6 Best De’Longhi Espresso Machines – Excellent Quality from the Renown Manufacturer

A list of the best De’Longhi espresso machines - manual or fully-automatic with or without built-in grinders - for every coffee lover.
By
Samanta Fryer
Samanta Fryer
Writer
Samanta Fryer is our senior editor and content writer, at CoffeeVibe. Apart from writing and reading, she’s fond of the coffee brewing process and enjoys tasting new coffe read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Ryan Hendricks
Ryan Hendricks
Expert
Ryan Hendricks is our tester, who puts products through their paces. He used to be a barista and is now a full-time coffee enthusiast. He’s always testing out new gadgets, read more
Last updated: September 03, 2023
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Have you ever thought about how much coffee was consumed in 10 seasons of Friends? Well, Phoebe (you must know her unless you are a zoomer) drank 227 cups of coffee in 236 episodes. Other characters didn’t lag behind. Sure, it was some delicious cups of joe, or either way we don’t see them drinking anything else. But how to brew the same coffee as in Central Perk? A quality espresso machine can help but there’s no end of devices to choose from.

That’s why we’ve tested 11 devices and created a list of the 6 best De’Longhi espresso machines. The De’Longhi Magnifica is our Editor’s Choice. All machines have a frother to brew perfect mil-based beverages. Most machines have a built-in grinder, but some require using pre-ground coffee or capsules. Plus they are backed by at least 1-year warranty to replace or repair any defective parts.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice:
    "An all-round best choice for coffee enthusiasts, this super-automatic espresso machine makes perfect espresso and Americano, as well as milk-based espresso drinks"
  • "This compact espresso machine comes with a quiet built-in grinder and easy-to-use frother that allow you to create a perfect coffee drink"
  • Best for Technologies: De’Longhi La Specialista
    "A cool-looking espresso machine which operates quietly and applies top-of-the-range technologies for consistent results"
  • Best for Customization: De’Longhi Eletta
    "A highly customizable espresso machine with 11 drink options and seven one-touch recipes which make the brewing process much easier"
  • "A compact Nespresso machine that is incredibly easy to use and comes with the Aeroccino 3 frother to make milk-based coffee"
  • Best Small Espresso Machine: De’Longhi Dedica
    "A small and sleek-looking espresso machine great for those who don’t have much of a free counter space in their kitchens"

Top 6 De’Longhi Espresso Machines Review 2024

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8499 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.9
1
Editor’s Choice

De’Longhi Magnifica

Features
  • Coffee to use: beans, pre-ground coffee
  • Water tank capacity: 60 oz.
  • Bean container capacity: 8 oz.
  • Frother: yes
  • Dimensions: 15.3 x 11 x 14.4 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: 5 drink options; 13 grinder settings; 3-hour auto shut-off; hot water spout; double boiler system; cup warmer

Once you find that perfect espresso machine for yourself, there is no looking back. This model is designed to meet all your requirements and give you the coffee you need early in the morning. The patented “Cappuccino System” frother will be able to mix steam and milk so that your coffee has a rich and creamy froth. It comes with an easy-to-use rotary and push-button control panel.

The programmable menu settings will allow you to customize your coffee according to your preferences. The beans container capacity for this model is 8.8 ounces, which means that you will be able to make coffee in large batches without emptying it too often.

The espresso machine will grind the beans instantly thanks to the patented and compact “Direct-to-Brew” system. It is easy to clean, and your beverage will be fresh every time. Beans that are of medium roast and have less visible oil are the best choice for this grinder. It is one of the best De’Longhi super-automatic espresso machines.

    What stands out?
  • Makes perfect espresso and Americano
  • Makes excellent frothed milk
  • Relatively quiet operation
  • Compact and attractive styling
  • Balance of water and grounds is infinitely variable since they are controlled independently by knobs
  • Easy to clean and de-scale
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Coffee beans sometimes get stuck
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6740 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.7
9.8
Features
  • Coffee to use: beans, pre-ground coffee
  • Water tank capacity: 61 oz.
  • Bean container capacity: 8.8 oz.
  • Frother: yes
  • Dimensions: 9.4 x 17.0 x 13.8 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: burr grinder with 13 adjustable settings; customizable brewing settings

Everyone wants some fresh espresso early in the morning. There is nothing like some strong coffee to wake you up, and this smaller version of our top pick will deliver. The professional burr grinder built in this model comes with 13 adjustable settings which you can adjust based on your needs. You will be able to grind coffee beans without losing their freshness. There is a second chamber in the model where you can use pre-ground coffee. Whether you like regular, decaf or specialty coffee, this machine can do it all.

You can rely on its cappuccino system to be fast and efficient. It can maintain the optimal temperature so that the coffee you brew is perfectly crafted. You can use this machine to whip up some delicious latte and cappuccino. The adjustable manual cappuccino system is able to create the perfect blend of steam and milk so that you can have long-lasting foam on your cappuccino. You can also create creamy lattes, flat whites and macchiatos.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Easy to use
  • Comes with a quiet built-in grinder
  • Easy operation
  • The frother is easy to use and clean
  • Makes perfect milk foam
  • Compact and takes up limited counter space
  • Works well with darker roasts and oily beans
  • Excellent value for money
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Light indicates that the bean hopper has to be refilled only after it has completely run out
  • Earlier warning about water running out is necessary
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5173 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.6
3
Best for Technologies

De’Longhi La Specialista

Features
  • Coffee to use: beans, pre-ground coffee
  • Water tank capacity: 67.6 oz.
  • Bean container capacity: not specified
  • Frother: yes
  • Dimensions: 17.7 x 14.8 x 14.4 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: Integrated Sensor Grinder; Smart Tamping Station; dual heating system; Advanced Latte System; separate hot water spout; 19 bar pressure

With this model, you will absolutely have no problem setting up. You will be able to use this machine even if you are not familiar with espresso machines. With this model, you will be able to produce a fresh batch of coffee every time. The integrated grinder comes with a sensor grinding technology which allows for consistent grinding. You will be able to use your coffee in an optimum manner.

This model has been created with handcrafted precision. The smart tamping station makes sure that the machine is applying the correct pressure that will give you flawless results. You will be able to power the machine easily with the one-second quick start option. The machine will start grinding immediately.

The active temperature control in the machine will give you excellent temperature stability when brewing coffee.

    What stands out?
  • Relatively easy to set up and use
  • Heats up quickly
  • Quiet operation
  • Comes with many features so you can make different drinks easily
  • Foams milk very well
  • Has a tamping feature that allows you to control the mess and keep the surrounding area tidy
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • You will be unable to take the hopper off as long as it is full of beans
  • The built-in grinder cannot produce very fine-ground coffee
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7640 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.5
4
Best for Customization

De’Longhi Eletta

Features
  • Coffee to use: beans, pre-ground coffee
  • Water tank capacity: 68 oz.
  • Bean container capacity: 14.1 oz.
  • Frother: yes
  • Dimensions: 14.2 x 10.2 x 18.4 inches
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: 11 drink options and 7 one-touch recipes; patented Latte Crema System; Milk Menu function; Sensor Touch control panel; double boiler system

The model has an integrated burr grinder, which will allow you to adjust the settings based on your requirements. You will be able to grind fresh coffee beans and retain their quality while brewing your beverage. With this machine, you can make espresso beverages with perfect layers. The dense and rich foam will surely last for a fairly long time.

This model ensures that each cup of coffee you brew is consistent in terms of quality. The coffee is brewed to the optimum temperature so that it can have the most suitable richness and density. Since all the settings are customizable, you will not be stuck with espressos you do not like. You can program your beverage to have the ideal strength and milk-to-espresso ratio.

The espresso machine comes with a compact but extractable brew unit. One of the best De’Longhi espresso machine for milk drinks, it is easy to clean after daily use.

    What are its best features?
  • Versatile to use
  • Can produce a wide variety of drinks and recipes
  • Programmable and easily customizable
  • Convenient for daily usage
  • Easy to maintain
  • Comes with a self-cleaning milk carafe
  • Milk container can be stored in the fridge
    What could be improved?
  • On the expensive side
  • Warranty is too short for a premium product
  • Does not work well with dark-roasted, oily beans
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8981 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.3
Features
  • Coffee to use: capsules
  • Water tank capacity: 20.3 oz.
  • Container capacity: 5–6 used capsules
  • Frother: yes
  • Dimensions: 8.1 x 12.8 x 4.3 inches
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: espresso and lungo options;19 bar pressure; Aeroccino 3frother

This espresso machine will allow you to craft high-quality barista-style espresso drinks whenever you want. The machine comes with a one-touch operation and extraction system that is able to provide you with 19 bars of pressure. The design of this model is small and compact, but that does not affect its performance. It is one of the best small De’Longhi espresso machines. The portable and sleek design comes together with the perfect espresso set-up in this model that you can keep anywhere on your counter.

The water attains its ideal serving temperature in under half a minute, while the energy-saving mode cuts off the machine automatically after 9 minutes. The machine comes with the Aeroccino 3 milk frother, which allows you to add the best finishing touch to cappuccinos and lattes. The Nespresso Essenza Mini machine gives you two programmable cup sizes to work with.

    What do we love it for?
  • Sturdy and well-constructed machine
  • High-quality plastic build
  • Small and compact
  • Easy to use
  • Frother works perfectly for both hot and cold milk
  • Excellent value for money
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Very small water tank
  • Height of a coffee mug is restricted to around 4 inches
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4683 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.1
6
Best Small Espresso Machine

De’Longhi Dedica

Features
  • Coffee to use: pre-ground coffee
  • Water tank capacity: 35 oz.
  • Bean container capacity: N/A
  • Frother: yes
  • Dimensions: 16.5 x 5.9 x 13 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: space-saving design; cup warmer

If you are looking for a small espresso machine that will save you some counter space and also deliver excellent coffee every morning, then this is the model for you. The sleek design will only occupy 6 inches of space though it accommodates a 35-ounce water tank. The machine comes with a cappuccino frothing system, which will provide you with barista quality foam. The cup warmer will ensure that your coffee is piping hot.

The espresso machine has thermos block technology that enables it to gain the ideal temperature in a period of 40 seconds. You might also find the automatic flow stop feature useful. With the De’Longhi Dedica pump espresso machine, you will be able to create a number of traditional espressos and cappuccino beverages.

The easy-to-use control panel comes with illuminated buttons. You can customize whether you want single shots, easy serving espresso pods or double shots. It is one of the best De’Longhi espresso machines for 400 dollars.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Heats up very quickly after being turned on so you can pour the milk and load the ground coffee
  • Heats up milk easily and creates excellent foam
  • Easy to clean
  • Takes up very little counter space
  • Solid and sturdy appliance
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Reported to be not very durable
  • Base of the unit is flimsy and light due to its size

Things to Consider

You might need some help in narrowing down the best espresso machine for yourself from the above choices. To that end, we have compiled a buying guide that will allow you to evaluate your needs and pick the right machine.

Why get a De’Longhi espresso machine?

6 Best De’Longhi Espresso Machines – Excellent Quality from the Renown ManufacturerDe’Longhi espresso machines are of high quality, and they are known for their premium construction. They are sturdy, and you can rely on them to last you for a fairly long time. Moreover, the customer service provided by the company is top-notch, and you will always get help when you need it. The company is reliable, and the machines come with a significant warranty period. These espresso machines have been designed in accordance with the latest technologies available in coffee-making, and you will be able to make a variety of beverages with their help.

Features to consider while choosing an espresso machine

When choosing the perfect espresso machine, there are certain factors that you should keep in mind. These parameters will allow you to judge an espresso machine based on its merits and features.

Type: semi-automatic or super-automatic

There are different kinds of espresso machines on the market, and you need to choose the type that satisfies all your requirements. If you want to play a part in making your espressos, but do not want to take on the entire task by yourself, then you should opt for a semi-automatic espresso machine so you can have greater control over the brew. On the other hand, automatic espresso machines are all about the one-touch operation system. They will allow you to program in your choices when it comes to coffee strength and frothing so that the finished beverage is to your liking.

Super-automatic espresso machines are even more versatile and will take you hardly a few seconds to operate.

Beans or capsules?

If you want a cup of fresh coffee, you need to be mindful of the coffee beans that you use. Nowadays, you can even get your hands on coffee capsules that can be directly used in machines. Certain fully-automatic machines like the De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini are comfortable using capsules to make your coffee. On the other hand, models like the De’Longhi La Specialista and the De’Longhi Magnifica XS work better with coffee beans or pre-ground coffee. You need to choose a machine depending on your coffee preferences instead of the other way around.

Bean container and water tank capacity

6 Best De’Longhi Espresso Machines – Excellent Quality from the Renown ManufacturerThe bean container and the water capacity are important considerations because they will determine how often you will have to refill the espresso machine. Moreover, they will also dictate how much coffee you can prepare in one go. If you want to prepare big batches at once, then you need to go for a model that has a higher bean capacity. The De’Longhi Eletta boasts of a water tank capacity of 68 ounces and a bean container capacity of 14.1 ounces, which will be sufficient if you want to make coffee for a group. On the other hand, smaller machines like the De’Longhi Dedica have a smaller capacity.

Pressure

Pump pressure plays an important role when you are making espresso. The amount of pressure that can be applied to the brew can determine its strength and consistency. In fact, the key to making good espresso beverages is applying the right amount of pressure.

Most De’Longhi espresso machines make espresso at 15 bars of pump pressure, but some models like the De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Mini or the De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine can produce up to 19 bar pressure.

Presets and customization options

Your espresso machine should provide you with plenty of customization options so that you can make an amazing cup of coffee. Most machines come with preset options that will allow you to create lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas without any fuss. Modern espresso machines provide you with options at every step. There are adjustable grinder settings along with customizable brewing options so that you can perfect your drink. Once you understand what you like, you can program the machine so that it makes coffee based on the same preference. Most espresso machines also come with frothers so that your espresso drinks look like they are straight from a cafe. The De’Longhi Magnifica comes with 5 drink options and 13 grinder settings so that you can experiment.

Dimensions

6 Best De’Longhi Espresso Machines – Excellent Quality from the Renown ManufacturerOne more factor that you should consider when choosing an espresso machine is the amount of space you will have to accommodate the machine. The dimensions of the model will determine its size and weight. Espresso machines have a wide range when it comes to sizing, so you should really measure out space from beforehand. If you have a small kitchen and you do not want your espresso machine to occupy a lot of space, then you should go for smaller models like the De’Longhi Dedica. On the other hand, if you have no spatial restrictions, then you can go for bigger models like the De’Longhi Magnifica.

Warranty

The warranty that comes with a product is an indication of the brand’s faith in the product. Having a warranty period will allow you to explore the espresso machine freely and without inhibitions. Most premium companies ensure that their espresso machines come with a warranty period. For example, the De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine comes with a 2-year warranty. You will get an additional year of warranty if you register your coffee machine.

How to maintain your espresso machine

You should be careful about how you maintain your espresso machine if you want to get value for your money.

  • Make sure that you wipe down the steam wand once you are done using the machine. This will prevent a buildup of bacteria.
  • You should flush the group head every time you make a new batch of espressos as the old grounds can otherwise infuse undesirable flavors to the coffee.
  • Always keep the cleaning cloths washed and laundered.
  • Do not forget to wipe the steam wand after using the espresso machine.
  • Do a complete backflush at the end of the day to remove coffee grounds.
  • You should clean the draining hose, so there is no clogging of buildup.
  • The filter basket, portafilters, and drip tray require regular cleaning.
  • Do a yearly machine examination to ensure that all parts are working.

FAQ

Will the taste be better if I grind coffee beans right before brewing?

Yes. Freshly ground coffee retains more flavor than pre-ground coffee. When you grind the coffee right before brewing, it does not get time to be contaminated by the surroundings. However, if that is inconvenient for you, then you can use pre-ground coffee that has been stored properly. Whole coffee beans retain the taste and flavor for around two weeks, while pre-ground coffee can hold its own for a maximum of five or six hours.

What is more economical in the long run: capsules or beans?

It is true that espresso machines that can make coffee with premium coffee beans tend to be more expensive, but they tend to pay for themselves over the years. On the other hand, espresso machines that use capsules or pods to brew espresso are usually more budget-friendly. However, the capsules and pods they use to brew espresso are much more costly than beans. A good alternative in this case are reusable Nespresso pods, but using them and getting a perfect shot can be challenging for some.

Is there a difference between 15- and 19-bar machines in terms of coffee taste, aroma, or strength?

Both 15- and 19-bar machines provide sufficient pressure to make good espresso. The primary difference lies in their respective abilities to create crema when making espresso. You will not notice a significant difference in taste, aroma, or strength.

Our verdict

We stand by all our recommendations, and all the espresso machines on our list will deliver great performance. However, we do have our favorite picks.

The De’Longhi Magnifica offers you five different drink options so that you never have to compromise when you have a craving. There 13 grinder settings that you can adjust to make the perfect drink for yourself. The 3-hour auto shut-off feature will allow you to save some energy. It operates quietly and creates excellent froth.

The De’Longhi Magnifica XS comes with an efficient burr grinder that has 13 adjustable settings. You can also customize the brewing settings so that your coffee has the perfect consistency and strength. It is easy to use in your daily life. The frother is great at producing milk foam.

The De’Longhi La Specialista comes with an integrated sensor grinder, which will give you the ideal ground coffee. The smart tamping station and dual heating system will ease the process of brewing. It can give you up to 19 bar pressure.

9,9
Total Score
De’Longhi Magnifica - Editor’s Choice
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