DeLonghi Dinamica Review: Still a Mid-Range Contender?

Things change pretty quickly in the world of super automatic espresso machines. That’s why I’ve decided to revisit an old friend in this DeLonghi Dinamica review.

In the past I’ve been accused of being biased toward DeLonghi espresso machines, which may be true. Still, I believe my praise of the Italian manufacturer is perfectly justified. I mean, DeLonghi has a quality machine in nearly every price range, and other manufacturers often can’t compete.

With that said, DeLonghi sometimes seems to be in competition with itself. Take the DeLonghi Dinamica for example – once the manufacturer’s flagship mid-range machine, it’s now up against models like the updated Dinamica Plus. And, if you’re shopping on Amazon at just the right time, there isn’t even a difference in price to talk about.

So, is the DeLonghi Dinamica still worth considering or should it be retired? I aim to find out in this updated DeLonghi Dinamica review!

DeLonghi Dinamica Review Overview

The last time I updated this DeLonghi Dinamica review, I confidently claimed the machine rose head and shoulders above the mid-range competition. However, manufacturers like Gaggia and Miele have since upped the ante by releasing some seriously awesome machines.

With that said, I still believe the DeLonghi Dinamica represents very good value for money. In fact, I’d say the current asking price of $1,071.47 is a steal for what you get.

Incidentally, before I go any further I should clarify which machine I’m talking about. After all, DeLonghi loves to issue seemingly endless iterations on a theme, each with a slightly different model number. Anyway, in today’s DeLonghi Dinamica review I’ll be looking at the ECAM35075SI, which is the one with an automatic milk frother.

I’m definitely not going to list all the different model numbers with explanations of the differences. However, I will say that the ECAM35020B is worth checking out if you’re interested in creating your own milk froth. Featuring a nifty manual steam wand, this particular Dinamica is a screaming good deal for just $795.28.

First Impressions of the De’Longhi ECAM35075SI

Anyway, getting back to the subject of this review, our DeLonghi Dinamica isn’t exactly a looker. Maybe it’s that in-your-face control panel that leaves me slightly miffed, or perhaps the proportions are just off? Then again, DeLonghi super automatic espresso machines have never been eye candy — at least in my mind.

Perhaps this aesthetic issue with the DeLonghi Dinamica is part of a greater problem I see in DeLonghi automatic espresso machines: they have a tendency to use too much plastic.

Even when you step up to higher-end models, the manufacturer only uses stainless steel sparingly.

But when I stop to think about it, I kinda get why DeLonghi chooses to use plastic on its mid-range models. I mean, it definitely keeps its costs down.

Still, even if it lacks a bit of that high-quality look and feel that I love, all of the Dinamica’s components — from the buttons to the brew group to the stainless steel burr grinder — feel functional and well-thought-out.

Plus, even from day one, I’ve never had to worry about any parts chipping off during washing. In general, the Dinamica is a sturdy machine that can be counted on for the long haul.

De’Longhi Dinamica Features

Now that I’ve vented about my distaste for plastic, let’s continue this DeLonghi Dinamica review by seeing what makes it tick. There are tons of features to discuss, so pour yourself a cup of joe, and let’s dive right in!

User Interface

Listen, I love a touchscreen display as much as anyone. I still look at my phone and marvel at the insane technology we’re all carrying around.

That said, does a coffee maker with a pretty touchscreen interface automatically guarantee better cup results? Absolutely not. In fact, there are machines in my super automatic espresso machine guide that would be better off with a simpler user interface.

While I might not love how the Dinamica’s control panel looks, it certainly makes using the machine really easy. All the buttons you need are right there, and the text display is easy to read. What’s more, menus are easy to navigate and adjusting settings is self-explanatory. In fact, I’d say anyone could start using the machine without having to read the user manual.

Grinder

The DeLonghi Dinamica is equipped with a stainless steel conical burr grinder with 13 adjustment settings. Changing the grinder setting is easy, thanks to a dial located inside the bean hopper. While 13 levels might not sound like much, it’s plenty for a super automatic.

I mean, you’re never going to get the kind of extraction you would from the best home espresso machine so you don’t need infinite grind settings. Plus, in my experience you’ll only ever need to use the very finest settings on the Dinamica. With all that said, the DeLonghi Dinamica’s grinder works quietly and efficiently. What’s more, the machine is capable of producing some pretty darn tasty espresso. It might not be “true” espresso, but it’s convincingly close!

Ground Coffee Bypass

It’s not unusual to see a ground coffee bypass on a super automatic espresso machine. Still, you might never end up using it. Located in the 10.6 ounce (300 gram) bean hopper, the Dinamica’s bypass doser is intended for pre-ground decaf coffee. I guess it makes sense – you don’t want to have to empty the hopper for the odd evening coffee.

However, I will tell you to beware of clogging issues that plague bypass tubes. It can get really messy in there and wreak havoc on the machine’s brew group. Essentially, I’d recommend finding an alternative way to enjoy decaf coffee.

Milk Foam

If you’re a regular Coffeeness reader you’ll know how highly I rate DeLonghi’s LatteCrema milk system. I’m a huge fan of integrated milk carafes, seeing as you don’t have to deal with fiddly tubes and external containers. Plus, you can simply remove the carafe when it’s not in use and store it in the fridge.

The LatteCrema system is about as good as it gets when we’re talking about integrated carafes. When it comes to milk frothing, you have the choice between “thick,” “medium” and “relatively thin” consistencies, all of which work surprisingly well.

Thicker milk foam is a bit too much like a bubble bath for me. Yet, the thin version is also not how I like my froth. Somehow, for a cappuccino or latte macchiato, a medium thickness is just right. With that said, you’re never going to get a real flat white from this machine.

Incidentally, while you aren’t able to adjust the temperature, I can tell you that the Dinamica’s milk froth comes out nice and hot. At least for me, that is. I know some of you aren’t satisfied unless you’re in danger of scalding your tongue!

Specialty Drinks

I know I just told you that the DeLonghi Dinamica can’t produce an authentic flat white. Still, it’s on the menu along with 17 other specialty drinks, including espresso macchiato, cappuccino and ristretto.

Interestingly, there’s also an Over Ice function, wherein the machine brews at a lower temperature. While not as sophisticated as the low pressure cold brew function on the Jura Z10, it’s still worth playing around with.

As I mentioned earlier, the Dinamica’s intuitive user interface makes it easy to adjust settings and customize your drink. You can change brewing temperature, strength and amount of coffee, as well as the amount of milk froth. When you factor in the 13 grinder adjustment settings, you’ll find the DeLonghi Dinamica to be an extremely versatile machine.

Cup Height

The DeLonghi Dinamica has a height adjustable dispensing spout which is really easy to move up or down. I find that it’s best to move it all the way down if you’re making espresso. That way, you’ll cut down on splashes and preserve the crema in your espresso cup.

The maximum available cup height is 5.3 inches (13.5 centimeters), which isn’t too bad. You should be able to fit a decent sized travel mug under there. Still, if you want to brew into a taller insulated mug, removing the drip tray might be the way to go.

Memo Function

Although the DeLonghi Dinamica doesn’t have multiple user profiles, there is a handy memo function on board. The “My Menu” button allows you to save a drink you’ve personalized so you can replicate it with the touch of a button.

That’s cool to have, although I could see it being a problem if several people will be using the machine. For starters, it could prove irresistible to the family practical joker. Plus, how would you decide who gets to use the My Menu button? Not a dealbreaker by any means, but food for thought!

Dual Heating System

For a super automatic espresso machine at this price point, it’s almost unheard of to find two boilers. In my opinion, it’s this feature that really helps the Dinamica stand out from the crowd. In fact, the Dinamica Plus doesn’t even have two thermoblocks.

Not only does the dual heating system allow you to prepare espresso and milk foam simultaneously, it helps the machine maintain a consistent temperature. After all, the Dinamica doesn’t have to constantly switch between making coffee and steaming milk.

As an added bonus, the Dinamica will be able to pump out cappuccinos and americanos until the cows come home. Or at least until you need to refill the water tank!

Brew Group

You probably don’t need me to tell you that the brew group is any automatic coffee maker’s most important component. This is where all the magic happens, and it’s what makes these machines so convenient.

As is the case with most super automatics, the Dinamica has a removable brewing unit, accessed via a door behind the water tank. Trust me when I tell you to take good care of this thing by removing and rinsing it at the end of each day. A little later in this DeLonghi Dinamica review I’ll give you a few tips on how to do that.

Warranty

The DeLonghi Dinamica comes with a two-year warranty that’ll cover any manufacturer defects. Plus, DeLonghi throws in an extra year if you go ahead and register your product.

While it’s unlikely you’ll need to take advantage of the warranty, I’d recommend keeping your proof of purchase. Oh, and do a little deep breathing and meditation before ever calling these guys. They will eventually take care of your issue, but it’ll take a while. You’ll have to trust me on that.

How to Use the DeLonghi Dinamica Espresso Machine

It’s true that super automatic espresso machines typically come ready to use, even while at the default factory settings.

Yet, most of the time, they are far from ready to brew a successful espresso, cappuccino or latte macchiato from the start.

This is where the Dinamica I tested took an impressively different approach. Even at its default settings, it did almost everything right when preparing drinks straight out of the box.

Sure, it’s true a little bit of froth did end up in the cups, and the espresso could have benefitted from a touch more crema and body. However, the fact that you can use the thing without any expertise speaks volumes.

With all that said, you will have to jump through a few hoops before making coffee. You’ll need to install the water filter, input your water hardness and perform a rinsing function. Don’t worry, though; the Dinamica will guide you through the process and everything you need is included.

Once the initial setup is complete, go ahead and make three or four espressos to season the coffee circuit. Oh, and I wouldn’t drink these – dump ’em out instead.

Drink Preparation

Making espresso with the DeLonghi Dinamica is about as straightforward as it gets. During my testing I set the grind adjustment dial to the finest setting. Once you’ve pressed the espresso button, you’re able to adjust the strength setting via a five-bean scale.

Another option is to go into the menu and program coffee strength, amount and temperature. While it’s a straightforward procedure, I’ll leave it to the user manual to explain the ins and outs of programming.

As for preparing a milk-based specialty, the same rules apply. As I mentioned earlier, the dial on the frothing carafe is fairly self-explanatory. The LatteCrema system produces impressive froth, although fans of microfoam might be a little disappointed. That said, keep the dial on the middle setting and you’ll be able to whip up delicious cappuccinos and latte macchiatos.

Best Coffee for the DeLonghi Dinamica

DeLonghi Dinamica Descaling and Cleaning Routine

Buying a fully automatic machine means introducing more cleaning and descaling into your life. Sorry, that’s just the way it is.

For a quick rinse of the automatic LatteCrema system, set the milk froth control to “clean” and let water flow through the pipes. It’s best to do this after every use.

Just be sure to set your favorite cup aside beforehand. Much to my chagrin, I’ve had more cleaning water-espresso combos find their way into my cup than I’d like to admit. If only I had a dollar for every time that happened — I would be loaded!

I think it’s especially great when you can remove the water reservoir, milk carafe and everything else that’s important without having to move the machine. This not only saves space, but it virtually invites intensive cleaning by itself.

The only thing that would make it easier is if the automatic espresso machine “automatically” carried its dishes to the dishwasher on its own! Until that happens, though, cleaning the Dinamica is still a breeze.

A Note on Dishwashers

Officially, nothing is supposed to go in the dishwasher, but in my opinion, you can still put the carafe for the LatteCrema system, the drip tray or the coffee grounds container in there. Not the brew group, of course, which you have to rinse by hand!

To add to that, DeLonghi seems to take the matter of how the brew group goes into the Dinamica pretty seriously.

Not only do you have to power the machine off at the main switch, but you also have to unplug it. Only then can you safely remove the brew group and then safely reinsert it after rinsing.

That’s what the instruction manual says, too.

Yet, for some reason, this crucial point often gets overlooked. The resulting system errors then tend to aggravate users — especially when it delays them getting their coffee!

I also believe that many of the common problems users face — such as water in places where it shouldn’t be or coffee residue in crevices — can be traced back to an incorrectly positioned brew group. The brew group is the heart of the machine, so it really needs to be positioned properly to do its job as intended.

Otherwise, there’s no reason why your Dinamica shouldn’t perform brilliantly for years to come. Just look at the display: the device will already tell you what to clean, insert or empty.

Descaling is just as easy. On that note: even if you filter your water, you shouldn’t wait too long between deep cleanings. It not only removes mineral deposits but also cleans out coffee residue, fats and oils from the machine. So it’s worth descaling at least once a month, using DeLonghi EcoDecalk.

DeLonghi Dinamica Specifications

DeLonghi Dinamica vs Other Super Automatics

At the start of this DeLonghi Dinamica review I wondered whether the machine should be retired. I mean, DeLonghi has continued to release more modern machines, so maybe the Dinamica isn’t relevant anymore. Let’s take a look at a couple of the manufacturer’s other machines to see if they make the Dinamica redundant.

DeLonghi Dinamica vs Dinamica Plus

Just like Brad Pitt, I’m a huge fan of the DeLonghi. In most ways, the Dinamica Plus is an improvement on the original. There’s a beautiful color touchscreen display, more one-touch specialities and a more powerful pump on board. What’s more, the Dinamica Plus can be used with DeLonghi’s Coffee Link app and has multiple user profiles.

So, why wouldn’t you buy the Dinamica Plus? Well, initially I would have said because it’s so much more expensive. However, these days it costs $1,039.99 – around the same price as the Dinamica. Ultimately, the only advantage to buying the Dinamica is having dual boilers. Other than that, the Dinamica Plus would seem like the better option.

See Also: DeLonghi Dinamica Plus Hands On Review

DeLonghi Dinamica vs Magnifica Evo

For just $549.95, the DeLonghi represents incredible value for money.

Sure, it’s not as powerful as the Dinamica, nor does it offer the same level of drink customization. Still, this recent addition to the DeLonghi lineup is worth checking out.

What sets the Magnifica Evo apart from the competition is its updated automatic milk frother. The Magnifica Evo’s LatteCrema system allows you to precisely control the amount of milk used, which is pretty cool. Other than that, this is a solid and affordable super automatic espresso machine.

See Also: DeLonghi Magnifica Evo Hands-On Review

DeLonghi Dinamica vs Others Comparison Chart

Verdict: DeLonghi Dinamica Review

By now, you’re well aware that I have a great appreciation for the DeLonghi Dinamica product line. The ECAM35075SI offers a great deal in terms of features and functionality. And let’s not forget that this machine represents incredible value for money.

The way I see it, the DeLonghi Dinamica is a great choice for anyone who wants to tweak their recipe for the perfect espresso, cappuccino or americano. It also opens the door for experimentation with coffee beans and milk foam consistency.

Still, this timeless classic no longer dominates the midrange sector. The truth of the matter is that even DeLonghi now offers better machines costing the same as the Dinamica.

DeLonghi Dinamica Review FAQ