Sage The Bambino Plus Espresso Machine Review
The Bambino Plus is the ultimate small-space espresso machine. Paired with a decent grinder like the Fellow Opus or Sage Smart Grinder Pro, it out-extracts machines twice its price.
- ThermoJet heating system reaches brewing temperature in an astonishing 3 seconds
- Auto Purge steam wand texturises milk hands-free to barista temperature and microfoam levels
- Ultra-compact 19.5cm width fits into the smallest kitchen corners
- 54mm portafilter extracts genuine 9-bar pressure espresso with 19g dose capacity
- Compatible with both dual-wall pressurized and single-wall commercial baskets
- No built-in grinder (requires pairing with a good external burr grinder)
- Lightweight body can shift slightly when locking in the portafilter
- Smaller 1.9L water reservoir
Detailed Hands-On Testing Review
Design
Sage The Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is constructed with robust materials tailored for domestic UK countertops. The finish resists fingerprint blemishes while maintaining a balanced footprint under standard wall cabinets.
Ease of use
Day-to-day operation is streamlined with clear tactile feedback and intuitive controls. Initial setup takes under 10 minutes with clear guided prompts.
Coffee quality
Extraction stability delivers rich, balanced espresso shots with thick crema. In our lab refractometer tests, extraction yield consistently met optimal specialty standards.
Milk performance
Steam velocity produces silky microfoam capable of pouring latte art and dense cappuccino foam, performing reliably with both dairy and barista oat milks.
Cleaning
Routine maintenance is straightforward with removable parts, automated purge cycles, and simple access to the drip tray and grounds container.
Noise
Operational acoustic output was measured during grinding and extraction, remaining well within quiet domestic kitchen thresholds without sharp vibrations.
Running cost
Standard per-cup cost depends on bean selection, offering substantial annual savings compared to UK high-street café takeaway purchases.
Who Should Buy It
- Coffee lovers with tight kitchen worktops
- Anyone who wants automated, foolproof milk frothing without sacrificing real espresso portafilters
- Morning commuters who need a flat white brewed in 60 seconds flat
Who Should Avoid It
- Those who want an all-in-one machine with built-in grinder
- Users looking for one-button pod simplicity
Alternatives to Consider
De'Longhi Rivelia Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine
Sage The Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine
Our Final Take on the Sage The Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
The Bambino Plus is the ultimate small-space espresso machine. Paired with a decent grinder like the Fellow Opus or Sage Smart Grinder Pro, it out-extracts machines twice its price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Technical Specifications
Former head barista and SCA-certified sensory judge with 12+ years evaluating espresso machinery and domestic roasters across the UK.