Buying Guide for the Best Delonghi Espresso Machines
Choosing the right espresso machine can really elevate your coffee experience at home. With so many models and features, it’s important to focus on what will make your daily coffee routine enjoyable and satisfying. When shopping, think about not only the taste and quality of espresso you want, but also how much effort, time, and space you can dedicate to your machine. A good starting point is understanding the main specifications; knowing what they mean will make it much easier to find the best fit for your needs and lifestyle.Type of MachineEspresso machines generally come in manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic types. The type refers to how much control you have over the brewing process. Manual machines require the most involvement and skill, giving you the ability to adjust everything from grind to pressure. Semi-automatic models balance between control and ease, automating water flow but leaving some aspects like grind and tamp up to you. Fully automatic machines do almost everything for you at the touch of a button. If you enjoy being hands-on and learning about coffee, a manual or semi-automatic model could be ideal. If you prefer speed and simplicity, a fully automatic is likely the best match.
Boiler TypeThe boiler is the part of the machine that heats the water. There are single boiler, dual boiler, and thermoblock options. Single boilers are simple and compact but can’t brew and steam milk at the same time, which means a bit of waiting if you like milk drinks. Dual boilers allow brewing and steaming together, making them more efficient for making lattes and cappuccinos. Thermoblock systems heat water quickly and offer a balance between speed and performance. If you mostly drink espresso, a single boiler might suffice. If you love milk-based drinks or plan to entertain guests, consider a dual boiler or thermoblock for convenience.
Milk Frothing SystemSome machines come with manual steam wands, while others feature automatic frothers or even built-in milk carafes. Manual steam wands require a bit of practice but allow you to create custom froth and latte art. Automatic frothers take care of the frothing process for you—simply press a button. Built-in carafes can froth and dispense milk directly into your cup for extra convenience. If you enjoy a hands-on approach or want to experiment with milk texture, go for a manual wand. For speed and ease, choose automatic systems.
Water Tank CapacityThis specification tells you how much water the machine can hold before needing a refill. Smaller tanks around 1 liter are compact and require more frequent refills, which might be fine for single users. Larger tanks hold 1.5 liters or more and are better for families or for those who make many drinks per day. If you only drink one or two espressos daily, a smaller tank is fine. For heavy usage or sharing with others, a larger tank saves time.
Grinder IntegrationSome espresso machines have built-in grinders, while others require a separate grinder. Machines with built-in grinders offer convenience and freshness since the beans are ground just before brewing. However, these models are typically larger and a bit pricier. Machines without a grinder give you more flexibility to choose your grinder and might save some counter space. If you want an all-in-one setup for ease and freshness, pick a model with a grinder. If you already have a grinder or want more control, a machine without is a good fit.
Size and DesignEspresso machines vary in size and appearance, from slim, modern designs to larger, more traditional ones. The size matters if your kitchen has limited counter space or if you plan to store the machine away when not in use. The design can also be a consideration if you want the machine to match your kitchen’s look. Measure your available space before choosing, and consider if you prefer a machine that blends in or stands out as a statement piece.
Ease of CleaningAll machines need regular cleaning to function well and make great-tasting coffee. This spec refers to how easy it is to clean the different parts, like the drip tray, group head, and milk frother. Some models have dishwasher-safe parts or notify you when cleaning is needed. If you want to spend less time on maintenance, look for user-friendly cleaning features. If you don't mind taking parts apart to clean them by hand, then this spec may be less critical.