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Your morning coffee costs $6. Multiply that by five days a week, fifty weeks a year, and you’re spending $1,500 annually on lattes.
What if you could make the same quality at home for the cost of beans?
Our verdict: The Breville Bambino is the best entry-level espresso machine for anyone ready to make cafe-quality drinks at home without the $800+ price tag of prosumer machines.
Our Pick: Breville Bambino
Quick take: ThermoJet 3-second heat-up, 9-bar extraction with pre-infusion, and a proper steam wand—all in Breville’s smallest footprint. PID temperature control ensures consistency.
Best for:
- Espresso beginners ready to learn
- Small kitchens and apartments
- Anyone spending too much at coffee shops
- People who already have a grinder
Skip if:
- You want a built-in grinder (get Breville Barista Express)
- You make more than 4 drinks daily
- You want zero learning curve
Why the Bambino Stands Out
3-Second Heat-Up
The ThermoJet heating system reaches brewing temperature almost instantly. No waiting 15-20 minutes like traditional boiler machines. This alone makes it practical for rushed mornings.
Genuine 9-Bar Extraction
Low-pressure pre-infusion followed by proper 9-bar extraction produces real espresso—not the bitter, thin output of cheaper machines. You’ll taste the difference immediately.
Proper Steam Wand
Unlike auto-frothers on budget machines, the Bambino has a manual steam wand capable of creating silky microfoam for latte art. There’s a learning curve, but the results are worth it.
Smallest Breville Footprint
At just 7.7" wide, it fits in kitchens where other espresso machines can’t. Perfect for apartments and small countertops.
The Honest Downsides
No Built-In Grinder
The Bambino requires a separate grinder. Pre-ground coffee won’t deliver optimal results. Budget an additional $100-200 for a quality burr grinder.
Small Water Reservoir
The 47oz reservoir needs frequent refills if you’re making multiple drinks. Fine for 2-3 drinks; annoying for more.
Learning Curve
Espresso is a skill. Expect 1-2 weeks of mediocre shots while you dial in grind size, tamping pressure, and technique.
The Bottom Line
The Breville Bambino is the most affordable path to genuine cafe-quality espresso at home. Pair it with a decent grinder, commit to the learning curve, and you’ll wonder why you ever paid $6 for a latte.
