Breville Bambino Plus vs Sage Barista Express: which espresso machine should you buy?

One is small, fast and needs a separate grinder. The other does everything in one box. The right answer depends on your worktop.

The Bambino Plus wins for most people: it makes espresso just as good for far less money, and a separate grinder you choose yourself beats a built-in one you can't upgrade.

Buy the Bambino Plus if you want the best espresso per pound and are happy owning a separate grinder — the combination beats the Barista Express on cup quality for similar total spend. Buy the Barista Express only if worktop space or a single-purchase setup matters more than upgradeability.