Breville Bambino Espresso Machine
Original price was: $299.99.$179.99Current price is: $179.99.
Description
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Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS, Brushed. Stainless Steel
| Brand | Breville |
| Color | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Product Dimensions | 13.7″D x 6.3″W x 12″H |
| Special Feature | Manual |
| Coffee Maker Type | Espresso Machine |
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hoffy –
Well, it at least changed my coffe making. Small footprint, easy to use after you get the hang of dialing in your grind and dosing. Steamer worked like a dream. And frankly- it produces a better espresso than I have had at any coffee shop. I really had my doubts when I ordered it. I have a number of friends with other very expensive multitasking espresso machines ( read $$$$) and frankly I’ve never been impressed by them. I would absolutely buy this again. Thanks Breville!
M.S. –
I purchased a Breville Bambino espresso maker to replace a 14 year old, fully manual espresso maker that had stopped working. Initially I was leery of getting an automatic espresso maker that has pre-programed 1 or 2 cup extracts. But in this price range, that’s pretty much one’s only option. On the other hand, I’m extremely pleased with the ease of operation, the taste of the espresso extracts and the excellent foaming of milk for cappuccino. Also I am impressed with the quality of the machine and its small footprint. However, initially I could never get the perfect espresso with the single wall filters, only with the double wall filters using the aluminum portafilter shipped with the Bambino. The resolution for this and my suggestion for those who prefer to use more technique in making their espresso, is to buy the Breville stainless steel 54 mm portafilter (part no. SP0027237). I first removed the plastic insert in this SS portafilter (see my review of this product). With the SS portafilter and the single wall 2 cup filter, the espresso is perfect. The portafilter replacement is pricey, but worth it. My only other issue with Breville is under Specific Instructions for the Bambino on page 4 of the instruction book. It is recommended to only use cold mains/tap-water and not use highly filtered demineralized or distilled water. Agreed distilled water is not optimal for espresso extraction because of its high purity. However, as a career chemist, with over 45 years of experience, the use of tapwater is not optimal for any type of extraction as unwanted minerals in the tap water, which vary widely based on geography, can affect the taste of the espresso. Therefore demineralized water, which is can be obtained from today’s refrigerators is the ideal choice. The optimum taste of the espresso is obtained with purified water, which is applied with heat under pressure. Yet, I realize it’s a manufacturer’s goal is to have us buy their descaling product which you are forced to use by the programming in the Bambino. Overall I’m very pleased and impressed with the Bambino.One year update- Still extremely happy with the Bambino, which I use 3-4 days a week. The only issue was after several months, the programmed 2 cup shot button under extracted the espresso desired volume. Rather than trying to recalibrate it, I now just use manual extraction with a 30 second pull. Correct espresso volume every time.
N-WatermanN-Waterman –
I’ve only made one latte so far just got it today. I used Starbucks espresso beans I had them grind them for espresso and tasted just like the latte I buy there!! Worth the money for sure. It’s not loud at all, performance is great and easy to use after a lot of research. Appearance seems to be durable… I’ll let you know after using this for awhile longer.. but I did a lot of researching espresso machines and definitely recommend this machine.. update- so i’ve made a few more lattes they all come out tasting great a little bit of a water mess but after a lot of research, I realize that just happens with these and you just wanna leave the Portafilter and after you’re done and let it drip while you’re drinking your drink, then it will come out without the water on the top. Also, I realized if you run a 2 cup with the porta filter in before you make your espresso to prime it and make it hot then you take it out and you add your espresso and tamp it and make your drink. I did order a puck screen it seems that you put it on top of your espresso after you tamp it to keep the top clean. You still have to clean it but at least the grind don’t get up there, or so I’ve read. I will update again once I get everything I orderedUpdate- I bought a 30 pound tamp and a leveler which did make a big difference, and once i found the right amount of grinds to put in my 2 cup my espresso has tasted better. I’m having a hard time getting the milk to froth correctly but with practice I’m getting better. I’m definitely happy with the bambino but wish I got a better one due to the fact that you have to know what you’re doing and I’m new to this but this one works better each time I make a latte.
zenan ren –
Just good enough for beginners. You will never go back to a cheap model from this one!
Goose –
To say that I was researching what espresso machine, would be the biggest understatement. I have zero experience making espresso’s and I was stuck between considering an automatic one, vs one with manual controls, and I decided to purchase this product, and I am so glad I did!I started with a pre ground high quality espresso bean, and from the first cup, to my most recent cup, were perfect each and every time! This machine is great for those that want good espresso’s and for the beginners like myself. This machine is so easy to use as in my case, the less is more thought process, yielded dividends! I keep the pre ground espresso in a seal tight vessel to keep freshness, and has been working wonderfully! The machine yielded great creama and the espresso quality was right where it needs to be. When tamping the portafilter, just ensure you get 30 pounds of pressure when using the tamper to ensure you get proper extraction.For the price one can pay for an espresso machine, this machine is built with quality in mind, and does not take up too much counterspace vs the other machines out there. With less going on, there are less issues. This product comes with everything you need including 4 total filters, portafilter, milk frother pitcher and very clear instructions. To clean this product is very easy and if you get stuck with something, there are plenty of videos online that you can refer to as this product gets a lot of positive reviews from other espresso critics. One of the biggest perks is that this product heats very quickly and the volume of espresso can be adjusted per the instructions, which is a big perk.The only, albeit small, downside, is that the frother wand does take time to get the milk up to temperature. The instructions state to froth until the frother pitcher is hot to the touch, but I could not keep my hands on it and when tested the milk was only 136 degrees, so depending on your tolerance of hot to the touch, just test out the milk temperature as you continue using it until you find the amount of time it takes for you to get the milk where you want it to be. The handle does not get hot so you can hold from there until you get to the temperature you want.Very happy with the investment I made choosing this product, and I know other beginners like myself will be very happy with it as well.
iguanamom –
I had to leave behind my Breville Infuser and replace it with a smaller/cheaper version when I moved. Having paid $300 for this Bambino and wanting to stick with Breville seemed like a lot to pay for their lowest priced machine, but I did it anyway.All I can say is, if you find yourself in the same situation, you’re going to be disappointed with the quality.Cons:1. The parts feel cheap and plastic-y which include the portafilter and the tamper. There’s no weight behind either of these.2. I cannot get the basket out of the portafilter using my nails like I did with my old one. I have to pry it out with the edge of a spoon so it makes cleaning the parts very frustrating.3. Locking the portafilter into and out of place, I have to hold onto the whole machine and it is a VERY tight fit so I have to forceably lock it and I always feel like I’m going to break it.4. For $300, you’d think they could at least include a coffee scooper…nope.5. The steaming wand will shoot out a stream of water first and unlike my other one, doesn’t give you time to avoid that and put it in the jug without causing a huge mess. I have to let it squirt out the water, turn it off for a second and put the pitcher under it and turn it back on.6. I use the same brand of coffee as I did with my Infuser and it doesn’t taste as good as it used to (is it different water possibly?).7. There’s no on/off button. To turn off you have to hold down 2 buttons simultaneously.Pros:1. It’s small.2. It heats up fast.3. It’s better coffee than a Keurig which is what I’d been having before I got this (yuck!!).4. The milk steams faster than my old one did and it was very clean, so it wasn’t due to that.That’s where the pros end. I was spoiled with my Infuser which I bought 2nd hand in another country and it worked flawlessly for at least 5 years (and still did when I sold it on). That’s why I chose Breville again. I couldn’t see paying the $600 or whatever they want for a new one, plus I don’t really have the counter space for it. Am I happy with this machine? Sort of but more disappointed after having used one of their better models. More than likely, I’ll end up replacing it if I can find a used one cheaply and then try to sell this one, even if it means taking up more space on the counter.
jtarpinian –
Many non-amazon reviews recommened this machinde for beginner Baristas. I beg to differ. The quality of components and customer servicie is the best, but, for me, this was becoming such a complex task. I do not consider myself a gourmet barrissta. I want a machine where I dont have to think to much when I make the espresso. to get good tasting espresso from this machine, I feel one must be very knowdgeable in how much to grind the beans, how much to tamper the coffee in portafilter, how much/long to brew etc… too much infromation. Breville makes quality products which is the main reason I purchased this model, however, bad choice on my end since I have no desire to become an excellent barrista
Wendy WestphalWendy Westphal –
We liked the product, but the espresso machine was leaking @ the base.Amazon customer service was great, they sent replacement machine & we returned the original machine.
Milena Quintero –
I would recommend this product to any coffee aficionado out there. The stainless steel finish not only gives it a sleek look, but also ensures its durability. Despite its compact size, it brews a robust cup of coffee. Plus, it’s so easy to use, even on those early mornings when you can barely open one eye. So, if you’re a java lover like me, this machine is a must-have!
Weston –
My bro is a big coffee guy lives for his fancy coffee I did days of research on the best esspresso maker for cheap this is the one I kept coming back to and I’m glad I did my bro is now making coffee better then what he’s ever had in his life. It was a learning curve to use it but it’s the best bang for buck
Spartee –
You will have to spend some time getting the grind and tamping amount right. If you don’t get it right, you won’t get the coffee (or you get watery non-crema). So give it a week or two of experiments to see where the sweet spots are. I found a 15 grind on my grinder and a light packing works best.The frother is timed and works well.I was a bit grouchy at first, but eventually the product won me over.
P. Sites –
I love the fact that it heats up in three seconds, that it’s simple to use with a short learning curve, that it fits compactly on my kitchen counter and looks good when I’m not using it. My only complaint is that it sometimes drips water into the portafilter after the shot is done. It doesn’t give me a lot of control, but it sure makes good espresso really easily.
Perry –
Impressive little machine.
Cecilia HeineCecilia Heine –
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Having this awesome machine has been life changing for me … I wake up now with an urgency to start my day with my own homemade Amercano!! The best purchase ever!!!!
Rohit Kumar –
Great product for busy people who like good espresso beverages.
Brenda H –
I am extremely pleased with my Breville Bambino! It’s a nice compact size, so easy to use, and makes a great cappuccino. Start to finish, I can make a cappuccino faster than my coffee maker could brew a single cup. The instruction manual provides so much good information to help you perfect your beverage choice, I highly recommend this product. Product delivery was perfect, arriving safely and on time.
Hayden Braxton –
I’ve been using my bambino for the past two and a half months, and I’m upset it took me so long to buy this. Wish I had bought one sooner. Machine makes truly coffee shop quality espresso and milk. The stuff I make at home now is way better than what I used to get from Wawa or Starbucks. The bambino is super easy to use and clean. It’s also great that it has such a small footprint so that it doesn’t take up much counter space. At this price point, I don’t think there’s anything left to improve on the machine. I honestly have no complaints in the time that I’ve used it so far.
Goose –
To say that I was researching what espresso machine, would be the biggest understatement. I have zero experience making espresso’s and I was stuck between considering an automatic one, vs one with manual controls, and I decided to purchase this product, and I am so glad I did!I started with a pre ground high quality espresso bean, and from the first cup, to my most recent cup, were perfect each and every time! This machine is great for those that want good espresso’s and for the beginners like myself. This machine is so easy to use as in my case, the less is more thought process, yielded dividends! I keep the pre ground espresso in a seal tight vessel to keep freshness, and has been working wonderfully! The machine yielded great creama and the espresso quality was right where it needs to be. When tamping the portafilter, just ensure you get 30 pounds of pressure when using the tamper to ensure you get proper extraction.For the price one can pay for an espresso machine, this machine is built with quality in mind, and does not take up too much counterspace vs the other machines out there. With less going on, there are less issues. This product comes with everything you need including 4 total filters, portafilter, milk frother pitcher and very clear instructions. To clean this product is very easy and if you get stuck with something, there are plenty of videos online that you can refer to as this product gets a lot of positive reviews from other espresso critics. One of the biggest perks is that this product heats very quickly and the volume of espresso can be adjusted per the instructions, which is a big perk.The only, albeit small, downside, is that the frother wand does take time to get the milk up to temperature. The instructions state to froth until the frother pitcher is hot to the touch, but I could not keep my hands on it and when tested the milk was only 136 degrees, so depending on your tolerance of hot to the touch, just test out the milk temperature as you continue using it until you find the amount of time it takes for you to get the milk where you want it to be. The handle does not get hot so you can hold from there until you get to the temperature you want.Very happy with the investment I made choosing this product, and I know other beginners like myself will be very happy with it as well.
Customer –
Bought as a gift for my coffee-loving wife. She is delighted. Makes great espresso.
kat’s away –
I love this little Breville Bambino. I wish that Breville would indicate that a frothing pitcher and espresso stamper come with this machine. In any event, don’t buy any additional items until you see what comes with the Bambino! I did have to purchase a burr grinder.
Shawnett –
Absolutely love this machine makes amazing coffee
iguanamom –
I had to leave behind my Breville Infuser and replace it with a smaller/cheaper version when I moved. Having paid $300 for this Bambino and wanting to stick with Breville seemed like a lot to pay for their lowest priced machine, but I did it anyway.All I can say is, if you find yourself in the same situation, you’re going to be disappointed with the quality.Cons:1. The parts feel cheap and plastic-y which include the portafilter and the tamper. There’s no weight behind either of these.2. I cannot get the basket out of the portafilter using my nails like I did with my old one. I have to pry it out with the edge of a spoon so it makes cleaning the parts very frustrating.3. Locking the portafilter into and out of place, I have to hold onto the whole machine and it is a VERY tight fit so I have to forceably lock it and I always feel like I’m going to break it.4. For $300, you’d think they could at least include a coffee scooper…nope.5. The steaming wand will shoot out a stream of water first and unlike my other one, doesn’t give you time to avoid that and put it in the jug without causing a huge mess. I have to let it squirt out the water, turn it off for a second and put the pitcher under it and turn it back on.6. I use the same brand of coffee as I did with my Infuser and it doesn’t taste as good as it used to (is it different water possibly?).7. There’s no on/off button. To turn off you have to hold down 2 buttons simultaneously.Pros:1. It’s small.2. It heats up fast.3. It’s better coffee than a Keurig which is what I’d been having before I got this (yuck!!).4. The milk steams faster than my old one did and it was very clean, so it wasn’t due to that.That’s where the pros end. I was spoiled with my Infuser which I bought 2nd hand in another country and it worked flawlessly for at least 5 years (and still did when I sold it on). That’s why I chose Breville again. I couldn’t see paying the $600 or whatever they want for a new one, plus I don’t really have the counter space for it. Am I happy with this machine? Sort of but more disappointed after having used one of their better models. More than likely, I’ll end up replacing it if I can find a used one cheaply and then try to sell this one, even if it means taking up more space on the counter.
Cortney –
This espresso machine is so easy to use and pours great shots! I’m newer to the coffee world so I was nervous I wouldn’t be able to make good drinks on my own, but this machine makes it so so easy! Highly recommend.
Maria –
I had the same brand for over 20 years.The bambino is large and not as heavy.The only issue is that the porta filter and the filter baskets are so tight that I have to pull it out inserting a spoon on the side.Great coffee machine and great quality.
Rohith ChandranRohith Chandran –
I bought this to save money on cafe trips for soy lattes (especially with inflation and then tipflation on top of that). Unfortunately, after about 2 months of usage, I have to say that it’s somewhat failed on that mission, primarily because the steam is lukewarm and watery, so if you use alternative “milk”s like soy, or a smaller amount of dairy milk, the steamed result will basically be milk flavoured water.To its credit, it makes decent espresso shots with amazing crema, provided you have an appropriate grinder (Make sure it’s a grinder built for espresso grinds – or else you will have to use the pressurized portafilter basket and settle for so-called “fake” crema). The dial-in process has been very satisfying so far.As far as build quality, looks and dimensions are concerned – these have all been covered in several YouTube reviews, and I don’t have anything further to add. It looks good, is very compact, and starts up and is ready to go in literally 3 seconds after plugging in. Despite the chrome finish, it is very lightweight, so putting the portafilter in is slightly annoying, since you have to hold the machine down with one hand. Latte art has been very challenging to do with this machine, though I’m not 100% sure yet that it’s not something on my end.Breville support is awful. I put in a ticket about the issue a week after purchase because I wasn’t sure if I received a defective unit, or if this was par for the course. A month and a half later, it’s still open with no measurable progress, with them responding infrequently to stall by asking details like serial number etc. – which are all available on their support hub website since I registered the machine with them. Everytime they respond, they also trot out the “we’re getting lots of support email, so our responses will be delayed” excuse, which I could have understood had their responses been actual responses, and not obvious stall tactics to ensure my unit falls outside the return window.I would recommend picking up the Dedica Arte + a naked portafilter for this price. From what I’ve seen on YouTube, the flavour of the coffee that machine brews isn’t far off from this one, and even if that machine also dispensed similarly wet steam, you’d at least have a naked portafilter which will help you in the espresso dial-in process. If you don’t really care about dialing-in, you could forego the portafilter and save $50 instead.See picture for how watery the steam is. This is after the initial steam purge to get water out of the wand, so this is all condensation.
Marty V –
I tried a popular and well-reviewed machine on Amazon initially, and it’s no comparison to this little machine. Yes, it’s more money but completely worth it for something you’re gonna use every day. I ended up buying quite a few accessories to get the coffee coming out how I want it. But out-of-the-box the coffee tastes awesome.
Amazon Customer –
Ive made a few cups now and im still toying around with it to make it just how i like but honestly I’ve made the best cups I’ve ever had with this thing. Granted I’m in rural NM and my two coffee shops have no idea what a flat white is but still excellent coffee. The steaming wand is the best part. I had cheaper quality machine before and man this wand feels much sturdier and can really steam and make some great microfoam. I bought a pretty good grinder like all the Reddit posts say to do, the encore, a scale, and barista tools. Overall, I’m very pleased. The only down side that I’ve noticed is the build quality of the entire unit is a little less than I’d hope for. It feels a little light and when i go to lock the portafilter in place, I have to hold the entire unit down to keep it from moving.
c. lam –
I don’t have to go to st..b..ks to get an espresso fix. For most cases this one produces acceptable espresso. I understand its limitations, so the only complain is the difficulty to get the portafilter in and out.
christy –
I wore my first one out using it multiple times a day for 2 or more people for 5 years. I just bought a new one. The cost of any brand of these machines is high but when u calculate the use and quality of coffee, it’s worth it. I love Breville products and this is no different. It’s easy to clean, has a reminder, and doesn’t take the whole counter. The shot is perfect and I have no issues at all with it.
N-WatermanN-Waterman –
I’ve only made one latte so far just got it today. I used Starbucks espresso beans I had them grind them for espresso and tasted just like the latte I buy there!! Worth the money for sure. It’s not loud at all, performance is great and easy to use after a lot of research. Appearance seems to be durable… I’ll let you know after using this for awhile longer.. but I did a lot of researching espresso machines and definitely recommend this machine.. update- so i’ve made a few more lattes they all come out tasting great a little bit of a water mess but after a lot of research, I realize that just happens with these and you just wanna leave the Portafilter and after you’re done and let it drip while you’re drinking your drink, then it will come out without the water on the top. Also, I realized if you run a 2 cup with the porta filter in before you make your espresso to prime it and make it hot then you take it out and you add your espresso and tamp it and make your drink. I did order a puck screen it seems that you put it on top of your espresso after you tamp it to keep the top clean. You still have to clean it but at least the grind don’t get up there, or so I’ve read. I will update again once I get everything I orderedUpdate- I bought a 30 pound tamp and a leveler which did make a big difference, and once i found the right amount of grinds to put in my 2 cup my espresso has tasted better. I’m having a hard time getting the milk to froth correctly but with practice I’m getting better. I’m definitely happy with the bambino but wish I got a better one due to the fact that you have to know what you’re doing and I’m new to this but this one works better each time I make a latte.
TS –
First time I’ve ever tried making espresso at home, so I was a little nervous about starting with a pretty basic machine like this instead of the fancy ones that cost four or five times more, but will make any espresso drink you want with a simple push of the button.This is not that machine. Instead, you have to actually learn how to make espresso. It took me half a dozen shots during the first week with this machine to get a coffee from it that I felt was worth the money and time spent making it. I enjoyed reading up about how to make good coffee with one of these machines. For me, learning about how to do it right was part of the appeal, so happy camper here.I’m now turning out a flat white at home that rivals the ones I get when I travel to Australia.One thing I didn’t really like about this machine is the tamper. It’s pretty flimsy and light weight, so I’d recommend buying one separately.Also, you’re going to need a good grinder. We bought a burr grinder for grinding our beans for the automatic drip coffee machine, but it won’t grind fine enough to make a proper espresso shot. We’re going to keep using grinder we have and suffer the less than perfect results, but honestly I wish I’d known how important the grinder is to getting a good espresso shot. Something to consider if you’re a first timer like I was.
TS –
First time I’ve ever tried making espresso at home, so I was a little nervous about starting with a pretty basic machine like this instead of the fancy ones that cost four or five times more, but will make any espresso drink you want with a simple push of the button.This is not that machine. Instead, you have to actually learn how to make espresso. It took me half a dozen shots during the first week with this machine to get a coffee from it that I felt was worth the money and time spent making it. I enjoyed reading up about how to make good coffee with one of these machines. For me, learning about how to do it right was part of the appeal, so happy camper here.I’m now turning out a flat white at home that rivals the ones I get when I travel to Australia.One thing I didn’t really like about this machine is the tamper. It’s pretty flimsy and light weight, so I’d recommend buying one separately.Also, you’re going to need a good grinder. We bought a burr grinder for grinding our beans for the automatic drip coffee machine, but it won’t grind fine enough to make a proper espresso shot. We’re going to keep using grinder we have and suffer the less than perfect results, but honestly I wish I’d known how important the grinder is to getting a good espresso shot. Something to consider if you’re a first timer like I was.
Carl Sylvia –
This unit is exactly what I was looking for. Perfect for a quick espresso in the morning without the insane Starbucks prices. Great quality product as always from Breville and at a fantastic price point.
Brittney Deckard –
This is very easy to use. My daily Starbucks drink was costing me too much so I decided to get this machine. It is so nice to start the day with a drink I know is exactly how I want it. I bought a different tamper, but I’m sure the plastic one it came with is just fine. The milk steamer works great. I worked at Starbucks for a couple of months years ago. Watch some videos if you aren’t getting this steamer to work how you like it. The negative reviews on this are user error. The only issue is that it doesn’t stop when it gets to the proper temperature. It would cost more if it did. So, buy a more expensive one or time it. The espresso maker pours enough for a single shot or a double shot. It comes with both sizes. Fill it up. Tamp it. Put it in and push the button. Easy.
darkcities –
This little espresso machine is straight to the point and easy to use. Makes excellent espressos. I make iced ones everyday.
Alicia –
El café sale con un buen sabor calienta rápido el agua
DJS –
i bought this because of its compact size so I could take it in my teardrop camper. I now use it as my daily espresso machine at home – I like it a lot. It’s easy to use and very fast. The steam wand makes great “textured” milk (that’s what the manual calls it). If you like cappuccinos you might prefer a more expensive machine that produces more foam – the milk I’ve “textured” has been creamy and excellent for lattes, but doesn’t make as much foam as other machines I’ve used. That could very well be due to my technique, or lack thereof, but I’m quite please with the lattes I’ve made every morning. I’m using 1% milk, so that could very well be the reason I’m not getting as much foam as my previous machines (I used to use whole milk). This is worth the extra money if you’re thinking of buying a cheaper machine. Espresso aficionados probably will be looking for a far more expensive one so no comparison is in order here.
Kacey –
I’ve been really happy with this machine. It’s a super easy to use. It was easy to make space for on my already cluttered coffee bar. The quick heating feature is a savior when trying to make an espresso based drink between feeding my baby. The large water tank means i dont have to remember to fill it that often. I’ve only tried the frothing wand once and made a huge mess but I want to try again once I’ve watched some videos on how to properly use it. The machine is also fairly easy to clean!
Amazon CustomerAmazon Customer –
Absolutely perfect little machine. Sleek aesthetics, easy operation, pulls great shots, steams microfoam no problem. As a former barista, I researched budget espresso machine options exhaustively and personally I wouldn’t go a tier lower than this. If you are picky about espresso, this is the amount of performance and quality level you’re going to want, while still being simple to operate and unfussy for daily use.Buy a spring loaded tamper, but otherwise it’s great out of the box. FYI a milk pitcher is included, I didn’t realize that and ordered a separate one.
Jimmy Cash –
This expresso machine is really expensive. I have to say that it does the job but its coffee is not that amazing really. I live in Central America, and it really doesn’t work with the coffee here. I guess you have to buy a special type of coffee for it to work as it should. However, I have bought expresso coffee and it still doesn’t make a good expresso coffee with the coffee of this region. On the other hand, I have made expresso coffee in Miami with this machine and it works perfect. So, I think it’s the coffee of this region that’s problematic. Have that in your mind when buying this machine. Thanks.
MB –
This is my first upgrade to a nicer machine, and while it took a good week to figure out the right combo of grind size and timing, it brews a mean espresso. Now it is super easy to use. I love that it literally heats up in a couple seconds and is ready to brew.
cl –
I love this little machine. I used to work at a cafe where the machines were thousands and thousands of dollars, but i feel like this lil guy can pull a comparable shot. Personally, I think this machine lacks more with the steaming feature. I wish that less water was put through. The wand itself is more difficult to clean even when done immediately. Also, the portafilter and tamp are very obviously cheap. It is unfortunate that such a capable and unique machine didn’t come with more quality accessories. I am going to replace very soon. Great at home beginner setup and looks great on counter plus it doesnt take up too much room.
CliffyPop –
I’ve made and drunk a lot of fine espresso via professional machines from California to Italy over decades, yet I’ve never owned any type of countertop espresso maker. I can’t accept inferior espresso an assumed they were all mediocre at best. I read many reviews and articles on tiny machines and the Bambino consistently rates high so I took a chance.SATISFIEDAfter a month of use I’m satisfied with the results. According to reviews, the power and materials are sufficient to make decent espresso without the warmup time of big machines. It seems to work quite well so far. I like how it’s computer controlled to ramp up steam and sustain for specific periods and temperature for optimal extraction from grounds (the amount of time steam is applied can be custom set too in its memory).CLOSE COMPARISONI suspect it’s not quite as steamy and high enough pressure to match a massive, multi-thousand dollar coffee bar machine, but it’s awfully close. I’ve used those machines and the difference in taste is negligible here. I can definitely make a satisfactory espresso or americano with the Bambino. Probably if you’re a super aficionado or professional manufacturer, you might be spoiled enough to care. Regular folks will likely not notice.STEAMED MILKThe steamed milk wand works well. It’s about as powerful and simple to steam milk as any large machine. I’ve made fluffier steamed milk on pro machines but the Bambino does a good enough job.HOT WATERI thought I’d use the hot water feature more because I prefer americanos. I never use it though because it’s too slow. The water gets hot enough but the stream is so thin that I have to stand there waiting too long. I just use an electric kettle instead. This was one reason I went with the first gen Bambino (the newer version doesn’t have a separate hot water spout). Now I kind of wish I went with the second gen since that seems to be more powerful.SMALL FOOTPRINTI also love how small the Bambino is. It sticks out pretty far but other wise length/width is surprisingly tiny. I can hardly believe how small it is and fits in even the tiniest kitchens.AUTOMATED CLEANINGThere’s a convenient cleaning feature too where you put de-caking powder or vinegar/water in the reservoir and then run the cycle. It takes care of the process and flushing.CUTENESSYou gotta love the name Bambino! It’s cute and familiar just like the name suggests. It looks great too. It has a satisfying steel coffee machine style that’s both modern and traditional.EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONSIn short, Breville exceeds expectations with a solid machine utilizing thoughtful and useful design resulting in great coffee in a quick and convenient package. I can make a perfect cup of coffee in about 3 minutes, including a quick grind of beans. It’s hard to put a price on that level of convenience and quality.FUTURE DIY I notice some people on forums upgrading parts for better performance. Maybe after the warranty expires, I’ll try enhancement since it can use at least a bit more heat and pressure.
Me gustó mucho, cumple con toda mi propósito –
La utilizo en la casa para disfrutar de un rico café
Stephanie Davidson –
Had the Barista Express before and it was fantastic. The best machine I’ve ever owned and totally reliable. I wanted to cut down on counter space and read that a separate grinder is better so switched to the Bambino. It’s really great as well, love the size and it’s easier to refill the water tank. Amazing coffee.Two minor complaints: first when you remove the basket it’s very awkward and pulls the whole machine, you kind of have to pry them apart because the machine has no weight. Secondly, the tamper and basket holder are really light plastic and feel cheap compared to the Express. Spent $10 on a new weighted tamper and it feels much nicer.
Jimmy Cash –
This expresso machine is really expensive. I have to say that it does the job but its coffee is not that amazing really. I live in Central America, and it really doesn’t work with the coffee here. I guess you have to buy a special type of coffee for it to work as it should. However, I have bought expresso coffee and it still doesn’t make a good expresso coffee with the coffee of this region. On the other hand, I have made expresso coffee in Miami with this machine and it works perfect. So, I think it’s the coffee of this region that’s problematic. Have that in your mind when buying this machine. Thanks.
Hannah M.Hannah M. –
I wanted to start my at home espresso journey with a true beginners machine and The Bambino fir the bill. It’s incredibly easy to use and makes a really stunning shot of espresso. Make sure to read the entire manual as there are tips for helping prep the machine before use. The steam wand takes a bit of finesse to get the milk to steam but once you get the hang of it, that too is really good.I got a used machine off of Amazon which was still in great condition. I got a frothing jug and a plastic tamper along with the 2 baskets and portafilter. The double shot basket is all I use. I haven’t gotten a bottomless portafilter yet but something to try. I would buy a new tamper that has some weight so you can tamp correctly.If you aren’t sure how invested you are going to get into espresso making (it’s a rabbit hole for sure) then I would highly recommend.
JPO –
As an ex-barista of over 7 years, and having used this machine for the last month, I can safely say this is an excellent choice for the price. I use it with the Breville smart grinder pro, and after some trial and error, have finally found the perfect combination to create an amazing at home espresso latte. Highly recommend!
AmandaAmanda –
This makes excellent espresso once you get the hang of it. Takes a little practice but it makes a nice cup that is better than big coffee chains
sabine bauwens –
This is our second one.One home, one in the RV, perfect for every day use
Ellie –
I’ve been using this espresso machine and it fits perfectly on my countertop thanks to its compact size. It’s like the small but mighty superhero of my kitchen, saving me from my daily villain – sleepiness. A round of applause for good design and functionality. I highly recommend it!
Ak –
I seldom submit reviews; however, I find it necessary to express my disappointment regarding the recent purchase, as the product arrived damaged. Despite my efforts to contact the manufacturer, the extended wait times on hold have further compounded my dissatisfaction. This expresso machine was particularly anticipated for use over the weekend, which adds to the inconvenience experienced.*** Update*** working with Amazon customer service was a breeze.
Blake –
This machine worked great! It was super easy to use. It made the espresso quickly and quietly. It was easy to clean. It had a sleek look and made great espresso
Spartee –
You will have to spend some time getting the grind and tamping amount right. If you don’t get it right, you won’t get the coffee (or you get watery non-crema). So give it a week or two of experiments to see where the sweet spots are. I found a 15 grind on my grinder and a light packing works best.The frother is timed and works well.I was a bit grouchy at first, but eventually the product won me over.
Amazon CustomerAmazon Customer –
No llegó la herramienta de limpieza para la punta y la canasta del vaporizador
faylun sanchezfaylun sanchez –
Buena cafetera para el precio y calidad grasias a amazon por su servicio y al vendedor todo como se describe en la página..
Sergei Ponomarev –
Solid build, great espresso machine! Pure luxury. I am making cappuccino every day.
Amazon CustomerAmazon Customer –
You can get nicer stuff if you’re really into espresso but this will work great for the average person not wanting to go to Starbucks all the time.
Rohith ChandranRohith Chandran –
I bought this to save money on cafe trips for soy lattes (especially with inflation and then tipflation on top of that). Unfortunately, after about 2 months of usage, I have to say that it’s somewhat failed on that mission, primarily because the steam is lukewarm and watery, so if you use alternative “milk”s like soy, or a smaller amount of dairy milk, the steamed result will basically be milk flavoured water.To its credit, it makes decent espresso shots with amazing crema, provided you have an appropriate grinder (Make sure it’s a grinder built for espresso grinds – or else you will have to use the pressurized portafilter basket and settle for so-called “fake” crema). The dial-in process has been very satisfying so far.As far as build quality, looks and dimensions are concerned – these have all been covered in several YouTube reviews, and I don’t have anything further to add. It looks good, is very compact, and starts up and is ready to go in literally 3 seconds after plugging in. Despite the chrome finish, it is very lightweight, so putting the portafilter in is slightly annoying, since you have to hold the machine down with one hand. Latte art has been very challenging to do with this machine, though I’m not 100% sure yet that it’s not something on my end.Breville support is awful. I put in a ticket about the issue a week after purchase because I wasn’t sure if I received a defective unit, or if this was par for the course. A month and a half later, it’s still open with no measurable progress, with them responding infrequently to stall by asking details like serial number etc. – which are all available on their support hub website since I registered the machine with them. Everytime they respond, they also trot out the “we’re getting lots of support email, so our responses will be delayed” excuse, which I could have understood had their responses been actual responses, and not obvious stall tactics to ensure my unit falls outside the return window.I would recommend picking up the Dedica Arte + a naked portafilter for this price. From what I’ve seen on YouTube, the flavour of the coffee that machine brews isn’t far off from this one, and even if that machine also dispensed similarly wet steam, you’d at least have a naked portafilter which will help you in the espresso dial-in process. If you don’t really care about dialing-in, you could forego the portafilter and save $50 instead.See picture for how watery the steam is. This is after the initial steam purge to get water out of the wand, so this is all condensation.
C. Lopez –
Decent machine for the price point. Seems well made! Be prepared to spend some time dialing this into a machine that works for you. It took me about two weeks to finally dial in my shoots. If you have a good grinder, only use your NON-Pressurized cups. Works so much better. If you buy your espresso pre ground go with pressurized!
Peter –
I recently moved to the other side of the country, and one of my first housewarming gifts was the Bambino that I purchased for myself. It has been a real treat to come home after long shifts and make myself a nice latte. This is made out of high-quality components, and I believe it will last, hopefully, when I move to the other side of the country again
Joseph Goedecke –
I’ve had several Delonghi ECP espresso machines over the years. These cost about $150 and work reasonably well. After splurging and buying the Breville Bambino, I’ll never go back.The Breville Bambino features the 3 second heatup, which drastically improves heating consistency, time it takes to make a latte or espresso. This single feature of improved temperature control significantly improves Crema and milk frothing. Ever read reviews of frothing milk to a paint like consistency and doing latte art? Well you’re easily ready with this machine. The whirlpool of milk this thing creates will blow you away with the powerful steam wand.I was between this and the Breville Bambino Plus. The only real difference between the Plus model is the auto milk frothing (which takes all the fun out of it), some slightly nicer accessories (the tamper on this model is just plastic, but works just fine!), and it has a 3-way valve so when you stop your espresso flow there are no drips (anyone looking at a mid level machine will not have any quality impact over the few drips that happen on this base model).All in all, save $200 over the Bambino Plus model and welcome to Coffee shop level lattes and espresso.
PKR –
After our DeLonghi machine died, we decided to buy the Breville Bambino. It required us to develop new skills, so the learning curve was quite steep. We had never weighed the beans before, nor used a funnel to get the grounds into the portafilter. (with our old one the matching grinder delivered the grounds directly into the portafilter.) We also had to learn how to froth the milk, which is something we’re still working on. It’s all worth it because this machine produces wonderful tasting coffee!
Phil –
So far the Bambino lives up to its description, we are satisfied and can recommend this product and it is well made! PA Colorado
AwC –
This things awesome- so much better and cheaper then the nespresso machine I was using – foam wand is the way to go, forget the frother magnets
Reinaldo –
I already have one and now bought this one for my daughter
Del Del –
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Well, allow me to say, this is the first machine I have had since the 1980s was it and that one Hoovered. Finally tried a unit, one of the many seemingly all variants of the same 51mm units. I had to send it back because, while very nice at the price point I feel it (and they) are probably best – and aimed at – milk coffee drinks and not actually espresso.Some, seems all similar did, have something the Bambino lacks – more metal. In feel (if there is such a thing) they, or at least mine – felt substantially more robust. It felt actually like better quality. But I couldn’t adjust the water and couldn’t get enough coffee in the portafilter. Maybe, some other options would fit the 51mm unit. I couldn’t confirm it.This unit has a lot of plastic in it including the group head. BUT! It can adjust/learn pump-run time (adjust the water volume indirectly). The temperature is non adjustable. But I don’t think water temp (as long as it is very near boiling) is really a variable most home espresso drinkers would benefit from – especially the beginners and novices.With the thermocoil design I understand it has, it heats in like 3 literal seconds. Steam is good (but I drink simple espresso so I am honestly not much help in evaluating that part). The wand has good articulation.I do like that Breville is big enough that plenty of 54mm baskets, portafilters, screens and papers are available – including bottomless.While I do like the unit’s function and it has everything I wanted, it does feel cheap for the value proposition. I don’t think it will hold up well for the length of time I keep appliances. It might. But, I do worry that the fact it knows how long it has been powered up/plugged in – makes me wonder if Breville embedded a count-down timer to planned obsolescence. I hope not, but the manual is clear in disclosure that it’s recording usage data.I added a picture of three pucks/cakes (whatever term you like) within the first 24hours of receipt. The two dark ones were with pre-ground 6 month old (or longer) coffee and the third was with Folgers Classic drip grind.Yes, I do wish the entire Breville line was built on a standard 58mm group head (I do prefer a thinner cake per dose). And I do worry if it has an internal count-down to death timer and if the plastic will hold up.Edit: (added a bottomless portafilter and IMS basket)They — finally — came today. While these are aftermarket non-Breville parts, I added a video of a shot. (Replaced that because it was a little dark – new video has a little spurt – welcome to aftermarket bottomless portafilters. It happens sometimes)I don’t claim to be an expert since it’s been 35, idk 40ish years since I have had an espresso machine. I’m just now re-learning how to do it (or learning this machine); but, since I detest coffee snobs who discourage much more than they impress, I wanted to share.No, I’m sure it’s not “perfect” but with this machine you really have potential without having to sell a kidney to pay for it (oops, I hope that doesn’t violate ‘community standards’.I might add some other still pictures later if anyone cares. Not a knock on the OEM portafilter & basket but I do prefer the aftermarket rimless basket because it is possible to make a larger diameter and thinner puck (ceteris paribus).The coffee in the shot was Lavazza Crema e Aroma which I guess from the “use by” was 3 months old. And, yes I prefer some blend of robusto (anywhere between 1/3rd and 2/3rds). If you would like to try your hand at espresso without variable overload and/or no room to experiment, then this machine is a pretty good starter.Edit 2:I added a picture of the IMS basket (2 pucks). Why? Well, so you could compare to the first picture where the stock Breville rimmed basket was used. Really there are only about 2 point. The stock basket has a rim (grips inside the portafilter great) and because the walls have draft – the pucks pop out easy. The downside is, that same taper that turns loose of the post brew coffee is less forgiving on volume of coffee powder. A light dose is hard to tamp and a large one won’t fit or gets up into the shower head they call it.The aftermarket I chose is rimless so it tamps better. Not having a taper/draft-walled, your puck can be thinner for the same dose and there are more holes. So, you get more variables to dial in. The downside is, the pucks will eject in their entirety, you just might need an extra whack.The combo of bottomless & basket seems to be a trade-off. I seem to get more Crema and a rare spurt (see the video). So far, spurts have been rare. It’s no defect, just a tamp made by a human.THE REASON I added the aftermarket parts to the review isn’t to hurt Breville or over criticise them, no quite the opposite. While a little cheaply built like the plastic group head and more expensive than a 51mm manual espresso machine, being slightly larger portafilter size (I wish it was 58mm) – it heats quickly, is semi automatic and you can always add accessories later if you want. Don’t have to, but you can.
Brandon L. Little –
This is the new centerpiece of my espresso universe. It is a 1-touch, automated espresso maker that makes liquid gold.(Assuming you have good, freshly ground beans, which you would if you’re buying this machine.)*Minor* complaints: the portafilter handle feels a bit light and plasticky. The filter baskets don’t come out without being pried on by a spare basket or butter knife.I’ve been using it several times a day for a week and it’s outstanding. I love the small footprint and ease of operation.
Molly Johnson –
My french press was not cutting it. I wanted coffee shop lattes at home but was a bit intimidated by espresso machines. This machine is so straight forward and easy to use. Now I make lattes better than the coffee shops.
Amazon Customer –
Very easy to use (I read the instructions) and comes with everything you need. I was sceptical about getting a machine without the bean grinder but I don’t miss it. Just get your coffee beans ground at your fav coffee shop and you’re good to go. Makes a fabulous espresso for a machine that is under $400 bones. Highly recommend.
Aaron WAaron W –
First of all, I bought it refurbished to save twenty percent. Absolutely no issues. Still shiny and sexy. You will need a good, conical burr grinder. Most of making a good shot is the grind, both coarseness/fineness and amount. Once you figure that out, let the espresso machine handle the test. I gifted our old $700 Breville machine to a family member and opted for a smaller counter footprint and I have no regrets.Optionally, I recommend getting a better portafilter since the one provided is usable, but lacks the heft I like. Really check out the aftermarket accessories, too. Upgrade your ritual.
CliffyPop –
I’ve made and drunk a lot of fine espresso via professional machines from California to Italy over decades, yet I’ve never owned any type of countertop espresso maker. I can’t accept inferior espresso an assumed they were all mediocre at best. I read many reviews and articles on tiny machines and the Bambino consistently rates high so I took a chance.SATISFIEDAfter a month of use I’m satisfied with the results. According to reviews, the power and materials are sufficient to make decent espresso without the warmup time of big machines. It seems to work quite well so far. I like how it’s computer controlled to ramp up steam and sustain for specific periods and temperature for optimal extraction from grounds (the amount of time steam is applied can be custom set too in its memory).CLOSE COMPARISONI suspect it’s not quite as steamy and high enough pressure to match a massive, multi-thousand dollar coffee bar machine, but it’s awfully close. I’ve used those machines and the difference in taste is negligible here. I can definitely make a satisfactory espresso or americano with the Bambino. Probably if you’re a super aficionado or professional manufacturer, you might be spoiled enough to care. Regular folks will likely not notice.STEAMED MILKThe steamed milk wand works well. It’s about as powerful and simple to steam milk as any large machine. I’ve made fluffier steamed milk on pro machines but the Bambino does a good enough job.HOT WATERI thought I’d use the hot water feature more because I prefer americanos. I never use it though because it’s too slow. The water gets hot enough but the stream is so thin that I have to stand there waiting too long. I just use an electric kettle instead. This was one reason I went with the first gen Bambino (the newer version doesn’t have a separate hot water spout). Now I kind of wish I went with the second gen since that seems to be more powerful.SMALL FOOTPRINTI also love how small the Bambino is. It sticks out pretty far but other wise length/width is surprisingly tiny. I can hardly believe how small it is and fits in even the tiniest kitchens.AUTOMATED CLEANINGThere’s a convenient cleaning feature too where you put de-caking powder or vinegar/water in the reservoir and then run the cycle. It takes care of the process and flushing.CUTENESSYou gotta love the name Bambino! It’s cute and familiar just like the name suggests. It looks great too. It has a satisfying steel coffee machine style that’s both modern and traditional.EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONSIn short, Breville exceeds expectations with a solid machine utilizing thoughtful and useful design resulting in great coffee in a quick and convenient package. I can make a perfect cup of coffee in about 3 minutes, including a quick grind of beans. It’s hard to put a price on that level of convenience and quality.FUTURE DIY I notice some people on forums upgrading parts for better performance. Maybe after the warranty expires, I’ll try enhancement since it can use at least a bit more heat and pressure.
Judy Rothmeyer –
Love the small footprint and the three second warmup as well as the auto shut off. Pulls a nice shot and makes perfect foam. Can’t imagine why I would need the more expensive version of this machine.
Sergei Pedan –
Braville is an Australian company and Aussies know a lot about coffee, for example, there are no sturbucks in Australia, which means they won’t drink bad coffee.Pros:- the most important thing is the quality and flavor of the coffee – it’s great! (don’t believe those people who tell you this one is not. This machine makes great coffee)- design, and it’s not about how it looks – for me it doesn’t matter at all. design is functionality, and it’s perfect, everything is thought out, everything is convenient.- fast heating. not a very critical feature but a nice bonus.Cons:there are none.I’m so impressed of quality that also ordered Breville Pro Grinder. review upcoming
Rsdeak –
This espresso machine is truly a “bambino”. I sent it back. Save your money and buy the Infuser. This was to replace a 15 year old predecessor to the Infuser that died. Can you make a decent cup with the Bambino but it very light weight.
Danielle Schmidt –
Love this machine! It’s a great machine for the price. It makes amazing micro-foam for lattes and good espresso. It’s easy to use and doesn’t take up a lot of space.
Catherine J –
This was my first espresso machine, and it was a great choice. Like starting anything new, it takes a bit of learning and experimenting, but once you figure out what works best, it’s awesome. I would say that if you aren’t happy at first, it’s worthwhile to learn and try some more, because it’s really worth the learning curve. We watched lots of YouTube videos to perfect our process. It’s also worth getting a decent grinder. The size of this machine is great/ doesn’t take up too much space. I’ve owned it for six months now and haven’t had any issues!
Matt Crenshaw –
Wife loves it but it is more work. We had a Nespresso before with a automatic milk thingy. This one has the milk thingy like a coffee shop if that’s your thing. It is much cheaper to operate than buying the pods.
Mulva –
This was an upgrade from my first machine ($150). It needs a much coarser grind (5.25 in the Fellow Opus) but it produces a solid crema. So satisfying!
Ian BrennanIan Brennan –
I’ve been so busy enjoying it that I forgot to leave a review. I have hard water at my property so I was scared to use such a fancy machine. We’ve had it for a few months now and its never prompted me to descale. The espresso tastes amazing and I use it almost everyday. Its easy to clean and not too loud. I use it mainly for iced lattes. I would recommend this product for a latte lover on a budget!
ananna –
There is a lot of hype on this machine, but I would say this little machine does not live up to the hype. Breville cut corners everywhere they could, and by that, I mean the porta filter, it is a piece of garbage, lightweight and plastic. I hate the thought of hot water hitting plastic. I already replaced it. It does not have a power button. When setting up a new espresso machine there is an element of trial and error to time a shot. Yes, you can change the brewing time, but then it stays like that and you have to reset back to factory setting to tweak it a second time, never mind 3rd, 4th and 5th. I would rather time my shots from scratch. The warming tray on top never gets warm. I also measured the temperature of the shot and it was 138. Also, the tamper is extremely lightweight and needs to be replaced.I guess Breville wants to sell the extra products.Once I get the grind and time set correctly, I will like this machine better. I love the design, it is very cute and the milk pitcher is sturdy. And of course, It is great that it heats up quickly. That is why I am keeping it, but down the road I will get the Infuser.
Chase Mills –
Any lower price point than this and your espresso machine will not be worth it. This is the cheapest most functional espresso machine you can buy.
Del Del –
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Well, allow me to say, this is the first machine I have had since the 1980s was it and that one Hoovered. Finally tried a unit, one of the many seemingly all variants of the same 51mm units. I had to send it back because, while very nice at the price point I feel it (and they) are probably best – and aimed at – milk coffee drinks and not actually espresso.Some, seems all similar did, have something the Bambino lacks – more metal. In feel (if there is such a thing) they, or at least mine – felt substantially more robust. It felt actually like better quality. But I couldn’t adjust the water and couldn’t get enough coffee in the portafilter. Maybe, some other options would fit the 51mm unit. I couldn’t confirm it.This unit has a lot of plastic in it including the group head. BUT! It can adjust/learn pump-run time (adjust the water volume indirectly). The temperature is non adjustable. But I don’t think water temp (as long as it is very near boiling) is really a variable most home espresso drinkers would benefit from – especially the beginners and novices.With the thermocoil design I understand it has, it heats in like 3 literal seconds. Steam is good (but I drink simple espresso so I am honestly not much help in evaluating that part). The wand has good articulation.I do like that Breville is big enough that plenty of 54mm baskets, portafilters, screens and papers are available – including bottomless.While I do like the unit’s function and it has everything I wanted, it does feel cheap for the value proposition. I don’t think it will hold up well for the length of time I keep appliances. It might. But, I do worry that the fact it knows how long it has been powered up/plugged in – makes me wonder if Breville embedded a count-down timer to planned obsolescence. I hope not, but the manual is clear in disclosure that it’s recording usage data.I added a picture of three pucks/cakes (whatever term you like) within the first 24hours of receipt. The two dark ones were with pre-ground 6 month old (or longer) coffee and the third was with Folgers Classic drip grind.Yes, I do wish the entire Breville line was built on a standard 58mm group head (I do prefer a thinner cake per dose). And I do worry if it has an internal count-down to death timer and if the plastic will hold up.Edit: (added a bottomless portafilter and IMS basket)They — finally — came today. While these are aftermarket non-Breville parts, I added a video of a shot. (Replaced that because it was a little dark – new video has a little spurt – welcome to aftermarket bottomless portafilters. It happens sometimes)I don’t claim to be an expert since it’s been 35, idk 40ish years since I have had an espresso machine. I’m just now re-learning how to do it (or learning this machine); but, since I detest coffee snobs who discourage much more than they impress, I wanted to share.No, I’m sure it’s not “perfect” but with this machine you really have potential without having to sell a kidney to pay for it (oops, I hope that doesn’t violate ‘community standards’.I might add some other still pictures later if anyone cares. Not a knock on the OEM portafilter & basket but I do prefer the aftermarket rimless basket because it is possible to make a larger diameter and thinner puck (ceteris paribus).The coffee in the shot was Lavazza Crema e Aroma which I guess from the “use by” was 3 months old. And, yes I prefer some blend of robusto (anywhere between 1/3rd and 2/3rds). If you would like to try your hand at espresso without variable overload and/or no room to experiment, then this machine is a pretty good starter.Edit 2:I added a picture of the IMS basket (2 pucks). Why? Well, so you could compare to the first picture where the stock Breville rimmed basket was used. Really there are only about 2 point. The stock basket has a rim (grips inside the portafilter great) and because the walls have draft – the pucks pop out easy. The downside is, that same taper that turns loose of the post brew coffee is less forgiving on volume of coffee powder. A light dose is hard to tamp and a large one won’t fit or gets up into the shower head they call it.The aftermarket I chose is rimless so it tamps better. Not having a taper/draft-walled, your puck can be thinner for the same dose and there are more holes. So, you get more variables to dial in. The downside is, the pucks will eject in their entirety, you just might need an extra whack.The combo of bottomless & basket seems to be a trade-off. I seem to get more Crema and a rare spurt (see the video). So far, spurts have been rare. It’s no defect, just a tamp made by a human.THE REASON I added the aftermarket parts to the review isn’t to hurt Breville or over criticise them, no quite the opposite. While a little cheaply built like the plastic group head and more expensive than a 51mm manual espresso machine, being slightly larger portafilter size (I wish it was 58mm) – it heats quickly, is semi automatic and you can always add accessories later if you want. Don’t have to, but you can.
Paul E.Paul E. –
If your goal is to learn how to pour a beautiful latte, this is a great option.The unit is quite compact, heats up basically immediately, and has great steaming power! I often struggled to get my milk to pool on top of my crema with my old espresso machine, but on my very first try with this one, I got an amazing result (photo attached). My old machine would take ages to heat and froth my milk, but this one takes just seconds! I think that’s one of the biggest differences that helped the most.As far as the quality of the espresso pour goes, I’d call it average. There’s no temperature or pressure control, and you only have two preconfigured options of single or double shot. Those two presets can be adjusted, though it’s unclear if it adjusts the time of the shot or the volume (the manual doesn’t say). Other than that, you can’t really dial in any settings to get the best flavors out of your particular roast, but it does a decent enough job as is.
Aaron WAaron W –
First of all, I bought it refurbished to save twenty percent. Absolutely no issues. Still shiny and sexy. You will need a good, conical burr grinder. Most of making a good shot is the grind, both coarseness/fineness and amount. Once you figure that out, let the espresso machine handle the test. I gifted our old $700 Breville machine to a family member and opted for a smaller counter footprint and I have no regrets.Optionally, I recommend getting a better portafilter since the one provided is usable, but lacks the heft I like. Really check out the aftermarket accessories, too. Upgrade your ritual.
claire –
I ordered this espresso machine after I ordered and returned another brand, where the steam wand didn’t work. This one is great!!It’s easy to use and the instructions they provide are easy to understand. They tell you what steps to take to maintain your machine as well.The machine is loud, but I assume that’s the case with any espresso machine.The espresso it extracts is delicious and the steam wand is a breeze to use (I just need to learn the proper technique.)The countertop foot print is small.The parts feel quality.Only one complaint is the filters are hard to remove. I usually have to use a butter knife to pop it out.Overall this is a great first time machine! Highly recommended.
HerbertHerbert –
Had this machine for 6+ months and it is really impressive for the money. The 3 second warmup is unbeatable. I do complement the machine with a 1zpresso JMAX espresso grinder and I cant overstate enough how much this contributes to my shot quality. I dose around 16g of coffee in my IMS basket, use RDT/WDT, and a puck screen for cleanliness/higher extraction. Most important factor is the coffee beans! Black cat from intelligentsia is a good place to start. I hold the double shot button manually every time for preinfusion and let go after the shot pulls 28g on my scale. End result is around 32+g within a 30 sec pull. Good espresso from a machine under 3 benjamins. The next best machines would be a modded gaggia pro or a profitec GO, for hundreds more. Although, they don’t come close to the bambino’s convenience. BTW, the included portafilter is cheap so I used a heavier bottomless 54mm from the get go.Since there is no solenoid valve in this machine, the drip tray does not fill up very often. I find it is sufficient in size provided your blank shots go into a vessel/cup every time. The water tank is more than sufficient in its capacity and has a super convenient finger loop to quickly detach/reattach if you carry to fridge or sink.Milk steaming is obviously not class leading but consistently does the job! The pump starts immediately at the push of a button and you are ready to steam within 10 seconds every time! The milk texture/microfoam this machine can produce is very capable in the right hands. Even I can make something resembling latte art(see pic).If you make a lot of milk drinks, this machine is awesome! If you are looking for higher quality espresso shots, Id go for a Flair 58, modded Gaggia or Profitec GO. We are latte drinkers so I get my occasional espresso fix from local cafes sporting $30k lever pulls that I could never match at home.*I never descale this machine and never will, only filtered water goes in the tank. My last Breville Infuser machine lasted 5+ years but ultimately died after a routine descale. It’s a personal decision that other coffee connoisseurs have also affirmed in regard to descaling a bambino.
Amazon CustomerAmazon Customer –
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My entire setup is budget; you’ll see the Sowtech grinder in my photo to accompany this little Breville, but it really doesn’t take much to get outstanding quality shots from the little dude.First thing first, you’ll hear lots of these reviews bang on about a naked or bottomless portafilter; to be clear: the main purpose of one of these is so you can see what you’re pulling, to enable to you fine tune your technique. You by no means have to have one, but it does make a difference.Anyway, I added a few things (all low-end), and as you can see in my video/photos I’m pulling great shots, with little to zero channeling. The most important component is the grinder; you can’t rely on pre-ground supermarket coffee if you want great crema and taste. Here are all the things I’ve bought with mine (all from Amazon):- Sowtech grinder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C7G5Z57F?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details- IKAPE bottomless portafilter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QYRCK6J?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details- IKAPE spring loaded tamper https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMXNLVM4?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details- Zolunu WDT https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BHKGMR83?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details- Breville mini knock box ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details- Dosing funnel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JPXXT9R?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details- Glasses https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N07HRYP?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_detailsThat's the lot! You can fall down a rabbit hole with espresso, but that lot will make you outstanding coffee. The WDT tool sounds silly, but it eliminated channeling (spraying) with the bottomless filter, so don’t overlook it. If you just use the machine as-is, with no upgrades, it still makes great coffee, but these things can really up your game.In terms of the machine itself, it looks smart, the water heats up within 3 seconds (including hot water form the wand which we use for tea, gravy etc). The milk steamer is really good; It’s pretty much idiot proof.So no real complaints from me yet. The tamper is a bit meh, and if you’re not familiar with the pressure you need to apply I would recommend picking up a spring loaded one as per my list above. I’ll report back after I’ve had it for a few months, but for the price I don’t think you can beat it.
Anna –
Pros: It’s a pretty small machine and doesn’t take up a lot of space in my small kitchen. The taste of the espresso and lattes is just as good as my Barista Express. Top notch..Biggest Pro: The speed of steaming is SO much faster than my Breville Barista Express. It’s almost as fast as the professional espresso machine I use at my bakery. I’m truly blown away by this. (My Barista Express is about 6 years old, so I guess the technology has advanced!)Con: The portafilter that comes with the machine is plastic on the inside, which I don’t like. But since I have my old portafilter (all metal) from my Barista Express, I just use that one instead. The two are completely interchangeable. If you don’t have a quality portafilter already, I would go ahead and order a higher quality one from Breville when you buy this machine. The tamper is also plastic instead of metal, but that I can live with.0verall, I love this machine.
Michelon –
I was looking for a great simple espresso machine. This is the one! The noise is a little loud, but you get used to.