Breville Bambino Review
The simpler sibling of the Bambino Plus: the same fast ThermoJet heat-up and 54 mm portafilter, with a manual steam wand and a smaller footprint.
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Best for: People who want fast heat-up and a real steam wand in a very small machine
Key specs
| Width × depth × height | 19.7 × 32.4 × 31.8 cm |
|---|---|
| Water tank | 1.4 L |
| Type | Semi-automatic (no grinder) |
| Built-in grinder | No |
| Milk frothing | Manual steam wand |
| Portafilter | 54 mm |
| Price tier | Budget (see Amazon for today's price) |
📏 Will it fit under your kitchen cabinets? · 🖨️ Printable true-size template · 🛠️ Espresso machine troubleshooter · 📘 Instruction manuals on the official Breville website
Specs are from the manufacturer. Always confirm on the Amazon listing before buying, including that it is a 230–240 V model with an Australian plug.
Plugs and voltage in your country →
Pros
- Ready to brew within seconds of switching on
- Very compact
- 54 mm portafilter
- Manual steam wand can make microfoam for latte art
Cons
- No automatic milk frothing
- No grinder, so you need fresh ground coffee or a separate grinder
- Small water tank
Overview
The Bambino uses the same ThermoJet heating as the Bambino Plus, so it is ready in seconds. The main differences are a manual steam wand and a simpler control panel.
Without a grinder, the coffee you use matters most: buy fresh espresso-grind coffee or pair it with a burr grinder.
Who should skip it
You want the machine to froth milk for you (look at the Bambino Plus), or you want a built-in grinder.
What else you will need
- A burr grinder suited to espresso, or fresh espresso-grind coffee
- A milk jug
- A kitchen scale
🎬 Video guides
Videos by the maker or independent creators on YouTube. They load only when you tap play.
How to use it
Breville Bambino BES450: first use · Espresso Canada
How to use it
Breville Bambino Guide: pulling shots and frothing milk · Dylan's Home Espresso Bar
Verdict
A great small first machine if you are happy to learn to steam milk by hand.
Alternatives to consider
- De'Longhi Dedica: Small kitchens and first-time buyers on a budget
- De'Longhi Stilosa: Trying home espresso for the lowest cost
- De'Longhi Dedica Arte: Small kitchens where you still want to learn latte art