Sage (Breville) Bambino Plus Home Espresso Machine Review & Test

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for watching: comments welcome! How do you like your Bambino Plus? Check prices here: geni.us/BrevilleEspressoMach (Breville/Sage affiliate link)

[@unknownentity222]

Would these upgrades work for the Bambino?

[@BigBenAdv]

@@unknownentity222 Absolutely. The Bambino is a smaller Plus with less features (automatic steaming, 3 way valve, steamwand purge).

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@unknownentity222 Yes, it's dimensioned the same.

[@joanneponce345]

​@@BigBenAdv it

[@SpicyMelange]

I got mine 3 years ago; it fits under the counter in my 1930’s apartment.

[@CIyepiz]

I have had mine for almost two years and I can't be happier with it, it's perfect for amateurs or people that are not very demanding, but that want a good cup of coffee.

[@Presso99]

I owned a Bambino Plus machine for about 2 years. I did an experiment on the group head temperature abut a year ago. Here is what i gathered :- 1st purge : Brew temp is abt 82-85C 2nd purge : Brew temp is abt 85-87C 3rd purge : Brew temp is about 90-92C As you can see, in order to achieve above 90C which is the most recommended brewing temp, you need to purge twice before you start brewing your coffee.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for that! How much water are you purging each time - a whole shot's worth?

[@Presso99]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner each time is 1 cup brewing cycle

[@xasanbayr]

Just curious, did it break after 2 years?

[@ameliabuns4058]

whaaat. i just bought mine and it arrived 2 days ago and now i'm sad!

[@Presso99]

@@xasanbayrso far only the power supply is faulty (within 1 yesr used), after that it works fine until now. SO far so good.

[@edmundowhite]

I love this machine. A good tip is not to purge into the tray. I use my empty milk jug, so don't have to empty the tray as often 😊

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That's a great idea!

[@ardnfast]

It's one of the few downfalls of this otherwise great little machine.

[@tcl7563]

It dumps a ridiculous amount of water via the steam wand into the tray!

[@ameliabuns4058]

why didn't I think of that!!!!!

[@ovi_4]

What I've done with my Bambino Plus is place it next to the sink and insert a very flexible piece of silicone/rubber transparent tubing one end touching the inside bottom of the tray and stuck in place with a good amount of "Blue Tack" and the other end "dangling" up in the air within the sink perimeter and way lower than of the tray end. And never had to empty my tray ever since I applied this MOD to it. Is done automatically.

[@PhilFromIT]

I bought my Bambino plus before watching this but ended up buying all the accessories you showed in the video. Makes prep and cleanup much easier.

[@goport]

Had this machine 3 years and just found out it can dispense hot water. Who knew? Well, obviously you did! Thanks.

[@HaekalAlchatieb]

every second you let that milk dry on the steam wand one barista died inside 😂

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I know. I didn't have a rag ready, so egg on my face...

[@HaekalAlchatieb]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner sweet IMS upgrade tho ;)

[@katrinplatt8500]

Not gonna lie, I read this comment as I was thinking “please wipe your wand😅”

[@TheOriginal_BigMac]

I just keep staring at it. Then I saw him make "tea" 💀

[@jamesedghill3726]

I couldn’t concentrate on the rest of the video until he finally cleaned it.

[@douglasmaclean5836]

(8:38) ... You had me until the sound of zombies knocking at the door started 🧟😱😜 ..... Love the reviews Tom. !

[@shibby_ronson]

Thank you for the video Tom. I recently fell into the rabbit hole of making my own espresso (on a budget) and i ended up with a Sage Bambino. I have similar or same accessoires and it was great to see your approach of optimizing.

[@josephoberlander]

$300 and $150 in accessories seems a little nuts at first, but the result is much better espresso. Add in a nice grinder and digital scale and you're basically getting similar results to their Barista Pro for a lot less money. IME, the big deal is ditching the plastic bottomed toy filter it comes with. My only gripe is that it doesn't heat the group. Running 2 cycles through it to get up to temp is a little wasteful, IMO. AND - that they charge so much more for the plus than the regular.

[@shibby_ronson]

@@josephoberlander plus good espresso beans 👌

[@topjets5616]

I like the puck screen for how it keeps group head so clean, nice video :)

[@SolvoltDkwebshop]

You actually made a difference to me. Nice to see how you go through the details. Was interested in Expresso but had no idea about it. Looked at several of your reviews of different products in the same price range. It enabled me to make a decision. Have now ordered this machine.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for sharing your feedback! Enjoy!

[@Jojoyts]

I was deciding between a semi automatic machine but your video really help me to decide which one to buy. I just got the bambino plus! Thank you!

[@xbanx1]

I just got my Bambino Plus the other day. Tell you, it's fun trying out how to make a perfect shot. Although my wife keeps telling me my 2 shot is more like a 1 shot espresso....My energy levels disagree. The additional accessories are a must, that is for sure. Thank you for the recommendations.

[@piplup10203854]

As someone who is getting this machine in the next few weeks one of the tips I heard for using a puck screen is to use the steam wand to actually rinse it out 🙂 and to use a milk jug to pug into instead so by using the steam wand to clean or rinse the puck and using the milk jug when purging it instead of purging into the drip team you're able to do both functions relatively easily and mess free so I'm gonna do that and I am gonna make sure I get a bottomless portafilter. As someone brand new to Espresso I look forward to the journey of dialing in that perfect cup. I also heard to do a purge or two before brewing. Often using my aeropress in the morning and a keurig for milk it takes me at least 15-20 minutes anyway so I'm not too worried about getting a purge or two in before I brew my espresso it's still gonna be quicker than that lol I'm unsure of what grinder to get. I'm leaning towards the DF64 Gen 2 version but it's a bit expensive at 400 bucks over the Encore ESP at 200 dollars but I kind of like that nicer combo to really dial in light roast. I went from Dark Roast to Medium/Light roast in hopes to cut the bitterness down but I'm not the best of getting a good one. But I'm definitely set on the Bambino plus ☺ I've thought to get the barista pro or express but I like the idea of having a separate nicer grinder. My mom used to get fresh beans and fresh ground coffee when I was growing up so I think she would appreciate me making her fresh coffee these days since she will be moving in with me and it's our morning routine to have a coffee together and sit out in the garden 😊

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That sounds like a nice plan. DF64 is nice, but consider that you'll be single dosing. You could also consider the Eureka Mignon line, for a quieter grinder.

[@piplup10203854]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Oh really? 🤔 Eureka Mignon? Gotcha ☺ I shall take a look into it! Is single dosing bad? I tend to do maybe a scoop or scoop and a half in the aeropress but I will be honest I don't know how to make an espresso that well with it but I been watching videos on how to learn. Thank you for the suggestion. A quieter grinder is actually really nice to know 🥹 Appreciate all the help. I am a big time newbie.

[@Anonymous-mf8ii]

I think the plastic portafilter inserts in the Bambino and Dedica are needed to divert the high-pressure stream of coffee exiting the single hole of a pressurized basket. I haven’t tried it, but I’m pretty sure a conventional spouted portafilter with that stream shooting out the center hole would make quite a mess.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I think so, too!

[@frankvazquez5974]

I thought I was just going to buy a machine, now I gotta get just as much in accessories. Good vid yo.

[@caffeineisking8132]

We absolutely love ours, wouldn't bother with the plus model though , you can steam milk better yourself no need for the auto milk foamer feature

[@sumeyyeunal5776]

Thank you for this video! We are not sure if we should choose Bambino Plus or Sage Duo Temp Pro (upgrading Breville Mini).We already have a good grinder. Always Capuccino drinker, but not dark roasted coffee. Light to medium roasted beans. You already mentioned Bambino is good for dark roasting. Pro Bambino: milk is easy, good, espresso easy. So I cannot decide☕️ I guess the Sage Duo Temp Pro is making better coffee.

[@coreycannon4511]

It is, by all accounts, a wonderful entry level machine. I’ve so far resisted the espresso rabbit hole. I mostly brew Aeropress (for light roasts) and Moka Pot (light and medium) with the latter often used to make poor man lattés/cappuccinos (using medium roasts) along with the occasional Turkish. It is tempting to get one of these to essentially replace the Moka, mostly to have something approximating a decent steam wand. Currently I’m microwaving milk and using a cheap spinny, whisky thingy to froth it. Results are good, but the milk quality is only okay.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Oh gosh, I've been there. Just get an espresso machine that can froth nicely, like this one. Or the ECP 3420. You'll never get the same texture with a spinning thing, as you do with steam. Plus, it's fun to texture the milk and make designs. You know, you can find these on Amazon Warehouse deals for less. Have a look. Cheers!

[@DaddyMakesCoffee]

It was exactly the place I was and finally get tired of the pain in bot! Got the Bambino, not plus, no regret the day since.

[@coreycannon4511]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner I’m tempted to try a Bellman steamer, but reviews are quite mixed. But still, a heck of a lot cheaper than buying an espresso machine!!

[@1nf3ct3dTT]

i made a lot of moka coffee also with a wisky thing to froth and aver buying the bambino i have to say even though i liked the moka coffee there is a big big step inbetween. especially the milk frothing is surprisingly good. even though its not always perfect im gonna say that it is better than even in some very good coffee shops.

[@alinaqirizvi1441]

​@@coreycannon4511 well there's also the fact that because the bellman doesn't have a pressure gauge it could explode without warning

[@DaddyMakesCoffee]

Nice review Tom. I own a Bambino for a while. Although light roasting profile is subjective but I use light roast with no problem. I have some shorts in that matter. Lets say not light as Say but light to medium light roast.

[@chriseggroll]

I have one of these coming in the mail, today hopefully! I just got back from a trip to Vienna and regular coffee was no longer enough, I NEED espresso haha. Good to see some upgrades I can make that aren't too expensive, once I get the hang of using the machine!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome, enjoy! Vienna is a nice city. Cheers!

[@chryseass.5143]

Thanks to you Tom , I finally figured out the hot water trick for my Bambino Plus and used it today to make an make an Americano.. On my machine it is a little hit and miss but I did get it to work. Nicely detailed review, as always and I liked the hot cocoa idea. Have you done any videos demonstrating latte art for beginners?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Thanks for your feedback! Yes, I have made a few videos, but just on the Dedica and La Specialista. I feel like there's other resources better with that, like Emilee Bryant or Lance. They're really good with latte art. However, maybe I could do a video on steaming milk with these more economical machines. Cheers!

[@md.azizulislam6456]

Really l have to appreciate your teach thank you so much little little all the things you focus in front us❤❤❤

[@TheosPolemics]

Hopping out from his chair is the best part 🤣 feels like a kid again🤣

[@piano15R]

Yeah that made me LOL each time 😂

[@kyndigvellanti]

This was an excellent review! I enjoy seeing a workflow with the tools that make for a better process. The coffee grinder that comes with the Breville 870 isn't all that great. And for about the same price, you could get the Baratza Sette 270 and the Breville / Sage Bambino, which is in my opinion, a better setup. Also you might want to give Sworksdesign's coffee puck screen a try. It's very thin stainless steel, that is very easy to clean, vs the mesh screens I see everywhere. It comes in a 54.5mm diameter that fits very nicely in a Breville portafilter basket, and for ~$15 you get two. As an experiment with your mesh puck screen, add a little water into a cup and run your steam wand over the puck screen just under the surface of the water and see what gets blown out after you thought it was clean lol.

[@DaddyMakesCoffee]

I did a short on puck screen not uploaded yet. In fact I do normally rinse my mesh type puck screen. But today I did see how much mess was kept inside undre pressure of steam wand.

[@Presso99]

be careful when using puck screen, you need to reduce the dosage by about 1-2g, if not you will see the group head is scratching the puck screen. Overall, it is good as it keeps the group head clean, also it can eliminate the puck stuck on the grouphead. Although Bambino Plus has a 3 way solenoid, but it will cause puck stuck problem over time when it is not working well.

[@juanpablomorales9760]

This video is amazing, thanks for all your tips!

[@piano15R]

Love the "Mr Burns" style "EXCELLENT" at 7:15 😂

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Haha, you get me. :)

[@SOYTIANGO]

Hi, great review! I think the US link for the shower is incorrect, it directs to the basket. Could you recommend some of the best value grinders to pair with this machine? Thanks!

[@TheTXRanger]

Curious as to what the knocking sound was when you were steaming milk. Am I correct that this was the machine making that noise? Great video; thanks!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

EVERY thermoblock machine has to pump water intermittently while steaming. It's just how it goes. Cheers!

[@sandrapaul4828]

Hello Tom, I am late to watch this video but thank you. I owned a Seico small machine that I got from my husband for my anniversery the year we moved from Italy to Canada, 8 years ago. Today, it just exploded on me and... my birthday is in 3 days. SO........my husband said..... wellll.... I know what to get you for your birthday..a new espresso machine. He want to get me THE best machine on the market but I just want this one. OK it is not like taking my morning cappuccino at the bar at the corner of your house but I want someting simple that will make a decent espresso, that I can close my eye and be in Italy. I might get the accessories you recommended. THank you, Grazie!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Prego, Sandra! Thanks for sharing your story, and I hope you like your new machine. Cheers!

[@Justin-tq3em]

Enjoying your videos. Just got the Bambino plus and the normcore tamp. I changed out the spring to the 15lh one. Did you keep yours at the 30lb spring? Thanks

[@nadaali8797]

From the first use, the only cup button closed, why did the rest of the buttons not work?

[@ahmedibrahem-q2r]

hi tom i just wanted to ask what is your main machine and can you make a video reviewing your coffee setup

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Haha, at this point, I don't have a main machine. I just cycle through different ones. But I am really liking the Lelit Grace, the ECP 3420, and for speed, this Bambino Plus.

[@e24mpwr]

My Bambino Plus is on the way (a 30th anniversary gift from my company) - thanks for a very insightful video. I like the platform you use when tamping - what is that? It doesn't seem to come with the tamper or the Bambino.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Wow, what a nice anniversary gift! I was using a Motta tamping station. I have the tamper linked, but here's what the tamper station looks like: amzn.to/43UF5mC (affiliate link) Have fun with your machine!

[@thohuynh437]

Hi Tom, thanks for the video. A few question from me regarding the outcome flavor for upgraded accessories: - Is the shower screen that important? - The difference between normal basket vs IMS basket. Is the flavor much better? - What do you think about puck screen. People say it does not affect the flavor but I find it can extend the extraction time upto 5s

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Honestly, the IMS basket makes IMHO the biggest difference. I do notice a difference between IMS and OEM there. IMS can often deliver a more rounded shot, with less bitterness and sharpness. As for the shower screen and puck screen, I feel like those are nice to have. But I just really appreciate the craftsmanship of the IMS shower screen, so I like to install them in my machines.

[@thohuynh437]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner thankssssssss

[@davidmiller88ify]

Great Video. Recently purchased the Bambino Plus, using stock parts. My Double Espresso is not yielding 1/2 of what yours shows in this video. Why might that be? more details.... Lavazza Gran Crema beans, ground using Breville Smart Grinder Pro, Size 12 grind, 2 shots, 19 seconds. using around 18-19g of beans. TIA for your feedback.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hello there! I’m guessing that your beans are probably too old - or in other words roasted too long ago. It could also be that your grinder is not ideal for espresso. Check out this short blog post: tomscoffeecorner.com/what-are-the-best-beans-for-espresso/ Or this one, with some good cheap grinders: tomscoffeecorner.com/best-espresso-machine-and-grinder-setups-under-500/ These videos may also help: How to Get Crema: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmGxhHpvaZpsl5o Why Supermarket Coffee Beans are RUINING your Espresso! kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3PKfn6nqp2ZgKs How to estimate bean roast age for Lavazza: kzbin.infoQmVRpBGOokE How to extract the perfect espresso: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppqyZ5ZsbpqCppo ***I’d recommend looking on google maps for local coffee roasters. That's the best way to ensure freshly roasted beans. Cheers, Tom

[@kitcraft9516]

My wife and mother got together and got me one of these for my birthday during the Breville sale. I'm only about a month in now but I am enjoying it. I still suck at steaming. Consistency is hard, even if I time myself to try to do everything the same. The one thing I dislike is the drip tray. Not only is it small but if there is any water in it at all some can pop out when the solenoid empties. And yeah, the water from the steam wand simply isn't hot enough, for me, for making americanos. That is okay, my kettle works fine. Oh, another annoyance, for me, but maybe not for others is that it tells me when it needs cleaned. It always happens to be six am...lol. But all in all, much better workflow than my flair. I know some may not agree but for me it is much easier. (This may not hold true if I ever have the chance to use a 58.) Having said that, I am already learning what I want in my next machine...Hot water dispenser, shot timer, manual mode only and no flashing buttons telling me what to do at 6 in the morning. Heated group would be a plus. Loads of machines come to mind but I will not be able to make that call until my wife and I move back to the EU at the end of the year. Anyway, great content as always. Thank you for sharing.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for sharing your experience! The drip tray annoys me too, but it's not so bad when you get used to it. I wonder what kind of machine you'll buy next? Good thing is, espresso machines and grinders are much cheaper in Europe, than in the USA. Cheers! Tom

[@Tsukiyomi001]

Hi, been hooked on your videos lately. Would you please do a comparison of the Bambino Plus VS the Delonghi Arte 885? Thanks

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I will keep that in mind for a future video!

[@Ashhong1]

Great timing Tom! Just bought this as an upgrade from the ECP3420. One question, do you not need to purge the wand before steaming? When I purge before using the auto steam, the machine just purges again into my milk, and none of the videos I’ve found on this machine show any purging beforehand

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It's hard to purge this machine, because there's no lever. So you press the button to start steam, and stop it. Also, the steam is not already built up, so each time you press the button, you have to wait for the steam to come. Therefore, I don't bother purging on this machine. Maybe someone else has a better workflow?

[@NoZenith]

When you press the steam button, press it again within five seconds and you have successfully done a basic Purge, don't wait until it fully starts blowing steam because by that point you have gone past the 5-second mark possibly but it will clear all of the water out. It's quite a bit of water actually and it only takes a few seconds to do this and it helps

[@Presso99]

Before performing frothing, i usually purge the steam for about 3-4 seconds (the moment when steam started to purge), with this way, it will not cause the machine to purge water into your milk. If you go beyond this time frame, you will see water is injecting back to your milk.

[@Ashhong1]

@@Presso99 thanks I’ll give this a try! My wife just uses auto and lets it purge a little bit of water into it. Can’t really notice it Also I don’t see many people mention it, but when you do purge at the end, I like to put the milk jug underneath after pouring it out. Keeps the small drip try nice and clean

[@nicolaseugenioflores]

@TomsCoffeeCorner good, it drains the same way, I am a barista future coffee master, once the water comes out it is squeezed by compacting it, it has only one boiler that they share, therefore water remains in the lancet after preparing the coffee, but if it is it touches and it stops again, and you put the pitcher semi inclined etc and you start it, but you also need to purge the shower after making the coffee because micro particles in the coffee maker, the purge before and after makes them expel the small particles that have remained, is a way of caring for and prolonging the useful life

[@eenvleugjegoeiegames]

Hi Tom, thanks for the super informative video! Do you by any chance know if the regular bambino's steam wand has the same amount of power as the plus'? I was very impressed by it but feel like I don't need the automatic steaming functionality

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@eenvleugjegoeiegames No, it’s an older design on the nonplus model. It just has one hole in the tip, and not nearly the same power.

[@David-w5w7r]

Great review Tom. Ive just bought a Bambino Plus and completely new to this. Im confused about how much coffee to use for one cup. When ive googled the question, a lot of sites say 7g but is that really enough ? Judging by the pod coffees ive tasted which are 7g of coffee it seems quite tasteless.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I forget the single shots, because they're not enough for me. I always do doubles (14-18 grams).

[@justlovelyaintit]

The whole thing moves during steaming😮Somebody wants in.

[@luisarsuaga7637]

Hi Tom! I really want to buy the Bambino, but I've seen what you can do with the Delonghi ECP and that machine right now is super cheap! If I change to a non pressurised basket, and do the steam wand mod, do you still consider the Bambino to be a much better machine?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

The Bambino is sicker at steaming milk. Espresso I would say is quite similar between the two machines. Maybe just buy an EC885 though, and skip doing the steam wand mod.

[@nancyn3863]

Hi do you think the regular bambino is good. It’s $200 cheaper. Also considering the delonghi ecp but concerned about its longevity bc of reviews of it breaking down early. Thank you

[@justinbouchard]

I love this little machine in concept. I haven't used it but everything I've watched on it makes me think it's just a wonderful little machine for people that are almost super fussy about espresso but maybe not fully fussy about it. I just had a thought about the programmable dosing. Is it actually volumetric or is it just on a timer?

[@justinbouchard]

Oh! I also specifically use a puck screen just for keeping my showerhead clean. I don't think it really does anything for the brewing process. Maybe would help stop water blasting the top of the puck before it's completely filled and saturated in the basket. But for me, I don't even care about that lol. It keeps my shower screen just beautiful. Never any residue on it or under it when I remove it to clean it. No old coffee oils anywhere :)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi Justin, it's volumetric. I have it set to around 30-35 grams, but I try to weigh it anyway just to be sure. What's great that I forgot to mention, is that this machine has got some excellent cup space. You can easily fit various cups and a scale under there.

[@sanjaywadhwani4520]

Thank you for the information. Would you recommend bambino plus or dedica maestro plus? We are First time users but prefer a better product for long term use.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I like the Dedica Maestro Plus better - the Bambino is not temp adjustable, and has a tough time with light or medium roast beans for me.

[@VoicesofMusic]

How does the espresso compare to the 3420?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Wow, these are 2 totally different machines - boiler vs thermojet, manual vs automatic. For the money, the ECP can't be beat, and in my opinion I like the espresso better from it. It seems like the pressure is set a bit lower on the ECP, resulting in a shot that oozes out. The pressure on the Breville stuff seems somehow different, higher - even though it's supposed to be set at 9 bar. I have measured the temperatures, and the Breville does better to hold a flat curve due to the included PID, but I still prefer the result in the cup of the ECP. Just being honest. Workflow though is easier on the Breville, due to all the automatic features. In the end, I like them both, and I use the Bambino more when I have to make more drinks. For their respective price tiers, I think they can easily both be recommended. Aesthetics of course also play a role, but that's subjective.

[@sandraw8588]

I myself don't have the bambino plus but I do have the sage bambino, Im super impressed by the quality of the extractions at this price point.I have purchased several accessoires that have increased the quality of the extraction even more. I use the sage grinder pro alongside it.

[@DaddyMakesCoffee]

I agree, however the only thing I regret about owning Bambino, not plus version, is the 3 way solenoid valve. Which is not a shot quality factor though. But handy on ending each shot time and volume. Auto steaming milk on plus version is not attractive and functional to me. So I prefer to stay with my bambino.

[@ocastillo87]

Hi Tom! Great Video. I purchased everything from your list, However, I dont know what I am doing wrong, My espresso shot is not coming out like yours and my milk is not frosting correctly, please help with set up.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hello there! Yes, your beans are probably too old - or in other words roasted too long ago. These videos may help: How to extract the perfect espresso: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppqyZ5ZsbpqCppo How to Get Crema: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmGxhHpvaZpsl5o Why Supermarket Coffee Beans are RUINING your Espresso! kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3PKfn6nqp2ZgKs

[@abdulazizamh6495]

is there really a difference between an 80$ normcore tamper and a 15$ aliexpress tamper? which is also spring and pretty good quality i used it myself

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I haven't ordered from AliExpress, but I cannot imagine there will be a huge difference. Beans, water and puck prep make the biggest difference.

[@BigBenAdv]

Glad to see you finally got a puck screen! 😁 Is the Normcore tamper a v3 or v4? Been thinking about getting one for the Solis.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That's a V4, and yes it works good for the 54mm baskets. Cheers!

[@BigBenAdv]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Gone and done it. Just had my v4 arrived and pulled my first shot with it. 😁

[@elfletes]

Great video!

[@Feiloh]

Liked the content. Our breville machines here in Australia doesnt say Sage brand model. Is it the same though?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It's Breville Group. In AU and in North America it's Breville, and in Europe it's Sage. Has to do with trademark issues.

[@fishchick72]

Is that an after market portafilter? What type of portafilter does it come with?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! I use a 54mm Normcore bottomless for Sage/Breville. It comes with a nice dual spouted portafilter, but I like to see the extraction. :) Feel free to check the video description for links. Cheers!

[@hectorcontreras6649]

Tom thanks for the videos! Amazing information you share. I’m still in between bambino plus and dedica maestro plus. I’m an espresso guy and my wife she drinks milk beverages. What should I buy? HELP😂

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Did you see my comparison video? It's a close race. Imho, DMP wins for espresso, and BP wins for milk frothing.

[@heartobefelt]

Have you tried using other milk varieties such as Soy or Almond Milk in this machine ? Would it be much different in outcome ? Is it possible to use whipping cream instead of milk or would it explode and create a new Galaxy out in space somewhere ?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Lol, never tried whipping cream, but that's an interesting thought. Milk alternatives are always harder to froth, due to the lack of milk based proteins, but this machine at least has a ton of power to do the job as well as possible.

[@yamenbon4993]

Can you review 2200 philips please since i really trust yours

[@spongebob93lover]

Can you do a video comparing this va duo temp pro pls?

[@TheDiddyDumpling]

Hey Tom, I was going to get this machine as I love the simplicity of making a great coffee, would you still say it is good for medium / light roast coffees or would you tend to go for another machine in a similar price range? If so, any suggestions?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I don't know...I don't feel this machine is made for that. The PF doesn't get heated, and the max heat is not adjustable. I'd maybe suggest a GCP, and try temp surfing.

[@rashomon2020]

Great informative video sir! What colour version is this one? Is it the black truffle or black stainless steel one?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I think it’s black truffle, but I don’t know for sure as I bought it used and defective. Then I fixed it.

[@rashomon2020]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks Tom ... I bought the black stainless steel one in the end

[@joaopereira1935]

Is there no magnifying grid? the cup for an espresso is too low. splashes a lot

[@joaopereira1935]

Hello Tom. I just bought my bambino machine. As I only use it for espresso, I opted for the non plus version. I thought the difference would only be in the milk. However, notice that it does not have a 3-way solenoid valve. Is it possible to install? Will it be easy?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

No, I doubt it will be easy to install, and you'd need to control it with a signal. Plus, there's almost no room to fit one in. I'd return it for a Plus model, if that's important to you.

[@ScullyBrewing]

As a potential mod, could you drill into the drip tray and a have a hose drain out to somewhere? Not sure how to make it look pretty though

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You could do that, but it would be difficult to slide out the drip tray if you needed to...I just empty it each day. Cheers!

[@MrBonesO]

Can I ask why u dose only 14 g of the coffe? Why not 16?

[@templetours9]

Nice review, Tom. Very keen to know your rating on the espresso shot [ xx /10] please! Personally, prefer raw/unhomogenized milk and stove boil it. Prefer raw palm-sugar or unrefined sugar/jaggery.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

With the Bambino I would say 7/10. I feel where this machine shines is the steaming, and not really the espresso.

[@templetours9]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner ThanQ Tom for clarifying. Appreciate much.

[@tomekduda6132]

Tom, could you clarify 7/10 with or without mod?@@TomsCoffeeCorner

[@exalmed]

Toms videos are addicts!!!❤❤

[@SanchezFive7]

Great video

[@instaminox]

Tom if you were to get one machine which one would you get? thanks in advance

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

One machine? Probably a Breville Dual Boiler. I'm testing one right now, and it's the best so far. But if you mean under $500, then probably an ECP 3420. I like using it better than a GCP, because it's got better ergonomics and can make great espresso.

[@instaminox]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thank you very much

[@martijnruijterkamp4119]

From all the breville/sage breville machines which would you recommend? The bambino or the barista express? Maybe another one?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

So far, I'd probably recommend the Impress for an all in one, or this if you already have a grinder.

[@eduardoa.delimamorales9695]

Hello. Your videos are great!! And very fun tu watch. Could you review the KITCHENAID KES6503SX espresso machine next? Thanks alot

[@yanivsigler4473]

Hi Tom, did you start the clock from pressing the button or from water coming out?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Pump start, as that is when the extraction starts.

[@LawtonChiles]

Great breakdown!

[@timlance2753]

Thanks Tom. I love my machine. How fine did you grind your beans for this?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Fine enough for a 2:1 ratio in 25 seconds, as a ballpark figure.

[@timlance2753]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thank you for your reply. I'm still having under extraction issues with my machine. I will keep dialing I guess. My grind looks finer than yours from what I can tell from your video. All the best!!

[@SurfMichoacan]

I bought the machine a few months ago, and it worked great with all the standard accessories and better with the WDT, spring loaded tamp and funnel @TomsCoffeeCorner suggested. However, I tried to use a Normcore 54mm Bottomless Portafilter | Bottomless Naked Portafilter and it sprays from the seal of the Portafilter to the screen. Any tips on how to stop the spraying, or do I need a different Portafilter? Is there a way to improve the seal?

[@gabrieltakei]

Sorry to bother you again Tom. With this machine and with all the same gadgets, would you recommend the Baratza Encore ESP as a grinder? I have some cheap one, but it just doesn't make fine enough for espresso, my coffee comes out too fast.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, I quite like the ESP. It does a great job, and grinds well for espresso. Cheers!

[@nisreennawar1959]

Hi! If you had to start from zero, would you pick the barista pro or the bambino plus & a grinder? I tried the bambino plus and the main thing I hate is how the drip tray leaks from the bottom of machine when backflushing, even when it’s empty & clicked in properly.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That's a tough one, as the are essentially the same technology. I think I'd go for a BBE or Express Impress, since those eventually warm the brew group, and allow a longer pre-infusion. Cheers!

[@nisreennawar1959]

Thank you for replying! Did you also experience or hear or similar issues regarding the bambino drip tray?

[@NoZenith]

Mine has an issue where I think the drip tray doesn't go back far enough under the pressure relief Val and I end up with little bits of water underneath it everytime I pull a shot. I've only had a couple weeks and Breville is supposed to be sending me a new unit... Otherwise I freaking love it paired with a Niche Zero. Making a cup of tea by pulling water from the steam wand and then running a frost cycle with the lowest temperature and the lowest froth to heat the water up to just over 200 degrees ( the water straight from the Steam Wand isn't quite hot enough to brew black tea)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for that tip! That's a good idea to heat up the water further. And yes, my drip tray doesn't seem to fit perfectly, either.

[@NoZenith]

@TomsCoffeeCorner I'm going to have to call them in the morning I haven't had any emails and I paid $196 deposit for them to immediately ship the replacement in stead of waiting for me to ship mine back which would take up to 7 days to process and 7 days to ship one back out. They did give me the option of not spending any money and just shipping it back and they would send one back out when they received it. They told me there wasn't a fix for it so they were replacing, but I don't know if it was a known issue (they told me no when I asked the question, insinuating mine was an isolated incident). Anyway I didn't want to wait two weeks and not have a coffee machine with all this coffee coming so I paid $196 refundable deposit and I have 30 days to return this unit... it's already been a week!

[@bagi6642]

Exactly same issue. I'm on the 3rd unit now, and all of them leak partially underneath the tray whenever the solenoid valve is in use. 2nd unit was even sent for a repair, took about 3 weeks to have it back, and it was doing exactly the same thing, so... I'm sure it should be a known issue. The cleaning cycle floods my worktop massively.

[@HHHPedigrees]

Main difference between Bambino and Bambino plus?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

A lot. The Plus has a better steam wand and a newer heater technology. Larger water tank and pressure relief valve, too.

[@AnskarKong]

I used this machine for almost 2 years , you must do some hack to perform a good shot this machines main problem is very low temp , even dark roast the water temp can't extract well , the following is the hack : 0. change to use IMS water screen , bottomless portafilter , and IMS basket 1. use full boiling water preheat everything , portafilter , puck screen etc 2. user filter paper under the cake 3. purging before cup 4. press steam after purging (important) 5. wait at least 5sec then stop the steam 6. press and hold the cup button for 7 sec pre-influsion after 7 sec the bump will auto start no matter you holding or not , extract in LOW flow rate (1.0-1.3 at Acaia Lunar ) 7. finally this is give you a much better extraction , if you don't go thru this step , the water is average around 6Xc at the first few second instead of 8Xc(this method)

[@markbarton]

If you did not have a grinder already would you get the Bambino Plus and a seperate grinder or something like the Barista Express - assuming you could get the grinder and Bambino for similar money?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I'd probably go with the BBE. The Bambino in my opinion does not make better espresso. The BBE passively pre-heats the group over time, which is also an advantage.

[@markbarton]

Thanks @@TomsCoffeeCorner

[@frunzaradu12]

Nice video, although -10 points for the dirty wand ;) OCD kicking in!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You're right - but at least I know you watched that long!

[@bigron8308]

​@@TomsCoffeeCorner😂

[@PandaMalina]

Hey Tom!thanks for your video!pls, do you have any other tips for 54mm portafilter? I have problem with channeling 😢

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Well, you need freshly roasted beans and a good grinder. Which grinder are you running?

[@PandaMalina]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner yeaah, i have freshly roasted beans. My grinder is Breville too - The Dose Control Pro. Do You have any experience with that?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Well, the DCP is basically the grinder they have integrated in the Barista Express machines. Maybe try a bean with a higher robusta percentage, to get higher crema, and therefore cleaner extractions.@@PandaMalina

[@PandaMalina]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner thank you Very much! I Will try 😍😊

[@michaelelliott4975]

What’s with the loud thumping sound? Is that from the pump during the frothing?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That's the pump.

[@juanpablostolzenbach9776]

Do you recommend the bambino plus with a good grinder or the barista express?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Probably the BBE to be honest, as that one is capable of long pre-infusion, and eventually warms the brew group, providing imho a better shot.

[@gtws123]

what product you use when using self leveling temper? the bottom place to hold the temper.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! The Normcore V4 comes with a leveling plate. Cheers!

[@kitcraft9516]

Tom, how does that puck knock out without the screen when you use the Normcore basket or any straight wall basket? With my stock basket the pucks come out so easily. With my IMS, yeah, not so much. I have to whack them on the knock box like I am swinging a hammer to get them out and they often times don't come out whole. I've read that it is a dose thing, but I've tried everything from 16-20 grams with the same results. I've tried across all those grams with shot times of 25, 30 and 35 seconds and it doesn't seem to matter. I've tried different coffees too. Light, medium and dark(er) to no avail. I just hate this basket. For now, I am going to try with a puck screen too, lol.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

For me, the baskets knock out about the same. What helps though is a puck screen, as this maintains the integrity of the puck, for easier knock outs.

[@kitcraft9516]

Weird, maybe it's my basket or maybe it is just me.@@TomsCoffeeCorner

[@sonyasams3345]

Great video, Tom. My Bambino Plus will arrive tomorrow. Just a heads up, most colors are currently on back order in the U.S, I wanted sea salt but had to order black truffle, so hoping I like it.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

The black truffle is pretty sweet too. 👍🏻

[@sonyasams3345]

Awesome sauce!❤

[@_eskargo]

i got the sea salt. it was ordered 12/21 and arrived two months later but this color was worth the wait.

[@SpicyMelange]

You seem like such a lovely person! Thank you, Tom!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That's so kind of you to say, I appreciate it!

[@dr6124]

What temperature does the water leaving the steam want get to when making tea?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It's not that hot, but you can then dip the steam wand in the water and steam it up to whatever temp you want.

[@hiburn8]

Is that the bamford GShock?!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Close, but not quite. Cheers!

[@ChillBeanStudio]

Hello! Yesterday I bought an used Sage Bambino (regular, not Plus). I don’t really know a lot about this machine, but I read through the manual and also searched the web about this thing and I still can’t seem to understand why is there a place for backflush in the drip tray? There is no mentions about backflush function in the manual and also on the web everybody says that there is no backflush on the regular Bambino. Also, no water has come out of that place (I have made 5 espresso shots and descaled it) so I am getting worried that something might be broken. Is the water supposed to come out of there in some situations and I have got a defective unit or it is just a bad design and everything is okay with my espresso machine? Thanks

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I have never had a Bambino, so I cannot say myself. But, I am assuming that they just kept the design of the drip tray similar to the Bambino Plus to save on engineering and manufacturing costs. Cheers!

[@taraboerum4299]

Can I ask which setting you used on the Baratza grinder?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I am usually between 3 and 7, depending on the bean. Freshness of roast plays the biggest role here.

[@chhuyaagro1556]

Hi there, my bambino plus temperature is always 60-65°C which is not good for good espresso extraction. what could be the problem? i cleaned the machine with descaling tablet & also changed water filter. no luck. any help will be highly appreciated. thanks in advance.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I would suggest running 2-3 shots ahead of time, without coffee, to get everything warmed up. You could also dunk the PF in a cup of hot water, to improve things.

[@KewlMeow3]

Hi Tom, the amazon link that u listed for the IMS basket has a lot of sizes & model number, which is the one u use? I have a breville bambino BES450 (NOT the bambino plus), which one should i get for both the single cup and double cup, If i were to use it on the normcore bottomless portafilter that u recommended??

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Well, any of the IMS 54mm will fit a bottomless. It just depends on how large you want your dose. H22 will give you the smallest dose, maybe 12-14 grams, H24 is slightly larger, and H26 will be likely 16-18 grams. The Hxx stands for the depth of the basket in mm.

[@KewlMeow3]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner thank u for your response 😊. I found it very hard to find a coffee grinder for non-pressurized bottomless portafilter, many i found has to cost at least $300. Do u have any suggestion for the cheapest one but able to grind fine enough for non-pressurized bottomless portafilter? Thank you so much

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@KewlMeow3 The Fellow Opus is meant for espresso: amzn.to/3r39Fw7 That one is just $199. I haven't tested it yet, but it's quite popular.

[@KewlMeow3]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Yea I saw a review on the Opus Fellow too but didn’t really like it. I’m debating between the “Baratza Encore ESP” and “Turin SK40” and can’t decide which one to get. 😣 Would u happened to have any of these two grinders that u can do a comparison review video on? Or if u have any suggestions on which one to get?? Thanks 😊

[@octavbarbu5554]

WHAT IS THAT WDT HANGING ON THE MACHINE I NEEED ITT

[@joseroman166]

Hello Tom, I have a barista express but the steam pressure is not as strong to make microfoam and I have practice for a year, and I notice the bambino seems to have a better heating coil so wanted to buy one but not sure if the steam wand pressure will be better? Also, if these don’t offer good steam wand pressure which other brand would?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

This is the best steam wand I've used in that price range, for sure. Only better one is BDB or Barista Touch Impress (both expensive though). The Bambino Plus steams like a son of a gun!

[@joseroman166]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner but is there a steam wand pressure difference in barista express vs Bambino Plus? Breville said is the same. I disagree base on the heating element.

[@joseroman166]

The barista touch impress uses thermojet which is the same as the bambino plus. Is it the same pressure steam wand you think from the touch impress and the bambino plus?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

The BTI is a bit better than the BP, but the BP is still very good.@@joseroman166

[@joseroman166]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner thank you!

[@joaorreis31]

Hello Tom, I saw in another video that the portafilter doesn't get warm in this machine. I always read that would be good to have the portafilter warm. In case we are using this normcore bottomless portafilter is that an issue? If you run a blank shot in a regular portafilter it should warm up a bit. What in a case of an open one? Also how does a cheap bottomless portafilter compares to normcore? :)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It's always better to have a heated brew group, even if the PF is bottomless.

[@TacBlades]

What is that banging sound when steaming ????

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

The pump has to supply the heater with water to turn into steam. Cheers!

[@TacBlades]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner I guess quiet pumps are in the next decade 😂

[@zack20012]

Do you recommend more the bambino plus or the dedica?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Overall the BP is a little better, but the price determines it. In some markets there is a huge price difference, and then I'd take the Dedica.

[@zack20012]

Thank you for your advice

[@MacDKB]

Self-levelling tamper... Innnnteresting... I struggle to consistently tamp perfectly flat. I guess I'll have to pick one of those bad boys up...

[@shibby_ronson]

If you are using the original tamper press with your palm on the shaft and put your thumb and 2 fingers on the edge between tamper and basket to feel the leveling. Be aware that this self-leveling tamper (i'm using a similar but different brand) might not work with the original baskets since they are more conical. The IMS baskets work great.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I like using this Normcore. Originally bought it for my La Spaziale, but it fits the Sage/Breville great, too.