The Breville Bambino and the DeLonghi Linea series both offer great home espresso, but they cater to very different users through their design, performance, and price. The Bambino is a compact, modern machine known for its incredibly fast 3-second heat-up time and budget-friendly price, making it perfect for convenience and small spaces. In contrast, the DeLonghi Linea series typically features a more traditional, robust construction with a classic Italian aesthetic at a higher price point, appealing to espresso enthusiasts who prioritize durability and a timeless design.
Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right espresso machine from Breville or DeLonghi for your home coffee bar.
Breville Bambino
The Breville Bambino is a semi-automatic espresso machine that has become a huge favorite for its ability to deliver high-quality espresso in an incredibly compact and user-friendly package. Its standout feature is the proprietary ThermoJet heating system, which gets the machine ready to brew in just three seconds. This makes it an ideal choice for busy mornings or for anyone who values speed and efficiency without sacrificing control over their coffee.
- What it is: A compact semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home baristas who want cafe-quality results without a large machine or long wait times.
- Key features: ThermoJet heating system for a 3-second heat-up, low-pressure pre-infusion for even extraction, volumetric shot control (1 and 2 cup), and a powerful steam wand for milk frothing.
- Price: Around $300 - $350.
- Dimensions: Approximately 7.7" W x 12.5" D x 12.2" H.
- Materials/Construction: A mix of stainless steel housing and high-quality plastic components to maintain a lightweight and compact form factor.
- Style: Sleek, modern, and minimalist. Its clean lines and brushed-metal finish fit well in most contemporary kitchens.
- Pros: Extremely fast heat-up time, very compact footprint saves counter space, beginner-friendly operation, excellent performance and value for its price.
- Cons: Lighter construction means it can slide on the counter when attaching the portafilter, smaller water tank requires more frequent refilling, some users may prefer a heavier, all-metal build.
This machine is perfect for home users in apartments or with small kitchens who need a fast, reliable, and affordable entry into the world of semi-automatic espresso.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/the-bambino-series.html
DeLonghi Linea Series
The DeLonghi Linea series represents a more traditional approach to home espresso, emphasizing robust construction, classic Italian design, and time-tested brewing technology. These machines are built to last, often featuring heavier metal components and larger internal boilers that provide excellent temperature stability after a longer heat-up period. The Linea series appeals to espresso purists who appreciate a more classic machine look and feel and are willing to invest a bit more for that experience.
- What it is: A series of semi-automatic espresso machines focused on durability, traditional performance, and a classic-style coffee bar aesthetic.
- Key features: Varies by model but often includes heavy-duty stainless steel boilers, durable metal construction, user-friendly controls, and powerful steam wands. Often larger than entry-level machines.
- Price: $400 - $700, depending on the specific model.
- Dimensions: Generally larger, ranging from 9-12" W x 11-14" D x 13-15" H.
- Materials/Construction: Heavy-duty, often all-metal construction for stability and longevity. Professional-grade internal components like brass and stainless steel boilers are common.
- Style: Classic, traditional Italian espresso machine design. These machines often have a more industrial or vintage look that makes a statement on the countertop.
- Pros: Exceptionally durable and built to last, stable and won't move during use, provides consistent brewing temperature once heated, premium feel and classic aesthetic.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than the Bambino, much longer heat-up times due to the traditional boiler system, larger footprint requires more dedicated space.
The DeLonghi Linea is ideal for serious coffee enthusiasts who prioritize durability and a timeless Italian aesthetic and have the counter space to spare.
Shop this product: delonghi.com/en-us/products/coffee-espresso/coffee-makers
Breville Bambino vs. DeLonghi Linea Series Comparison
Dimensions & Scale
The difference in size is one of the most significant factors between these two options. The Breville Bambino is one of the most compact semi-automatic espresso machines on the market, with a narrow width of just 7.7 inches. This allows it to fit neatly on even the most crowded countertops or in small apartment kitchens without demanding much room.
The DeLonghi Linea series is considerably larger and heavier. With widths typically starting at 9 inches and going up, these machines require a dedicated spot in your kitchen. Their substantial size and visual weight make them a focal point, more akin to a permanent fixture than a simple appliance. If you have a dedicated coffee bar or ample kitchen space, the DeLonghi's presence can be a plus, but for smaller areas, the Bambino is the clear winner.
Materials & Construction
Construction philosophy is another major point of difference. The Bambino uses a smart combination of stainless steel and high-quality plastic to keep it lightweight and affordable. While durable enough for daily use, its lighter build means you may need to hold it steady when locking in the portafilter.
DeLonghi Linea machines, on the other hand, are prized for their heavy, robust, often metal-heavy construction. This solid build ensures the machine is completely stable on the counter and reflects a commitment to long-term durability. The internal components, such as stainless steel or brass boilers, are designed for longevity and consistent performance over years of use.
Price & Value
Price and value are viewed differently with these machines. At around $300-$350, the Breville Bambino offers immense value for its price. It provides modern features like lightning-fast heat-up times and great shot control that are found on much more expensive machines. It’s an easy investment for someone getting started or who values speed and convenience.
The DeLonghi Linea’s price of $400-$700 places it in a higher tier. The value here comes not from cutting-edge features but from its durable build and materials. You are paying for a machine that is built to last and to perform consistently for many years, making it a better long-term investment for a serious espresso hobbyist.
Style & Versatility
Aesthetically, the two machines cater to completely different tastes. Breville's design is modern, clean, and minimalist. Its brushed stainless steel finish and simple button layout allow it to blend seamlessly into almost any contemporary kitchen decor. It is versatile and understated.
The DeLonghi Linea series has a classic, almost retro Italian character. Its design is a statement piece, evoking the feel of a traditional cafe. With visible gauges, polished chrome details, and a substantial form, it works best in kitchens with a traditional, rustic, or industrial-chic style. It's less about blending in and more about standing out.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both machines deliver excellent espresso but are designed for different kitchens, habits, and priorities.
Choose the Breville Bambino if:
- You have limited counter space and need a compact machine.
- You want your coffee immediately and can't wait for your machine to heat up.
- Your budget is under $400 and you want the best performance for your money.
- You prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic that fits into contemporary decor.
Choose a DeLonghi Linea Series machine if:
- You prioritize long-term durability and heavy-duty, all-metal construction.
- You have a dedicated coffee station and a bigger budget.
- You embrace the ritual of making espresso and don't mind a longer warm-up time.
- You love a classic, timeless Italian aesthetic in your kitchen appliances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Bambino and Linea?
The biggest differences are speed, size, and build quality. The Breville Bambino is ultra-fast to heat up (3 seconds) and very compact, designed for convenience. The DeLonghi Linea series features a more robust, heavier metal construction and a traditional boiler, which means it's slower to heat up but is built for long-term durability.
Which one is better for beginners?
The Breville Bambino is generally better for beginners. Its speed, straightforward controls, and lower price point make it a very accessible and forgiving introduction to making high-quality espresso at home.
How fast do they heat up?
The Breville Bambino's ThermoJet system is ready to pull a shot in just 3 seconds. DeLonghi Linea machines rely on traditional boilers, which need several minutes (typically 5-15, depending on the model) to fully heat up for stable temperature.
Is the DeLonghi Linea worth the extra money?
For those who value longevity, a heavy-duty feel, and classic style, it absolutely can be. You are investing in a machine that is built to last for many years, while the Bambino is designed more for modern convenience and performance in a smaller package.
Which machine makes better espresso?
Both are capable of making excellent espresso. The final quality will depend more on your choice of beans, your grinder, and your technique. However, some advanced users may prefer the thermal stability of a traditional boiler in the DeLonghi machines for shot-to-shot consistency.
Which one has a better steam wand for milk frothing?
Generally, machines in the DeLonghi Linea's price range have larger boilers that produce more sustained steam power, making them slightly better for frothing larger quantities of milk or creating microfoam for latte art. However, the Bambino's steam wand is surprisingly powerful for its size and more than capable for daily lattes and cappuccinos.
Does the Breville Bambino feel cheap?
No, it doesn't feel cheap, but it does feel lightweight. Using stainless steel helps it feel premium, but its plastic components and light body are noticeable compared to the heavier, all-metal feel of a DeLonghi machine.
What kind of maintenance is required?
Both machines require regular maintenance, including daily rinsing of the group head and portafilter, routine cleaning cycles, and periodic descaling to prevent mineral buildup. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific maintenance schedules.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
