How to Choose the Right Coffee Machine or the Right Coffee Maker?
My independent advices are based on 6 years of experience in coffee machines sales. 50 comments
Hi! You might want to start directly with my espresso machine reviews. Top 5 most popular articles are:
- De’Longhi Dedica Espresso Machine Review
- De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine Review
- Coffee Grinders Comparative Test
- Delonghi ECP series review: 31.21, 33.21, 35.31, 3220, 3420 and ECP3630
- 15 bar Pump Espresso Machines Comparative Test with Disassembly
When it comes to choosing a coffee maker or coffee machine for your home, it’s important to ask yourself ten main questions in order to make a smart buy. In my blog, I will try give a step-by-step guide and make detailed reviews of most popular models.
#1. The first question is do you a need coffee maker or machine in the first place?
The difference is that you don’t have to spend your time on bean-to-cup coffee machines to prepare your coffee, you just have to press the button. That’s why they are more expensive than coffeemakers, the cheapest and the simplest models such as Philips Xsmall HD8645 (HD8743 in England), Krups EA81 Pisa, or Delonghi ESAM 3300 Magnifica. That’s the lowest prices for automatically made black coffee. If you want an automated cappuccino, you should pay at least at least twice more.
Coffee makers will need your participation to prepare a cup: you are going to have to grind coffee beans, put it inside a maker, manually control the process, and then clean it. However, they are way cheaper:
- Espresso machines for making espresso or cappuccino with a manual cappuccinator (called ‘pannarello’) such as Delonghi EC155 or Delonghi ECP3420 are the cheapest. More expensive models like Delonghi ECO311 or Gaggia Style are basically the same inside, only their design vary. Those prices are for models with pumps to brew strong espresso. Models without a pump give only 2-3 bar pressure (comparing to 15-19 bar in the previous case) and cost even less (Delonghi EC5 is the example).
- Drip coffee makers are even more cheaper and are ideal for those of you who love only US-style black coffee (long and not strong).
- Cheapest option for espresso lovers is moka pots that could be bought for the price of drip coffee maker (original Bialetti Moka Express) or even less (chineese copies of Bialetti).
As a result, we have first estimates for you to make the right choice:
| I’m ok with preparing black coffee manually, spending 5-10 minutes per cup | I’m ok with preparing coffee manually, but I want cappuccino/latte also | I want automated black coffee | I want automated black coffee AND cappuccino/latte | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting budget |
$for a moka pot or a drip coffee maker |
$$for an espresso machine with a manual milk frother |
$$$$for super-automatic coffee machines |
$$$$$for super-automatic coffee machines with one-touch cappuccino |
| Examples | 
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Now let’s go further and ask ourselves the second important question.
#2. But isn’t it cheaper to buy a single serve coffeemaker/machine with coffee capsules?
It depends on how much coffee you drink. However, usually, it is not a smart buy, unless you want to make just one cup per day.
The standalone category is capsule coffee makers (or capsule machines, or single serve). And there is a reason why some sellers call it a ‘machine’, while others name it a ‘coffeemaker.’ From one point of view, it’s an automated machine since user has to press only one button. Nevertheless, one the other hand, it’s not so automated since you use coffee capsules, that is ground and packed in a factory.
Prices on capsule models vary. The budget is even under one hundred dollar. Examples of single serve machines are Legato Single Serve or original Nescafe Dolce Gusto (such as Genio EDG455T EX:1). Sometimes, single serve coffee makers could be 5 times more expansive, for example for the original Nespresso models that can also automatically froth the milk for your cappuccino (Latissima series).
Capsule machines are very simple to use and maintain, and they are usually very compact. However, the main disadvantage of those – is the cost of capsules. So, I can’t call it a smart choice if you or your family drinks more than 2 cups of coffee per day. Here’s why:
| Cheapest $400 coffee machine: | Cheapest $100 single serve maker: |
|---|---|
| ~ 5,8 kg / 13 oz. of beans per year | 730 capsules per year |
 |
|
| х $10 per pound (coffee beans) | x $0.75 (coffeer capsules) |
 |
|
| Total = $130 | Total = $547.5 |
As you can see, you will have to spend extra $400 for coffee capsules in just 1 year. In addition, since you are attached to a particular capsule system (e.g. you will have to buy only Tassimo pods for Bosch Tassimo capsule makers) you really have no choice of coffee. Moreover, of course, fresh ground good coffee is tastier than factory-made capsules. Finally, coffee pods are less environmentally friendly.
That takes us to the second conclusion
| I drink less than 2 cups of black coffee a day | I drink less than 2 cups of black coffee or cappuccino a day | I drink two or more cups a day or I want really super fresh coffee | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting budget |
$for an original capsule coffeemaker w/o milk frother |
$$for an original capsule coffeemaker with an automated cappuccino system |
Consider buying a real automated coffee machine or a manual coffee maker and continue reading further. |
| Examples | … | … | … |
#3. Espresso or US long coffee?
Since my blog is international, I should consider that question. Because in Americas people usually prefer a big cup of not so strong coffee. In Europe, we call it ‘Americano’. Nevertheless, as for ourselves, we prefer espresso and espresso-based drinks which are stronger and come in smaller portions.
All major coffee machine producers such as Philips/Saeco/Gaggia (it’s the same company now), Delonghi, Jura, Melitta, and KRUPS are initially European. In addition, their primary aim was to design an espresso machine. Sure, you can add hot water from the steam wand to espresso and make a cup standard of US style coffee. That’s how Americano is classically prepared in Italy. However, the result is little bit different from traditional filter coffee.
Still there are models that have an additional function to imitate the process of brewing filter coffee on the European market. Usually, special mode is used. It reduces the pressure from standard 15 bar for espresso to 2-3 bars. Both Saeco/Philips (they call the needed function ‘coffee switch’) and DeLonghi (they call it ‘long’) have such models. In the UK, the price starts from £400 and examples are DeLonghi’s ETAM 29.510 Autentica or Philips 4000 series HD8847. In America, you can choose ESAM6900 PrimaDonna Exclusive or ESAM6700 PrimaDonna Avant by DeLonghi.
In addition, producers have special class of the so-called grind-and-brew coffee machines. Which are indeed automated machines (remember the criteria of one-touch and coffee beans use) and prepare traditional filter coffee exactly how it should be prepared. Examples are Philips Grind & Brew HD7766 or 7765, Cuisinart DGB-650BC, Black & Decker CM5000 Mill and Brew.
All of the above leads us to the next conclusion:
| I drink only US style coffee and I want it to be automatically made from beans | I drink only US style coffee and I’m ok with doing it manually | I drink only US style coffee, but my significant other loves cappuccino. Both should be automated. | No, I need an espresso and/or cappuccino | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting budget |
$$Your choice is grind&brew. |
$for a drip coffee maker. Plus extra money for a good burr grinder if you want your coffee fresh
|
$$$$$for super-automatic coffee machines with both one-touch cappuccino and US style coffee functions |
continue reading further |
| Examples | … | … | … | … |
Ok. That’s enough for today. I will continue writing this article later.
I NEED you opinion. Please rate my review:
(17 votes, average: 4.59 out of 5)
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I’m thinking of buying a one-touch machine, though I can see the different functions and options from different brands and specific models, the problem, is that enough to have a good tasting coffee?
and what do you recommend? the one-touch from Saeco GranBaristo Avanti Super-automatic or it’s equivalent from Delonghi “Primadonna Elite ECAM 650.75.MS”
Abdulaziz Al-Shareedah
20 Jan 18 at 8:40 am
I would try to briefly name main distinctions and key features.
Saeco GranBaristo Avanti. This models is equipped with larger brewing unit (all other machines by Saeco, Gaggia and Philips have identical unit, gran baristo is an only exception). It can use up to 16 gramms of coffee per drinks. Delonghi – 14 gramms. The taste of espresso on Saeco is a bit more acidic, then on Delonghi.
Both have an app for iOS/Android to control the machine, both “know” many recipes (Delonghi 14, Saeco 20), both have special mode for americano/caffe crema (brewing unit can reduce the pressure to imitate filter coffee).
But! Delonghi can also: 1) make hot chocolate 2) make the cappuccino by original recipe (adding milk foam to espresso, not vice versa like Saeco Granbaristo do). It also have to milk frothers of two different types: manual one (if you would like to practice latte art) and automatic milk frother with foam regulator (you can set it to make higher foam or less foam). Saeco has only one frother (automatic with out foam regulator).
To sum up, the Delonghi ECAM 650.75 is definitely more functional if compared with Granbaristo, and for the same price I would choose it.
Dmitriy
20 Jan 18 at 5:01 pm
Hi there,
I have had a concern for a while with moka pots like Bialetti ones. They are mainly made of aluminium and as you well know aluminium is bad for your health. Do you have any knowledge on how safe these pots are?
Thanks
Eric
Eric
26 Mar 18 at 7:16 pm
They have stanless steel models also, look for Venus, Musa and Kitty Nero series. However even aluminium moka pots are covered with protective layer/surface (that’s why it’s not recommended to wash it with with abrasive сleaners) and meet all the european standards for food grade aluminum, which I believe are strict enough.
Dmitriy
27 Mar 18 at 1:43 pm
hi which one of theese machines you recommend.
Siemens TI303203RW
Delonghi ECAM 22110
DeLonghi ESAM 3500
Krups EA815070
Gaggia RI9305
ned
11 Jul 18 at 10:31 pm
Gaggia RI9305 is a manual espresso maker, while others are automatic beans-to-cup machine. Anyway, generally Delonghi ECAM 22110 is the best choice among these models.
Dmitriy
12 Jul 18 at 8:28 am
Dmitriy, you are amazing.
Can you please put a function to here to follow you by email.
When you write something new (topic or answer) I want to receive an email.
Is it possible?
Thanks
David
David C
1 Dec 18 at 4:44 am
Hi,
I currently have a Tassimo machine which is nearing the end of it’s life.
I like to drink the Colombian coffee (not an expert but I would describe it as an Americano with a nice crema) from their range and would like to replicate something similar in an ESE or other pod type machine. The ability to also create with a capsule on the same machine would be an advantage but not essential.
Can you recommend a machine that is available in the UK?
Cheers
Ian
Ian Adkin
6 Dec 18 at 2:45 pm
Hi, Ian!
I’m not very familiar with Tassimo’s Colombian blend, so can’t suggest something similar in other pod/capsule formats.
However, generally I think that ESE pods are less suitable for Americano (if correctly understood you) than your current Tassimo. Simply because they are barely enough (in terms of intensity, amount of coffee inside) for a classic 30ml shot of espresso (and last comments under my article about ESE pods prooves it). If you will try to make long coffee on it it will be too much watery and over extracted (bitterness).
Tassimo, by the way way, is the best for americanos/long coffees among capsule systems because it uses lower pressure. Thus, the taste is not overextracted. If you consider other capsule machine, then new Nespresso format (called Virtuo – check it on UK’s amazon: https://amzn.to/2L2aWtY ) would be perfect. New machines that support both old and new capusels have two different modes: for classic espresso and for long coffee.
Other options I know, but unsure if to recommend some of them:
1) Senseo pods and Senseo machine are also designed to brew something like americano, but I don’t like the taste, almost no pressure, almost no extraction: https://amzn.to/2PobHhH
2) The only machine I know on the European market, which can brew ground coffee, ESE pods and capsules is Graef. Some of its machines are eqiupped with a third filter basket which is made for Nespresso capsules. Here is an example (didn’t found of UK’s amazon, so here is a link for german one: https://amzn.to/2Pou4mu)
Dmitriy
6 Dec 18 at 9:18 pm
Hi Dmitriy,
Thank you for the great reply.
What are your thoughts on the Dualit 3 in 1 coffee machines?
Would you know if I could make long coffee drinks with this machine?
Cheers
Ian
Ian Adkin
9 Dec 18 at 1:15 pm
Hi, I had never personally tested it. However, based on the manual – no, it has no any special modes for americano. But you can add hot water to espresso to get americano – the way they do it in coffee shops.
Dmitriy
11 Dec 18 at 2:30 pm
Can you help me to recognize the differences between Delonghi ESAM4000 and Delonghi ESAM 03.120.S ?
Victor
3 Jan 19 at 4:05 am
Except design the only difference is the “new” steam wand, which is used in ESAM 03.120. It has an adjustment ring that allow you to warm milk without frothing it. I described this feature here: http://101coffeemachines.info/delonghi/ec-680-dedica/#685
Dmitriy
3 Jan 19 at 7:48 am
The reason why I asked you this question, In my country the price of 2 models are different (03.120 higher 4000 but just only that “Adjustment Ring” …Ít’s hard to consider.
Victor
6 Apr 21 at 6:44 am
Hi! I’m seeing that in LATAM Oster is distributing the equivalent of the Sunbean Barista Max (under Oster 7300 Barista Max). Have you reviewed the equivalent of it in US or Europe? Do you have any opinion of it?
Dario
10 Feb 19 at 4:13 pm
Hi, Dario. An interesting machine, however, no, I didn’t test it – there is no equivavalent in Europe as far as I know. And I can’t give any opinion before I see it 🙁
Dmitriy
12 Feb 19 at 8:57 am
Do you have any experience with/recommendations on the
Philips EP3360/14 3100 Series? Worth the money for a 1 latte/day drinker?
Cheers
Paul
Paul Zilligen
1 Mar 19 at 4:19 am
Based on the model code you gave I assume you are from Canada, right? If so, yes, it’s the best option I see now in Canada for fully automatic latte.
In other situation I would advice to consider the Delonghi ECAM23260, which is the main competitor of this Philips, it has 1) better quality of body panels (doesn’t affect taste, just looks better) 2) can make bigger portions of latte 3) can make hotter coffee (if you get used to it) 4) a bit wider adjustments.
However, price difference (I compare it on amazon.ca, I don’t know maybe in other shops it costs less now) is too big – doesn’t worth it. So, yes, Philips EP3360 seems to be the optimal choice for you.
Dmitriy
1 Mar 19 at 9:12 am
I would like to ask which one to choose or Philips „Series 2200 EP2221/40″ or Melitta „E957-103 Solo Perfect Milk“? Ore maybe you can offer something else? Thank you for your time
Raimis
23 Apr 19 at 8:48 am
Hi, Raimis. Didn’t touch the new Series 2200. Already ordered it, will test and write a review in several weeks. Provisionally, if they didn’t change the internals much, then I like the taste of Melitta more, but Philips is more reliable.
Dmitriy
24 Apr 19 at 6:25 am
Thanks for reply. I Think i’ll try Philips too.
Raimis
24 Apr 19 at 7:00 am
Greetings from Texas,
Thank you for your blog! I enjoyed the De’Longhi La Specialista article because all of the reviews I could find on line were paid reviews- not helpful! Though, based on my needs, it still seems to have the best features.
I’m looking for a model:
– Make one café au lait a day, but a big one (16-20 oz)
– $400- $700
– Semi-automatic, but speedy heat up. I like the dual heating options so I don’t have to wait for the steamer.
When it comes to the Specialist, I like the Americano feature, the controlled tamping and the frother heating up at the same time, but worry I’m overpaying. It’s still at $750.
Your review took me back to the Breville Barista Express, but I’m wondering if there isn’t a better model to meet all of my needs.
Also, I’m leaning toward a separate grinder, so I have more options there. I’m open to ideas on getting an espresso machine and buying a grinder separately.
At this point, I’m so dizzy with the options and unreliable reviews that any help would be greatly appreciated!
Best,
Katherine
Katherine L Murphy
6 Aug 19 at 1:07 am
Hi, Katherine. I totally suport the idea of the separate grinder and espresso machine. And yes, you can afford a decent setup for $700 (not a professional, but higher level than delonghi/breville). This would be for example something like Ascaso Dream https://amzn.to/31oQivo or Gaggia Classic https://amzn.to/2Kj1SlX or Lelit Anna https://amzn.to/2YPghyd (but this one is a bit above the budget) plus Baratza Virtuoso https://amzn.to/2YuWGnJ
However, there is one problem. This class of devices (call it prosumer class or semiprofessional) for these prices usually have no automatisation, double boilers for fast switching between steam and coffee etc. These feautures on professional machines will cost $1000+ example Nuova Simonelli Oscar II https://amzn.to/2GKA0F9
So the choice is between an automated home machine (a combo device) which has _some_ advanced functionality, but generally gives the same espresso as any other espresso maker for home use. Or you go up, get a heavy solid grouphead with professional diameter, get the OPV, get the PID (real PID, not just an adjutable thermoblock), but loose in automatisation.
Dmitriy
6 Aug 19 at 11:52 am
bonjour je suis un grossiste de cafe en capsule en algerie et je suis tres intereset de vos produits et j ai besoin des echantillons pour examiner os produits et pour presenter vos produits a mes clients comme les super marches et les grossistes de cafe et puis je fait une commande j attend votre reponce merci
meloua nasreddine
7 Aug 19 at 7:23 pm
I don’t sell capsules, Meloua.
Dmitriy
8 Aug 19 at 9:09 am
I have an old Starbucks Barista which is made by Saeco. I am hankering for a new machine but in your opinion- what would be a great option to move to – the new Breville or De Longhi units- or would my unit still hold up well.
Jason Schoepfer
15 Sep 19 at 3:24 pm
Hi, Jason. If you choosing in $400-$500 budget I would stick to Saeco/Gaggia (=Barista) machines since you get used to it. And indeed it makes the best espresso among home espresso machines. Also read comments by Sasha here http://101coffeemachines.info/delonghi/ec-680-dedica/#comment-1383 he was not fully satisfied after swtiching from Starbucks machine to Delonghi.
The best price/functions option would be Saeco Poemia/Gaggia Viva, however, they don’t sell it now on North American market. But there is Gaggia Garrezza https://amzn.to/2QaPHfW I would recommend to consider this option. More pricey Gaggia Classic (Classic Pro or older model) is even a better choice, but only if you are planning to brew with unpressurized baskets (requires more skills and a good grinder). That’s because Classic doesn’t have this “magic” crema-filter in the portafilter, which is installed on your current Starbucks Barista, on Poemia and on Carrezza.
Dmitriy
16 Sep 19 at 9:44 am
Hello,
At first i would like to thank you for your well prepared and excellent reviews!
Am having a few thoughts on buying a new coffee machine and i would like to hear your thoughts.
Am considering buying a machine like:
1. Delonghi EC 685 Dedica (my preferred option)
2. Delonghi ECP series
However, due to limited time for preparing a coffee i would also like to have a capsule (nespresso) compatible machine. For example:
1. Dualit Espress-Auto 3-in-1 Coffee Machine
2. pitsos gcm2053b 2in1 espresso coffee machine
So my question is if you have in mind any machine that is compatible with both capsules and ground beans and if its worth it. Or if there is any way to use capsules with a standard machine (like delonghi). Note that its easier for me to find nespresso capsules rather than other type of capsules.
Am looking forward to your reply 🙂
Best regards,
Dem
Dem Pet
3 Nov 19 at 7:51 am
Hello, Dem. And sorry for my late reply, hope it’s not too late.
All of the 3in1 or 2in1 espresso machines (ground coffee and capsules) are of Chinese origin. They all will be worse in terms of the taste then Delonghis you are choosing among. I don’t know any decent espresso makers of such type.
I would go with EC685 if the price is not the problem. It’s faster although.
Dmitriy
8 Nov 19 at 10:21 am
Just looking to get the future updates for reviews and coffee articles, this blog is a real blast. I was also just eager to say I am a fan of this new find, keep it up YOU’RE GREAT!
Regards,
Daniel Sares
Daniel Sares
17 Nov 19 at 10:06 pm
Thank you very much, Daniel! I am very happy to hear you feedback. I hope to find more time for the blog.
Dmitriy
25 Nov 19 at 1:08 pm
Hey, great website. Regarding your last section there about brewing American style coffees I’m a little confused and think that most of the information on the internet is incorrect but maybe you can confirm… On machines such as the Philips HD8645 or EP3360 the ‘coffee’ option is more of a Lungo option which will likely result in a much more bitter drink especially if you’re trying to make a 9 ounce coffee for example right? I’ve read an owner comment about the EP3360 who’s adiment that it modifies the pressure and pumps intermittently under the coffee setting. I’m a little surprised theres no North American machines that have the same brew coffee functionality as international ones without spending $1000+.
Dan
23 Jan 20 at 6:16 am
Hi, Dan.
“the ‘coffee’ option is more of a Lungo option which will likely result in a much more bitter drink” Yes, you understand right.
I’ve never personally tested the EP3360 for Canadian market, however, based on user manual and specifications I See no difference with other Series 3100 machines. So I doubt that it drops the pressure on the coffee mode. Even more – Philips never used this ‘intermittenly working pump’ technique to lower the pressure, it used a tehcnology called ‘coffee switch’. So. Very-very unlikely that they made such innovations for only one model and didn’t specify this function in technical data.
P. S. Yep, as I already mentioned somewehre in my reviews, I also find it to be bizzare: both Delonghi and Philips/Saeco/Gaggia introduce American coffee function only in Europe, not in America… Probably they want to protect their drip coffee makers market share?
Dmitriy
23 Jan 20 at 10:13 am
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Klarstein-BellaVita-Espresso-Machine-Stainless/dp/B07PWLGJF4
Hi Dmitriy,
This Klarstein (thermo block, 20 bar) seems too good to be true for £80. What am I missing ?
Best Regards,
John
John
5 Feb 20 at 12:15 pm
Hi John and sorry for my late reply.
As usual with Chineese engineered machines you may get: low thermostability (thermoblock located far away from grouphead), incorrect temperature settings (maybe, I didn’t test this very model), build quiality (just for illustration, it’s differnet machine on the right), crema filter which give more flat taste. However, for it’s money it may be a good choice especially with a good grinder.
Dmitriy
17 Feb 20 at 10:54 am
Thanks for responding Dmitriy,
I went ahead and bought it and am very pleased with it. Mind you, this is my first home espresso machine so I wouldn’t know any better !
The handbook says it’s German by the way and it was sent from there. It may have just been designed in Germany and still manufactured in China I suppose.
A half decent grinder is the next thing on my shopping list.
All the best,
John
John
19 Feb 20 at 2:32 pm
EP3360($550) or ECAM23260($1039.99? I currently have the EP3360 and the espresso does not produce good crema nor does it produce strong coffee taste.
My wife prefers Lattes(rarely) and Coffee(mainly) whereas I prefer Espresso(mainly) and Cappuccinos(rarely).
Can you assist with which model I should buy? Should I try the ECAM23260? Price is very different for each machine but if we take away price as they directly compete with each other, please let me know your thoughts.
Regards,
K
5 Feb 20 at 7:21 pm
ECAM23260 will be able to make stronger shot and can make richer milk foam. However, I doubt that it will give you better crema than Philips/Saeco.
The main reason is the coffee itself, all machines just imitate crema (helping you espresso to look good). But freshly ground beans will deliver a rich crema in ‘natural’ way. You can also try to adjust the grinder for a finer setting.
Dmitriy
17 Feb 20 at 10:48 am
Hello, MY friend referred me to your web page. I live in Canada just in case the companies produce a varied number depending on the market they’re selling in. I was looking at he Philips 3100 Series Machine Model”EP3360/14″. I searched your site but couldn’t find any reference to this machine.
I was wondering what your thoughts were on this machine?
It is on sale from $799.99 reg. $999.99 (CDN).
We would primarily be making Espresso and Americanos drinks and would rarely use the Milk Frother option but would like to have it as an option for when guests are over. Presently I have a Kuerig and Nespresso Original coffee machine and I’ve been wanting to get into a more automatic machine that produces really nice tasting coffee. As well as being less expensive cost per cup. On average there are probably 3 cups of a coffee per day in the house so I know it adds up over time. Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your help.
Adam
Adam Brownsmith
26 Mar 20 at 6:20 pm
Hi Dmitriy,
Hope you are well. I found your site today and have been reading through the review. I really appreciate the time you have taken to review so many models and explain features.
We could use some advice on our initial purchase. We are trying to break our Starbucks habit – though over Starbucks, we prefer the lattes at Lavazza. One of our friends suggested we purchase a Delonghi ESAM series but I was concerned about long term durability. We are looking for a automatic system that makes 3-4 lattes a day and (possibly) a medium strength regular coffee, and that is straightforward to clean. One other model we have considered is the Saeco Incanto but we are at a loss as to which machine would be best for us and we would really appreciate a recommendation.
Thanks!
T
Tonya
3 Apr 20 at 12:39 am
Do you have any experience with Electrolux Easypresso (electrolux eeaa111) Looks very similar to entry level delonghis etc.
Here in turkey, delonghi espresso device prices are totally scrambled. ECP 35.31 is sometimes more expensive than EC685. Which is ridiculous tbh.
omer
3 May 20 at 3:39 pm
electrolux eeaa111 is a typical Chinese model (like hamilton beach here http://101coffeemachines.info/compare/delonghi-vs-saeco-vs-hamilton-beach/ ) but with less efficient milk frother.
Dmitriy
9 May 20 at 9:28 am
Dmitriy, Thank you so much for all of your detailed and opinionated reviews! I enjoy reading them and learning! Keep up the good work!
Tim Sorrentino
7 May 20 at 12:16 pm
thank you for the kind words, Tim!
Dmitriy
9 May 20 at 9:26 am
This is a pretty good blog with a bunch of cool info. I happened to visit your blog while I am searching for Gaggia Classic Pro, thanks for your insights on the grinder.
Btw, one quick question, have you ever make a espresso with coffee grinded by fancy handmill such as comandante? Theoretically, the result would be same as conical burr grinder.
Hogeun
6 Jun 20 at 6:11 am
Thank you, Hogeun! It’s a pity, but I didn’t had a chance to test commandante yet. Cheaper hand grinders like 1Zpresso/Chestnut – yes.
From the general point of view and based on other reviews, I may assume that C40 is capable to give a good espresso grind (in terms of finess/coarseness) and big-enough adjustment range for it. However, its price tag is high enough, similar to electric grinders with the same quality. Which makes no sense (from my point of view) to buy it for home use, if only you really don’t need to have a portable/very compact grinder. But that’s only my guesswork so far, need to test 🙂
Dmitriy
9 Jun 20 at 8:06 pm
I totally agree with your point. Since I am trying to switch my coffee style from pour-over to espresso, that is a reason why I asked you. My wife would kill me if I buy both an espresso machine and an electric grinder in the same month at least.Thanks 🙂
Hogeun
13 Jun 20 at 4:06 am
Love your informative site! We believe our beloved first super automatic espresso machine, Jura Impressa S9, has kicked the bucket at seven years old due to an error 4 issue. Tried opening it up but the issue looks a little outside my league to fix. So I’m now desperate for a quick replacement but our priorities might not best align with the Jura anymore and we need help! While we do love a latte or cappuccino, the S9 was kind of a pain to use with milk and we ended up primarily using just the coffee feature for one touch east of use. I felt like the S9 had all these features but we barely used 20% of the options. In the end we are looking for another super-automatic machine for our two coffee drinking household that makes consistently awesome coffee with the additional parameters below. We might need to provide more details but this is a start. Thanks so much for the help!
– Fits our Contigo travel mugs at 6.8inchs tall (I realize this might be difficult but with the S9 we would remove the top part of the drip/cup tray and make it fit)
– Hot water dispenser for tea
– Easy to maintain and/or troubleshoot (Jura is great but getting in the machine is a hassle. I don’t like that they expect you to service the machine every few years). It was nice that the Jura told us when to clean and descale.
– Durable/long lasting (All the warranties are for 1-2yrs. With this kind of investment we want something that lasts longer.)
– Nice to be able to make milk drinks but this has to be extremely user friendly for us to enjoy this option.
– Bypass to be able to brew from ground coffee
KHolt
14 Jun 20 at 5:36 pm
Hi there coffee lover, I love your website. I am coffee lover as well, and I have one question for you if is not secret. Just wondering, is coffee and coffee machines a good and profitable niche?
I would like to start my own blogs and turn them into income one day if is possible. Thank you and enjoy your coffee 🙂
Maggie
21 Jul 20 at 9:58 pm
Hello sir, I really consider about DELONGHI brand Coffee Machine.
However I do not know the differnces between ECAM and ESAM model, Could you please give me ths answer? Many thanks
Victor
5 Mar 21 at 7:19 am
Have some doubts which model to choose? Ask me!