My Delonghi ECAM22110SB (22.110/21.116/21.117) Review and Comparison with ESAM3300 and ECAM 23.420/23.210/23.120
Comments: 101↓ specifications & manual ↓
In this review, I would like to tell you about one of the most popular espresso machines by De’Longhi that has a standard manual milk frother. Despite the fact that the machine makes espresso (or variations such as ristretto or lungo) in a fully automated mode, the manual milk frother means that milk for a cappuccino or latte has to be frothed manually using the steam wand with a special attachment called panarello.
In the USA and Canada, this machine is known as the ECAM22110SB or ECAM22110B (they differ only in color). In Europe, as well as in the UK (yes, i know they didn’t exit yet), there also is a model with the code ECAM22.110.B, but more often this coffee machine is sold under the new name – ECAM 21.117 (or 21.116). There are several color choices, including the rare 21.117.SB (black and white striped front) and 21.117.W (white).
Nevertheless, it is actually the same coffee machine! There are no differences, except for the color and material that the steam wand is made of. Moreover, De’Longhi has put a number of similar coffee machines (to be described below) on the market that are based on this standard model, most of which only differ from each other in design.
In addition to the numerical code, the coffee machine has a more popular name in words. In Europe, this product line is known as Magnifica S and Magnifica XS in North America. This may be confusing, as it seems that the letters S/XS refer to the size of the coffee machine. As if it is Small in Europe and Extra Small in the USA.
But this is not the case! They are of the same size and height – 34 cm (or ~13.5 inches). The difference in specifications is a mere mistake by online store content managers or the result of various alterations (with or without an overhanging container for coffee beans).
Check current prices and deals @ Amazon.com for silver ECAM22110SB or black ECAM22110B.
I cannot call it small either. It is certainly a little bit smaller “head on” (width and height) than the previous model based on the ESAM platform (see my review here). The difference is only a few centimeters, but it seems notably smaller. However, its depth is quite significant! Take a look at the photo on the side in order to not be surprised by how much space it takes up on a table:
DeLonghi ECAM22110SB Compact Automatic isn’t so compact as it may seem.
What are the advantages of the ECAM series compared to the ESAM series? In other words, what are the differences between the Delonghi ECAM22110B Magnifica XS and the old ESAM3300 Magnifica?
The Delonghi ECAM22110B/ECAM 22.110 B carries on the glorious traditions of the ESAM3300 Magnifica, which is the prototype for all ESAM models. Detailed information on them is provided in this review.
In order to not repeat myself a lot, I will only mention that the same removable CRF brew unit is used here (but there is a slight difference in the brew unit catch and chamber, which means they are not interchangeable). Moreover, we can find the same reliable pump (15 bar), similar metal grinder with 13 levels of grinding and a 1.8l water tank that is removed from the front (which is very convenient).
New Magnifica S/XS (ECAM 22110SB) vs old Magnifica (ESAM3300). Photo by: pchome.com.tw
Where they differ is the thermal block. The ESAM is supplied with a so-called “flat” heater, while here (ECAM) a “round” heater is installed. The key difference is that the round one is more durable, while the flat one suffers from a leakage defect. It happens only occasionally, but everyone is well aware of it. Besides that, the round one is more powerful – it is ready for use a few seconds more quickly.
The ECAM 22.110/22.117 has another type of body frame and a different, more sophisticated design, as well as the varying position of outer and inner components. On the one hand, this new body frame is substantially better; on the other hand, there still are some nuances (see below).
As the ECAM 22110B/SB coffee machine is the standard one in the ECAM range, taking it as an example allows us to examine the key differences of the ECAM series compared to the ESAM series (I will use the ESAM3300 model as an example, however the results are also valid for other clones, such as the ESAM3000, ESAM2200 and ESAM2500):
The following is definitely better:
- Let’s skip evaluation of the design, as your mileage may vary. It is particularly convenient to remove used coffee grounds (14 servings worth from the front in one movement towards yourself) and the brew unit (from the right-hand side).
- The maximum height of the cups that can be used has also increased to 142mm (5.6 in). A latte glass can now fit into this coffee machine.
- The container for coffee beans has acquired a seal for the lid, which allows it to preserve the aroma for a little bit longer. In case of heavy use, the 250 grams (which is 50 grams larger than the ESAM) still won’t last long, but it is nevertheless a pleasing addition.
- The ECAM works faster than the first model in the ESAM range. This became possible thanks to the thermal block that has a slightly higher capacity and the upgraded internal operating procedures, I assume. It is not a very sufficient difference, but it doesn’t feel as slow as it used to be.
- The more stable (and hot) temperature of a drink. Compared to the ESAM3000, the ECAM 22.110 coffee machine maintains a more stable temperature during brewing. It makes almost no difference for espresso, but is essential when brewing large servings of coffee, as its temperature does not lower dramatically and the final drink comes out hotter.
- Besides that, it also works more quietly. I do not have any hard evidence, but other reviews of the ECAM22110 coffee machine prove this unequivocally.
Another advantage of the platform on the whole and the Delonghi ECAM 22.110 in particular is that when the steam supply is activated (using a separate button), the machine automatically drains off surplus water from the steam circuit to the lower drip tray during the first few seconds of heating. This means that when milk is frothed, it is saved from being spoiled by water.
Reported Issues
It’s not a big deal if the error exclamation mark lights up when starting the machine
Moreover, this model, like all De’Longhi coffee machines, is prone to brewing coffee a bit hotter and with a slightly more bitter taste than its main competitors (i.e. Saeco, Bosch and Jura coffee machines). Of course, the model has all of these “disadvantages” while the other characteristics remain the same, and while the De’Longhi may bring out sour notes in the taste, the ECAM22110 suits people who are fond of strong espresso brewed from dark roast beans Starbucks-style.
Similar Model No. 1. The slightly upgraded ECAM 23.420 (and a comparison with the ECAM 22.110/21.116/21.117)
The De’Longhi ECAM 23.420 Intensa (supplied in different colors lettered S, SB, SW, and red SR) is an advanced version of the basic ECAM 22.110 (or 21.116/21.177 which is the same model). There aren’t a lot of differences, but there are some improvements that are worth the money, if the price difference is not as dramatic as it seems when comparing the manufacturer’s recommended retail prices:
- Different control panels. The De’Longhi ECAM 23.420 SB coffee machine is equipped with a more up-to-date and trendy panel. The text display has been improved and its contours are simpler. The twisty knob has a new purpose: it now adjusts the size of a drink, but not its strength. Speaking of which, there is a catch – it so sensitive that it can easily skip 2-3 levels when twisted sharply. However, it is easy to get used to this.
- Alongside the display, a sound signal when pressing a button (which I personally consider an unnecessary option that can be switched off in the settings) and wake-up timer have been added. The latter is used for warming up the machine in the morning so that it is ready to use at a certain time when you get out of bed (the process takes 2-3 minutes) – in case you don’t have a minute to waste. In my opinion, these are unnecessary bells and whistles.
The last one is all that really matters for me. Whether you need this option or not should be considered thoroughly before purchasing, otherwise you should buy the cheaper ECAM 22110 and will be satisfied with your choice.
Nevertheless, if there is an opportunity to purchase the 23.420 at the same price as the 22.110 during sales, those little improvements may be a nice bonus. However, do not expect any improvements in the quality of the coffee – while the controls of the machine have been modified, the settings themselves have not changed a bit. There are still 4 temperature modes, strength adjustment from 6 to 14 grams per serving and 13 levels of grinding as in the standard ECAM 22.110/21.116/21.117.
Similar Model No. 2. ECAM23210 espresso machine (and a comparison with ECAM22110 and ECAM23420)
Another similar model is the ECAM23210B. The design is so similar to the improved 23.420 (see above) that they look identical when not in operation. The irony is that despite this, it is actually less functional.
Despite having the same design as the improved 23.420, it has even less settings than the ECAM22110B/SB.
In other words, the key difference between the 23.210 and 22.110 is the modified control panel and white color. I agree that it looks a lot more stylish (the 21.117W in white is already on sale in Europe though), but it makes no difference to the coffee flavor. In addition, it has fewer temperature settings (3 instead of 4), which is not as crucial as it may seem.
The strength and volume adjustment has been changed a little bit. The main twisty knob adjusts the volume within 4 preset options (40, 60, 90, 120ml), moreover there is a blank setting for your “favorite volume” (set from 20 to 180ml). Strength is adjusted by pushing the button: there are 5 options, while the 22110 has more precise multi-step adjustment.
There is one new thing though – a serving size counter.
Overall, the changes are so insignificant that one can claim the ECAM23210SB is just a more attractive model than the ECAM 22.110 SB Magnifics XS, but with different settings. Whether the design is worth the price or not is up to you.
Similar Model No. 3. ECAM23120/ECAM25210 (and a comparison with ECAM22110)
This time we do indeed have some very important improvements over the basic 22.110.
I am referring to the special LONG mode, when the coffee is brewed under low pressure. This mode is recommended if you prefer large servings of American coffee – it is made to imitate drip brewing. In this mode, the large serving is not over-extracted, not so plain and bitter, more flavorful. The coffee is brewed during two consecutive grindings of the beans.
In other words, if there are both people in your family who are fond of classic strong espresso and those who prefer traditional coffee, this option is vital.
There is a text display and the same settings for strength (multi-step adjustment from 6 to 14 grams), temperature (4 modes), grinding (13 levels), and serving volume as on the ECAM22110B. The manual milk frother is equipped with the ring adjuster that makes it possible to switch from the standard milk frothing mode (like on the basic 22.110) to the special mode for heating milk without frothing (like on the imporoved 23.420).
It is interesting to note that the ECAM23120 in particular is often sold on sale at lower prices than the basic ECAM22110B. In such circumstances, the ECAM23120 will be the better option.
My Review Conclusion:
De’Longhi has produced several different models with different numbers and words in their names, as if the company did this on purpose to make comparing the dozens of models more complicated, but in fact there are not so many significant differences between them.
I will try to sum up:
- Delonghi ECAM22110B/SB = ECAM 22.110 / 21.117 / 21.116. It is the same model, despite the fact that in some countries it is called the Magnifica S and in others the Magnifica XS. The letters B, SB and W at the end refer to the color only.
- There are no functional differences between models in different colors. The only exception is the material that the steam wand is made of. In different countries, the set of accessories is different. They are equally effective, but the metal one simply looks better and it is easier to clean dried milk stains off it (if you wipe the steam wand right after whipping the milk foam, there will be no difference in maintenance).
- The ECAM 23420 is a substitute for the 22110/21117 with a different control panel, a display instead of LED lights and – most importantly – adjustment of the milk foam height. This option will be not be useful for everyone: if you drink ordinary cappuccino, you can make it without using the option.
- The ECAM 23210 is exactly the same as the 22110/21117, but with another design and a different control mode.
- However, the ECAM 23120/25120 is the only model that sufficiently differs from the 22110/21117 from a technical point of view. It has the same switching ring for milk foaming as the 23.420 and a special low-pressure mode for those who are fond of traditional coffee (a large serving that is not strong).
Moreover, a standard espresso serving will taste the same from each of these models. Despite the differences in design and position of the buttons, all the models, apart from the 23210 (which has 3 temperature modes), have the same key settings for strength (6 to 14 grams per serving), temperature (4 modes) and grinding (13 levels).
I NEED your opinion. Please rate my review:
(55 votes, average: 4.87 out of 5)
Loading...Delonghi ECAM22110B/SB, ECAM 21.116, 21.117 Coffee Machine Specifications: |
|
|---|---|
| Download manual: | Download pdf manual |
| Machine type: | Bean-to-cup super-automatic machine |
| Width х Deep х Height: | 24 x 43 x 34 cm (9.5x17x13.5 inches) |
| Coffee used: | Beans or ground coffee |
| Grinder: | Steel burr set, 13 steps adjustable |
| Brewing group: | One, removable, with a pre-brewing functions |
| Heater: | Thermoblock 1450 W |
| Max pressure: | 15 bar |
| Water container: | 1.8 l (accessible from the front) |
| Bean container: | 250 g |
| Waste container: | 14 servings |
| Cappuccinatore: | Manual 'panerello' |
| Max cup height: | 142 mm |
| Controlling: | Adjustable coffee strength (6-14 grams per serving), adjustable serving volume, adjustable tempertaure (4 grades) |
| Peculiar properties: | Passive Cup Warmer |
| Colors: | ECAM22110B, 22.110.B, 21.117.B, 21.116.B – Black ECAM 22100SB, 22.110.SB - Silver Front with Black Sides ECAM 21.117.SB, 21.116.SB - Silver&Black front, black sides 21.117.W - White |
Hi! What about ECAM 22.320?
Gal
8 Jun 18 at 7:45 pm
I’m trying to decide between the Delonghi ECAM22110B for $500 at Costco and the Jura Impressa C60 for $1000. To me it looks like this:
Delonghi pluses are price, easier to clean, front load water Delonghi negatives – reports that coffee doesn’t feed into grinder properly
Jura pluses are easy to read display, better coffee?, quieter
Jura negatives are price, need to pull it out from under cabinet to add water
Stephen MacIntyre
3 Nov 18 at 10:45 pm
Jura C60 comes with a semi automatic milk frother. By semi automatic I mean that it froths milk by itself, however, it does it as a separate process: you make espresso (one press of a button), you make milk foam seperatly (you move the cup under the frother and push another button) and add it to espresso to get cappuccino. I described more differences here (Jurs has a tube system): http://101coffeemachines.info/saeco-vs-delonghi/#tubevscarafe Delonghi ECAM22110B is equipped with simple panarello frother (steam wand), you froth the milk manually!
That’s why it’s not honest to compare it (C60) with 22110, because Jura C60 is a higher class model. It would be more reasonable to compare it with ECAM23260SB, which is, roughly speaking, the 22110 with automated milk forther https://amzn.to/2SGznAV
Nevertheless, the main difference (except display, design etc, which are very personal) for me between Jura (any) and Delonghi (any), is that Jura has a built-in brewing unit. It means you can’t take it out for washing (like you will do on Delonghi). That’s why Jura requires cleaning cycles with Jura special tablets https://amzn.to/2T8n0Od every 200 cups and it’s highly recommended to do it beacuse you have no acccess to clean it in any other way. Still, in several years Jura will require a service with deep cleaning.
Thus, the main differenece for me is maintaince cost and easiness of maintaince. With Delonghi you make brewing unit cleanings by yourself with water, while with Jura you buy special tablets to clean the unexctractable BU and then pay the service to clean it in 2-3 years.
Jura indeed can make more rich coffee, mainly because it’s brewing unit is larger (16gtamms of coffee at maximum setting vs 14g in Delonghi).
And no, I can’t confirm any special problems with coffee beans coming/nor coming to the feed in Delonghi. On any machine there would be problems if you use oily dark roasted beans (but usually it’s ok). Yes, I can confirm that Jura (except MICRO series) make a bit better coffee (for my taste), Delonghi just makes it a bit hotter and a bit bitter using the same beans, it’s good for those, who likes such taste profile.
Dmitriy
4 Nov 18 at 8:31 am
Many thanks. I have one doubt about the 22.110:
if the intensity is set to max. is it always going use 14 g of coffee either pressed to single cup button or double cup button? (if yes, then the obtained coffee would be different since the 14 g would be either used for 1 of 2 cups.)
In other when set to max intensity how much coffee it will use when pressed single cup button, or when pressed double cup button.
Many thanks
David C
22 Nov 18 at 1:50 am
Good question!
This works in the following way:
– for 1 espresso button the machine uses approx. 6-12 g depending on current strength settings
– for 2 espresso button the machine uses absolute maximum (14 g) of coffee and double volume of water
Thus, if you will set the strength to minumum (~6-7 g) then the double cup button will indeed use double coffee (2×7=14) and double water. However, if you are on maximum settings, the effect will be more similar to “the same amount of coffee for double amount of water” (maximum rise from 12g to 14g).
P. S. Everywhere where I and other articles mention grams it is approximate values. Because none of the automatic espresso machine can measure the weight of coffee, all of them just measure and adjust the grinding time. For example, if 10 seconds of grinder gives 10 grams of ground coffee on average coffee beans, then 7 seconds will give 7 gramms. This is how the machine adjust the intensity. It means that if you use big oily beans, you may get less coffee powder on the same settings if compared to some other coffee blend.
Dmitriy
22 Nov 18 at 8:19 am
Many thanks for your kind and rapid answer.
Could you please discuss the scenarios I described below to the best of my understanding (of course just as an estimate)
Scenario #1: set to minimum intensity, pressed single cup button gives 6 g/cup
Scenario #2: set to maximum intensity, pressed single cup button gives 12 g/cup (although it has space to get more 2 grams, it doesn’t due to single cup was pressed)
Scenario #3: set to minimum intensity, pressed double cup button gives 6 g/cup (by using 12 g in total)
Scenario #4: set to maximum intensity, pressed double cup button gives 7 g/cup (because maximum space is for 14 which would be shared by 2 cups.)
Many thanks.
Best regards
David
David C
22 Nov 18 at 12:20 pm
Let’s make it more visual 🙂 The following test is made on Delonghi ECAM 350.55, however, it has the same “brains” as Delonghi ECAM 22.110 has:
Dmitriy
23 Nov 18 at 10:41 am
Excellent photo! Many thanks.
David C
23 Nov 18 at 2:03 pm
Dear Dmitriy,
You are really helping the people. Thank you.
I have one more question, the re-set the buttons with the cups, the double-cup buttons (short double cup, and long double cup) have their own re-setting or they are always double size of the corresponding single cup button?
David C
23 Nov 18 at 2:54 pm
They are always double size of the corresponding single cup button.
However there is again a nuance about absolute maximum limit.
Machine can’t give more than approx 200-250 ml of water per serving. That is if your single button will be 150 ml, the corresponding double cup will stop at 200-250 ml (I don’t remember exact amount now, but smth like this). But 30ml-60ml, 50ml-100ml, 75ml-150ml etc works fine.
Dmitriy
23 Nov 18 at 3:21 pm
Great answers. Many thanks Dmitriy.
David C
23 Nov 18 at 3:25 pm
Hello,
Such an amazing article and so much work. We thank you so much for all these answers about coffee that you give for free.
I am a total coffee noob who wants to make a purchase on a good espresso maker.
I had decided into Delonghi Magnifica S ECAM 22.110
But if you could give me an opinion as an expert about two more models and which would be better..
-Gaggia Brera
-Saeco Lirika One Touch Cappuccino Titan[ this is a model i cannot find a lot of info online.I am not sure if it is a strange model made for eastern Europe( I live in Greece) ]
How do these two or just Gaggia Brera compare to Delonghi Magnifica S ECAM 22.110 ?
Which one should i get?
Thank you so much for your help!
Kind regards,
George
Giorgos
29 Nov 18 at 12:37 am
Thank you, George!
I never heard about “Titan” version of Saeco Lirika One Touch Cappuccino. However, it’s probably just a color designation and it’s the same machine as ordinary Saeco Lirika One Touch Cappuccino (Saeco Lirika OTC), which I know.
It’s not strange that Lirika OTC isn’t widely available, because it’s a semi-commerical modification of Philips HD8829/Philips EP3558. Saeco sells its home and commerical machine throught different distributors. That’s why Lirika as well as other commerical machines are less known.
So, from the end:
1) Lirika OTC is a good machine. Despite it’s marketed as coffee machine for offices, it’s still suitable for home use and is even a bit better built than home models. The only weak thing is a Multi-Functional Valve – like this one http://amzn.to/2TY34xZ This part frequently brokes on this machine. The very same part is used on other Saeco’s machines, neverthelss, I heard of mass failures only on Lirika. Probably because Lirika is usually used in office, where coffee machines generally break more often.
Lirika OTC has not much adjustments also: coffee intensity (3), grind (5) and temperature(3) settings. But it’s usually enough for ordinary users. Big water tank and bean hopper (which is useful in office) is better to be filled 50% in home use – you’ll have fresh beans and water for your coffee. Everything else is good about this machine. It’s the only machine from your list, which is really full-automatic, by the way. I mean it has automated milk frother, not panarrelo.
2) Gaggia Brera is very similar to Saeco XSmall (here is my review http://101coffeemachines.info/saeco/xsmall-hd8645-8745/ ) Very limited adjustments, but metal coating. Espresso taste will be identical to Lirika OTC.
3) ECAM 22.110 has more adjustments, it makes a bit more bitter and a bit more hot coffee if compared to Saeco/Gaggia. Some like it, some not. Surely, you can always change the coffee beans, which will give no bitterness even on Delonghi (and vice versa).
Overall, ECAM 22.110 is the most functional in your list (because of more adjustments). However, I would choose Lirika OTC (because of automatic milk frother, but check if you have a local repair serice of Saeco in your town, in case above-mentioned valve will break down – it’s not high chance, of course, and it’s quite cheap replacment, but still it’s better to consider) or Brera (I assume it’s the cheapest in your list, as well as Lirika it makes the best espresso – for my taste! – and looks better imho). Delonghi is a golden middle if you are not sure if default settings of Brera/Lirika will give you the taste you want and therefore you want to have more adjustments “in reserve”.
P.S. you could also check my new comparison between Delonghi and Saeco (=Gaggia=Philips) here: http://101coffeemachines.info/saeco-vs-delonghi
Dmitriy
29 Nov 18 at 6:59 pm
To George: I have the 22.110 and I am very happy.
Enjoy.
David
David C
1 Dec 18 at 4:40 am
Dear Dmitriy,
I CAN NOT DECIDE BETWEEN Magnifica S ECAM 22.320.SB – DeLonghi AND ECAM 23.120 SB COULD YOU PLEASE TELL ME WHICH IS BETTER AND COMPARE THE OPTIONS BETWEEN THEM
MAMODO
6 Dec 18 at 7:30 pm
Hi, Mamodo! They both are built on the same platform (grinder, brewing unit and other main feauters – everything is the same). However, the 22.320 Magnifica Plus is more functional, because it has:
1) statistics, that shows how many cups you made – barely useful unless you buy a used one;
2) auto switch-on timer, almost useless because every time machine switchs on it makes rinse cycle. This mean if you put a cup on the cup plate (under the coffee spouts) at the evening the machine will fill it with the rinse water in the morning and in any case you have to come to the machine, place another cup and manually press the button (it will NOT make you coffee automatically, it just helps help to preheat the machine)
And finally and mainly in my opinion:
3) Magnifica S ECAM 22.320.SB has a text display while ECAM 23.120 SB has 4 icons (pictograms). Different messages shown in icons are not very intuitive, thus, you will have to have an instruction manual near by all the time to understand what the machine is trying to tell you – to fill a water tank or to empty grounds (used coffee) container, for example.
The latter one is a main reason why I “vote” for the 22.320. However, as I said, they are very similar. And they both have new hot milk ring on the panarello and they both have special program for cafe americano, which I described in my review. Thus, if you really like black color of the 23.120, then it may be OK to choose it, you can get used to icons.
Dmitriy
6 Dec 18 at 8:13 pm
THANKS A LOT FOR YOUR HELP, YOU ARE THE MAN
MAMODO
7 Dec 18 at 2:28 pm
Hello,
Quick question, is Ecam 350.15 more advanced than 22.110?
Does it have any internal advantages (new grinder, more settings)?
Andrei R
15 Dec 18 at 11:41 pm
Hi, Andrei. All the main internal parts (grinder, brewing unit, heating element) are the same. However, the 350.15 is more advanced than 22.110 because:
+ new LONG recipe for americano. It is imitation of drip coffee, as I described above in the review. In this mode machine uses double load of ground coffee and the pressure is lower, because pump is working in an intermittent mode: 1 second working, 1 second pause etc
+ coffee intensity and volume adjustments work separetly for each of four buttons. On 22.110 the double espresso button will be always double-sized drink programmed on one espresso button, for example. Here you can set any volume/any strenght and make double espresso button to be a ristretto, for example. It’s useful when 2-3 people are using the machine, each will have its own button and its own settings
+50 gramms in the bean hopper (not really important)
On the other hand:
– because of enlarged bean hopper 350.15 doesn’t have a cup stand/cup warmer on top of the machine (22.110 has) Not much important also
– coffee intesity asjustment has less steps (because on 350.15 it is set in the menu – it allows to choose among 5 settings, while 22.110 has stepless rotary knob.
– maximum cup height is less (but just for 0.5-1cm)
Overall, for the similar price I believe that 350.15 is more functional. Mainly due to americano mode and separate settings. However, the quality of espresso would be the same as on 22.110.
Dmitriy
16 Dec 18 at 10:50 am
hello dmitriy….
i am a barista and i would like to tell me the differences(if there are any)between Delonghi S ECAM 22.110.SB+Delonghi S ECAM 22.110.B.
and why there is 100$ difference?only for the color??
The machine model is the same?
TY
panos
11 Jan 19 at 2:57 pm
Yep, only the color and (in some countries) the panarello wand: plastic or metal. There is no functional difference.
Dmitriy
11 Jan 19 at 5:19 pm
hello again dmitriy
i have decided to buy the Delonghi S ECAM 22.110.B.
do you have to tell me any other machine at the same money?
TY
panos
15 Jan 19 at 2:04 pm
Great review, it really helped me to decide between the different models 🙂
I think there is a typo in this sentence (23.120 should be 23.210) in the part where you compare ECAM23210 with the other models:
In other words, the key difference between the 23.120 and 22.110 is the modified control panel and white color.
dellgr
25 Jan 19 at 12:09 pm
Thanks, dellgr! Fixed it.
Dmitriy
27 Jan 19 at 2:35 pm
Dmitriy
I have a ECAM23210 and the grinder only grinds for 4 seconds regardless of intensity or cup size. Any ideas? Great review and very helpful.
Jridge
16 Mar 19 at 8:37 pm
I would try following methods:
1) Easiest one, but likely will not help – restore factory settings as descibed in the manual. Make several cups.
2) If #1 doesn’t solve the problem, then try to make 4-5 cups with small amount of beans. The idea is to let the machine understand that there is not enough beans in the middle of the grinding. In this case electronics sometimes are raising the grinding time automatically. If this helps at least a bit (e.g. it raised grinding time from 4 to 4.5 seconds), then continue until desired time of grinding.
3) Run encoder reset mode as descibed here on the last page: http://101coffeemachines.info/manuals/MACCHINE%20DA%20CAFFE'%20AUTOMATICA%20AUTOMATIC%20COFFEE%20….pdf
Dmitriy
17 Mar 19 at 12:53 pm
Sorry, the last link was broken. Here is a working one: http://101coffeemachines.info/manuals/ecam-encoder-reset-mode.pdf
Dmitriy
17 Mar 19 at 12:54 pm
Hi, trying to decide between DELONGHI ETAM 29.510 and ECAM 23.120. Found both for the same price, not sure if ETAM is better?
Sylvia
19 Mar 19 at 7:29 am
Hi, Sylvia. ETAM machines are similar to ECAMs but with more compact body (however, water/beans tanks are also a bit smaller). Thus, ETAM is usually more expensive.
Comparing ETAM 29.510 and ECAM 23.120 – they both have the same adjustments, the same extra function – americano (LONG mode). The only difference is the ring on panarello of the 29.510, which can deliver hot milk without frothing.
I personally would prefer ETAM for the similar price tag if only you are not installing the machine in the room far away from the kithcen/sink (with ETAM you will need to add water, empty waste tray more frequantly).
Dmitriy
19 Mar 19 at 10:07 am
Hi DMITRIY, I have de delonghi 22.320 Sb, could you please tell me the amount of beans, ml of water for each pre-set button.
And does the LONG button uses double the amount of the beans because I hear it grindes twice?
And what is the difference between LONG coffee and long espresso coffee?
thanks in advance
Mamado
24 Mar 19 at 7:24 pm
Hi, Mamodo.
Can’t be sure for 100% about 22.320, because I tested the LONG button on other Delonghi models, where LONG indeed works like: grind, brew, grind again, brew again. That’s the first difference from using espresso button for long drink. Also, in LONG mode the machine uses lower pressure (the pump works inintermittent mode: 1 second – works, 1 second – pause, 1 second – work again etc) – and this is the second fact why it’s differenet from espresso button.
99% that the 22.320 is programmed this way – like other espresso machines by Delonghi of ECAM series.
Dmitriy
26 Mar 19 at 1:46 pm
Hi! i would like your opinion on the Breville Barista Touch. Is there a machine i should be looking it at that has similar features for better value?
Laura
26 Mar 19 at 7:18 am
There are two ways to answer your question:
1) If you want similar feautures (LCD display with precise electronic controls of coffee/milk temperature, prebrewing, wide grind levels and recipe memories etc) AND you want this to be fully automatic, then there are flagship models like Saeco Xelsis, Melttia Barista, Siemens EQ.9.
2) If you want all these feautures, but not fully automated as in the case of Barista Touch, where you can set all these settings, but you still need to manually move portafiler, tamp, pour milk, wash the filters etc, then there is no direct competitors. But you may have a look at the new Delonghi La Specialista, which is similar to previous model of Breville – Barista Express.
Dmitriy
26 Mar 19 at 1:40 pm
Hello,
i was thinking to buy the esam4000 or the ECAM 22.110.
After reading your reviews again and again for 2 days,i decided to buy the ecam 23.120 instead.
Thanks for this helpful website.
Now the challenge is to find the espresso machine from an EU vendor that ships to Cyprus.
Regards
Chris
Chris
21 May 19 at 6:07 pm
You are welcome, Chris! Can’t suggest the vendor, but my friends-expats living in Cyprus usually buy electronics on German or British Amazon…
Dmitriy
21 May 19 at 7:29 pm
Greetings. I have decided to buy the ECAM22110B. Where can I find a written owner manual? I want to know how to set temp and other before I actually acquire the machine. Thanks
Michael
22 May 19 at 5:01 am
The written manual will be in the box with the machine. Electronic (in pdf) user manual could be found under my review (see “download manual” in Specifications table).
Dmitriy
22 May 19 at 9:49 am
Thanks. However the pdf is pictograms.
Michael
22 May 19 at 12:26 pm
You state the Delonghi machines brew with a higher temperature resulting in a slightly bitter taste compered to other machines. Will reducing the temperature change this? ECAM22110B
Michael
30 May 19 at 3:33 am
Hi, I have the Magnifica XS and I constantly have difficulty with the grinder feed. It has two separate protective covers which seem to impeded the bean feed leading to times when the grinder grinds very few beans. We have taken to use our fingers to push beans into the grinder opening. Seems to be a material design flaw. I use (no judgement please) the starbucks espresso beans … perhaps I need to use a smaller bean. Have you heard of this issue from others?
Dave
16 Jul 19 at 7:33 pm
I heard similar reviews only by people from the US. So, yes, some particular Starbucks blend (which is popular in America) could be the reason.
Dmitriy
18 Jul 19 at 2:03 pm
Hi, Very nice review! Thanks it helped me a lot to narrow my choices to the 22.110 and the 23.420.
Can you tell me if I can regulate the intensity of the coffee with the 23.420? Because I noticed you said: “The twisty knob has a new purpose: it now adjusts the size of a drink, but not its strength…”
Thanks!
Tiago Amaral
24 Jul 19 at 12:33 pm
Yes, you still can regulate it by pressing the button, which is in center of the above mentioned twisty knob. It has 5 grades.
Dmitriy
28 Jul 19 at 12:40 pm
Excellent Comparison Review!! Thank you very much
Vangelis
16 Aug 19 at 10:37 am
Thank you, Vangelis!
Dmitriy
19 Aug 19 at 10:50 pm
Hi Dymitriy,
is it possible to save my coffee settings so I do not have to set it everytime I make a coffee? Which model has this feature? 23.420 or all of them?
Is there a warming feature for cups as well?
Thank you a lots.
M.
Minqea
21 Aug 19 at 6:11 am
Literally all coffee machines can remember the volume of simple black coffee. Usually you need to press and hold the corresponding button (e.g. 1 cup coffee) until the desired level in your cup. Then press again to rememeber the setting.
NB! Every machine have a limit of maximal amount of water it can deliver at once. So you can’t program it for more than ~200-250ml of coffee per one cup.
About the cup warming feauture there is a nuance. All machines which have cup stand on top can heat cups. But this cup stand becomes wam simply by the heat of the boiler/thermoblock located underneath. I call it a ‘passive cup warmer’ and you’ll need to wait while this stand will become really hot (~10 minutes after switchin the machine on).
More expensive models have active cup warmer plate – they have an electrical warmer, that makes the cup stand hot fast. In Delonghi model range (in US) electrical cup heater is installed only at PrimaDonna S (ECAM28465M).
Dmitriy
21 Aug 19 at 7:11 am
Thank you very much.
Big amount of water is not very important..we usually drink espresso or lungo..but what matters is : how strong the coffee is and its temperature. Hope this is also possible to save..?
Also the cappucino feature is important for us. Some people say that is not easy to make cappucino foam beacuse the steam wand is very close to machine..
Warming cups ..i was just wondering. But it is not important.:-)
Minqea
21 Aug 19 at 8:01 am
Minqea, it is possible to save, but strenght and temp settings are changing for all recipes. You can’t make hot and mild coffee for one button and colder and stronger for another, for example. Only the most high-end machines like Saeco Xelsis allows you to customize temperature and how strong the coffee is separetly for each recipe.
I don’t see any particular problem with a panarello wand on these models. It rotates so you can move it far enought from the machine body.
Dmitriy
21 Aug 19 at 11:43 am
Thank you once again Dimitriy.
Trying to make decision.
Do you have any experience with dynamica ecam 350.15?
The price is the same as the. 23.420 and featurers seem to be almost the same..
Looking for user friendly delongi machine:-)
Minqea
22 Aug 19 at 1:18 pm
I had experience with Dinamica 350.55, but 350.15 is a basic model of Dinamica series, so I can talk about it 🙂
The strong points of 350.15 is a) special LONG mode for americano (brewing on lower pressure) b) it has 4 buttons for 4 recipes, which you can reprogramm, while 23.420 has 2. On the other hand: no hot milk/foam regulator on panarello (rarely used) and there is also a famous bug about the Dinamica series. Sometimes it stops producing the steam after decalcination. It can be fixed quite easily (just run several decalcination cycles with plain water) but still could be confusing. And yes, Dinamica has a bit lower maximum cup height if it is important for you.
Overall, they are quite similar and I personally would choose simplu the cheapest one.
However, if you will conside the next Dinamica model ECAM350.35 then the above mentioned hot milk/foam regulator will appear and – what is more significant – two new features: Doppio+ (the special recipe for a strong espresso: long prebrewing + maximum coffee used) and the My Menu: 6 more additional recipes that could be used as a second profile for a second person, for example. In fact, 350.35 is a successor of the 23.420, while 350.15 is more basic model. Between these two (23.420 and 350.35) I think it makes sense to add money for buying 350.55. If you need these feautures, of course.
Dmitriy
22 Aug 19 at 6:50 pm
Sorry Dimitryi ..one more question..
Is there a difference between 23.420 and 23.120? Is it only text dispaly and color?
I prefer to avoid of any bugs so dinamica is out of the list:-)
In some user review i did read that 23.420 has no good visibility of the text display after some time.
Thank you a lots.
Minqea
28 Aug 19 at 8:24 am
And the special recipe for Americano (LONG = brewing on lower pressure imitatin drip coffee) on the 23.120
I don’t about the text display issues cause I didn’t have this machine on long tests.
Dmitriy
28 Aug 19 at 9:05 am
I have come accros dynamica 23.320..
Panarelo is stainless compare to plastic(?) on 23.420.
23.320 is available only in black color here
Long coffee option.
The price is the same as 23.420.
Which one should you vote for please?
Sorry to bother again and again, but there are not very experienced salesman i my area:-((
Minqea
30 Aug 19 at 7:34 am
I never heard of the “23.320” and Google knows only 2-3 photos (which look like 22.320), all posted by users, not on ecommerce websites or delonghi siteы. Thгs, I think it’s just a typo and the seller is selling the 22.320, which was a model for German market.
23.420 should have metal panarello (external part), but Delonghi could easily change these things for different markets, so I would better check seller’s photo. Where have you met these machine, by the way? In the UK?
But overall, this 23.320 (which is probably 22.320) seems to have the best price/function ratio among all models we discussd: the hot milk/steam ring on panarello + Long button + text-display. On the other hand, the 23.120 is the same except more old-school control panel: push button and pictograms in stead of text display.
Dmitriy
31 Aug 19 at 7:06 pm
..my mistake..you are right, it should be 22.320. It is so much numbers and models so I am getting confused.
But to sum it up.. As far as the price: Dinamica 350.15 is the cheapest one (on sale now), the second is 22.320 and the 23.420 is at the 3rd place.
These are model with text display and very similiar features. Long coffee available only for 350.15 and 22.320.
All have hot milk/steam ring.. But there are very unriable or none informations regarding my drinks menu (saving optinons)..
Dinamica seems to be the “smallest” one..but you wrote me about the decalcinatio big..so i do not know:-)
Minqea
2 Sep 19 at 9:03 am
Dinamica isn’t the smallest, it’s even several cm bigger in terms of height and depth, but insignificantly.
I would still go with the 350.15. The “after decalc” bug isn’t major and very common, indeed. You easily fix it with running one more decal cycle with plain water. However, if you are confused with this issue, then 23.320 is a good choice amond Delonghis with panarello.
Dmitriy
2 Sep 19 at 12:46 pm
Hi,
I’m hesitating between two coffee machines – Philips HD8827 and Delonghi ECAM 23.420.
From functionality point of view, I have no doubt, but you mentioned that Delonghi makes a more “bitter” coffee and that’s the reason for my hesitation…
Which one would you recommend?
Thanks,
M.
Marcin
12 Sep 19 at 8:55 am
Yes, but all theese taste comparisons are true on similar settings and the same coffee beans. You can choose different type of coffee to get perferred taste on Delonghi, not mentioning that it (Delonghi) gives wider adjustments to “play” with taste.
Among these two I would probably go with ECAM 23.420 because the above-mentioned Philips has too limited adjustments and not the premium finishing honestly. However, I maybe would consider also the EP3221, which you asked about before in this comment: http://101coffeemachines.info/philips/ep1200-ep2000-ep3200/#comment-44751
Dmitriy
13 Sep 19 at 1:06 pm
Hello Dmitriy,
Wow, your articles and responses here are really fantastic. What a service to all of us. Thank you. I have two things; one a comment, one a question.
1. I have a DL 23210B, and have experienced the lack of proper feed with oily beans. I have (mostly) resolved the issue by removing the cone shaped protector in the bean hopper. I don’t mind living dangerously, and have not been able to get my fingers anywhere near the grinder, even by trying.
2. Do you have a list of replacement parts that you would recommend I purchase now, before they are discontinued? I’m thinking generator gasket, o-rings, computer board?
Robert
29 Sep 19 at 9:31 pm
Hello, Robert and thanks for your feedback.
1) Just for the statistics – what particular coffee blend you use, which cause feeding problem?
2) I doubt that there will be any problems with parts availability for this model – one of the most popular machine of the one of the most popular brand – in next years. And I don’t know any critical part that is used only in 23.120. However, you can buy a o rings repair kit for future use. Like this one on Ebay, for example.
Dmitriy
30 Sep 19 at 9:15 am
Thanks Dmitriy. Great information to know. I’ll get the o-ring repair kit. Saves me if I need it on a weekend! I have found that any oily dark roast that is fresh feeds sporadically. I can hear the grinder spinning, but coffee drops in less. When I push, or leave a flat weight on the beans, they feed better, especially with the protective cover. Primarily, I use a locally roasted coffee. Love it. If anyone is in SF Bay Area, it is called Sunrise Coffee, in San Leandro.
Robert
1 Oct 19 at 5:41 am
Hi, I’m looking to buy the ecam 21.117b. I like an americano. Can you tell me the volume of coffee on the longest setting. Thanks
Julia jones
18 Oct 19 at 8:36 pm
Hi, Julia. The maximum it can get lays between somewhere in between 200 and 240 ml. I can’t name you the exact amount now, sorry.
(!) But, anyway: it’s not an americano and such great amount of coffee per one load on this machine will be extremly overexctracted. If you want something like americano, then you should better choose among espresso machines with a special mode, which reduces the pressure. In Delonghi’s coffee machines it is called “Long”. In that case (a lot of water, but lower pressure) it would be drinkable.
Dmitriy
18 Oct 19 at 8:45 pm
Hi Dmitriy,
Well, I found your page because I was having trouble with my DeLonghi. I thought I fixed it, so moved along. Now it has stopped working. Any idea where I should start with a Magnifica S (ECAM2321B) that tries to make coffee, then shuts down, dumps a sloppy mess into the grounds tray, and has three warning lights (grounds tray, and triangle warning both blinking; water refill, solid red)? It sounds like it is pressing water and straining badly, then it shuts down. When I run a descale, water comes through the dispenser no problem.
Robert
1 Nov 19 at 1:51 am
Never mind Dmitriy. I removed the hoses from after the steam generator and let water flow from both ends of connection. Viola! All better. I suspect there was a particle that had made its way from the water bin and was occluding the flow. All fixed, for now.
Robert
3 Nov 19 at 8:59 pm
Sorry, Robert, I was on vacations. Glad you managed to fix it!
Dmitriy
8 Nov 19 at 10:47 am
Hello Dmitriy,
First of all, thank you for all these reviews. I have a question:
De’Longhi ECAM23260SB Magnifica or De’Longhi ECAM25462S Magnifica S? If you have a better recommendation at this price range I would love to know it as well.
Thank you.
Ozkan
6 Nov 19 at 5:40 am
Hello, Ozkan.
If we put all the whistles and bells aside (like cup lighthing in 25462) then the main difference would be:
1) ECAM23260SB has a special LONG recipe for drip-like coffee (lower pressure), but only 2 milk recipes.
2) ECAM25462S brews only classic espresso, but have a Milk Menu, which allows you to have 3+1 milk recipes (latte, macchiato, flat white + frothed milk). The names/recipes are just names and should be considered as memory cells, e.g. you have 3 cappuccino recipes with different milk/coffee ratio for 3 people with different preferences.
So… The choice boils down to what you need more – big mugs of coffee or if you have more than 2 everyday cappuccino drinkers in your family. The basic espresso is the same on both machines.
Dmitriy
8 Nov 19 at 10:00 am
Hello Dmitriy,
thank you for all the effort you are putting into all these reviews.
I am in doubt between Delonghi ECAM 22.110 SB and Phillips ep3221/40. Coffee quality, settings and maintenance are the most important factors for me. Can you help please?
Of course, any other comment, advice or suggestion is more than welcome.
Thank you!
Milan
8 Nov 19 at 11:24 am
I personally would go with a EP3221, because:
1) I prefer espresso taste from Saeco/Philips more than from Delonghi
2) Despite the fact, that Delonghi formally doesn’t require you to lubricate the machine, it’s better to do it. And every service man would advice you to do it. So there is no difference in maintaince.
3) The only problem of the EP3221 (which I mentioned in the review) is limited volume settings, however, one could deal with it.
Dmitriy
9 Nov 19 at 12:25 pm
I am having a hard time deciding between the Delonghi exam 23260 sb, Delonghi ecam 23120sb, and the Jura d6. i would be usually just using for espresso shots, maybe the occasional latte or americano. I did have a delonghi 3300 before but it no longer works. Thank you
Jack Goosherst
13 Nov 19 at 4:41 pm
Hi, Jack. All three machines you name have three different milk frother types. That is probably the key characteristics to choose
ECAM 23.120.SB has a classic manual (panarello) frother. Like the on you had on ESAM3300, but with an adjustement ring for just warming milk.
JURA D6 (here is my review of this machine, by the way) goews with semi-automatic one. This means that you should run the milk foam program manually and move the cup from coffee spouts under the milk spout, but machine frothes the milk by itself.
ECAM23260SB has a fully automated milk frother. E.g. caapuccino in one touch of the button.
If it doesn’t matter for you which frother to use… Then Jura D6 will give better taste of on esresso shot (my opinion), but will require more cleaning tablets than Delonghi.
Dmitriy
15 Nov 19 at 1:00 pm
Thank you very much, the taste of the espresso is the most important aspect to me. i will only be steaming or frothing the milk on occasion.Now i guess i have to start looking at the best beans to use. i have become accustomed to starbucks beans, but from all the reviews i have read, they are too oily to use exclusively or even on a regular basis. thanks again for responding
jack goosherst
15 Nov 19 at 3:51 pm
Just had the most amazing cuppa at a friends on the Delonghi 23.120b. It is difficult to find comparisons with this model. We are “long” coffee drinkers. Black. Occasionally we have guests who would like warm milk. I am starting to feel like this is all overkill. What machine would you recommend for just push-get coffee? Minimal cleaning. Thank you so much ! From Denmark.
Kelly
1 Dec 19 at 6:52 pm
Saeco Incanto Plus, vs, DeLonghi ECAM 23260, vs Philips EP3221/40: Help Please. Your reviews have guided me thus far and I want to take advantage of seasonal sales.
david
20 Dec 19 at 8:52 pm
There is no typo in “DeLonghi ECAM 23260”? Because this machine has an automatic frother, and that’s why it’s more expensive than other two (and more functional obviosly).
Among other two I would vote for Philips EP3221/40.
Dmitriy
20 Dec 19 at 9:31 pm
Thanks for the review, very useful)
In another review I saw the item “customization of drinks”. Can you, as an active user, explain what this means?
John
24 Dec 19 at 2:08 pm
It’s what I call “adjustments” in this review: coffee strengh (amount of coffee used per cup), grind level, volume.
Dmitriy
25 Dec 19 at 10:02 am
Hello Dimitry,
Can you adjust the volume of long coffee on the 23.120 machine?
Thank you so much for your review, searching for a machine serving somewhat good long coffee but also some coffee creme for my wife and might try the 23.120 with “long” for me and “big cup” for my wife.
Wish you a happy new year!
Daniel
29 Dec 19 at 6:00 pm
Good question, honestly I didn’t tried to reprogram the LONG button on this model. However, I’m 99% sure that it works just as with espresso/lungo recipes: press and keep holding the corresponding button -> machine starts brewing -> release the button -> press the button again when desired volume is reached to keep this volume in memory.
Thanks 🙂 Wish you all the luck too!
Dmitriy
29 Dec 19 at 6:13 pm
Hi Dimitry, Have just purchased a Dinamica, and replaced the 6 year old Magnifica. Both machines leak hot water from underneath. The new one has started doing this within 3 weeks the first time I have decalced it. Is this a normal Delongi problem?
Dave
4 Jan 20 at 3:11 pm
Hi, Dave, I’m sorry for my late reply. Hope it still can help you.
Surely no, it’s not normal for any machine if all the drip tray/water tanks are firmly placed in its positions. Usually it happens after transportation in the below zero temperatures – if the machine is used or it was swithced on at least one time, there would be water in the pipes, in winter it turns into ice and brakes the couplings.
I think it’s totally a warranty case.
Dmitriy
15 Jan 20 at 11:36 am
Hello everybody, can some of you please confirm if the ECAM 23.120b has a cup warmer? I’ve read a lot of reviews and in some parts it says that this model has a cup warmer, in others it says it doesn’t. I’m confused…
Adrian
12 Jan 20 at 3:45 pm
It has a passive cup warmer, which means that it becomes hot after 5-10 minutes after switching the machine on. Simply by the heat of the thermoblock inside the machine. There is no active electric heater for the cup plate.
Dmitriy
15 Jan 20 at 11:09 am
It is a very-very helpful blog post, thank you!
In our market, there is a variation available, numbered ECAM 250.23.SB, which is about 50€ cheaper than ECAM 23120/25120, but to my untrained eyes it seems to be the hybrid of 22110 and 23120/25120, as it has the older control panel, but upgraded foam ring and apparently the “lungo” button.
I have tried to find information, whether it indeed has the low-pressure mode for larger servings, but there is not too much information about this model. Even the delonghi.com site lists this model in a limited set of languages only (Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Poland if I am correct) (e.g https://www.delonghi.com/es-es/productos/cafe/cafeteras/superautomatica/magnifica-s-smart-ecam-25023sb).
Can you comment a bit about 250.23? Does it indeed has a special low-pressure “lungo” mode?
Raoul
30 Mar 20 at 5:06 am
Small update, I found a manual for this model, which describes the “long” button in the following way: depending on the model, the button is “Long” or “Doppio+”.
See: https://manuals.coolblue.nl/e1/delonghi-magnifica-s-smart-ecam-25023sb.pdf
Hmm, this makes me extra suspicious. Is it a real “Long” brew with lowered pressure or is it just double espresso with extra water to simulate americano?
Raoul
30 Mar 20 at 6:42 am
It is not real americano, but yes, it is low-pressure mode.
Dmitriy
6 Sep 20 at 6:36 am
Lungo is not a low-pressure mode. Low-pressure mode is LONG. And 250.23 has it.
Dmitriy
6 Sep 20 at 6:35 am
Hi,
I’m hesitating between two coffee machines.
DeLonghi ECAM 22.110.B and Philips Ep 22000.
Which one have better taste of espresso ?
What do you think about the quality of these machines ,are DeLoghni better quality than Philips ? Thank you
Mark
17 Apr 20 at 8:54 pm
I personally like espresso from Philips/Saeco more. But Delonghi can make more strong shots.
I think that both brands are quite realiable, however, Delonghi is a bit more robustly made and has a bit (just a bit!) better built quiality.
Dmitriy
21 Apr 20 at 9:13 am
In general I’d like to know your preference between the philips 1200/2200/3200 series & refurbished delonghi ecam22110.
Jan
10 May 20 at 2:18 am
philips 1200/2200/3200 for sure
Dmitriy
13 May 20 at 8:17 am
Hey Dmitriy, many thanks for great articles here! Need to ask you this, we have special offer available for 5 more days – ECAM 22 110 for $400 or EP3221/40 for $580? If you put aside your preference for philips taste :), is is worth the difference?
Ivan
5 Jun 20 at 11:21 am
The key difference (without considering my taste) is wider range of adjustments on 22.110. Plus, it a bit more bullet proof, more durable.
By the way I would vote for 22.110 even if considering the taste… Just becuase that in case of choosing the Ep3221 you pay almost x1.5 and stays in the same class (no special function/no premium look/no auto cappuccino). Maybe it is worth checking new Delonghi models (Delonghi ECAM 250.33/250.31/250.23), they are successors of 22.110, which will be discontinued this year.
Dmitriy
9 Jun 20 at 7:59 pm
Hi! Thank you for you article, it’s great and it helped me a lot! However, there’s one thing I want to mention, and that is the difference between the ECAM 23210 and 22110/21117 you didn’t mention. In 23210, you can’t remove the brewing system. In 22110/21117 you can.
Lech
22 Jul 20 at 5:17 pm
thanks for the great great reviews and comparisons. Now I’m more convinced with the “ECAM23120”.
My question is can you do a “Ristretto” shot from any Delonghi?
I’ve only seen these options in Jura, but any manipulation to do on the Delonghi to pull it?
Thanks much
Sam K.
25 Jul 20 at 3:58 am
Your reviews and comments are very helpful, and I admire the professional details. I would like your advice
I am interested in a super-automatic machine in US. I currently have a Mr. Coffee drip coffee maker and an old DeLonghi EC-155 for espresso drinks. I have a Breville burr grinder for both machines.
Expected use
We are a two-person household in which we drink regular coffee before or at breakfast. We mostly get up at different times so the early morning coffee would mostly be made as single cups.  We each would like to have an espresso or a milk-based drink once or twice per day each. 
Reliability
Since we are expecting to invest at least hundreds of dollars or more, I would expect the machine to be durable and trouble free for at least 5-10 years. We have had our current machines for at least 10 years with no repairs.
Maintenance
I like the super automatics that have an automatic cleaning cycle, especially the milk system so that no cleaning is needed after every cup. I don’t mind periodic maintenance, like a weekly rinsing or periodic de-scaling. We have pretty soft water: our city reports that our water contains 47 parts per million of calcium carbonate.
Ease of use
I like the idea of one-touch buttons with some easy customization of brew strength, temperature control, and amount. I expect that I will experiment a little and then save a particular customization to one touch. I especially like machines those that have a plug in carafe that you take from the refrigerator. My wife likes especially the one-touch system and does not like to spend time learning how to customize.
Taste quality
I have a quality threshold for long coffee, espresso, and cappuccino, but I am not highly sensitive to subtle nuances in flavor. 
Price limit
About $1000 but willing to go to $1500 if the value proposition described below is higher. 
Value
I love getting the best value, maximizing the things that are important to me and minimizing the cost. For example, if the perfect machine provides 100% of what I want, let’s say at a cost of $2000. I would love a machine that would give me 75-80% of quality, features, ease, et cetera, that I want for $1000, that would be my machine.
Vendor
Costco carries several DeLonghi and Jura models at prices that are typically several hundred less than other sellers. For example, the DeLonghi ECAM44660B is $1500 delivered. It has a very good return policy, and is very accessible. So if you think that either of those brands is suitable, Costco is a better buy.
Jeff
3 Aug 20 at 11:47 pm
hello is ecam 23.420 good for latte art?
if no what do you suggest i want bean to cup style
abeer
15 Aug 20 at 6:12 pm
Dear Dmitriy, You posted my inquiry from Jeff dated 3 Aug 20, but I have not seen your reply yet. I wonder if you are planning to reply soon. I am eager to make a purchase, but your reviews are so thorough that I am waiting until you to comment. Thanks in advance.
Regardless, you do a real service to people planning to buy espresso machines.
Jeff
20 Aug 20 at 6:26 pm
Hi,
I’m thinking of buying a used DeLonghi 23.120, 2 years old, and service being done 1 year ago or so.
Price is 235$.
Should I get it?
What parts should I check before buying?
How should I test it?
Should I try to make a coffee in front of a seller? 😀
Any other tips?
Tnx!
Veks
3 Sep 20 at 7:24 am