Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS review is it worth the price

Description

A Compact and Stylish Espresso Maker

The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS, with its brushed stainless steel finish, is an absolute gem for anyone who dreams of having a café experience at home. As someone who enjoys experimenting with different espresso blends, this machine became an instant favorite due to its sleek design, compact dimensions (13.7″ x 6.3″ x 12″), and impressive functionality. It fits perfectly on my kitchen counter without taking up too much space, and its modern stainless steel exterior adds a touch of elegance to the setup.

Key Benefits

Using the semi-automatic operation, I felt like I had full control over my coffee-making process. Several features stood out to me during my tests, and I must say, there’s a lot to love here:

• The thermojet heating system is a game-changer. The machine heats up in just three seconds, which means you can have your coffee ready without unnecessary waiting time.
• Its 54mm portafilter accommodates 19 grams of coffee, ensuring a rich and full-bodied flavor in every shot.
• The automatic steam wand is a delight for milk lovers. Adjusting the milk’s temperature and texture is simple, and the resulting microfoam is perfect for creating latte art, something my nieces found super impressive.
• It includes a low-pressure pre-infusion feature that ensures even flavor extraction, leading to a balanced espresso shot every single time.
• The PID temperature control guarantees that the water’s temperature remains consistent, which is crucial for a perfect brew.

These thoughtful inclusions make the machine stand out, especially for those who want high-quality coffee without the hassle of manual adjustments.

Downsides

While the machine has won me over in many ways, there are a few areas where I think there’s room for improvement:

• The water tank capacity isn’t ideal for heavy usage. If you’re someone who entertains guests often or drinks multiple cups a day, you might find yourself refilling it more frequently than you’d like.
• It doesn’t offer a built-in grinder, so you’ll need a separate one if you’re using whole beans. While this isn’t a dealbreaker for me, others might find it inconvenient.
• The manual nature of certain features means there’s a slight learning curve, especially for beginners who might not be familiar with espresso machines.

These aren’t dealbreakers but are worth keeping in mind, especially if you’re new to making espresso at home.

Streamlined Design and User Interface

One of the first things I appreciated was the simple and intuitive control panel. With just a few buttons, you can choose between single or double shots and operate the steam wand with ease. I particularly enjoyed the casual style of the machine, as it doesn’t feel overwhelming or overly technical. Even my coworker, who had never touched an espresso machine before, managed to whip up a decent latte on their first try.

Its lightweight build (approximately 10.9 pounds) makes it easy to move around, which is great for small kitchens or if you like rearranging your coffee setup. However, the lighter weight does mean it can shift slightly when inserting the portafilter, so you’ll need to hold it steady.

Competing Brands

Compared to other semi-automatic espresso machines, this model holds its own exceptionally well. For instance, while brands like De’Longhi and Gaggia offer similar compact machines, the thermojet heating system in the Bambino is significantly faster. I’ve used other machines that took up to 30 seconds or more to heat up, which made the three-second heat-up time on this one feel revolutionary.

On the downside, competitors like the Nespresso Creatista might appeal more to those who prioritize convenience, as they feature built-in grinders and capsules. However, these often lack the customization and control that the Bambino offers. If you’re someone who values manual brewing and adjustable settings, this machine edges out many of its rivals in terms of quality and flexibility.

Worth Every Penny

When it comes to affordable quality, this machine strikes a great balance. While it’s not the cheapest espresso maker out there, the features and performance justify the investment. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with coffee or appreciates a well-crafted cup of espresso, this machine offers excellent value without venturing into the premium price range of commercial machines. It’s especially appealing for individuals who want café-style coffee at home without breaking the bank.

Who Should Buy This?

The Bambino is ideal for home or office use, particularly for those who want to elevate their coffee experience. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys customization, as the adjustable milk frothing and precise temperature controls allow for a tailored cup every time. If you’re a fan of espresso, lattes, or cappuccinos, this machine is built with your needs in mind.

That being said, beginners may need to spend a little time getting familiar with the machine, though the simple interface helps ease the learning curve. Enthusiasts who already own a grinder and are comfortable with tamping their coffee will find this machine a fantastic addition to their kitchen.

Overall, the Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS delivers where it matters most: flavor, functionality, and design. With a few minor tweaks, it could be near-perfect, but even as it stands, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to bring a touch of café magic to their home.

Additional information