Best DeLonghi Espresso Machine 2023: 10 Great Options!

If you’re looking to up your home barista game, choosing the best DeLonghi espresso machine for your needs is key. In that vein, it’s also important to understand what your needs are. Hence, this guide to the best DeLonghi espresso machines.

Today, I’m going to go over the various classes of DeLonghi espresso machines. We’ll look at super automatic and manual espresso machine options within the DeLonghi line of products.

Within each product line, I’ll make recommendations about which option or options I believe offer the best value for your money.

The 10 Best DeLonghi Espresso Machines at a Glance

Here’s an overview of the 10 best DeLonghi espresso machines that we’ll take a closer look at today.

Best Overall

DeLonghi Dinamica

• Excellent espresso and milk froth
• Good price-performance ratio
• Easy to clean

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Best Performing

DeLonghi Dinamica Plus

• Touchscreen display
• LatteCrema milk system
• Two thermoblocks

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Best Value

DeLonghi Magnifica S

• Compact design
• Easy to clean
• makes great espresso

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Best for Espresso

DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro

• Powerful steam wand
• heats up quickly
• looks great!

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Best for Beginners

DeLonghi ECP3420

• Small footprint
• easy operation
• Adjustable cup height

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DeLonghi Eletta

• Automatic and manual milk systems
• Stainless steel cup warmer
• Intuitive user interface

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DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM 3300

• 14 grinder settings
• two independent heating systems
• user-friendly operation

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DeLonghi La Specialista

• Very quiet operation
• intuitive user interface
• fantastic milk foam

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DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe

• Compact and affordable
• easy to use
• makes great espresso and milk froth

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DeLonghi All in One

• Makes drip coffee and espresso
• versatile steam wand
• Good value for money

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Best DeLonghi Espresso Machine: Advantages and Disadvantages

Like anything mechanical, DeLonghi espresso machines each have strengths and weaknesses. That said, some common themes run through the lot.

Advantages

• DeLonghi espresso machines are designed with quality in mind.
• The DeLonghi brand has been around for a long time and isn’t going to disappear.
• When included on specific models, the built-in grinders produce consistent results.
• DeLonghi’s LatteCrema milk system generates terrific microfoam.
• The user interfaces on most DeLonghi machines are easy to understand.
• DeLonghi espresso machines offer a lot of freedom to adjust essential features such as the grind quality, coffee aroma, coffee strength, water volume and temperature.
• DeLonghi espresso machines have user profiles, or at least a memo function, so you can save your preferences.
• The results in the cup are superb.
• Built-in cleaning functions, removable brew groups and removable parts make machine maintenance a breeze.
• The life of DeLonghi espresso machines is long, so long as you perform regular preventative maintenance.
• The overall price of DeLonghi products is competitive and offers a lot of value for your money.

Disadvantages

• The majority of the components on DeLonghi coffee machines are plastic, which is not good for the environment.
• Sometimes a plasticy smell is present on new machines until they’ve been used a few times.

DeLonghi Automatic Espresso Machines

Not that long ago, DeLonghi ruled the lower end of the market, with its machines selling like hotcakes, ahem, hot lattes. Then in 2017, I got the distinct impression from the company’s staff at a trade show that DeLonghi was turning up its nose at the entry-level category.

It turns out my spidey sense was totally on the money. 

DeLonghi has subsequently shifted its focus to make serious inroads into the mid and upper ranges. And here, too, it delivers excellent quality at prices that undercut going rates in the segment.

That brings us to the model numbers, which can quickly make your head spin. To help you feel less like you’re trying to decipher the Da Vinci Code, here are a couple of pointers:

• For starters, the ECAM series are the budget buys, while the ESAM machines are mid-range.
• The higher the number before the first period, the more expensive the super automatic espresso machine. Three-digit figures are usually reserved for top models or indicate a newer ECAM version.
• On the other side of the first period, the situation appears to be the reverse. Newer, better models have just two digits. That can also indicate more lavish equipment, functions and preprogrammed coffee specialties.
• Finally, the letter at the end simply seems to designate the machine color: B for Black, MS for Metal/Silver, T for Titanium, etc. You get the point. 

DeLonghi Dinamica Series

It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of DeLonghi’s Dinamica series. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that you can’t go wrong with one of these machines. So, if your head is throbbing from trying to figure out the differences between model numbers, just pick one at random! 

Jokes aside, a DeLonghi Dinamica machine has a lot to offer coffee lovers of all types. As I’ve said elsewhere, I see the Dinamica series as bridging the gap between high-end and low-end super automatic espresso machines.

DeLonghi Dinamica – Best Overall DeLonghi Espresso Machine

DeLonghi Dinamica

Upper-class function for a middle-class price!

Sensible range of functions

Excellent espresso and frothed milk

Easy cleaning

Pleasant operating volume

Very good price-performance ratio

Plastic smell when unpacking for the first time

$1,398.95

The DeLonghi Dinamica has long been a favorite of mine. In fact, I’d go so far as to say there still isn’t another automatic espresso machine at this price point that can compete with the Dinamica. 

In my DeLonghi Dinamica review, I grumbled a little about too much plastic having been used in the machine’s construction. However, components like the brew group, stainless steel conical burr grinder and buttons all feel durable and well designed. Anyway, plastic housing is to be expected from a sophisticated machine costing just $1,398.95. 

The Dinamica’s intuitive user interface makes it easy to start getting good results right away. I mean, who really wants to spend hours poring over a user manual? There are plenty of settings to help you dial in espresso to your liking, and the impressive grinder has 13 levels. By the way, there’s also a pot function, although I’d recommend sticking to americanos. If it’s regular coffee you want, bust out the Chemex or fire up your drip coffee maker.

At this point, I should mention the DeLonghi Dinamica’s LatteCrema automatic milk system. Seriously, this integrated milk frother is one of the best I’ve ever used. Not only is the LatteCrema system super quiet, it also offers three consistency levels. Oh, and the Dinamica’s dual heating system means there’s no waiting time between espresso and milk foam delivery.

The Dinamica is a timeless classic that won’t break the bank, which is why I’ve awarded it “Best DeLonghi Espresso Machine.”

Check Out: DeLonghi Dinamica Hands On Review 2023

DeLonghi Dinamica Plus – Best Performing DeLonghi Espresso Machine

DeLonghi Dinamica Plus

The Upgrades Everyone Wanted!

LatteCrema Milk Frothing System

Digital Touchscreen Display

Coffee Link App

Pot Function

Availability

More user profiles would be nice

$1,658.80

No one can accuse the folks at DeLonghi of resting on their laurels, which is why I wasn’t surprised by the release of the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus. Still, I wasn’t quite prepared for how awesome this machine actually is. In fact, I’d say that no other mid range automatic espresso machine is as big a threat to Jura’s sales figures.

The DeLonghi design team really outdid itself here. You’ll find the same awesome features as the original Dinamica, as well as tons of updated extras. For starters, there’s a 3.5 inch (9 centimeter) touchscreen display, replete with pretty color drink icons. Sure, this user interface might not be Jura-level impressive. However, we’re still talking about an intuitive display with menus that are easy to navigate.

For those of you who like to tinker with your espresso maker remotely, DeLonghi’s Coffee Link app is a big bonus. You can control settings, schedule tasks and prepare a latte macchiato from the comfort of your couch. And, with 16 drink recipes to choose from, there’s a lot to play with. Not only that, the Dinamica Plus offers three user profiles, so multiple users won’t have to fight over drink settings!

As you’d expect, the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus is capable of producing excellent espresso and milk foam. What’s more, the TrueBrew Over Ice function brews at a lower temperature for tasty iced coffee.

Costing just $1,659.82, the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus represents incredibly good value for money. And let’s not forget that Brad Pitt starred in the machine’s promotional video. I mean, he can afford any coffee maker out there, so this one must be good!

Check Out: DeLonghi Dinamica Plus Hands On Review 2023

Other DeLonghi Dinamica Series Machines

In my opinion, the two DeLonghi espresso machines above are the only ones in the Dinamica series worth considering. The LatteCrema automatic milk system is so good that whipping up a cappuccino or espresso macchiato is a breeze. That said, if you’re a fan of creating your own microfoam, there are a couple of Dinamicas worth considering. 

Both the DeLonghi Dinamica ECAM35020 and DeLonghi Dinamica ECAM35025 have manual steam wands, and both offer the TrueBrew Over Ice function. Plus, you’ll get the same awesome stainless steel conical burr grinder. 

What’s more, these DeLonghi automatic espresso machines sit firmly in the budget category. You’ll pay $945.99 for the ECAM35020 and usually a little more for the ECAM35025. In case you’re wondering, the latter machine justifies its higher price tag by offering programmable user profiles.

A Comparison of DeLonghi Dinamica Series Machines

DeLonghi Eletta Series

DeLonghi Eletta 45760

DeLonghi Eletta

Loads of great features!

LatteCrema system for milk foam

Manual steam wand

Independent thermoblocks for coffee and milk

Stainless steel cup warmer

No user profiles

Expensive for what you get

N/A

At $2,949.90, the DeLonghi Eletta 45760 is one of the Italian manufacturer’s more expensive super automatic espresso machines. 

Featuring a modern, streamlined appearance, DeLonghi also incorporated plenty of stainless steel into the machine’s design. In fact, there’s a stainless steel espresso cup warmer on top of the machine, which is a really nice touch. Although there’s no touchscreen display, the LCD text display surrounded by buttons makes for an intuitive user experience. 

What really matters, though, is the quality of espresso and milk foam you can get out of this thing. All settings for espresso – including temperature, strength and volume – can be adjusted “on the fly.” What’s more, DeLonghi’s awesome 13-level stainless steel conical burr grinder works really efficiently, making it easy to dial things in. 

What really sets this DeLonghi Eletta apart from the competition is the inclusion of both the LatteCrema automatic milk system and a manual steam wand. Plus, the Eletta comes equipped with two independent heating systems, so you can make espresso and test out your barista skills simultaneously.

Check Out: DeLonghi Eletta 45760 Review 2023

Other DeLonghi Eletta Series Machines

DeLonghi offers a couple of variations on the Eletta, starting with the slightly less expensive ECAM44660. What’s notable about this machine is its more basic user interface, which features touch buttons and fewer of them. To be honest, I’d rather spend a little more to get the ECAM45760’s more substantial metal buttons. Not only that, the ECAM44660 doesn’t have a manual steam wand option. 

On the other hand, the DeLonghi Eletta Cappuccino Evo comes with a much improved user interface. Here, you’ll get a larger LCD text screen and pretty drink icons for one-touch specialty drinks. However, you’ll pay substantially more for the Cappuccino Evo, and you still won’t get that awesome manual steam wand. 

A Comparison of DeLonghi Eletta Series Machines

Delonghi Magnifica Series

DeLonghi markets the Magnifica series as its entry-level class, which is certainly reflected in the price of these machines. That said, don’t think for a second you’ll have to compromise on quality here. Quite the contrary – DeLonghi Magnifica series machines offer tons of features you’d have to shell out big bucks for from another manufacturer.

DeLonghi Magnifica S – Best Value DeLonghi Espresso Machine

DeLonghi Magnifica S

Not the best, but it’s definitely the best in its class!

Exceptionally favorable

Very compact

Thoughtful details

Easy to clean

Good cup results

Without display

$794.75

The DeLonghi Magnifica S has been a benchmark automatic espresso maker here at Coffeeness for years. I know this machine inside and out, and I’ve seen several more expensive espresso makers fall short of what the Magnifica S can do. 

Costing $929.99, the DeLonghi Magnifica S is packed with outstanding features. That said, the cheap-looking plastic housing and utilitarian user interface would have you believe otherwise. 

Sure, you’ll need to spend time learning the machine’s quirks. After all, there’s no display and adjusting settings could hardly be described as intuitive. However, once you get the hang of things, the Magnifica S is capable of delivering truly memorable espresso. 

There’s no automatic milk system, but the manual steam wand works really well. You’ll need to spend a little time practicing, but that’s half the fun right? To sum up, the DeLonghi magnifica S is a well-conceived and affordable machine that punches well above its weight. 

Check Out: DeLonghi Magnifica 22110 Hands On Review 2023

DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM 3300

DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM 3300

Still a solid Super Automatic!

Convenient operation from the front of the machine

Double boiler for fast heating

14 separate grind settings

Numerous adjustment options

No display

Relatively loud

No water filter

$799.95

If you’re on the lookout for an even more affordable option than the Magnifica S, I’ve got good news. The DeLonghi ESAM3300 costs an entirely reasonable $799.95. 

You won’t be surprised to hear that this machine lacks some of the features that make the Magnifica S stand out. Still, the ESAM3300 is more than capable of delivering top-notch espresso and milk foam. I actually prefer the design of the Magnifica ESAM3300. You can access the water tank, removable brew group and used grounds container from the front, which is really convenient. 

Probably the biggest selling point of the ESAM3300 is the presence of two independent boilers, one for espresso and one for steaming milk. That’s quite unusual for a cappuccino machine in this price range, and definitely improved the ESAM3300’s score during my review. At the end of the day, this machine might not be my first recommendation for a DeLonghi automatic coffee maker. However, the ESAM3300 is a solid performer that’s easy on the wallet.

Check Out: DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 Hands On Review 2023

Other DeLonghi Magnifica Series Machines

If you’re brave enough to go down a Magnifica series internet rabbit hole, you’ll find the usual confusing amount of variations. From my perspective, only one of these machines is worthy of a mention: the Magnifica Smart ECAM23260. 

This particular DeLonghi espresso maker features a more user-friendly and intuitive user interface than both the Magnifica S and ESAM3300. More importantly, the Magnifica Smart comes equipped with the LatteCrema milk system. 

However, the catch here is the price tag – you’ll need to shell out $619.99 for this coffee maker. Needless to say, if you’ve got that kind of money to spend, do yourself a favor and buy the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus instead.

A Comparison of DeLonghi Magnifica Series Machines

DeLonghi Manual Espresso Machines

DeLonghi insists on marketing its espresso makers with portafilters as “manual machines,” which really irks me. In reality, the DeLonghi espresso machines we’ll be looking at are semi-automatic. 

A true manual espresso machine features a lever that you have to pull down on in order to create pressure for espresso extraction. Hence the term “pulling a shot.” Alternatively, a semi-automatic machine uses a pump to create that all-important 9 bars of pressure.

Anyway, now I’ve got that off my chest, allow me to encourage you to invest in a good coffee grinder. If you want to have any success in extracting good espresso, you’ll need a grinder capable of consistency at fine grind levels. Trust me, it’ll make all the difference. Oh, and check out my coffee grinder guide 2023 if you need inspiration!

DeLonghi La Specialista Series

To complicate things further, DeLonghi La Specialista series machines are neither manual nor semi-automatic. In fact, these are what I call “hybrid machines.” You get an on-board grinder and the machine doses and tamps the coffee for you. Of course there are loads of ways for you to get involved, but a hybrid machine is definitely helping you out along the way.

DeLonghi La Specialista

DeLonghi La Specialista

Wakes you up to the art of good espresso — but makes you work for it.

High-quality, super automatic and espresso-machine combo

Intuitive setting options and functions

Fuss-free, fantastic milk froth

Easy cleaning and operation

Very quiet

A lot of work to fine-tune settings

$879.00

If you’re an aspiring home barista with a passion for learning the espresso preparation ropes, the DeLonghi La Specialista will really float your boat. You’ll like the price, too – the La Specialista offers exceptional value for money at just $879.00.

Even though this hybrid espresso maker has a stainless steel conical burr grinder on board, it’s far from a super automatic. In fact, you’ll need to put quite a bit of work in to get good results from the La Specialista. Incidentally, the DeLonghi La Specialista is an undeniably beautiful piece of kit, with classy retro stylings that are further heightened in the red version. 

One side of the machine is dedicated to grinding, dosing and tamping, while the other comprises the group head and steam wand. Speaking of that, the steam wand is somewhere between automatic and manual. More importantly, it creates stunning milk froth with next to no effort on your part. 

On the other hand, preparing good espresso takes time and patience. There’s a lot to get to grips with, and I got frustrated more than once during my review. Still, stick with it, and you’ll reap the benefits of what this machine is capable of. 

Check Out: DeLonghi La Specialista Hands On Review 2023

DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro – Best for Espresso

DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro

A solid upgrade!

High-quality appearance

Steam wand with plenty of power

Heats up quickly

Produces fantastic milk foam

Requires constant cleaning due to splashes when making espresso

$1,399.95

Hot on the heels of the La Specialista comes the DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro, a bigger, more sophisticated and all around more badass hybrid espresso machine. 

For starters, the La Specialista Maestro offers a further two grind settings. Not only that, there’s a more advanced user interface to deal with, featuring a pair of digital displays for monitoring dosing and drink selection. The DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro is bigger than its predecessor, and also offers more room under the portafilter dispensing spouts. That means brewing into a travel mug or latte macchiato glass won’t be an issue.

What really stands out is the addition of a LatteCrema automatic milk system. That means you can use this machine like a fully automatic coffee maker instead of manually steaming milk. However, the question only you can answer is whether the La Specialista Maestro is worth paying $1,399.95 for. 

I guess that if you want all the benefits of a manual machine with the perks of a super automatic, the answer is yes. That said, if you’re in it to fine tune your latte art and geek out on espresso preparation, you’ll be better off with the more affordable original La Specialista.

Check Out: DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro Hands On Review 2023

Other DeLonghi La Specialista Series Machines

As you’d expect by now, DeLonghi couldn’t resist adding a couple more machines to its La Specialista series. I mean, it couldn’t hurt, right? 

Anyway, if the La Specialista Maestro’s price tag is a tad too high, the DeLonghi La specialista Prestigio should do nicely. Costing $699.00, this DeLonghi espresso machine also includes the LatteCrema milk system as well as a manual steam wand. However, the reduced cost means you’ll have to do without those fancy digital displays. 

At $590.03, the DeLonghi La Specialista Arte is a way more affordable option. Plus, this machine is more compact, making it ideal for smaller kitchens. The main downside is that there’s only one thermoblock in the La Specialista Arte. That means steaming milk and preparing espresso simultaneously is out of the question.

A Comparison of DeLonghi La Specialista Series Machines

DeLonghi Dedica Series

DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe

DeLonghi Dedica

Delivers all you can expect for the price.

Compact and affordable

Useful settings

Easy operation

Good espresso and milk froth

For beginners only

$269.99

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If you’re looking for a solid entry-level espresso machine with just the right amount of hand holding, the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe will be right up your alley. 

This is a compact and attractive espresso machine that’ll serve you well as you’re finding your barista sea legs. What’s more, the $269.99 price tag is more than reasonable for what you get. 

Speaking of what’s included, pressurized filter baskets, adjustable temperature settings and customizable volumetric control are all there to assist you in getting great results. 

And I haven’t even mentioned the awesome manual steam wand yet – this thing is truly marvelous! There’s an adjustable panarello attachment that can be switched between Cappuccino and Hot Milk settings. The former setting is excellent for creating silky microfoam, whereas the latter setting won’t create bubbles at all.

Check Out: DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe EC685 Hands On Review 2023

Other DeLonghi Dedica Series Machines

The DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe is an updated version of the DeLonghi Dedica EC680, which is still available on Amazon for $217.00. Honestly, there really isn’t much to differentiate the two, aside from the fact that the original Dedica doesn’t have that nifty steam wand attachment. 

On the other hand, the DeLonghi Dedica Arte is a different animal. Although it looks the same as its siblings, this espresso and cappuccino machine comes with high capacity filter baskets and a more professional and powerful steam wand. 

A Comparison of DeLonghi Dedica Series Machines

Other DeLonghi Manual Espresso Machines

It’s not my intention to bore you with an exhaustive list of DeLonghi’s manual espresso machines. After all, you came here to find the best of the best. That said, there are a few other machines that are worth checking out if you feel so inclined:

• DeLonghi EC155 – Really compact and affordable.
• DeLonghi EC702 – Two thermostats, Rapid Cappuccino System.
• DeLonghi ECP3630 – Stainless steel machine with a great steam wand.
• DeLonghi Stilosa – Another affordable and approachable machine.

In the meantime, let’s check out a couple more of the best DeLonghi espresso machines that are really worth talking about.

DeLonghi ECP3420 Manual Espresso Machine – Best for Beginners

DeLonghi ECP3420

Ideal for beginners!

Simple user interface

Compact design

Easy to clean

Adjustable cup height

Plastic tamper

No milk pitcher included

$169.95

The DeLonghi ECP3420 is a prime example of a simple, straightforward and effective espresso machine. It just so happens that the Italian manufacturer excels at producing machines like this, so don’t underestimate what it can do! 

Actually, I’d say that if you pair the ECP3420 with a good coffee grinder, you’ll be able to get fantastic results. This is quite simply the best DeLonghi espresso machine for beginners.

The DeLonghi ECP3420 features a compact, space-saving design and a simple, intuitive user interface. Inside, there’s an efficient stainless steel boiler that heats up in under five minutes. 

Thanks to the pressurized filter baskets, anyone will be able to get convincing espresso out of this machine. Plus, the pannarello steam wand definitely flattens the learning curve when it comes to creating lovely microfoam for your espresso macchiato. 

The DeLonghi ECP3420 costs a mere $169.95 on Amazon, which is a steal in my opinion.

Check Out: DeLonghi ECP3420 Manual Espresso Machine Review 2023

DeLonghi All in One

DeLonghi All in One

The best of all worlds!

Compact design

Versatile steam wand

Dual heating system

Good value for money

No milk pitcher included

Flimsy plastic espresso tamper

$269.99

I’ve included the DeLonghi All in One on my list of the best DeLonghi espresso machines because of its sheer versatility. Seriously, for just $299.95, you get a high quality coffee maker and espresso maker in the same package. 

As if that wasn’t enough, the All in One comes equipped with the same nifty pannarello steam wand as the Dedica Deluxe. 

Sure, you won’t get high end pour over style drip coffee from this machine. However, there are plenty of bells and whistles like a 24 hour programmable timer and a sleek digital display. Moreover, thanks to its dual boiler system, you can prepare drip coffee and espresso at the same time. That sounds like the ideal scenario for lovers of red eye coffee!

Check Out: DeLonghi All in One Review 2023

DeLonghi: A Manufacturer in Competition With Itself?

Even if you’re just starting to investigate espresso machines, DeLonghi is probably already on your radar. That’s because the Italian brand not only has a huge global footprint and distribution network but is also a strong contender in almost every price category.

There really isn’t another manufacturer that comes close to DeLonghi in terms of value for money. Sure, brands like Jura and Miele are heavyweights when it comes to elegant and refined super automatics. However, the prices involved make those machines inaccessible to many folks.

I like to poke fun at DeLonghi for its habit of releasing seemingly endless variations on a theme. But at the end of the day, that’s inconsequential when searching for the best DeLonghi espresso machine. If DeLonghi feels like it needs to be in competition with itself, we just get a wider range of awesome machines to choose from! 

Best DeLonghi Espresso Machines FAQ