Head-to-head · Best Espresso Machines Under $500

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine vs De'Longhi Dedica

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.6 vs 3.8). The gap is mostly about beginners seeking consistent results — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Espresso Machines Under $500

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

4.6

$299as of Apr 25

The Breville Bambino Plus earns praise as an entry-level champ, with Tom's Guide calling it an 'ideal espresso machine for beginners.' Reviewers highlight its advanced features like built-in PID control and preinfusion, which deliver excellent shots despite its simple appearance. The thermo jet heating system provides fast warmup times, enhancing user experience. However, some reviewers note that Breville's modern design sacrifices durability and repairability. The machine appeals to coffee enthusiasts seeking quality without the complexity of higher-end models, though those wanting robust build quality may want to look elsewhere.

Strengths

— Built-in PID and preinfusion technology for consistent extraction
— Thermo jet heating system reaches temperature in under 3 seconds
— Compact and lightweight design suitable for small kitchens

Watch-outs

— Limited repair support and high replacement part costs
— Single-wall filter basket not included in US version
— Buttons lack tactile feedback compared to traditional machines

$299 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best Espresso Machines Under $500

De'Longhi Dedica

3.8

$299as of Apr 25

The De'Longhi Dedica is a compact, user-friendly semi-automatic espresso machine designed for beginners, according to Tom's Guide and other reviewers. It heats up quickly, features a sleek brushed metal design, and includes pressurized filter baskets that help achieve concentrated espresso. However, experienced baristas may find its simplified features lacking, and some reviewers noted the included tamper is poorly constructed. This machine is best suited for casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso making, rather than serious home baristas who want more control over their brewing process.

Strengths

— Compact design at just 6 inches wide, ideal for small kitchens
— Heats up in under a minute for quick coffee preparation
— Beginner-friendly with only three buttons and simple controls

Watch-outs

— Simplified features may be underwhelming for experienced baristas
— Includes a flimsy plastic tamper that's impractical for proper tamping
— No built-in grinder and requires separate coffee bean grinding

$299 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

Unlike the Gaggia Classic Pro, which requires significant technique to master, the Breville Bambino Plus delivers consistent results right out of the box with its built-in PID and preinfusion technology. While the DeLonghi Dedica offers simplicity, the Bambino Plus provides more advanced features like thermo jet heating without sacrificing usability. Compared to the DeLonghi La Specialista Arte Evo, it lacks a built-in grinder but compensates with superior temperature control and faster warmup times.

De'Longhi Dedica

The De'Longhi Dedica is more compact and beginner-friendly than the Breville Bambino Plus, but lacks the advanced features like PID control and thermo jet heating that make the Bambino Plus superior for consistent results. While it's simpler than the Gaggia Classic Pro, it doesn't offer the same level of control or milk frothing capability. Compared to the DeLonghi La Specialista Arte Evo, it's less feature-rich and lacks a built-in grinder.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine	De'Longhi Dedica
Type	Espresso Machine	Semi-automatic
Brewing Pressure	9 bars	15 bar
Water Tank Capacity	0.6L	36 ounces
Grinder	None	None
Steam Wand	Automatic	Pannarello
Dimensions	12.5 x 7.5 x 12.2 inches	6 inches
Weight	7.5 lbs	4.2 kg
Features	Thermo Jet	Pannarello wand, Cup warmer

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