds | 9.48 pounds |
| Size | Small | Large | – | 12.99 x 13.39 x 14.57 | Large | – | 8.5" L x 10.79" W x 16.18" H |
| Model | BES500BST1BUS1 | The Barista Express | EC9555M-cr | ES601 | BES870XL | ENV135BAE | CFN801 |
If you prefer brushed stainless steel, compare specs across breville bes500bss bambino plus espresso alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the smallest footprint for tight counters?
The Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine with Frother is the most compact option on this list. It measures 9 inches wide by 12.2 inches deep. At 13 pounds, it is significantly lighter and smaller than the Breville Bambino Plus, which is 12.5 inches wide. This makes it ideal for small kitchens where space is at a premium.
Is there an option with a built-in grinder like the Bambino Plus lacks?
Yes, the Breville Barista Express Stainless Steel includes an integrated grinder. It also features a robust build and weighs 23 pounds. The De'Longhi La Specialista Opera is another choice with a built-in grinder, offering precise temperature control. These models allow you to grind beans fresh, which the Bambino Plus cannot do on its own.
Can I get a machine that brews drip coffee and espresso?
The Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine handles espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew. It uses guided technology and a dual froth system for consistency. This machine is larger, weighing 31.6 pounds, but provides multi-beverage versatility that the single-function Bambino Plus does not offer.
Which alternative is best for users who want manual control?
The Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder is designed for manual extraction settings. It weighs 22.1 pounds and features a brushed stainless steel finish. This model suits home baristas who want to master latte art and espresso technique through direct manual operation rather than automated assistance.
Are there choices that support both capsules and ground coffee?
The Ninja DualBrew Prestige Espresso & Grounds supports capsules and ground coffee. It is a single-serve machine weighing 9.48 pounds. This flexibility allows you to use pre-packaged pods or fresh grounds, providing versatility that the capsule-only or grounds-only Bambino Plus alternatives do not match.
Which model includes cold brew capability?
The De'Longhi La Specialista Opera features cold brew capability alongside its espresso functions. It weighs 28.1 pounds and measures 17.5 inches in length. This model is ideal for users who want precise temperature control and consistent tamping without sacrificing extraction quality for cold drinks.
