The Breville Duo Temp Pro and the Bambino are both excellent entry-level espresso machines from Breville, but they cater to very different home baristas. The Duo Temp Pro is a semi-automatic machine built for those who want manual control and precision. It features a stable thermocoil heating system and low-pressure pre-infusion. The Bambino, on the other hand, is a compact powerhouse designed for speed and convenience, using a ThermoJet system that heats up in just three seconds.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which of these popular machines is the right one for your kitchen countertop.
Breville Duo Temp Pro
The Duo Temp Pro is a semi-automatic espresso machine that gives aspiring home baristas the tools and control needed to pull café-quality shots. It focuses on the fundamentals of great espresso: precise temperature and pressure. Its robust stainless steel construction and manual controls make it a fantastic tool for learning the craft of dialing in the perfect shot.
- What it is: A semi-automatic espresso machine that provides manual control over espresso extraction and milk frothing.
- Key features: 15-bar Italian pump, thermocoil heating system for stable temperature, low-pressure pre-infusion for even extraction, manual steam wand, and a durable stainless steel housing.
- Price: Around $500–$600
- Style: Sleek and professional with a brushed stainless steel finish that looks at home in a dedicated coffee station.
- Materials/Construction: Built primarily from stainless steel, giving it a premium feel and long-term durability.
- Pros: Excellent temperature stability enhances flavor. Low-pressure pre-infusion saturates the grounds evenly for better extraction. Offers full manual control over shot timing. Robust build quality means it's built to last.
- Cons: Takes a few minutes to heat up, which is slower than newer models. Larger footprint requires more counter space. Requires a learning process to get the best results.
The Duo Temp Pro is ideal for the coffee enthusiast who wants to be actively involved in the espresso-making process and values precision and build quality over speed.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/dsbdtpro.html
Breville Bambino
The Breville Bambino is designed for simplicity, space-efficiency, and incredible speed. Its defining characteristic is the ThermoJet heating system, allowing it to reach optimal brewing temperature in just three seconds. This makes it a perfect fit for anyone with a busy lifestyle or limited counter space who still wants high-quality espresso without the wait.
- What it is: A compact, ultra-fast, and user-friendly espresso machine for beginners or those with small kitchens.
- Key features: 3-second ThermoJet heat-up time, 15-bar Italian pump, volumetric shot control (pre-programmed 1 & 2 cup shots), manual steam wand.
- Price: Around $300–$400
- Dimensions: Extremely compact at 7.7" x 12.6" x 12.2", fitting easily into small spaces.
- Style: Minimalist and modern, with a clean design that complements contemporary decor without taking over the counter.
- Materials/Construction: Features a stainless steel housing but has a more simplified build internally to achieve its compact size.
- Pros: Heats up almost instantly. Very small footprint is perfect for apartments and small kitchens. Simple, straightforward button controls are great for beginners. A very affordable entry into the Breville ecosystem.
- Cons: Lacks the manual precision and pre-infusion feature of the Duo Temp Pro. The construction, while solid, is less robust. Can't brew and steam milk simultaneously.
This machine is for the person who values speed and convenience and wants delicious espresso with minimal fuss or setup time.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/bes450.html
Breville Duo Temp Pro vs. Bambino Comparison
Heating System & Speed
The biggest difference lies in their heating technology. The Duo Temp Pro uses a thermocoil system. This takes a couple of minutes to heat up but provides exceptional thermal stability throughout the brewing process, which is critical for consistent espresso extraction. Consistent temperature helps pull the best flavor from the coffee grounds.
The Bambino features the innovative ThermoJet system, which heats water on demand and is ready to brew in only three seconds. This is a massive advantage for someone who wants a quick coffee before heading out the door. The trade-off is slightly less temperature stability compared to the thermocoil, but for most daily users, the difference in the cup won't be dramatic.
User Control & Features
The Duo Temp Pro is all about manual control. It lacks automatic shot buttons, meaning you start and stop the pump yourself to control the volume of espresso. This hands-on approach allows you to experiment and learn what makes a good shot. It also includes Breville's signature low-pressure pre-infusion, which gently soaks the coffee puck before applying full pressure, leading to a more balanced extraction.
The Bambino prioritizes ease of use with pre-programmed buttons for single and double shots. You just press the button and the machine delivers a consistent volume every time. While you can reprogram these volumes, it's designed to be a set-and-forget experience. It does not have the pre-infusion feature, making its extraction process simpler but slightly less nuanced.
Size & Design
There's a clear winner for small spaces: the Bambino. At just 7.7 inches wide, it is one of the most compact espresso machines on the market that doesn't compromise on its 54mm portafilter size. It can easily squeeze between other appliances or fit under low cabinets.
The Duo Temp Pro has a more traditional, squared-off footprint (around 12 inches wide and deep). It feels more substantial and commands a presence as a dedicated coffee appliance. Its brushed stainless steel finish gives it a professional look, while the Bambino appears more minimalist and modern.
Price & Value
Both machines offer excellent value, but for different budgets. The Bambino is significantly more affordable, typically costing around $300-$400. For this price, getting an espresso machine that heats up in three seconds and produces consistently good coffee is an amazing deal. It's one of the best value propositions for any beginner.
The Duo Temp Pro usually lands in the $500-$600 range. That extra cost gets you superior build quality, the thermally stable thermocoil, and the crucial pre-infusion feature. It is an investment in a machine that will not only make great coffee but also allow you to grow and perfect your barista skills over time.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both Breville machines are great choices, but they are built for fundamentally different needs and priorities.
Choose the Breville Duo Temp Pro if:
- You want to learn the art of espresso and have full control over your shots.
- You value thermal stability and features like pre-infusion for the best possible flavor.
- A more robust, durable build is a top priority for you.
- Counter space is not your primary concern, and you have a dedicated spot for your machine.
Choose the Breville Bambino if:
- Speed is everything - you want to go from turning on the machine to drinking espresso as fast as possible.
- You have limited counter space in an apartment or small kitchen.
- You prefer the simplicity of one-touch buttons over manual operation.
- You're on a tighter budget but still want to enjoy high-quality homemade espresso.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Duo Temp Pro and the Bambino?
The main differences are the heating system, user control, and size. The Bambino has a 3-second ThermoJet heater and one-touch buttons for beginners with limited space. The Duo Temp Pro has a slower but more stable thermocoil heater and provides manual shot control for enthusiasts who want to perfect their technique.
Which Breville machine is better for a beginner?
The Bambino is designed specifically for beginners. Its fast heat-up and simple, pre-programmed buttons remove much of the learning curve associated with making espresso, allowing new users to get great results quickly.
Do both the Duo Temp Pro and Bambino have a steam wand for lattes?
Yes, both machines come equipped with a powerful manual steam wand that allows you to texture milk for lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites, and other milk-based drinks.
How long does each machine take to heat up?
The Bambino's ThermoJet system is ready to brew in just 3 seconds. The Duo Temp Pro's thermocoil system takes a few minutes to reach a stable brewing temperature.
Which machine has better build quality?
The Duo Temp Pro has a more robust construction, with heavier stainless steel components, giving it a more premium and durable feel.
Does the Duo Temp Pro's pre-infusion really make a difference?
Yes. Low-pressure pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee grounds before applying full pressure. This helps prevent channeling (where water creates cracks in the coffee puck) and results in a more even, balanced, and flavorful extraction.
What grinder do I need for these machines?
To get the most out of either machine, you will need a quality burr grinder. Blade grinders produce inconsistent grounds that are not suitable for espresso. Look for an entry-level espresso burr grinder to pair with your new machine.
Is the Bambino Plus a different machine?
Yes. The Bambino Plus is an upgraded version of the standard Bambino that includes an automatic milk frothing wand with adjustable temperature and texture settings. It is a good option if you want both quick espresso and hands-free milk steaming.
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