Breville Bambino BES450 vs De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885
Side-by-side comparison of two espresso machines
| Specification | Breville Bambino BES450 | De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Breville | De'Longhi |
| Price (MSRP) | $300 | $350 |
| Category | Semi-Auto | Semi-Auto |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Boiler Capacity | N/A | N/A |
| Pump Type | Vibratory | Vibratory |
| PID Control | No | No |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes | No |
| Pressure Profiling | No | No |
| Flow Control | No | No |
| Group Head | 54mm Breville | Proprietary |
| Portafilter | 54 mm | 51 mm |
| Steam Wand | Commercial | Panarello |
| Water Source | Reservoir | Reservoir |
| Reservoir | 1900 ml | 1100 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No | No |
| Dimensions | 198 x 320 x 310 mm | 149 x 330 x 305 mm |
| Weight | 5.6 kg (12.3 lbs) | 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs) |
| Power | 1600W | 1300W |
| Made In | Australia | Italy |
Expert Analysis
The Breville Bambino ($300) and De'Longhi Dedica EC680 ($270) target the ultra-compact espresso segment but with different philosophies. The Bambino uses a thermoblock with PID for precise temperature control and pre-infusion, features absent from the Dedica. The Dedica uses a pressurized thermoblock system without PID, relying on its pressurized portafilter to produce consistent crema regardless of grind quality. The Bambino weighs just 5.0 kg and uses Breville's 54mm portafilter system, while the Dedica at 4.2 kg uses De'Longhi's narrow 51mm portafilter — the smallest among semi-auto machines, limiting aftermarket basket options. The Dedica's slim 15cm width makes it the narrowest espresso machine available, perfect for tight kitchen spaces. The Bambino's steam wand produces better microfoam texture than the Dedica's Panarello-style wand. Neither machine excels with light roasts — both work best with medium to dark roasted beans. The Dedica's 1300W vs the Bambino's 1600W means slower heat-up and recovery. Verdict: The Bambino offers better espresso fundamentals with PID and pre-infusion. The Dedica wins on size and price for those who prioritize counter space above all else.
Features: The Breville Bambino BES450 additionally features Pre-Infusion.
Size & Weight: The Breville Bambino BES450 is the heavier machine at 5.6 kg compared to 4.2 kg for the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885. Consider your available counter space and whether you need to move the machine frequently.
Our Verdict
Choosing between the Breville Bambino BES450 and the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 depends on your priorities. If budget is your primary concern, the Breville Bambino BES450 offers excellent value. However, if you're willing to invest more for additional features and build quality, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 delivers a premium experience. Both are capable machines that can produce excellent espresso in the right hands.