In this article, I’ll be conducting a head-to-head comparison of two compact home espresso machines: Delonghi Dedica Deluxe vs Breville Bambino Plus. Despite their variations in price points – with the Delonghi being a bit more affordable and the Bambino leaning slightly towards the higher end – my personal preference leans towards the Breville Bambino Plus.
The Breville Bambino Plus offers a tailored experience with its customizable 3 levels of temperature and milk frothing, ensuring satisfaction for all preferences. The standout ThermoJet heating system impressively heats up in a mere 3 seconds, delivering swift performance. Notably, its steam wand excels in producing consistently excellent milk foam, making it well-suited even for latte art enthusiasts.
If space is a consideration, the De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe, with its slightly smaller footprint, could be the preferable option. Additionally, it is also more budget-friendly.
Delonghi Dedica Deluxe vs Breville Bambino Plus: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi Dedica Deluxe vs Breville Bambino Plus: Differences
After this thorough head-to-head comparison, the Breville Bambino Plus emerged as the victor with a final score of 2-1 and 1 draw. For a deeper dive into the details, I encourage you to continue reading.
Flavor & Brewing Technology
The Winner: Breville Bambino Plus
Heating System
The DeLonghi model employs a Thermoblock heating system that gets things warm in about a minute. However, the Breville Bambino Plus takes it up a notch, achieving an even faster warm-up time of just 3 seconds. With either of these machines, there’s no need to twiddle my thumbs for ages while waiting for them to reach the optimal temperature.
The ThermoJet heating system in the Breville Bambino Plus not only achieves a quicker warm-up but also boasts significantly lower energy consumption when compared to the Thermoblock of the De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe. Furthermore, it is equipped with a PID controller. This feature plays a pivotal role in maintaining a steady temperature.
Filter Basket & Portafilter
| Breville Bambino Plus | De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe | |
|---|---|---|
| Portafilter Diameter | 54 mm | 51 mm |
| Portafilter Materials | Stainless Steel | Aluminum |
| Filter Basket Type | Pressurized | Pressurized |
Both the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe and the Breville Bambino Plus are supplied with a double-shot pressurized, a single-shot pressurized, and a pressurized ESE pod basket for paper pods. Personally, I must admit that this filter basket type isn’t my preferred choice.
I still can’t deny that these baskets are truly convenient when it comes to assisting beginners, making the journey of crafting a delicious cup of coffee incredibly easy. You don’t have to invest in a grinder but can use pre-ground coffee. Even if the grind isn’t perfectly uniform, these baskets manage to deliver a remarkably satisfying espresso. Moreover, these baskets seem to mitigate the challenges of tamping, which can be a bit daunting for someone less experienced.
However, I’ve always been inclined towards the non-pressurized baskets to create that truly “authentic” espresso experience. If you’re using the Bambino Plus, you do have the choice to buy the separated non-pressurized option. As for DeLonghi machines, there don’t seem to be any non-pressurized baskets available that are compatible.
Furthermore, the portafilter on the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe, being made of aluminum, might not offer the same level of quality as the stainless steel portafilter found on the Breville Bambino Plus. The aluminum build makes it noticeably lighter and not as sturdy as the stainless steel one.
Milk System
The Winner: Breville Bambino Plus
DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe uses a Pannarello wand along with an adjustable cappuccino system. We can easily switch between the Cappuccino setting for frothy milk or the Hot Milk setting for smooth, bubble-free steamed milk with just one slide down or up.
This Pannarello wand generates quite good milk foam for lattes. I must admit it falls short in terms of being excellent for latte art, especially when compared to the results achieved with the Breville Bambino Plus.
However, we can remove the metal Pannarello cover and solely use the rubber steam wand. While beginners would still need to learn the proper milk steaming technique, for those already familiar with steaming and seeking a compact solution, achieving excellent microfoam is possible in this manner. At this point, I’d like to bring up the DeLonghi EC885M Dedica Arte, which is an essentially identical model with a professional steam wand.
In the case of the Breville Bambino Plus, it boasts a conventional steam wand. What’s intriguing about its steaming and frothing functionality is the ability to fine-tune across three froth levels and three temperature settings. The process is totally automatic.
There’s a particular feature of the Bambino Plus’s steam wand that I find quite appealing – a temperature sensor situated at its base. This sensor adds a touch of convenience by eliminating the necessity to remain vigilant throughout the steaming process. Once the milk reaches your pre-set temperature, the steam wand will automatically stop.
Bambino Plus also allows us to use this wand as a traditional 4-hole steam wand. Simply by tilting the wand upward and pressing the steam button, you can unlock manual steaming capabilities.
While the milk system of the Breville Bambino Plus is automated, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by its efficiency. The quality of the milk foam it produces has genuinely impressed me. By setting it to a medium temperature and medium froth level, I’m able to attain a remarkably smooth foam that closely resembles the microfoam achieved with a traditional steam wand. This foam is well-suited for crafting intricate latte art designs.
Design & Usability
The Winner: De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe
Dimensions, Weight & Appearance
| DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe | Breville Bambino Plus | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 5.9″ x 12″ x 13″ | 7.7″ x 12.6″ x 12.2″ |
| Weight | 9.3 pounds | 3.1 lb / 1.4 kg |
Undoubtedly, the most remarkable selling point of the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe is its compact size. It is a great choice for those who prioritize space efficiency without compromising performance. Comparatively, the Bambino Plus is slightly wider and taller than the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe.
Aesthetic judgments are highly personal, and these machines boast such simple designs that I find it difficult to make a decision based on their looks. Nevertheless, the Delonghi model offers various color choices, allowing for a touch of individuality. On the other hand, the Breville option is only presented in silver, which might be something to think about for someone who appreciates having color options for their appliances.
Water Tank
The DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe has a water tank capacity of 34 ounces, while the Breville Bambino Plus has a double capacity of 64 ounces. These capacities appear to be thoughtfully aligned with the dimensions and purposes of each machine.
Furthermore, both machines feature conveniently removable water tanks, which greatly simplify the tasks of refilling and cleaning.
Cup Height
| DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe | Breville Bambino Plus | |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum cup height | ~ 12 cm | ~ 12 cm |
| Drip tray | Double drip tray | 1 drip tray |
When in its original configuration, the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe maintains a cup clearance that is slightly lower than that of the Breville Bambino Plus. This lower cup clearance serves a specific purpose: it helps prevent splashing and preserves the delicate crema layer of the espresso.
One of the notable conveniences found in the DeLonghi model is the presence of an additional drip tray. When you take out the main drip tray, you’ll discover a metal plate beneath it.
This clever design addition increases the available space for cups, allowing for a greater cup height. As a result, the maximum cup clearance matches that of the Breville Bambino Plus, approximately 12 cm. With this accommodating cup clearance, you can effortlessly place larger cups beneath the portafilter.
Utilities
The Winner: Tie
User Interface
In terms of user interface, both these machines have quite similar setups. Both have programmable buttons for single and double shots, along with a button dedicated to heating up to steaming/frothing temperature.
The DeLonghi model also has a handy dial positioned on the side of the machine, which is used to engage the frothing wand.
As for the Breville option, there are a couple of buttons equipped with clear indicators, allowing us to adjust the milk temperature and milk foam texture.
Auto Shut-off
The DeLonghi model impressively includes an automatic shutdown feature that activates 20 minutes after the last coffee brew, effectively conserving energy. However, Breville Bambino Plus, unfortunately, lacks this function.
Auto Purge
When using the Breville Bambino Plus, as soon as the milk frothing completes, it operates an automatic purging process by allowing water to pass through the wand. I find this feature particularly appealing since the small holes at the wand’s tip tend to get clogged often.
In the case of the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe, maintaining the wand is a bit of a hassle because it does not have an auto purge. To keep it clean, I have to manually remove the Pannarello wand and give it a thorough rinse in the sink. This extra step is necessary to clear out the foam buildup inside and ensure the frothing wand stays in good condition.
Hot Water Function
As someone who enjoys tea and Americano occasionally, I really appreciate the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe’s feature of dispensing hot water. This functionality allows me to easily get hot water by simply repositioning the steam knob to the designated hot water position.
Interestingly, not everyone knows that the Breville Bambino Plus also has the capability to dispense hot water. This function can be easily activated by simultaneously pressing the lower right button and the one-shot button.
The water temperature might not be as hot as kettle water, but it still provides a swift option for those moments when I’m looking for a hassle-free cup of tea.
Quick Rundown Of Breville Bambino Plus
- The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is part of the Bambino Series that offers the faster way to professional results at home in a compact footprint: serious espresso, serious value
- DOSE CONTROL GRINDING: Achieve a consistent and balanced espresso using the right amount of ground coffee; The 54mm porta-filter with 19 grams is the key for full flavor and cafe quality coffee
- OPTIMAL WATER PRESSURE: Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and helps ensure all the flavors are drawn out evenly during the extraction for a balanced tasting cup
- FASTER HEAT UP TIME: Innovative ThermoJet heating system achieves the optimum extraction temperature in 3 seconds
- PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION: Digital temperature control (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, ensuring optimal espresso extraction
Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe
- Design: Less than 6-inch in width, super-slim design, fully metal body, 15-bar pump and incorporated cup warmer
- Use: Brews a variety of of espresso-based drinks
- Practical: Heats in 40 seconds and keeps perfect temperature
- Customizable: Adjustable coffee length, foam and steam levels
- Double Drip Tray: The removable drip tray allows you to use mugs and glasses up to 12 cm tall
Last update on 2024-12-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- Breville Bambino Plus from Breville: https://www.breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/bes500.html
- DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe from DeLonghi: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/dedica-deluxe-manual-espresso-machine-cappuccino-maker-stainless-steel-ec685m/p/EC685
I’m Floyd J. Alcock, an experienced barista with a deep love for coffee. I curate personalized coffee experiences, guiding customers through diverse flavor profiles and suggesting ideal brewing methods. My extensive knowledge of espresso machines enables me to recommend the best equipment to match specific needs and budgets. Sharing my expertise and passion with coffee enthusiasts brings immense satisfaction. I look forward to continuing my journey of coffee discovery with every customer I serve, fostering connections over a shared love for this magical beverage.