Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother Review: Third-Wave Coffee in a Tiny Footprint?

There’s a ritual to it, isn’t there? That first sip of a perfectly crafted coffee in the morning. For years, my mornings were a compromise. It was either the bland, uninspiring world of instant coffee or the daily, expensive pilgrimage to a local café. I craved the rich aroma, the syrupy crema, and the velvety texture of a true espresso-based drink, but the thought of a hulking, complicated, and intimidatingly expensive espresso machine taking over my already limited kitchen counter space was a non-starter. This is the modern coffee lover’s dilemma: we have developed a taste for the exceptional but lack the space, time, or barista training to replicate it. The risk of investing in a complex machine only for it to gather dust seemed too high. I was looking for a bridge—a machine that could deliver authentic, third-wave specialty coffee without demanding a degree in coffee science or a kitchen renovation.

What to Consider Before Buying a Compact Espresso Machine

A compact espresso machine is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for transforming your kitchen into a personal café. It solves the problem of space and complexity while aiming to deliver the high-quality coffee you’d expect from a much larger unit. The main benefits are clear: you gain access to rich, flavourful espresso and perfectly textured milk for lattes and cappuccinos, all from a device that respects your countertop real estate. It’s about empowering you to move beyond pods and instant coffee to the genuine craft of espresso making, giving you control over the grind, the dose, and the final taste in your cup.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the exact dilemma I was: a coffee enthusiast with a discerning palate but a small kitchen. It’s for the person who wants to upgrade from a pod machine or a drip brewer to explore the world of freshly ground beans and latte art. It’s perfect for beginners who want guidance, thanks to features like automatic milk frothing, but also for experienced users who need a capable, compact machine for a smaller home, an office, or even a caravan, as one user noted. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who need to produce many coffees back-to-back in a busy household or office, or for the purist who demands infinite control over every single variable, including brew temperature and pressure profiling, which are features found in much more expensive, dual-boiler machines.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: This is paramount in the compact category. Measure your available counter space, including height under your cabinets. The beauty of a machine like the Bambino Plus is its remarkably small footprint, but you still need room for your grinder, knock box, and other accessories. Don’t just think about where it will sit; consider the “workflow” space around it.
• Capacity/Performance: Look at the water tank capacity (1.9L on the Bambino Plus is generous for its size), the wattage, and the pump pressure (15 bars is the industry standard for proper espresso extraction). A key performance metric is the heating system. Traditional thermoblock systems can take minutes to warm up, while advanced systems like Sage’s ThermoJet claim readiness in mere seconds, a massive advantage for busy mornings.
• Materials & Durability: The build quality dictates both the machine’s longevity and its aesthetic appeal. Brushed stainless steel is a premium material that is durable and easy to clean, offering a more professional feel than the predominantly plastic construction of many entry-level machines. Pay attention to the included components like the portafilter—a heavier, 54mm stainless steel portafilter retains heat better and feels more substantial in the hand.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Is the interface intuitive? Are there programmable settings? For milk-based drinks, consider the steam wand. A manual wand offers ultimate control but has a steep learning curve. An automatic wand, like the one on the Bambino Plus, is a revolutionary feature for beginners, guaranteeing consistent results. Also, consider the cleaning process; automated cleaning cycles and easy-to-remove drip trays are essential for long-term enjoyment.

Keeping these factors in mind, the Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.

While the Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother is an excellent choice for those venturing into real espresso, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For those who prioritize ultimate convenience over the craft, pod-based systems offer a different approach. For a broader look at top models in that category, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing a Compact Powerhouse

Pulling the Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother from its box, the first thing that struck me was its density. For a machine with such a diminutive footprint—barely wider than a coffee mug—it has a reassuring heft, thanks to its brushed stainless steel construction. It immediately feels like a serious piece of kit, not a flimsy plastic appliance. Sage has done a remarkable job of packing the features of its much larger, award-winning machines into this compact chassis.
Inside the box, the accessories continue this theme of quality. You get a solid 54mm stainless steel portafilter, four filter baskets (single and double shot, for both dual-wall and single-wall applications), a perfectly sized stainless steel milk frothing jug, a high-quality tamper, and Sage’s proprietary “Razor” dose trimming tool. Including both dual-wall baskets (for pre-ground coffee) and single-wall baskets (for fresh grounds) is a thoughtful touch, making the machine accessible to absolute beginners while giving them a clear path to upgrade their coffee game. The setup was incredibly straightforward; after a quick prime cycle outlined in the clear instructions, the machine was ready to go in under five minutes.

Putting the Bambino Plus Through Its Paces: A Performance Deep-Dive

A machine can look great on the counter, but its true value is measured in the cup. Over several weeks, we put the Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother through its paces, testing everything from its lightning-fast heat-up time to the quality of its espresso and the consistency of its much-lauded milk frothing. We used a variety of beans, from dark Italian roasts to lighter, more acidic single origins, to see how this compact machine handled different challenges. The results were, for the most part, deeply impressive.

From Cold Start to Ready-to-Brew in 3 Seconds Flat

Perhaps the most startling and delightful feature of the Bambino Plus is its ThermoJet heating system. In the world of home espresso, the warm-up time is a traditional pain point. Many machines require 10-15 minutes to fully heat the boiler and group head. The Bambino Plus shatters this expectation. From the moment you press the power button, it is at the optimal extraction temperature in just three seconds. This is not an exaggeration; it’s a reality we tested day after day. This feature completely changes the morning coffee routine. There’s no more pre-planning or waiting around. The impulse for a coffee can be satisfied almost instantly, a convenience previously reserved for pod machines. This speed is also highly energy-efficient, using significantly less power than traditional heating systems. Several users echoed our amazement, with one calling the “3 seconds heating and quick extraction” brilliant and transformative for their morning ritual.

Pulling the Perfect Shot: Consistency and Flavour

At the heart of any espresso machine is its ability to extract coffee. The Bambino Plus uses a 15-bar Italian pump and, crucially, a low-pressure pre-infusion feature. This process gently soaks the coffee puck with low-pressure water before applying the full 9 bars of extraction pressure (the ideal pressure at the group head). This allows the coffee grounds to expand, settling the puck and preventing “channelling,” which leads to a more even, balanced, and flavourful extraction. The result is a genuinely rich espresso with a thick, stable crema. As mentioned, the inclusion of two types of filter baskets is key. For our initial tests with store-bought pre-ground coffee, we used the dual-wall basket, which pressurises the extraction to help create an artificial crema. The results were good—far better than a pod machine—and perfect for someone not yet ready to invest in a quality grinder. One user confirmed this, noting they use pre-ground coffee with the dual-wall basket and the machine “makes beautiful espresso.”

However, the machine truly comes alive with the single-wall baskets and freshly ground coffee. This is where you unlock the “third-wave” specialty potential. It requires dialling in your grind size, but the reward is immense. We were able to pull syrupy, complex shots that highlighted the unique notes of our single-origin beans. It’s worth noting that setup can be tricky for first-timers. One user reported issues with a stiff portafilter and lukewarm water initially, only to find that a factory reset and a careful re-reading of the setup instructions solved the problem completely. This highlights that while the machine is user-friendly, paying attention to the initial setup is crucial for optimal performance.

The Game-Changer: Effortless Microfoam for Perfect Lattes

If the ThermoJet system is the machine’s heart, the automatic steam wand is its soul. For many, frothing milk is the most intimidating part of making café-style drinks. It’s a skill that can take months to master manually. The Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother eliminates this learning curve entirely. You simply fill the included jug with milk, place it on the temperature sensor, and select one of three foam levels and three temperature settings. The machine does the rest, automatically texturing the milk to a silky, microfoam consistency and stopping when it reaches the perfect temperature. We were skeptical at first, but the results are astonishingly good. On the highest texture setting, it creates a dense, glossy foam perfect for cappuccinos. On the lowest setting, it produces beautifully integrated, paint-like milk that is ideal for pouring latte art. We were pouring basic hearts and tulips within a few tries. For anyone who primarily drinks lattes, flat whites, or cappuccinos, this feature is nothing short of revolutionary. This sentiment was overwhelmingly confirmed by users, who called it a “game changer” and “exceptional,” with one stating it “makes perfect foamed milk on the automatic setting.” This automatic frothing capability alone makes the Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother a top contender for milk-based coffee lovers.

Living with the Bambino Plus: Daily Use and Quirks

Living with this machine day-to-day is mostly a pleasure. Its compact size is a genuine benefit, freeing up valuable counter space. The 1.9-litre water tank is easily removable from the back for filling, and the drip tray is simple to clean. However, there are some quirks to be aware of. The machine’s light weight, combined with a powerful pump, can lead to significant vibration during extraction. One user reported their machine arriving without the essential rubber feet, causing it to “literally shift along the table top.” While our test unit had its feet, we still noticed a fair amount of vibration, and it’s wise to hold your cup in place during the first few seconds of the pour. Another significant quirk, pointed out by a long-time Sage user, is the portafilter. It is a proprietary 54mm size that is not compatible with other Sage machines or, more importantly, the cradle on some Sage grinders. This seems like a strange ecosystem oversight for those who want to pair the machine with a matching grinder. Finally, maintenance is key. The machine has an automatic cleaning cycle for the steam wand and will prompt you to descale it regularly. One user found the cleaning alerts a bit frequent and frustrating, but as another long-term owner warned, following the maintenance instructions is absolutely essential for the machine’s longevity.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring feedback from other owners, a clear picture emerges that aligns closely with our own findings. The praise is overwhelmingly focused on the machine’s core strengths. Users consistently describe it as “easy to use,” “great for beginners,” and a significant “upgrade” from other entry-level machines. The automatic milk frothing is the most frequently lauded feature, with many calling it a “game changer” that makes achieving café-quality milky coffees effortless. The speed of the ThermoJet heater is another point of celebration, with owners loving the near-instant readiness.

However, the criticisms, though less frequent, are just as consistent. The most prominent issue appears to be build quality control and the resulting vibration. The detailed account of a machine arriving without its rubber feet, causing it to move across the counter, is a serious concern. Several others mention the vibration even with the feet attached. The other major critique comes from those already invested in the Sage ecosystem, who express frustration that the Bambino Plus’s 54mm portafilter doesn’t fit the brand’s own grinders, a baffling design choice. These points don’t detract from the excellent coffee the machine produces but are important practical considerations for potential buyers.

How Does the Sage Bambino Plus Compare to the Competition?

The Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother carves out a unique niche between ultimate convenience and hands-on craft. While it excels in its category, it’s important to understand the alternatives, particularly if your priority is speed and simplicity over the ritual of espresso making.

1. Nespresso Gran Lattissima Coffee Machine with Milk Frother

If the Bambino Plus is a semi-automatic experience, the Nespresso Gran Lattissima is the fully automatic, one-touch solution. This machine is built for pure convenience. Instead of grinding beans and tamping a portafilter, you simply insert a Nespresso pod. For milk drinks, you fill the attached milk carafe, and with the press of a single button, the machine will prepare a cappuccino or latte macchiato for you. It’s the ideal choice for someone who wants their coffee instantly, with zero learning curve or cleanup fuss. The trade-off is a lack of control and the arguably less complex flavour profile of pod coffee compared to freshly ground beans.

2. KRUPS Essenza Mini XN110140 Coffee Machine

The KRUPS Essenza Mini represents the ultimate in minimalist design and compactness. It is significantly smaller and less expensive than the Bambino Plus. Its sole function is to make espresso and lungo from Nespresso pods. There is no steam wand or milk frothing capability whatsoever. This machine is for the coffee purist who values speed and a tiny footprint above all else. If you only drink black coffee and want the simplest, quickest pod experience possible, the Essenza Mini is a fantastic choice. It is not, however, a competitor to the Bambino Plus in terms of versatility or quality potential.

3. Nespresso EN85 Essenza Coffee Machine

Very similar to the KRUPS model, the De’Longhi Essenza Mini is another ultra-compact pod machine focused on simplicity. It offers the same core functionality: quick heating and two programmable buttons for espresso and lungo shots. The primary difference between the two Essenza Mini models often comes down to aesthetic design and minor variations in internal components. The comparison to the Bambino Plus remains the same: it’s a choice between the absolute convenience and repeatability of a pod system versus the superior quality, versatility, and hands-on engagement offered by the Sage machine’s traditional espresso-making process.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Sage The Bambino Plus the Right Machine for You?

After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother is a triumph of engineering and design. It successfully bridges the vast gap between simple countertop appliances and complex, expensive prosumer machines. It packs phenomenal speed, surprising consistency, and a truly game-changing automatic milk frother into a body small enough for the most compact of kitchens. It’s the perfect machine for the aspiring home barista who wants to learn the craft of espresso without the steep learning curve.

It is not without its flaws—the potential for vibration and the odd proprietary portafilter design are notable quirks. However, these are minor grievances when weighed against its outstanding performance. For anyone who loves lattes and cappuccinos and wants to elevate their home coffee experience beyond pods or drip, this machine is arguably the best entry point on the market. It empowers you to create genuinely delicious, café-quality drinks with remarkable ease.

If you’ve decided the Sage The Bambino Plus Compact Coffee Machine with Milk Frother is the right fit for your coffee journey, you can check its current price and purchase it here.