Best De’longhi Espresso Machines Of 2021
There are several De’Longhi espresso machines on the market, but these are our top favorites:
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Type: pod-compatible, semi-automatic espresso machine
Size: 12.99 x 5.9 x 12.99 inches
Best for: a versatile brewing experience
If in your household theres both a ground-coffee advocate and someone who cant resist the practicality of pods, this De’Longhi machine will end all espresso-related arguments! Thanks to its 3-in-1 filter holder, you can use it to make a classic espresso, two shots in one go, or to fit a pod.
You can make frothy drinks too thanks to its steaming wand, always evenly textured regardless of whether you fancy a latte or a cappuccino.
PRO TIP: Use steamed milk and only a small layer of foam to make a latte, but more froth for a cappuccino .
The sleek design of this De’Longhi espresso machine isnt only incredibly stylish on any countertop, but extremely practical too. For example, it includes a removable drip-tray to brew directly into taller latte glasses and, by being less than 6 wide, it wont take over your kitchen.
Bottom line: A handy, compact machine for several espresso-based drinks.
Type: super-automatic espresso machine with grinder
Size: 16.9 x 9.3 x 13.7 inches
Best for: a one-button brew
First of all, its fast: it heats up in less than 40 seconds.
Best for: focusing on pods
Buying An Espresso Machine
Home espresso machines are designed to deliver a top-notch espresso experience in your own kitchen.
Its fair to say that the most advanced machines cost a pretty penny, but there are plenty of options even if youre on a tighter budget.
Unless youre a really dedicated coffee lover, most people will be more than satisfied with one of the many machines that sit at the lower end of the market.
A machine like the Delonghi Dedica is very well suited to those of you who have limited kitchen space. You want a great espresso from a trusted brand, and dont need to serve up dozens of cups throughout the day.
Before picking this or any other espresso machine, there are some purchasing considerations to think about.
Delonghi Dedica Review 2022
In case youre in a hurry, yes, the DeLonghi Dedica espresso machine is a decent choice for home use, especially if you value compact design.
- Not cheap
- Challenging to steam at first
In fact, its good enough for small cafes or restaurants that sell less than 50 coffees a day but have limited room.
Why?
Its a well-built, compact machine that has great built-in features. These work together within the machine to make consistent, tasty espresso drinks.
You only need to push a few buttons on the interface to operate it. Its the technology working inside the machine that helps us make good coffee.
The DeLonghi Dedica is a single-group home espresso machine. Its made of stainless steel and hard plastic in the right places.
A 35oz water tank is big enough given the size of this semi automatic home espresso maker. Both the drip tray and steam wand have enough clearance to fit most cup sizes.
Ease of use comes to mind when you first see how simple the machine is. There are 3 buttons on the front of the espresso machine and one switch for the steam wand.
It also starts up in less than 1 minute, which is a short time to wait before pulling an espresso shot.
What you dont see on the DeLonghi Dedica espresso machines surface is how its built to make great espresso.
For such a compact machine, it lets you maximize output and consistency. It uses thermoblock technology, has enough steam wand pressure, and brews within ideal temperature ranges.
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Delonghi Dedica Ec680m Review & Buyers Guide
If you are looking for an incredible espresso machine, then you need not look any longer. The Affiliate LinkDelonghi Dedica EC680M is one of the best espresso machines currently available on the market. It has quickly gained a massive following and an overwhelmingly profound level of approval. It accords the best in convenience and taste to its users and therein lays its appeal.
The Affiliate LinkDelonghi Dedica EC680M includes many features that make it stand out from the competition. This is the most suitable machine for your office, home, kitchen, or any other setting. This machine features a fully adjustable 15-bar pressure control. This gives users unmatched control over the type and quality of the beverage to be produced.
This is one amazing Espresso Machine that provides you with an unforgettable experience. It is a bit big, though, by which we mean that it is suited for larger households or office settings. It certainly isnt the best choice if you are going to be brewing for a smaller group. Still, that doesnt mitigate its significance.
If you are interested in learning more about this machine and what it offers, then read on:
Delonghi Dedica Deluxe Vs Dedica
The primary difference between the EC680 and the EC685 is the latters adjustable switch for making hot milk or cappuccino with the steam wand. This means you can get creamy milk foam for cappuccino, or flatter foam for flat white and latte. However, the Dedica EC680s steam wand doesnt have the switch, so youll need to control the steaming yourself.
The upgraded model also has a double drip tray for fitting taller cups, offering 4.5in clearance beneath the spout. This is useful for certain recipes, including latte macchiato, because you can steam the milk first then place the taller cup beneath the spout. Finally, you can pull double espresso shots over the milk to create stunning layers.
Finally, the EC685 has more color options. Its available in white, black, and red, which look more stylish than the stainless steel finish of the EC680.
Aside from these differences, theres not a great deal separating the two models, so we dont recommend trading in an existing EC680 for the EC685. However, if youre new to domestic espresso brewing, we suggest buying the upgraded model.
Last update on 2022-08-14 / As an Amazon Associate, if you buy via the links, Brewcoffeehome earns a commission at no extra cost to you.
You can read more with the Bambino vs Bambino Plus buying guide.
Gaggia Classic Pro
Last update on 2022-08-13 / As an Amazon Associate, if you buy via the links, Brewcoffeehome earns a commission at no extra cost to you.
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De’longhi Dedica Pump Espresso Review: Better Espresso Brewing But At A High Price
The $300 De’Longhi Dedica costs a lot more than budget home espresso machines but is worth it if you want a better brewer.
Brian Bennett
Senior writer
Brian Bennett is a senior writer for the home and outdoor section at CNET. He reviews a wide range of household and smart-home products. These include everything from cordless and robot vacuum cleaners to fire pits, grills and coffee makers. An NYC native, Brian now resides in bucolic Louisville, Kentucky where he rides longboards downhill in his free time.
It’s all too easy to recklessly spend thousands of dollars in pursuit of the perfect home espresso. If all you crave are modest cafe-style drinks, than a budget machine will do the trick and for a tenth of the price. Splurging a little, however, does have its rewards. Case in point is the $300 De’Longhi Dedica which has the power to pull lots of flavor from finely ground and lightly roasted coffee beans, a feat beyond the abilities of cheaper espresso makers.
The Good
The Bad
The Bottom Line
Of course the Dedica can’t match the raw brewing abilities of professional-caliber appliances. For instance, while the machine has more reliable temperature control than its low-cost rivals it’s by no means flawless. Likewise, the extremely fine grounds that more expensive espresso makers transform into concentrated coffee ambrosia regularly bring the Dedica to its knees.
Comparing Delonghi Espresso Machines
The above four DeLonghi machines are really just a tiny selection of what Delonghi has to offer, but I have purposely only chosen these as they cater to different needs and budgets.
So which machine is right for you? A small compact espresso machine thats perfect for narrow spaces or a fully automatic espresso machine that can also froth milk and brew drip coffee too?
If you are looking for a real spaced saver, you cant go wrong with the compact, reasonably priced Dedica espresso machine.
If space and budget arent an issue, the larger, fully featured Magnifica super automatic espresso machine is about as good as it gets with Delonghi coffee brewing units.
So, which of these espresso machines is it going to be? Only you can answer that.
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Coffee Maker Ease Of Use
Most commercial espresso makers take a bunch of switches and around 20 minutes to warm up.
In parallel, most home machines can be primed for brewing within seconds but brew with scalding hot water. Sometimes the wait between shots can take longer than the actual start up time.
With the Dedica, it takes about 40 seconds to get primed for making coffee. Yup, thats right40 seconds! 3 buttons upfront will allow you to access all the user-controlled features of this semi-automatic machine.
Make a habit of checking the water reservoir before switching on. This is to make sure that theres enough water for the draw up.
The steam wand is controlled by a literal on and off switch thats easy to locate right above the milk wand. While some machines need a lot of adjustment when it comes to catching espresso or frothing milk, the Dedica is the compatibility with a lot of cup sizes.
Super simple and effective to ensure quality and easy cups!
The Dedica allows you to focus on your espresso shots. You dont have to input your pump pressure at different stages of brewing.
Or worry about water temperature control. Coffee making becomes one step. It starts after you check the water reservoir and load your filter holder. Boom!
Finally, as with any coffee lover with an espresso machine at home, you will have your own definitions for double and single shots at some point.
Brewing Capacity And Process
The average espresso maker requires a mere 9 bars of pressure for espresso extraction to happen. DeLonghi, however, ups the ante with their improved 15 bar pressure. This kind of performance puts all the DeLonghi models a cut above the rest.
Brewing options are slightly limited in that the Dedica can only brew pre-ground coffee or ESE-compatible coffee pods. You cant however use fresh coffee beans. This doesnt mean that you need to give up on the EC680M just yet. Simply buy a decent, high-quality burr grinder to complement your brewing process. Buying a separate grinder means you can also regulate the grind size of your coffee grounds.
Heating time is also quite impressive. This DeLonghi model uses whats known as thermoblock technology. In short, the heater draws water from the reservoir into the heating coil. This process drastically reduces the heating time. Its easy to see why this model has a high star rating!
If youre a lover of frothy milk drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, youll be happy to know that this DeLonghi comes with a built-in steamer wand. This might present a bit of a learning curve will you get used to it. Although slightly basic, it gets the job done.
Below is a short clip to guide you in terms of the brewing capacity.
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You Want To Fully Automate Your Espresso Routine At Home
Some people love to drink coffee more than they like making it. If thats the case, then a fully automatic machine would better suit their coffee needs. No learning curve necessary.
The DeLonghi Dedica is as simple as it gets for semi-automatics, but some people want a latte with one push of a button. Theres one machine out there made for what you need. Make that your next purchase.
Delonghi Dedica Ec680m Review
by Selmir Omic
The Delonghi Dedica machines are first attractive because of their size, sleek, and aesthetic looks. It takes less space than a toaster.
Today were going to be talking about the Dedica EC 680M, a popular model of this machine.
The quickness in getting you coffee is amazing! After turning it on, it only takes about 30 seconds to get ready to serve you some of the best coffee youve ever had.
In addition, it will make you feel like a professional Barista .
| Delonghi Ec680M Dedica 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel |
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Great Features Of The Delonghi Dedica
1. A heated mechanism that allows the espresso to come out very quickly and very hot.
2. The compact size with a large water tank in the back.
3. The discrete moveable frother wand that steams and is able to release hot water.
4. The heating rack on top of the machine which actually warms a small espresso cups while setting up for the next cup.
5. The ease of using and cleaning the machine.
6. The measured doses of expresso. There is no need to watch how fast it comes through and try to have it stop at the right point before overflowing.
| DeLonghi Ec155 15 Bar Pump Espresso And Cappuccino Maker |
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| DeLonghi Ecp3630 15 Bar Pump Espresso And Cappuccino Machine, Stainless Steel |
| Espresso Machine 35 Bar 4 Cup |
7. It is quieter: The thermo block boiler seems to deliver water in little bursts so the chuntering noise takes some getting used to, but its still quieter and non-rattly compared with the Icona and Micalite.
8. It provides an automatic volume limit, so you do not have to worry about standing around to monitor its brew strength.
Delonghi Dedica Brewing Standards
The DeLonghi Dedica brews with an industry-standard 15 bar pressure profile. Most home espresso machines meet this threshold. But it takes much more than just pressure to make decent espresso.
Firstly, you need an adequate water tank to support your machines functionality. This starts with machine design, way before coffee grounds are put inside your espresso machine.
You also need a fast, precise, and consistent water heater for every shot you pull.
Thankfully Dedica machines have a decently sized 1 liter water reservoir. The thermoblock system is also exceptional for the size of the machine in terms of speed and consistency.
One of the joys of making home espresso with a semi-automatic machine is that you can tinker with your favorite recipes.
That is why the Dedica comes with 3 baskets for your filter holder. You can easily make single or double espresso shots as you please.
Being double-walled, you can expect a decent amount of crema, too as long as you use fresh ground coffee anyway.
It seems like DeLonghi made sure to design the Dedica to do the basics exceptionally well for its compact size.
A cup warmer is placed on top, so that theres little temperature change when you catch your coffee with a cup upon brewing.
The drip tray comes in a design that allows you to accommodate a wide range of cup sizes too. At the same time, the steam wand has a detachable cappuccino maker for beginners.
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Mr Coffee Cafe Barista
Im not sure the quality of the espresso from the Cafe Barista is quite as good as the Dedica, but this is a great option for super-easy brewing. You can read my Mr Coffee Cafe Barista review if you want to find out more.
This machine takes away all of the guess work, and will automatically whip up a frothy cappuccino or a creamy latte.
Its not as elegant as the Dedica, but you get very high quality accessories out of the box. That includes a stainless steel tamper and a very sturdy milk frothing jug.
Its extremely simple to use via the single control dial, and the water reservoirs bigger at 70oz as well. If youve a large household of coffee drinkers, its a worthy alternative.
Design And Build Quality
The first thing to note about the DeLonghi Dedica EC685 is its compact footprint. With a width of just six inches, its one of the slimmest Delonghi espresso machines. Its a tad larger than the Nespresso Inissia but still so compact that it will appeal to anyone with limited countertop space.
As well as being compact, the machine also has a contemporary design. Both models have a shiny stainless steel finish. However, the EC685 has additional color options. However, whether you opt for the white, black, or red version, its sure to look beautiful. Meanwhile, the machines casing is steel, offering it a reassuringly sturdy feel.
The EC685 has only three buttons, for a single or double espresso and steaming. Meanwhile, a classy-looking steam dial is on the right, completing all you need to make gorgeous coffee.
The top of the DeLonghi Dedica EC685 has a cup warmer, allowing you to pre-warm either two standard-sized mugs or three smaller espresso cups. In addition, a 36fl oz capacity removable water tank is at the back, which is a generous size for such a slim machine. Finally, a removable drip tray leaves room to accommodate taller cups up to 4.5in tall.
The overall impression of this Delonghi espresso machine is that its well-built and very stylish.
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Cleaning The Delonghi Dedica
Unfortunately, cleaning is one of the areas youll need to focus on with this brewer. This machines decent set of features is also one reason why it should be cleaned regularly.
First of all, thermoblock technology works wonders for water temperature consistency. But the structure of the valves and tubes also allows scale to build up quickly. However, DeLonghi has countered this by installing an auto-descale feature.
Descaling is a preventive measure. But the best preventative measures to protect your machine is to develop good habits for cleaning and operating your machine.
Yes, its boring but read the owners manual before you use your espresso machine.
With no solenoid valve, your group head can get messy after pulling an espresso shot. You have to get used to purging before and after making espresso to clear as much gunk out as possible. It would be good to brush the group head after a set amount of days or cups made how many is up to you.
In a cafe setting, I recommend deep cleaning after 50 or 100 cups. If you cant imagine counting each espresso you make, commit to a once-a-week cleaning schedule instead.
The milk wand is also a point of emphasis for machine maintenance. Make a habit of purging before and after steaming to clear out milk debris while its fresh.
For the rest of the Dedica, wipe down the stainless steel parts with a clean, damp cloth, and follow up with a dry one to bring out the shine again.