252votes worldwide
#6in ranking
12options compared
Live ranking
Overview
The Sage Bambino Plus is the best compact espresso machine available. In a 19.5cm wide body it packs ThermoJet heating that reaches extraction temperature in 3 seconds, a 54mm professional portafilter, automatic milk texturing with 3 temperature levels and 3 foam levels, and genuine 9-bar extraction pressure. It does not have a built-in grinder — which is intentional. Sage designed it for people who want to pair it with a dedicated grinder for maximum espresso quality. The result is one of the most capable machines at its price point, beloved by home baristas worldwide.
Score Card
73/100
Espresso Quality
87/100
ThermoJet and low-pressure pre-infusion produce excellent espresso — quality exceeds its price point significantly
Grinder
0/100
No built-in grinder — requires separate purchase. This is by design; pair with a dedicated burr grinder for best results
Milk Frothing
88/100
Auto MilQ produces genuine microfoam with 3 temperature and foam levels — excellent for lattes and cappuccinos
Ease of Use
85/100
Simple button interface with automatic milk texturing makes it approachable — no touchscreen but very intuitive
Build Quality
86/100
Full stainless steel construction in an impressively compact 19.5cm wide body — feels premium on the counter
Value for Money
92/100
Outstanding value — ThermoJet speed and Auto MilQ quality at a mid-range price makes this exceptional for what it offers
Pros
✓
ThermoJet heats to extraction temperature in 3 seconds
✓
54mm professional portafilter — pressurised and non-pressurised baskets
✓
Auto MilQ automatic milk texturing
✓
Low-pressure pre-infusion for even extraction
✓
Compact 19.5cm width — smallest footprint in its class
✓
Full stainless steel build
✓
1.9L water tank with ClaroSwiss filter
✓
Outstanding value for its feature set
Cons
✗
No built-in grinder — requires separate purchase
✗
Only 3 foam levels vs 8 on the Barista Touch
✗
No touchscreen or drink profiles
✗
Grinder investment adds to total cost
Who Is This For?
The Home Barista who already owns a grinder or wants the best compact machine under £500
The Bambino Plus is the ideal choice for people who understand that the grinder matters more than the machine, and want to invest in both separately. It is also the best option for those who want a compact, high-quality machine that produces genuine café-quality espresso and milk drinks without taking up counter space.
Not for: Complete beginners who want everything in one box — buy the Barista Touch instead
vs Others
Verdict
The Sage Bambino Plus is the best espresso machine under £500 for anyone willing to buy a separate grinder. The ThermoJet heating, 54mm portafilter, low-pressure pre-infusion and Auto MilQ combine to produce genuine café-quality espresso and milk drinks in a 19.5cm wide body. It punches well above its price point and is consistently rated as one of the best value home espresso machines available. The only caveat is the grinder — budget an additional £100-200 for a decent burr grinder to unlock the full potential.
Specs
Steam WandAuto MilQ automatic steam wand — 3 temperature levels, 3 foam levels, or manual mode
Water Tank1.9L removable tank with ClaroSwiss filter included — compact 19.5 x 32 x 31 cm footprint
Boiler TypeThermoJet — reaches optimal extraction temperature in 3 seconds, uses 32% less energy than thermoblock
Portafilter Size54mm stainless steel — professional size, both pressurised and non-pressurised baskets included
Pressure Control9 bar extraction — Italian 15-bar pump with low-pressure pre-infusion before full extraction
Temperature ControlDigital PID — precise temperature control, 4 selectable levels