Breville Bambino Review

For coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the nuanced flavors of a well-crafted espresso, the journey often begins with finding the right machine. The Breville Bambino, an entry-level yet high-performing espresso machine, has captured the attention of both novices and seasoned baristas. Its compact size, affordable price, and ability to produce cafe-quality espresso make it a standout in a crowded market. This comprehensive review dives deep into the features, performance, and value of the Breville Bambino, helping you determine if it deserves a place in your kitchen.

Compact and Premium Design: The Perfect Fit for Small Spaces

One of the most compelling features of the Breville Bambino is its design. In a world where kitchen counter space is often at a premium, the Bambino’s compact footprint is a game-changer. Measuring just 6 inches wide, 12 inches high, and less than 14 inches deep, it’s small enough to fit in even the tightest of spaces. Despite its size, Breville has not compromised on quality. The Bambino boasts a sleek stainless steel finish, which not only adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen but also ensures long-lasting durability. This aesthetic appeal, combined with its robust construction, positions the Bambino as a premium product in the entry-level category.

The machine’s setup is designed with the user in mind. Whether you’re a first-time espresso machine owner or a seasoned pro, the Bambino is easy to assemble and start using. Breville includes all necessary accessories, such as a tamper, filter baskets (single- and double-wall), a high-quality metal jug for frothing milk, and a cleaning tool for the steam wand. Additionally, the package comes with descaling powder, which is crucial for maintaining the machine’s performance over time. This thoughtful inclusion highlights Breville’s attention to detail and commitment to providing a comprehensive coffee-making experience.

Rapid Heating System: Get Your Espresso in Seconds

A major advantage of the Breville Bambino is its rapid heat-up time, courtesy of Breville’s proprietary ThermoJet heating system. Unlike many machines that require several minutes to reach the optimal brewing temperature, the Bambino is ready to brew in just 3 seconds. This feature is particularly appealing for those who need their morning espresso quickly, without the wait associated with traditional espresso machines. The ThermoJet system not only speeds up the brewing process but also contributes to the overall consistency of the espresso shots, ensuring that the temperature is always ideal for extraction.

In comparison to other machines, even those in higher price brackets, the Bambino’s speed and efficiency are impressive. The quick start-up time does not come at the expense of performance; instead, it enhances the overall user experience, making it easier to integrate a high-quality espresso routine into even the busiest of mornings.

Espresso Quality: A Cafe Experience at Home

At the heart of any espresso machine is its ability to produce a quality shot, and the Breville Bambino does not disappoint. The machine is equipped with a 54-millimeter portafilter, a standard size used in commercial espresso machines. This portafilter plays a critical role in ensuring even extraction, which is essential for achieving a balanced and flavorful espresso shot. The Bambino also operates at 9 bars of pressure during extraction, the industry standard for producing a perfect espresso. This pressure level ensures that the water flows through the coffee grounds at the right rate, extracting the rich oils and flavors that define a well-crafted espresso.

Over an extended period of testing, users have consistently reported that the Bambino delivers excellent espresso with a robust flavor profile and a thick crema. The crema, a hallmark of a well-extracted espresso shot, adds to the overall texture and mouthfeel, enhancing the drinking experience. Coffee aficionados will appreciate the machine’s ability to highlight the unique characteristics of different coffee beans, whether they prefer a bright, fruity Ethiopian coffee or a deep, chocolatey Brazilian roast.

One of the Bambino’s strengths is its consistency. Whether you’re pulling your first shot of the day or your tenth, the machine maintains its performance, delivering shot after shot with minimal variance in quality. This consistency is crucial for those who enjoy experimenting with different coffee beans and brewing techniques, as it allows for precise adjustments and repeatable results.

Manual Milk Steaming: Unleash Your Inner Barista

For many coffee lovers, the perfect espresso is just the beginning. The ability to create silky, frothy milk for lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based beverages is equally important. The Breville Bambino excels in this area, offering a manual steam wand that allows for precise control over the milk frothing process. Unlike automated steam wands, which may produce inconsistent results, the manual wand on the Bambino gives users the flexibility to texture their milk exactly how they like it.

The steam wand is capable of producing fine microfoam, essential for creating latte art and adding a creamy texture to your drinks. The ability to control the steam pressure and angle allows for more nuanced milk frothing, making it easier to achieve the perfect consistency for different drinks. Whether you’re making a dense, velvety cappuccino or a light, airy macchiato, the Bambino’s steam wand delivers professional-level results.

It’s important to note that while the Bambino’s steam wand is powerful and effective, it does require some practice to master. Unlike automatic steam wands, which handle the frothing process for you, the manual wand demands a bit of skill and patience. However, many users find this hands-on approach rewarding, as it allows them to hone their barista skills and achieve a more personalized coffee experience.

For those who prefer the convenience of automatic frothing, Breville offers the Bambino Plus, an upgraded version of the Bambino that includes an automatic steam wand. However, the additional cost and slight loss of control may make the original Bambino more appealing to those who value the craft of coffee making.

Ease of Use: A Balance Between Simplicity and Control

The Breville Bambino strikes an excellent balance between user-friendliness and the ability to customize your coffee-making process. As a semi-automatic machine, it requires some manual intervention, such as grinding, tamping, and milk frothing. However, these tasks are simplified by the machine’s intuitive design and clear instructions. The Bambino’s user interface is straightforward, with single-touch buttons for single or double shots, making it easy to use even for beginners.

The machine’s pre-infusion feature, where a small amount of water is released over the coffee grounds before the full pressure extraction begins, helps to even out the extraction process. This feature is particularly beneficial for those new to espresso making, as it reduces the impact of minor inconsistencies in grind size or tamping pressure, resulting in a more balanced shot.

Cleaning the Bambino is also relatively simple, which is an important consideration for any kitchen appliance. The drip tray is easy to remove and clean, and the machine features a full indicator that lets you know when it needs emptying. The steam wand requires regular cleaning to prevent milk residue from building up, but Breville includes a tool specifically designed to keep it clear. Additionally, the machine’s descaling process is straightforward and quick, taking about 10 minutes to complete.

Customization: Tailor Your Espresso to Your Preferences

While the Breville Bambino is not as customizable as some high-end espresso machines, it offers enough flexibility to satisfy most home baristas. The machine’s single-touch operation simplifies the process of making espresso, but it does not allow for adjustments to water temperature or pre-infusion time. However, the manual steam wand provides ample opportunity for customization in milk frothing, allowing users to fine-tune the texture and temperature of their milk to suit their preferences.

For those who enjoy experimenting with different brewing techniques, the Bambino’s consistent performance and manual controls offer a solid foundation for developing your barista skills. While it may not have the advanced features of more expensive machines, the Bambino’s simplicity is part of its charm, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users.

Price and Value: Affordable Excellence

One of the most attractive aspects of the Breville Bambino is its price. Retailing for around $300, it is one of the most affordable machines capable of producing cafe-quality espresso. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are new to espresso making or who are looking to upgrade from a less capable machine without breaking the bank.

While the Bambino does not include a built-in grinder, which is often found in higher-priced machines, this can actually be an advantage. Pairing the Bambino with a dedicated grinder, such as the Breville Smart Grinder Pro, allows for greater control over the grind size and consistency, which is crucial for achieving the best possible espresso.

For those who are serious about their coffee but are working within a budget, the Bambino offers exceptional value. It delivers high-quality espresso and milk froth without requiring a significant investment, making it an ideal choice for coffee lovers who want to enjoy cafe-quality drinks at home.

Final Verdict: The Breville Bambino Is a Must-Have for Coffee Enthusiasts

The Breville Bambino stands out as a compact, affordable, and high-performing espresso machine that punches well above its weight. Its ability to consistently deliver rich, flavorful espresso and silky microfoam, combined with its ease of use and stylish design, make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy high-quality coffee at home.

Whether you’re just starting your journey into the world of espresso or you’re a seasoned barista looking for a reliable machine that won’t take up too much space, the Bambino offers a compelling blend of performance, convenience, and value. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in more expensive machines, it more than makes up for it with its simplicity, consistency, and overall quality.

In conclusion, the Breville Bambino is a top contender in the entry-level espresso machine market, offering a cafe-quality coffee experience from the comfort of your own kitchen. Its compact size, premium build, and impressive performance make it a worthy investment for any coffee lover. Whether you’re pulling your first shot or your hundredth, the Bambino is sure to impress with its reliable and delicious results.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Breville Bambino

Is the Breville Bambino suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Breville Bambino is user-friendly and includes clear instructions, making it a great choice for beginners while also offering enough control for more experienced users.

Does the Breville Bambino have a built-in grinder?

No, the Breville Bambino does not have a built-in grinder. You’ll need to purchase a separate espresso-quality grinder to use with this machine.

How quickly does the Breville Bambino heat up?

The Breville Bambino features a ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to heat up and be ready to brew in just 3 seconds.

Can the Breville Bambino steam milk for lattes and cappuccinos?

Yes, the Bambino has a manual steam wand capable of producing cafe-quality microfoam, making it ideal for lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based drinks.

How much space does the Breville Bambino take up on the countertop?

The Breville Bambino is compact, measuring just 6 inches wide, 12 inches high, and less than 14 inches deep, making it ideal for small kitchens.

What is the difference between the Breville Bambino and the Bambino Plus?

The primary difference is that the Bambino Plus includes an automatic steam wand for easier milk frothing, while the Bambino has a manual steam wand, allowing more control over the frothing process.

How do you clean and maintain the Breville Bambino?

Cleaning the Bambino is straightforward: wipe down the steam wand, clean the portafilter, empty the drip tray, and periodically descale the machine using the included descaling solution.

Does the Breville Bambino allow for customization of espresso settings?

The Bambino offers limited customization; while it has preset options for single and double shots, the water temperature and pre-infusion settings cannot be adjusted.

Is the Breville Bambino durable?

Yes, the Bambino has a sturdy stainless steel build that ensures durability and longevity, even with regular use.

What type of espresso shots can I expect from the Breville Bambino?

The Bambino consistently produces high-quality espresso shots with rich flavor and thick crema, comparable to what you’d find in a cafe.

Breville Bambino Specifications

• Dimensions: 6 inches (W) x 12 inches (H) x 13.7 inches (D)
• Weight: 10.4 pounds (4.7 kg)
• Material: Brushed Stainless Steel
• Water Tank Capacity: 1.4 liters (47 ounces)
• Portafilter Diameter: 54 millimeters
• Heating System: ThermoJet heating system
• Heat-Up Time: 3 seconds
• Pump Pressure: 9 bars (ideal extraction pressure)
• Interface: Simple button controls for single or double shots
• Steam Wand: Manual steam wand with 360-degree swivel action
• Included Accessories:
  • Single-wall filter baskets (1-cup and 2-cup)
  • Dual-wall filter baskets (1-cup and 2-cup)
  • Tamper
  • Stainless steel milk jug
  • Cleaning tool for steam wand
  • Cleaning disc and tablets
  • Descaling powder
• Power: 1560 watts
• Voltage: 110–120 volts
• Warranty: 1-year limited product warranty
• Color Options: Brushed Stainless Steel