If you’ve spent any time browsing my guide to the best super automatic espresso machines, I’m sure it’s clear that Jura and DeLonghi are two of my favorite espresso machine manufacturers. With that said, here I’m going to put them head to head: Jura vs DeLonghi, round one!
If you’ve spent any time browsing my guide to the best super automatic espresso machines, I’m sure it’s clear that Jura and DeLonghi are two of my favorite espresso machine manufacturers. With that said, here I’m going to put them head to head: Jura vs DeLonghi, round one!
Table of Contents
- OverviewBackground on JuraBackground on DeLonghi
- Jura vs DeLonghiSize and Design — Which Machine Stands Out?Grinder Comparison — Which One Grinds Better?Coffee QualityMilk Foam — Creamy Froth Face-OffUser Interface — Which Machine Offers the Best ExperienceCleaning and Maintenance Special Features — Unique Perk Comparison
- How Much Will You Spend?
- Head to Head ComparisonComparison Chart
- Verdict
Overview: Jura vs DeLonghi Super Automatic Espresso Machines
Before I jump into the Jura vs DeLonghi riffraff, I need to make sure we’re all on the same page. If you’re curious, read on for a brief background on each of these brands.
Background on Jura
Jura might as well be royalty in the home coffee world. I’m not exaggerating here; anyone who’s into super autos knows that Jura espresso machines are the Porsches of the industry. Gosh, the Swiss company even has the Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer as its brand ambassador!
Like many luxury espresso machine brands (think Lelit), Jura started off making steam irons and other home goods. Since its founding in 1931, Jura has been known for quality and innovation, whether it’s producing a vacuum, a toaster or a drip coffee maker.
After many decades of refinement, during which the company transitioned from the Swiss market to an international market, Jura settled on what could be its end-all be-all: high-end super automatic espresso machines.
Again, Jura espresso machines are truly top of the line. They’re dazzling, stylish, durable, high-tech and, you guessed it, expensive. You can trust that Jura makes no compromises when it comes to style, durability and quality.
Most importantly, the quality of the espresso and steamed milk you can get from these machines is absolutely superb. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!
As it happens, Jura has a pretty versatile lineup, offering a range of models that fit different needs and price points. Still, none of them are budget-friendly; this is a luxury brand through and through. But if you can afford a Jura, I can just about promise that you won’t be disappointed.
Background on DeLonghi
If you’re a regular Coffeeness reader, DeLonghi espresso machines should need little introduction. I mean, I’m practically on their marketing team! I absolutely adore the Italian manufacturer and its two-fold dedication to quality and affordability.
But let me step back a bit for the newcomers. Like many espresso machine manufacturers, DeLonghi didn’t start out in the coffee industry. Rather, when the Italian company was founded in 1974 it manufactured electric radiators.
Fast forward half a century and coffee machines are the core of the DeLonghi brand, though they still manufacture other home and kitchen appliances. What’s more, DeLonghi is now part of an international conglomerate including Braun and NutriBullet.
Business framework aside, today DeLonghi is most well known for its super automatic espresso machines and regular home espresso machines. As it happens, it’s one of my favorite Italian espresso machine manufacturers.
Why is that so? You’ll have to keep reading to learn more. But in general, DeLonghi has a reputation for producing quality espresso machines that are also relatively inexpensive, bringing the home espresso game to a wider market. Really, DeLonghi machines consistently impress me for representing good value for money. At the same time, they don’t sacrifice coffee quality for the sake of affordability.
Oh, and just like Jura, DeLonghi has a celebrity ambassador of its own – Brad Pitt starred in the legendary (and controversial?) Dinamica Plus advertisement a few years back.
I’ll talk more about the Dinamica Plus later on in this Jura vs DeLonghi guide, but the long and short of it is that this machine is one of my favorites of all time.
Without further ado, let’s get into the Jura coffee machine vs DeLonghi coffee machine showdown.
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Jura vs DeLonghi: Comparing Features
There’s so much more to dig into when comparing Jura vs DeLonghi. Naturally, it’s hard to condense a whole brand into general characteristics.
With that said, I’m going to link to as many machines as possible in the name of specificity. Let’s go!
Size and Design — Which Machine Stands Out?
First, let me address the elephant in the room: plastic. Plastic haunts the dreams of many a coffee professional (and environmentalist), but in the case of super automatics the petroleum-based material is pretty commonplace. It’s a bummer, yes. But plastic is often the answer to keep costs down.
Even Jura isn’t immune to this design choice, though its machines tend to include more metals than most competitor models. For example, many Jura machines have aluminum or chrome housing, but a plastic brew group. That said, some Jura models also have plastic housing.
When it comes to DeLonghi, their espresso machines pretty much always come equipped with an abundance of plastic. In fact, they often have an unpleasant plasticky smell upon first use, though it eventually fades. Notable exceptions to this are the Dinamica Plus, which I’ll get into later, and the Primadonna Elite.
Plastic aside, both Jura and DeLonghi machines are very durable, lasting a decade or more of daily use. As far as size goes, DeLonghi machines basically have “compact” as their middle names. That said, if counter space is a significant issue the Magnifica Start is a magnificent place to start.
In the Jura camp, the Swiss brand offers a range of compact and bulky machines depending on the model and features. For example, the ENA 8 is the most compact machine that still offers all the goodies (Aroma G3 grinder, proprietary brewing technology and a milk frother).
On the other hand, the X8 is a commercial-friendly beast with a large water tank and equally hefty bean hopper. The cherry on top is dual thermoblocks, so you can brew ‘spro and froth milk simultaneously.
Grinder Comparison — Which One Grinds Better?
All Jura and DeLonghi super automatic espresso machines have built-in conical burr grinders. Both brands tend to lean towards stainless steel burrs with a good bit of adjustability. What’s more, Jura and DeLonghi grinders are known for producing a consistent grind size.
Wow, this Jura vs DeLonghi article is turning into a Jura and DeLonghi article!
That said, one difference I can point out is the number of grinders. Some Jura models, such as the GIGA 6, feature two independent grinders. Naturally, you’re paying more for the privilege. What’s more, the GIGA 6 is marketed towards a low volume commercial shop or office environment.
Coffee Quality
Again, I’m turning this Jura vs DeLonghi article into Jura and DeLonghi. Fortunately, coffee quality is a core priority for both of these manufacturers. It’s also important to consider the quality-to-value relationship, which has a big impact on how we perceive a machine’s performance.
Coffeeness Signature Espresso Blend
High-quality beans through direct trade
Notes of Chocolate & Hazelnut
Easy on the stomach
Freshly roasted right in Brooklyn
Medium roast
I’ll start with Jura, since it’s the most high-quality manufacturer on the market. Given the cost of Jura machines, it’s no wonder that customers and critics alike have sky-high expectations for Jura’s coffee quality. I’d argue that Jura exceeds those expectations.
Importantly, Jura’s GIGA line is the most quality-forward among their offerings. That said, pretty much all Jura machines feature advanced brew technology, otherwise known as the Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.).
P.E.P. uses variable pressure throughout the brew to produce a balanced shot of espresso with crema. What’s more, the brew recipe is always adjustable in Jura machines. This includes the temperature, grind size, shot volume and coffee strength.
As far as DeLonghi’s coffee quality goes, it’s pretty well matched. And that’s remarkable, seeing as DeLonghi machines cost significantly less than Jura espresso machines. Sure, DeLonghis aren’t as high-tech as Jura machines, but you can still expect excellent espresso. Of course, you need to start with high quality coffee beans and filtered water.
Plus, most DeLonghi models offer adjustability features, including control over the brew temperature, water volume, strength and grind.
Milk Foam — Creamy Froth Face-Off
In the spirit of super automatic espresso machines, Jura doesn’t offer any manual steam wands. Rather, they only have auto-frothers. On the other hand, this is a BYOMC (bring your own milk container) situation; they don’t supply one for you, unlike DeLonghi.
I find this quite annoying, but I can almost overlook the flaw when I’m faced with the absolute perfection of Jura’s microfoam. Really, this isn’t a super auto-approximation of barista-quality milk foam. Rather, Jura espresso machines truly do a fantastic job at producing microfoam.
If you’re a milk foam fanatic, the Jura S8 will appeal to you. It’s got a customizable milk foam lever, which is the closest you’ll get to manual steaming. What’s more, you can adjust the milk temperature in the affiliated app. More on that later in this Jura vs DeLonghi guide.
If milk foam isn’t important to you, I’d recommend the Jura ENA 4, which doesn’t have a milk frother and is quite affordable, to boot (for Jura machines at least).
To keep things fair, I’ll highlight DeLonghi’s LatteCrema milk system. Again, this auto frother does a great job at producing thick and creamy microfoam. Plus, most models come with integrated milk containers, which are removable so you can store them in the refrigerator.
One of the only DeLonghi models with a manual steam wand is the Magnifica S, part of their budget lineup. That said, if you’re tight on cash but still want an auto-frother, the Magnifica Evo is another great budget option.
Finally, the Eletta Explore is ideal for those of you wanting to make trendy (or gimmicky?) cold foam at home. Unsurprisingly, Jura effectively scoffs at this trend by not including cold foam in any of its machines.
User Interface — Which Machine Offers the Best Experience
I’m going to be honest: Jura totally wins in the user controls department. Even their entry-level ENA line has gorgeous displays, stylish buttons and intuitive controls.
But when you move up to Jura’s more advanced GIGA models, be ready to be blown away. I’m talking large color touch-screen displays and bonus smart controls via an app, which I’ll discuss in a bit.
In the DeLonghi world, you can expect a bit more variation in the user interface. The Dinamica, for example, has a keypad-style interface. Similarly, the budget Magnificia models I linked above have buttons instead of digital displays.
On the other hand, the fancier DeLonghi models, like the Dinamica Plus, feature color touch screens. However, let’s not conflate these fancy features with superiority. Plenty of users, such as people who are visually impaired or aren’t technologically-inclined, could prefer the familiar interface of buttons.
Either way, DeLonghi machines are known to be easy to use. In fact, you can find a DeLonghi in the homes of plenty of casual coffee drinkers. At the same time, DeLonghi machines still appeal to espresso connoisseurs due to their high quality standards.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and descaling super automatic espresso machines tends to be a similar process no matter the manufacturer. That said, I can’t forget to mention in this Jura vs DeLonghi guide that Jura machines have fixed brew groups.
In other words, you can’t take the brew units out to clean them; rather, you must rely on the machine’s self-cleaning function. I was initially skeptical of this design, but I’ve come around to it. After all, my testing showed that Jura’s self-cleaning function really works, so why not take a break when it’s offered?
One criticism I have with Jura is that on the rare occasion when formal service and maintenance is required, it can be quite expensive. Come to think of it, that’s another similarity between Jura espresso machines and luxury vehicles.
On the other hand, DeLonghi machines have removable brew groups that you can clean and tinker with yourself. Plus, DeLonghi machines have self-cleaning functions, so you’re getting the best of both worlds!
Special Features — Unique Perk Comparison
It’s hard to rank Jura vs DeLonghi when it comes to special features, because special features aren’t universally appealing. I mean, a household of one won’t care how many user profiles there are, while an espresso purist isn’t going to browse a whole menu of specialty drinks.
Still, Jura models tend to win in this category, at least in terms of the quantity of special features. Jura offers app connectivity to the Jura Operating Experience, or J.O.E., so you can brew remotely. What’s more, most Jura models feature user profiles, one-touch specialty drinks, customizable brew recipes and simple extra-shot functions.
Similarly, some higher-end DeLonghi models feature app connectivity and user profiles. Even the budget DeLonghis have a few specialty drink options, though the quantity and the available customization options tend to increase with the price tag.
DeLonghi vs Jura: How Much Will You Spend?
It almost goes without saying that Jura machines are generally more expensive than other super autos on the market, including DeLonghi machines. At a minimum, you can plan to spend around a grand on a Jura, with the most expensive model being just shy of five grand.
The E6 is a good option if you’re limited on funds but are tempted by the allure of Jura machines. That said, it has limited specialty drink options and the user interface isn’t nearly as fancy as more expensive models. At the same time, you’re still getting the Jura quality.
Meanwhile, the GIGA 10 asks for a lot of dough, but since it’s touted as a commercial espresso machine it’s actually pretty affordable.
In comparison, DeLonghi machines are much more affordable, making them more accessible to a wider market. Interestingly, in many cases their quality and durability are comparable to that of Jura machines.
I’d argue that DeLonghi often prioritizes coffee quality and performance over aesthetics in order to keep costs down, which is why DeLonghi machines tend to look like boxy hunks of plastic. But again, plastic keeps them affordable.
Even better, DeLonghi offers a wide range of espresso machines, with truly affordable options around $500 and premium options costing as much as a couple thousands dollars. The same can’t be said about Jura, though I’ll admit that they’ve set out to be an exclusively high-end manufacturer.
Still, even my favorite DeLonghi machine, the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus, costs just a bit more than Jura’s cheapest option. And since most of us don’t have piles of cash lying around waiting to be spent, it’s definitely important to consider whether a Jura is worth it.
Head to Head Comparison: Jura Z10 vs DeLonghi Dinamica Plus
Okay, that brings us to round two of this Jura vs DeLonghi challenge: Jura Z10 vs DeLonghi Dinamica Plus.
The Z10 is my favorite Jura home machine, and for good reason. For transparency’s sake, I’ll start off with a disclaimer: this baby costs a pretty penny, more specifically $3,999.00.
LatteCrema Milk Frothing System
Color touchscreen display
Coffee Link app
Very high-quality design
Fully electronically controllable
Much quieter electronic grinder
But if you have the cash, I say go for it. It’s got all the Jura classics: durable build, stylish design and superb espresso and milk foam quality.
On the other hand, the Jura Z10 is quite large and lacks a milk container. If these flaws and the Z10’s exorbitant price tag are too off-putting, consider the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus.
I’ve long suggested that the Dinamica Plus is DeLonghi’s response to Jura’s dominance of the high-end market, seeing as it shares many features with Jura machines. For starters, it’s sleek and stylish with metal housing. Even better, the Dinamica Plus offers all the Jura-esque classics I mentioned above, but at a third of the cost: $1,064.00 to be exact.
As for bonus features, both the Dinamica Plus and the Z10 offer iced coffee settings, different user profiles and app connectivity.
Sure, the Z10 is clearly superior in terms of the user display and milk foam quality, and it has more adjustability options. For example, you can save several user profiles and you have a larger number of options when it comes to coffee strength and specialty drinks.
Still, the Dinamica Plus offers all of these features. Maybe it just doesn’t do as good of a job, but I can overlook some quirks! And really, the Dinamica Plus will impress most home baristas.
Jura Z10 vs DeLonghi Dinamica Plus Comparison Chart
Jura Z10 | DeLonghi Dinamica Plus | |
Manufacturer | Jura | De'Longhi |
Model number | 15361/15464 | ECAM37095TI |
Product category | Super automatic espresso machine | Super automatic espresso machine |
Removable brew group | ||
Housing material | Stainless steel with plastic parts | Plastic with stainless steel parts |
Color options | Aluminum White, Diamond Black | Titanium |
Milk frother | Cappuccinatore | Integrated carafe |
User interface | Touch screen with buttons and dials | Touchscreen |
App | ||
User profiles | 1 | 3 |
Removable water reservoir | ||
Water reservoir capacity | 81.2 fl oz / 2.4 l | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
Number of boilers | 1 | 1 |
Pump pressure | 15 bar | 19 bar |
Maximum cup height | 5.9 in / 15.0 cm | 5.5 in / 14.0 cm |
Minimum cup height | 3.0 in / 7.6 cm | 3.5 in / 8.9 cm |
Grinder | Stainless steel conical burr grinder | Stainless steel conical burr grinder |
Grind adjustment levels | Infinitely variable | 13 |
Bean hopper capacity | 10.2 oz / 290.0 g | 10.6 oz / 300.0 g |
Pre-ground coffee bypass | ||
Grounds discard container capacity | 20 | 14 |
Specialty drinks | 24 | 16 |
Pre-infusion | ||
Adjustable coffee temperature | ||
Adjustable milk foam temperature | ||
Adjustable milk temperature | ||
2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
Pot function | ||
Hot water function | ||
Hot milk function | ||
Milk foam only option | ||
Water filter | ||
Power consumption | 1450 W | 1250 W |
Weight | 27.0 lb / 12.2 kg | 21.0 lb / 9.5 kg |
Dimensions | 15.0 x 12.6 x 17.7 in | 13.7 x 9.3 x 16.8 in |
Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
Notes | Included Accessories: Instruction booklet, Milk system cleaning container, Measuring spoon, Filter casing. | Included Accessories: Carbon active filter, measuring scoop, hardness test, cleaning brush, descaling solution, removable water spout, milk jug. TrueBrew Over Ice technology. |
Current price on Amazon | $1,064.00 |
Jura Z10 | DeLonghi Dinamica Plus | |
Manufacturer | Jura | De'Longhi |
Model number | 15361/15464 | ECAM37095TI |
Product category | Super automatic espresso machine | Super automatic espresso machine |
Removable brew group | ||
Housing material | Stainless steel with plastic parts | Plastic with stainless steel parts |
Color options | Aluminum White, Diamond Black | Titanium |
Milk frother | Cappuccinatore | Integrated carafe |
User interface | Touch screen with buttons and dials | Touchscreen |
App | ||
User profiles | 1 | 3 |
Removable water reservoir | ||
Water reservoir capacity | 81.2 fl oz / 2.4 l | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
Number of boilers | 1 | 1 |
Pump pressure | 15 bar | 19 bar |
Maximum cup height | 5.9 in / 15.0 cm | 5.5 in / 14.0 cm |
Minimum cup height | 3.0 in / 7.6 cm | 3.5 in / 8.9 cm |
Grinder | Stainless steel conical burr grinder | Stainless steel conical burr grinder |
Grind adjustment levels | Infinitely variable | 13 |
Bean hopper capacity | 10.2 oz / 290.0 g | 10.6 oz / 300.0 g |
Pre-ground coffee bypass | ||
Grounds discard container capacity | 20 | 14 |
Specialty drinks | 24 | 16 |
Pre-infusion | ||
Adjustable coffee temperature | ||
Adjustable milk foam temperature | ||
Adjustable milk temperature | ||
2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
Pot function | ||
Hot water function | ||
Hot milk function | ||
Milk foam only option | ||
Water filter | ||
Power consumption | 1450 W | 1250 W |
Weight | 27.0 lb / 12.2 kg | 21.0 lb / 9.5 kg |
Dimensions | 15.0 x 12.6 x 17.7 in | 13.7 x 9.3 x 16.8 in |
Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
Notes | Included Accessories: Instruction booklet, Milk system cleaning container, Measuring spoon, Filter casing. | Included Accessories: Carbon active filter, measuring scoop, hardness test, cleaning brush, descaling solution, removable water spout, milk jug. TrueBrew Over Ice technology. |
Current price on Amazon | $1,064.00 |
Verdict: Is Jura Better than DeLonghi?
I’ll admit, comparing my Swiss and Italian sweethearts was pretty hard! At the end of the day, you really can’t go wrong. Bottom line is this: Buy a Jura if you want top-tier quality and don’t have a budget. Or, buy a DeLonghi if you want advanced features in an affordable package.
In either case the end result is a warm cup of java, so you’re a winner no matter what!
Do you prefer Jura over DeLonghi, or vice versa? Which espresso machine manufacturer comparison would you like to see next? Hit me up in the comments section below!
Generally, Jura focuses on quality of materials and high-end design which places their machines in a higher-end range, while DeLonghi has a wider range of affordable espresso machines with advanced and versatile features.Â
Jura espresso machines are like luxury cars – they’re made with premium materials and the brand invests a lot into their innovative design. These machines come packed with high-end features like the Pulse Extraction Process (PEP) and advanced self-cleaning functions. This is why they can be pricey.Â
DeLonghi is a reputable brand that’s been around for over 120 years. This brand is the go-to choice for anyone looking for a high-quality espresso machine without breaking the bank.Â