Turin Legato V2 vs Breville Bambino Plus
Updated September 9, 2026.
Choose the Turin Legato V2 if you want adjustable brew settings and a 58mm portafilter. Choose the Breville Bambino Plus if quick readiness and automatic milk texturing matter more. Both have PID temperature control; the distinction is how much adjustment the user is given, not whether temperature is controlled at all.
| Feature | Legato V2 | Bambino Plus BES500 |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | 550ml brew boiler plus separate steam thermoblock | ThermoJet system |
| Temperature control | User-adjustable brew and steam PID settings | PID-controlled brewing without user brew-temperature selection |
| Portafilter | 58mm | 54mm |
| Milk preparation | Manual steam wand | Automatic texturing with manual option |
| Grinder | Separate grinder required | Separate grinder required |
| Readiness claim | About five minutes listed | Three-second heating-system claim |
Temperature control and the first drink
The Legato V2 lets you adjust brew temperature, pre-infusion time and delay. The Bambino Plus manual explicitly lists PID control, but not the same user-adjustable brew settings. Breville’s three-second claim concerns the heating system; a cold cup and portafilter still affect a drink’s temperature. Follow each machine’s warming and flushing instructions.
Milk drinks are the clearest difference
The Bambino Plus can texture milk automatically, which is useful when several people want a consistent result with less practice. The Legato requires you to control the pitcher position and aeration. A manual wand gives hands-on control, but it does not automatically produce better microfoam. Both routines need immediate wiping and purging.
What 58mm changes
The Legato’s 58mm format offers many basket and preparation-tool options. The Bambino’s 54mm basket can also make excellent espresso. Size alone does not determine extraction quality, and accessories are not interchangeable simply because they look similar. Check basket depth, portafilter fit and the manufacturer’s compatibility guidance before ordering upgrades.
Budget for the grinder
Neither machine includes a grinder. For non-pressurized espresso, prioritize a grinder that can make small repeatable adjustments, such as the DF54. Include a scale and suitable milk pitcher when comparing complete costs. There is little benefit in buying more machine controls while using a grind that cannot be dialed properly.
Which fits your household?
Choose the Legato for manual preparation and adjustable brewing in a compact boiler-plus-thermoblock machine. Choose the Bambino Plus for its fast start and automatic milk routine. Measure both with tank access and wand clearance included. Maintain water quality and follow the correct cleaning cycle for each machine.
