Breville Bambino Plus: questions before you buy
Yes — if you enjoy the craft.
Real café-style espresso and automatic milk, if you're happy to learn.
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Is the Sage Bambino Plus the same as the Breville Bambino Plus?
Yes. Breville sells it as Sage in the UK and Europe. It's the same machine, built for each country's mains voltage.
Do I need a separate grinder?
For the best espresso, yes — it has no grinder. It comes with dual-wall baskets that work with pre-ground coffee, and single-wall baskets for freshly ground beans.
How fast does it heat up?
About 3 seconds. Breville's ThermoJet heater means there's almost no wait.
Does it froth milk for you?
Yes. Put the jug under the wand and it textures the milk automatically, with 3 temperature and 3 froth settings. You can also steam by hand.
Can I make an americano or tea?
Not directly — there's no hot-water spout. Trusted Reviews suggests topping up with water from the kettle.
Can I pull a shot and steam milk at the same time?
No. It has one heater, so you make the espresso first, then the milk.
How big is it?
Small — about 19 cm wide, so it fits most kitchens.
How big is the water tank?
1.9 L, and it lifts out from the back.
What size portafilter does it use?
54 mm. If you buy a tamper or extra baskets, get 54 mm ones — 58 mm accessories won't fit.
Should I get this or a bean-to-cup like the Magnifica Evo?
The Bambino Plus for better espresso and silkier milk if you'll learn the basics and buy a grinder. The Magnifica Evo if you want fresh-bean coffee at one press with no learning.
- Is the Bambino Plus worth it?
- Coffee machine or coffee shop?
- Bambino Plus vs Magnifica Evo
- Best coffee machines
Answers from Breville: BES500, Sage UK: SES500, Tom's Guide and Trusted Reviews. We don't test products ourselves.