Buying guide for Best de'longhi espresso machines
Most of us can’t get through the morning without a fresh cup of coffee to get us going. But if you prefer a particularly strong brew, espresso is probably your favorite morning beverage – and you can’t use just any old drip coffee maker or french press to whip it up. For authentic, great-tasting espresso, you need a dedicated espresso machine – and when it comes to espresso and coffee makers, there are few manufacturers more respected than De'Longhi.
Espresso is made using a blend of a few different types of coffee beans, which are roasted until they become dark and develop an oily sheen on their surface. The main difference between coffee and espresso, though, is that espresso uses beans that are ground more finely than regular filter coffee, and the finer the ground, the longer the coffee takes to brew. An espresso machine uses a pump to create enough pressure to drive hot water through the ground beans and out of the machine’s spout into your cup. In addition to espresso shots, De'Longhi espresso machines can usually be used to make specialty drinks like macchiatos, cappuccinos, lattes, and mochas.
But getting the best-tasting espresso all comes down to selecting the right De'Longhi espresso machine for your needs. That means choosing the best type of machine, the right size, and the most useful features to make brewing espresso as easy as can be. Considering how many models De'Longhi offers, though, wading through all the options can get overwhelming.
Our shopping guide is here to help you make sense of all your choices. It has all the tips you need to find the ideal De'Longhi espresso machine for your kitchen so you can enjoy your favorite dose of caffeine every morning. That way, you can easily decide between our top De'Longhi espresso machine picks to get the right espresso machine for you.
Key Considerations
Type
When you’re shopping for a De'Longhi espresso machine, the first decision you have to make is what type of machine you prefer. De'Longhi offers manual and automatic/super automatic models. Both types can make a delicious shot of espresso, but there are differences in how easy they are to operate and maintain.
Manual espresso machines require you to do some work for each shot of espresso in the morning. However, that means that you have more control over each of the steps in the brewing process, so you’re guaranteed the best-tasting espresso. If you aren’t a master at using a manual machine, though, you can just as easily wind up ruining your espresso shot. A manual model usually has either a direct lever or a spring piston lever. Direct levers are usually more difficult to operate.
De'longhi manual espresso machines tend to be more affordable than their automatic counterparts and offer a very attractive, classic look when they’re sitting out on your countertop. They’re usually extremely durable, too, and are an ideal option if you’re a true experienced using manual machines or want to take the time to learn how to use them.
Automatic or super automatic espresso machines take all the work out of the espresso-making process. They feature an electric pump to drive the water through the ground coffee, as well as an automated system that chooses a precise amount of water and then sends it through the machine. These models are extremely easy to use, but they don’t allow as much control over the brewing process as a manual machine does. Also, automatic or super automatic espresso machines often don’t last as long as manual models because they contain electronic components.
De'Longhi’s super automatic machines are the most user-friendly – and most expensive – models. In many cases, you can make a shot of espresso by pressing a single button. They’re an ideal option if you want to make your espresso quickly and easily and aren’t as concerned with having control over each step of the process.
Size
Because your espresso machine will most likely sit out on your counter, it’s important to consider its size to be sure that it will fit in your kitchen. De'Longhi manual machines tend to be the most compact, while automatic or super automatic machines can be fairly large – particularly if they’re equipped with a variety of special features or are designed to brew two espresso shots at once.
Check the product specifications of any De'Longhi espresso machine you’re considering to determine the dimensions and measure your counter space to be sure it will fit.
Features
Tank Size
De'Longhi espresso machines usually have a tank that you can fill, so there’s always water in the machine when you want to make espresso. The best size tank depends on how many servings you need each day. If you only make espresso or espresso-based drinks for yourself and your partner, any size tank will usually do. However, if you regularly make espresso for a larger group or usually have multiple cups a day, you’ll likely want a larger tank.
De'Longhi offers machines with tanks as small as 30 ounces (3.75 cups) and as large as 60 ounces (7.5 cups). It’s also a good idea to opt for a machine with a removable tank, so it’s easier to clean.
Digital Display
Some De'Longhi automatic espresso machines have simple dial controls that are fairly easy to use. However, some of the super automatic models have a digital display that allows you to make an espresso with the press of a single button. The display also shows all the settings you’ve chosen so you can be sure that your espresso turns out exactly the way you want.
Programmable Settings
Some De'Longhi espresso machines with digital displays allow you to program specific brewing details, such as your preferred temperature, strength, and milk-to-espresso ratio. The machine saves the settings, so you always get the perfect espresso every time without requiring you to input the options every morning.
Built-in Grinder
When you’re making espresso, having freshly ground beans that have a fine enough consistency is key. Some De'Longhi espresso machines have a built-in grinder that makes it extremely convenient to grind your beans. A built-in grinder also frees up space on your countertop because you don’t need to have a separate coffee grinder.
Built-in Frother
If you enjoy cappuccinos and lattes, choose a De'Longhi espresso machine with a built-in frother. It allows you to steam the milk and create foam that you can add to your espresso. Some models offer a frothing wand, while others have a dedicated carafe that steams the milk and automatically adds it to your espresso based on the settings.
Water Filter
It may not seem like a significant detail, but the quality of your water can definitely affect the taste of your espresso. Some De'Longhi espresso machines have a built-in water filtration system that removes impurities, so the water doesn’t add any foul taste to the finished espresso.
Cup Warmer
To save space and improve your espresso-drinking experience, choose a De'Longhi espresso machine with onboard cup storage. The storage area usually features a warming plate that you can set the cups on to heat. Once you turn on the cup warmer, the cups will be preheated, so they’re ready for your espresso.
Did you know?
While coffee is made by streaming hot water through ground coffee, espresso is brewed by forcing hot water through extremely fine, dark-roasted coffee grounds.
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Price
De'Longhi espresso machines vary in price based on the type and the features that it offers. Most models range from $50 to $3000.
The most affordable De'Longhi espresso machines are the manual models, which usually have just a few extra features like a milk frother. They typically cost between $50 and $400 and are an ideal option if you prefer greater control over your brew.
De'Longhi automatic espresso machines are more expensive but are quicker and easier to use than manual models. They usually cost between $400 and $1000 and offer extra features like a milk frother, customizable settings, and a water filter. These are the best option if you’re a frequent espresso drinker or prefer a user-friendly machine.
De'Longhi super automatic espresso machines are the most expensive models, but they are typically the most user-friendly and offer the most extra features. They usually have a milk frother, bean grinder, digital display, customizable settings, water filter, and cup warmer and cost between $1000 and $3000. These models are best for serious espresso drinkers who want all the bells and whistles for their machine.
Tips
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Before using your De'Longhi espresso machine, read the owner’s manual carefully. Each model is different, so you should be sure that you understand all of your machine’s features and settings.
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Some De'Longhi espresso machines require warm-up time to reach the proper brewing temperature. Be patient to make sure you wind up with the best tasting espresso possible.
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When you’re brewing espresso, always pre-warm your cup. Using a cold cup can impact the espresso’s flavor.
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Since all espresso machines and espresso preferences are different, you may need to experiment with your De'Longhi model to figure out what settings work best for you and your brewing preferences.
FAQ
Q. How long does a De'Longhi espresso machine usually last?
A. It depends on the type you choose and how well you maintain it. Manual models tend to last the longest, with some making it as many as 20 years. Automatic models usually have a shorter lifespan due to their electronic components, lasting about 10 years. However, if you want your De'Longhi espresso machine to last as long as possible, follow the maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual to keep it in proper working order.
Q. How do I clean my De'Longhi espresso machine?
A. The proper cleaning procedure depends on the model that you choose. In most cases, you can just use a damp cloth to wipe down any spills. For deeper cleaning, most machines come apart fairly easily so you can wash each component more easily. Don’t clean any parts in your dishwasher unless the owner’s manual specifically lists them as dishwasher-safe.
Q. Do De'Longhi espresso machines include warranty protection?
A. All De'Longhi espresso machines offer warranty coverage. Some lower-end models only offer one year of protection, though, while higher end machines provide up to two years of coverage.
