Breville Bambino BES450

Overview

The Breville Bambino BES450 is a compact espresso machine that delivers surprisingly capable performance in an incredibly small footprint. Measuring just under 20 centimeters wide, the Bambino is one of the smallest semi-automatic espresso machines available, making it perfect for tight kitchen spaces, dorm rooms, or office setups. Despite its diminutive size, the Bambino uses the same 54mm portafilter system found across the Breville lineup, meaning you get the same quality extraction as its larger siblings. The thermoblock heating system heats up quickly, and the machine includes automatic pre-infusion that gently ramps up pressure for a more even extraction. The manual steam wand is positioned on the right side and produces decent microfoam for milk drinks, though its smaller boiler means steam power is more limited compared to larger Breville models. The machine comes with pressurized dual-wall filter baskets, making it forgiving for beginners, but also accepts single-wall baskets for those who want to progress to more precise espresso making. At its price point, the Bambino offers remarkable value, giving budget-conscious coffee enthusiasts access to genuine espresso without the compromises typically associated with entry-level machines.

The Breville Bambino BES450 comes equipped with pre-infusion for even extraction. It features a thermoblock boiler system made of stainless steel. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.

Priced at $300, the Breville Bambino BES450 is designed for home baristas looking for quality without breaking the bank. As a semi-automatic machine, it gives you control over the brewing process while handling pressure and temperature automatically.

In terms of build quality, the Breville Bambino BES450 is a substantial machine, weighing in at 5.6 kg, manufactured in Australia, drawing 1600W of power. With dimensions of 198 x 320 x 310 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 1900 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.