As a passionate coffee enthusiast who has spent years exploring the depths of home brewing, I’ve always been on the lookout for an espresso machine that strikes the perfect balance between performance, design, and ease of use.
Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Breville Bambino, a compact yet powerful machine that promises to deliver café-quality espresso without taking up too much counter space. After spending several weeks with it, experimenting with various coffee beans, and comparing it to other machines I’ve used, I’m ready to share my in-depth review.
Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a newcomer to home espresso making, I hope this Breville Bambino review helps you decide if this espresso machine is the right fit for you.
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Table of Contents
Breville Bambino Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Breville Bambino (Sage Bambino in the UK) |
| Dimensions | 12.6 x 7.7 x 12.2 inches (32 x 19.5 x 31 cm) |
| Weight | 9.26 lbs (4.2 kg) |
| Material | Brushed Stainless Steel & Plastic |
| Heating System | ThermoJet Heating System |
| Heat-Up Time | 3 Seconds |
| Pump Pressure | 15-Bar Italian Pump |
| Portafilter Size | 54 mm |
| Water Tank Capacity | 47 oz (1.4 liters) |
| Steam Wand | Manual Steam Wand with 360° Swivel |
| Temperature Control | Digital PID Temperature Control |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes |
| Included Accessories | Portafilter, Tamper, Razor Dosing Tool, Dual-Wall Filter Baskets, Cleaning Tools |
| Cup Height Clearance | 4 inches (10.16 cm) |
| Power | 1600 Watts |
| Voltage | 120V (USA) / 220-240V (International) |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetics and Size
The first thing that struck me about the Breville Bambino was its sleek, minimalist design. With dimensions of 12.6 x 7.7 x 12.2 inches, it’s one of the most compact machines in Breville’s lineup, making it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. The machine sports a brushed stainless steel finish, which not only looks elegant but also resists fingerprints and smudges—an important feature for those who like to keep their kitchen appliances looking pristine.
The control panel is simple and intuitive, with just a few buttons to manage the machine’s operations. I particularly appreciated the tactile feedback from the buttons, which gives a satisfying click when pressed. The lack of an overwhelming array of controls makes the Bambino less intimidating for beginners, while still offering enough functionality for more experienced users.
Build Quality
When it comes to build quality, the Breville Bambino doesn’t disappoint. Despite its compact size, the machine feels sturdy and well-made. The use of high-quality materials, such as the stainless steel exterior and the durable plastic components, gives the Bambino a premium feel. The portafilter is solid and has a good weight to it, contributing to the overall sense of quality.
However, it’s worth noting that some parts of the machine, like the drip tray and water tank, are made from plastic. While these components don’t feel cheap, they don’t quite match the robustness of the metal parts. That said, the plastic components seem durable enough for everyday use, and they contribute to the machine’s lightweight nature, making it easier to move around if needed.
Performance
Heating System and Speed
One of the standout features of the Breville Bambino is its innovative ThermoJet heating system. Unlike traditional espresso machines that rely on a boiler to heat water, the ThermoJet system uses a fast-heating element that reaches the optimal extraction temperature in just 3 seconds. This is a game-changer for those who don’t have the patience to wait several minutes for their machine to warm up, especially during busy mornings.
In my experience, the Bambino consistently delivered espresso at the right temperature, with no noticeable fluctuations. The rapid heating system also means that the machine is ready to steam milk almost immediately after pulling a shot, reducing the overall time needed to make a cappuccino or latte.
Pump Pressure and Extraction
The Breville Bambino features a 15-bar Italian pump, which is standard for most high-quality espresso machines. This level of pressure is more than sufficient to extract the full range of flavors from the coffee grounds, resulting in a rich, aromatic espresso with a well-balanced crema. I found that the Bambino consistently produced shots with a thick, velvety crema, which is a good indicator of proper extraction.
The machine also allows for some control over the extraction process. While it doesn’t offer the full range of customization options found in more expensive models, it does have a pre-infusion function, which wets the coffee grounds at a lower pressure before ramping up to full pressure. This helps to ensure an even extraction, especially when using freshly ground coffee.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is crucial for brewing high-quality espresso, and the Breville Bambino excels in this area. The machine’s digital temperature control (PID) technology ensures that water is delivered at the precise temperature needed for optimal extraction. Throughout my testing, I noticed that the espresso shots were consistently brewed at the ideal temperature, which helped to highlight the nuances in the flavor profiles of different coffee beans.
The PID system also prevents the water temperature from fluctuating during the extraction process, which can lead to bitter or under-extracted espresso. This level of precision is impressive for a machine in this price range, making the Bambino a strong contender against more expensive models.
Usability
Ease of Use
One of the main reasons I was drawn to the Breville Bambino was its reputation for being user-friendly, and it certainly lived up to that expectation. The machine is designed with simplicity in mind, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced home baristas.
Setting up the machine was straightforward, with clear instructions provided in the manual. The water tank is easy to remove and fill, and the drip tray slides in and out smoothly for quick cleaning. The Bambino also comes with a variety of accessories, including a tamper, a razor dosing tool, and dual-wall filter baskets, which make it easier to achieve consistent results.
Brewing espresso is as simple as pressing a button. The machine offers both single and double shot options, and the pre-programmed settings deliver consistent results. For those who prefer more control, the manual mode allows you to stop the extraction at your desired volume. This flexibility is great for experimenting with different coffee beans and grind sizes to find the perfect shot.
Steam Wand and Milk Frothing
The steam wand on the Breville Bambino is another feature that deserves praise. Despite the machine’s compact size, the steam wand is powerful and capable of producing café-quality microfoam. The wand is also equipped with a 360-degree swivel action, making it easy to angle the pitcher for optimal frothing.
I was particularly impressed by how quickly the steam wand heats up, thanks to the ThermoJet system. Within seconds, the wand is ready to create velvety, smooth milk froth that’s perfect for lattes, cappuccinos, and even latte art. The steam pressure is strong enough to produce the fine bubbles needed for microfoam, which is crucial for creating that silky texture in your milk-based drinks.
For beginners, the Bambino’s steam wand might require a bit of practice to master, but it’s more forgiving than the wands found on more advanced machines. The single-hole tip is easier to control, allowing you to focus on achieving the right consistency without worrying about the milk overheating or the wand losing pressure.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintaining the Breville Bambino is relatively hassle-free, which is a big plus for busy individuals or those new to espresso machines. The drip tray, water tank, and portafilter are all removable and easy to clean. The machine also features a “clean me” light that alerts you when it’s time to run a cleaning cycle, taking the guesswork out of maintenance.
Breville includes a cleaning kit with the machine, which includes cleaning tablets, a brush, and a tool for unclogging the steam wand. The cleaning cycle is straightforward—simply insert a cleaning tablet into the portafilter and run the cycle as instructed in the manual.
One thing to note is that the steam wand requires regular purging after each use to prevent milk residue from clogging the nozzle. This is a common maintenance step for all espresso machines with a steam wand, and it’s essential for ensuring the longevity of the machine and the quality of the milk froth.
Coffee Quality
Espresso Shots
The most important aspect of any espresso machine is, of course, the quality of the coffee it produces. I was pleasantly surprised by how consistently the Breville Bambino delivered high-quality espresso shots. The combination of the ThermoJet heating system, 15-bar pump, and PID temperature control results in espresso that is rich, full-bodied, and well-balanced.
I experimented with a variety of coffee beans, from dark roasts to light single-origin beans, and the Bambino handled them all with ease. The machine’s pre-infusion feature helped to bring out the subtle flavors in lighter roasts, while the high pressure ensured that darker roasts were extracted to their fullest potential.
The crema produced by the Bambino was consistently thick and velvety, a testament to the machine’s ability to extract the oils and aromatics from the coffee grounds effectively. Whether I was pulling a single shot or a double, the espresso was always flavorful and aromatic, with no signs of bitterness or sourness.
Milk-Based Drinks
As someone who enjoys a good cappuccino or latte, I was eager to see how the Breville Bambino performed with milk-based drinks. I’m happy to report that the machine exceeded my expectations in this area. The steam wand’s ability to create fine microfoam allowed me to craft lattes and cappuccinos that rival those from my local café.
The milk froth was consistently smooth and creamy, with the right amount of texture for latte art. The steam wand’s quick heating time also meant that I could prepare milk-based drinks in a matter of minutes, making it a convenient option for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.
One minor drawback is that the Bambino’s steam wand can be a bit tricky to master for those new to frothing milk. However, with a bit of practice, it’s possible to achieve professional-quality results. I found that using a thermometer to monitor the milk temperature was helpful in preventing overheating, which can negatively impact the texture of the froth.
Price and Value
Affordability
The Breville Bambino is positioned in the mid-range price bracket, making it more affordable than many high-end espresso machines while still offering a range of features typically found in more expensive models. Given its performance, build quality, and ease of use, I believe the Bambino offers excellent value for money.
While there
are cheaper machines on the market, many of them lack the precision and consistency that the Bambino provides. The inclusion of features like the ThermoJet heating system, PID temperature control, and a high-quality steam wand justifies the higher price point. For coffee enthusiasts who want to enjoy café-quality espresso at home without breaking the bank, the Breville Bambino is a worthwhile investment.
Comparison to Competitors
Breville Bambino vs. De’Longhi Dedica
The Breville Bambino and the De’Longhi Dedica are both compact, user-friendly espresso machines, but they differ in key aspects. The Bambino stands out with its ThermoJet heating system, which reaches the optimal temperature in just 3 seconds, making it significantly faster than the Dedica’s 35-second heat-up time. Additionally, the Bambino offers more consistent temperature control thanks to its PID technology, ensuring better espresso extraction.
On the other hand, the Dedica is slightly slimmer and includes features like a cup warmer, which the Bambino lacks. However, the Bambino’s steam wand is superior, producing café-quality microfoam that’s ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. The Dedica’s wand, while functional, doesn’t match the Bambino’s frothing capabilities.
In terms of build quality, both machines use a mix of stainless steel and plastic, but the Bambino feels slightly more robust. The Bambino is generally the better choice for those who prioritize speed, espresso quality, and milk frothing. The Dedica, however, might appeal to those who want a slimmer profile and additional features like a cup warmer.
Breville Bambino vs. Gaggia Classic Pro
The Breville Bambino and Gaggia Classic Pro cater to different types of users, despite being in a similar price range. The Bambino is designed for convenience, featuring a rapid 3-second heat-up time and intuitive controls, making it ideal for beginners or those with limited time. Its automatic features, such as pre-infusion and temperature control, help ensure consistently good espresso shots with minimal effort.
The Gaggia Classic Pro, however, is favored by enthusiasts who prefer manual control. It offers a more traditional experience with a commercial-style 58mm portafilter and a manual steam wand, which provides greater flexibility for those who want to hone their barista skills. However, the machine requires more time to heat up and can be more challenging to master.
In terms of build quality, the Classic Pro is more robust, with a full stainless steel body and fewer plastic components. However, its larger size and longer heat-up time make it less convenient for everyday use compared to the Bambino. Choose the Bambino for ease and speed, and the Classic Pro for a more hands-on, traditional espresso-making experience.
Breville Bambino vs. Rancilio Silvia
The Breville Bambino and Rancilio Silvia are both respected in the home espresso market, but they cater to different needs. The Bambino is compact and user-friendly, with a 3-second heat-up time and automated features like pre-infusion and PID temperature control, making it perfect for those who want quick, consistent results with minimal fuss.
The Rancilio Silvia, in contrast, is a powerhouse for serious home baristas. It boasts a commercial-grade build with a hefty brass boiler and a professional steam wand, offering unmatched durability and excellent steaming power. However, the Silvia’s longer heat-up time and manual controls require more skill and patience, making it less suitable for beginners or those short on time.
While the Silvia excels in durability and espresso quality, it demands a more significant investment of time and effort. The Bambino, though less robust, offers a more accessible entry point into espresso making with its modern conveniences and faster operation. The choice boils down to convenience versus traditional, hands-on espresso craftsmanship.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact Design: The Breville Bambino’s small footprint makes it ideal for kitchens with limited space.
- Fast Heating System: The ThermoJet system heats up in just 3 seconds, significantly reducing wait time.
- Consistent Espresso Quality: The 15-bar pump and PID temperature control deliver rich, flavorful espresso shots with a thick crema.
- User-Friendly: The simple control panel and pre-programmed settings make it accessible for beginners.
- High-Quality Steam Wand: Capable of producing fine microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos.
- Easy Maintenance: Removable components and a built-in cleaning alert make maintenance straightforward.
Cons
- Plastic Components: While the build quality is generally solid, the use of plastic in some parts might be a concern for durability over the long term.
- Limited Customization: While the Bambino offers some control over the extraction process, it lacks the advanced customization options found in more expensive machines.
- Learning Curve for Milk Frothing: Beginners might find the steam wand tricky to master initially, though practice can yield excellent results.
Final Verdict
After weeks of testing and experimenting with the Breville Bambino, I can confidently say that it’s one of the best compact espresso machines on the market today. Its combination of speed, ease of use, and consistent performance makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy café-quality espresso at home without the hassle of a more complex machine.
The Bambino’s compact design doesn’t sacrifice quality, as it delivers rich, flavorful espresso with a thick crema and perfectly steamed milk for lattes and cappuccinos. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of a high-end machine, it offers more than enough features to satisfy both beginners and experienced home baristas.
In conclusion, the Breville Bambino is a versatile, user-friendly espresso machine that offers excellent value for money. Whether you’re new to home espresso making or looking to upgrade your current setup, the Bambino is a reliable and capable choice that won’t disappoint.