Sage Bambino vs Sage Bambino Plus: Which Should You Buy?

By the CremaCompare team · Updated November 4, 2026

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The Bambino and Bambino Plus are compact machines with fast ThermoJet heating and a 54 mm portafilter. The main difference is milk: the Plus has an automatic steam wand.

The main differences

	Sage Bambino	Sage Bambino Plus
Milk	Manual steam wand	Automatic steam wand (set temperature and texture)
Controls	Simple buttons	More buttons for milk settings
Size	Very compact	Compact
Price tier	Budget	Mid-range

Full specs

	Sage Bambino	Sage Bambino Plus
Type	Semi-automatic (no grinder)	Semi-automatic (no grinder)
Built-in grinder	No	No
Milk	Manual steam wand	Automatic steam wand (set temp and texture)
Portafilter	54 mm	54 mm
Price tier	Budget	Mid-range
Best for	People who want fast heat-up and a real steam wand in a very small machine	Latte and cappuccino drinkers with limited counter space

Specs are from the manufacturers. Always confirm on the retailer's listing before buying.

Choose the Sage Bambino if

You want to learn to steam milk by hand
You want the lowest price
You drink mostly espresso

Check price on Amazon

Sage Bambino review →

Choose the Sage Bambino Plus if

You want lattes without learning milk technique
Several people use the machine
You want consistent milk every time

Check price on Amazon

Sage Bambino Plus review →

Verdict

Both make the same espresso. Pick the Bambino if you want to learn milk skills or save money; pick the Bambino Plus if you want the machine to do the milk for you.

FAQ

Can the Bambino make latte art?

Yes. Its manual steam wand can make microfoam with practice.

Do they need a grinder?

Yes, neither has a grinder. Use a burr grinder or fresh espresso-grind coffee.