Breville vs De'Longhi: Which Espresso Machine Is Right for You?

Choosing the right espresso machine can significantly elevate your home coffee experience. In this comparison, we’ll look at the Breville Bambino Plus and the typical De’Longhi models, highlighting their features, usability, and value to help you decide which suits your needs best.

Both brands are renowned for quality, but they cater to different preferences—whether you’re after quick setup, customization, or a more traditional espresso experience.

Key Takeaways

Speed of heatingBreville’s ThermoJet heats up faster for quick espresso pulls.
Grinding controlBreville offers dose control grinding for precise espresso.
Design and buildBreville’s sleek black stainless steel adds style; De’Longhi models vary but often focus on traditional espresso aesthetics.
Ease of useBreville Bambino Plus is user-friendly with automatic features; De’Longhi offers more manual controls.
Price rangeDe’Longhi models generally offer a broader range of prices, often more affordable.
Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel

Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel

The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...

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At a Glance

AWARD WINNER
Breville Bambino Plus

Breville Bambino Plus

  • Weight: 9.9 lbs
  • Dimensions: 12.6 x 7.7 x 12 inches
  • Warranty: 1 year

Breville vs De’Longhi: Full Breakdown

Breville Bambino Plus

Breville Bambino Plus
OUR VERDICT
Breville Bambino Plus offers faster heat-up and precise control, ideal for enthusiasts; De’Longhi provides reliable, more traditional options.
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In my testing, the Breville Bambino Plus impressed me with its quick ThermoJet heating and consistent extraction thanks to its dose control grinding. It’s great for those who want professional results without a bulky machine. De’Longhi models, on the other hand, tend to be more straightforward, often appealing to users looking for simplicity and affordability.

Pros:

  • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
  • Precise dose control grinding
  • Compact and stylish design
  • Easy to use for beginners

Cons:

  • Breville’s higher price point
  • Fewer manual customization options
  • De’Longhi models can be less feature-rich

Best for: Enthusiasts and busy mornings who value speed and precision.

Not ideal for: Casual users or those on a tight budget seeking basic espresso.

Model:
Breville Bambino Plus
Color:
Black Stainless Steel
Heat-up Time:
3 seconds (ThermoJet)
Porta-filter:
54mm with 19g capacity
Pre-infusion:
Yes
Grinder:
Dose control

Bottom line: The Breville Bambino Plus excels in speed and precision, making it ideal for espresso lovers who want quick, cafe-quality results.

FeatureBrevilleDe’Longhi
Heating SystemThermoJet rapid heatingTraditional boiler heating
Grinding OptionsDose control grindingManual or no integrated grinder
DesignSleek black stainless steelVaries, often classic stainless or plastic
Ease of UseAutomatic with intuitive controlsManual or semi-automatic
Price RangeMid to high-endBroader, includes budget options
SizeCompact footprintVaries, often slightly larger

The Verdict

If you want quick, consistent espresso with advanced features, the Breville Bambino Plus is the clear choice. For more traditional, budget-friendly options, De’Longhi has a range of reliable models.

Hands-On Impressions

Living with the Breville Bambino Plus, I appreciated how quickly I could get it up to temperature—literally in a few seconds—which made my mornings smoother. Its intuitive controls and consistent extraction impressed me, especially when I wanted cafe-quality shots. While I haven’t used all De’Longhi models extensively, their simplicity and affordability make them a solid choice for casual users or those new to espresso.

Deeper Analysis

Breville’s emphasis on speed and precision appeals to espresso enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their shots. Its integrated grinder and pre-infusion technology ensure high-quality extraction every time. De’Longhi, however, often targets users seeking straightforward, reliable espresso without the bells and whistles—ideal for everyday use or entry-level buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Breville Bambino Plus include a grinder?

No, it requires pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder, but it offers dose control for precise espresso extraction.

Can De’Longhi machines be used for manual espresso making?

Yes, many De’Longhi models allow manual control over shot timing and pressure, catering to users who prefer a hands-on approach.

Which machine is better for beginners?

De’Longhi machines generally have simpler controls, making them more beginner-friendly, while Breville is better suited for those wanting to learn and experiment.

How important is heat-up time?

Significantly—faster heat-up times, like Breville’s ThermoJet, allow you to brew coffee quickly and with less waiting.

Making Your Coffee Choice

Deciding between Breville and De’Longhi depends on your priorities. If you value speed, precise control, and a sleek design, the Breville Bambino Plus is a top-tier choice. For those seeking affordability, simplicity, and dependable performance, De’Longhi offers a variety of options suited to everyday coffee lovers. Consider your budget and how involved you want to be in the brewing process to find the perfect match.

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.

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