DeLonghi Eletta Review (2023) – Is It a Good Choice?

DeLonghi Eletta is praised as one of the most reliable and luxurious super-automatic espresso machines on the market today. Well, it should be considering the price tag related to it.

But how well does it really perform? Is it as good as they say? Should you get it?

After hours of research and testing and a few gallons of espresso, in this DeLonghi Eletta review, we will explore the features of this product along with its pros and cons, giving an overall assessment that might make your buying decision easier.

Read on to discover everything you need to know about DeLonghi Eletta — from price point all the way through latte art quality. By the way, we have reviewed the ECAM45760B model in this article.

DeLonghi Eletta Overview

I recently had the chance to try out the DeLonghi Eletta espresso machine and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed. This machine is the epitome of convenience and ease of use, with its one-touch operation and customizable settings.

Right off the bat, you can’t but notice that the user-friendly interface of the Eletta makes it easy to operate for anyone. The clear display guides you through the espresso brewing process, making it easy to make the perfect cup every time.

My only complaint is the display itself. I was expecting a nice and large touchscreen like on the Eletta Explore (more details at the end of this DeLonghi Eletta review). Instead, there is an old-fashioned blue LCD display with manual buttons around it.

Well, I guess nothing is perfect, right?

On the bright side, there is the Lattecrema system. This system allows for effortless lattes and cappuccinos. The Eletta also has a built-in milk manual frother for those of you who want to test your barista skills.

Moreover, the Eletta has a wide range of customizable options. You can adjust the strength, size, and temperature of your coffee or espresso to your liking. Additionally, the machine comes with multiple pre-programmed drink options, including espresso, americano, and long coffee.

Overall, the DeLonghi Eletta is one heck of a specimen. But how good is it really? Should you consider it? I would say yes, you should get it if you are on the hunt for a straightforward, and yet advanced super-automatic machine at a mid-range price.

But if you are still not sure, keep on reading my comprehensive review!

Build Quality & Design

When I first came across the DeLonghi Eletta, I was immediately drawn to its modern and sleek design. But, as we all know, looks can be deceiving. So, I decided to dive deeper and explore its build quality and design.

First and foremost, the DeLonghi Eletta is a solid and sturdy machine. Despite being made primarily of plastic, it also incorporates plenty of stainless steel elements, giving it a high-end and polished look.

And, while some may argue that the Eletta is a bit bulky, I appreciate its size as it makes it quite difficult to knock over accidentally. With its dimensions of 18.4 inches high, 10.2 inches wide, and 14.2 inches deep, the Eletta is a statement piece that can easily become the centrepiece of your kitchen.

Aside from its sturdy construction, the Eletta also boasts great design. One of my favourites is the metal cup warmer located on top of the machine. This feature may seem insignificant to some, but it could make or break your coffee experience.

The bean hopper’s lid is located conveniently next to the cup warmer. The hopper is where you can load up on your favourite coffee beans. It can hold up to 14.1oz!

If you prefer ground coffee instead, the Eletta also has a built-in ground coffee chute located close to the bean hopper. This makes it easy to switch between using beans and pre-ground coffee, depending on your preference.

The water tank is located in the back and it can hold an impressive 68oz (2l) of fresh water. It’s transparent so that you can always have an insight into the remaining water level.

All in all, the DeLonghi Eletta espresso machine’s build quality and design are top-notch. I can’t complain. The combination of stainless steel and plastic, along with its sleek design, makes it a beautiful addition to any kitchen.

Now, how about other features? Read my DeLonghi Eletta review to get more info!

Main Features

Coffee Grinder

The burr grinder in the DeLonghi Eletta is designed to evenly grind the coffee beans, ensuring that every cup of coffee you make is flavorful and rich. I also like the machine’s ability to grind beans automatically based on the cup size and strength desired.

One of the highlights of this grinder is the ease with which the grind settings can be adjusted manually. The bean hopper has a knob that allows you to choose from 13 different grind settings.

This is particularly useful if you like to experiment with different brewing methods or if you prefer different coffee strengths.

The clearly marked labels on the knob also make it easy to remember your favourite grind sizes, which is a big relief for someone like me who easily forgets the grind settings for different types of coffee.

The burr grinder itself is of high quality and produces consistent grinds, which is crucial for achieving a great-tasting cup of coffee.

Additionally, the DeLonghi Eletta has a bean sensor that ensures that the grinder only starts working when there are enough beans in the hopper, which means that you never have to worry about the grinder running unnecessarily and wasting coffee.

The hopper and burr grinder can be easily removed for cleaning, which is important for ensuring that the grinder continues to produce consistent grinds over time.

Lattecrema Milk System

I recently had the pleasure of using the DeLonghi Eletta espresso machine, and I can confidently say that the Lattecrema Milk System is simply amazing.

With two boilers, one for brewing and one for steaming, this machine offers convenience and efficiency when brewing milk-based espresso drinks.

This may not seem like a game-changing feature, but stick with me for a second.

When a machine has one boiler, it has to switch between brewing and steaming, therefore compromising the quality of your brew and steam. On the other hand, a dual-boiler setup allows for independent actions resulting in perfection from both worlds.

In other words, you can expect great results from DeLonghi Eletta every time!

The milk carafe is removable, and it can hold up to 21oz. You can simply remove the carafe and store it in the fridge to save milk’s freshness. When you’re ready to make another latte or cappuccino, just pop the carafe back in and the Lattecrema system will take care of the rest.

Speaking of which, I love DeLonghi’s automatic Lattecream system. It’s super easy to use and makes perfect milk-based drinks every time. And when you’re done, it has an auto-clean function to make sure that your system is in top-notch condition all the time.

The manual steaming option is also available with the Eletta, thanks to its steam wand. This gives you full control over your froth if that’s what you want! This wand can act as a hot water dispenser, making it perfect for tea and other hot beverages.

Water Tank

The water tank of the DeLonghi Eletta espresso machine is designed to hold up to 67 ounces (2 litres) of water, which means less refilling and more coffee brewing. It is made of durable, high-quality materials that ensure it will last for years to come.

What I love most about the water tank is how easy it is to remove for filling. No more fumbling around trying to pour water into a small opening or struggling to lift a heavy tank.

With just a simple press of a button, the tank pops off effortlessly, allowing for quick and convenient filling.

The tank also has a clear window that indicates the water level, making it easy to see when it needs to be refilled. And for added convenience, there is a removable drip lip that catches any spills or drips, preventing a mess on your countertop.

But what really sets the DeLonghi Eletta water tank apart is its compatibility with water filters. By using the built-in filter, you can eliminate any impurities or chemicals in your water, producing a cleaner, better-tasting cup of coffee.

And don’t worry about remembering to change the filter- the machine will alert you when it needs to be replaced (more about this feature later in this DeLonghi Eletta review).

Adjustable Spout

DeLonghi Eletta’s adjustable spout solves the problem of having to switch between different cups and glasses depending on your coffee type.

The spout is easily movable, making it compatible with any cup or glass size. With a maximum spout height of 5.5 inches (14 centimetres), you can accommodate a wide variety of cup sizes and shapes, including tall latte glasses.

The spout adjustment feature is especially useful for coffee shops and homes with multiple coffee drinkers who prefer different types of coffee.

Another great advantage of the adjustable spout is that it prevents any spillage or splashing when dispensing coffee into cups with shorter heights. This means you can say goodbye to unnecessary spills on your countertops or floors.

Plus, the adjustable spout eases the cleaning process since you can easily move it to access every part of your espresso machine, ensuring it remains clean and hygienic.

Speciality Coffee Menu

The DeLonghi Eletta boasts a line-up of buttons for easy coffee preparation. With a touch of a button, you can make espresso (sing/double), long coffee, cappuccino, latte, and latte macchiato. Eletta delivers them flawlessly.

However, if you are looking for more speciality coffee options, fear not. The DeLonghi Eletta has an extensive menu that includes a range of milk-based drinks that require a little more effort to prepare, such as flat white.

Luckily, this is easily accessible through the menu interface, which is intuitive and easy to use, even for those new to espresso machines.

Overall, I am truly impressed with the speciality coffee menu on the DeLonghi Eletta. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cappuccino or a customized latte this machine has it all.

The intuitive menu interface, personalized beverage options, and efficient milk frothing system make the DeLonghi Eletta an indispensable tool for any coffee lover seeking to fulfil their special coffee cravings with ease.

Programmable Coffee

Another standout feature of the Eletta is its programmability. you can customize your drink to your liking by adjusting both the strength and temperature of your coffee.

Whether you prefer a bold, robust flavour or a milder taste, the Eletta has you covered. Plus, you can save your favourite settings with the “My Coffee” feature, making it easy to consistently brew your ideal cup.

But that’s not all – the Eletta also has a “My Milk” function, allowing you to save your favourite milk-based creations. Whether you’re a fan of lattes, cappuccinos, or something in between, this feature lets you recreate your perfect drink every time.

The DeLonghi Eletta boasts a line-up of buttons for easy coffee preparation. With a touch of a button, you can make espresso (sing/double), long coffee, cappuccino, latte, and latte macchiato. Eletta delivers them flawlessly.

However, if you are looking for more specialty coffee options, fear not. The DeLonghi Eletta has an extensive menu that includes a range of milk-based drinks that require a little more effort to prepare, such as flat white. Luckily, this is easily accessible through the menu interface, which is intuitive and easy to use, even for those new to espresso machines.

Brewing Performance

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate coffee brewing experience, then the DeLonghi Eletta is the espresso machine for you.

As mentioned in this DeLonghi Eletta review, the unit features a dual-boiler system which means that there is no lag time between brewing and frothing. This ensures a seamless and efficient brewing process.

It takes about 2 minutes to make espresso after turning on the Elettra. You don’t need any skills to use the espresso machine like this. All it takes is a push of a button.

What I like the most about the brewing system on Eletta is that the separate boilers for coffee and milk also ensure that the temperature of each element is perfectly controlled, allowing for optimal brewing of each.

Now as for the end result, there are no complaints whatsoever!

Whether you choose to make a single shot of espresso or a latte macchiato, the DeLonghi Eletta will deliver perfect results, from bean to cup every single time.

There is almost zero need for human intervention unless you want to customize your coffee using the programmable features mentioned earlier in the review. You can fiddle with the strength and temperature until you perfect your unique recipe!

Milk Frothing Performance

I can attest to the unparalleled milk-frothing performance this machine offers. If you remember the information from the earlier parts of the DeLonghi Eletta review, this is thanks to its patented LatteCrema system.

The LatteCrema system works by heating and frothing the milk simultaneously, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture that is perfect for latte art.

One of the things that I love about Eletta’s milk frothing system is how easy it is to use. Not only that, it is also super-easy to customize your froth.

With just a simple twist of the dial on top of the milk carafe, you can adjust the milk foaminess to your preferred level for your favourite coffee drinks like a flat white, cappuccino, or latte.

I find this incredibly convenient, especially if I have a guest who has a different preference when it comes to foam.

But beyond its user-friendliness, the Eletta also delivers exceptional textured milk that makes coffee taste like it’s been crafted by professionals in Starbucks.

What’s even better is that the Eletta can handle a wide range of milk types, including soy and almond milk. This makes it an excellent choice for people with dietary restrictions or those who simply prefer non-dairy milk in their coffee.

If you’re looking for an espresso machine that can help you create cafe-quality coffee drinks at home, then the Eletta is definitely worth considering.

Cleaning & Maintainance

Keeping your DeLonghi Eletta espresso machine clean and maintained is an essential part of ensuring that your coffee is always of the highest quality. And with a few quick and straightforward steps, it’s easy to keep it in excellent condition for years to come.

Firstly, the machine’s purging feature is a handy tool that flushes out any coffee and hot water residue that may be left in the system. This function kicks in when starting up and shutting down the machine.

You should always have a cup prepared below the spots when this function kicks in.

After every use, make sure to cleanse the LatteCrema milk system to prevent harmful bacteria from forming. This step is especially crucial if you regularly use the milk system.

For a deeper clean, I recommend removing the brew group and rinsing it thoroughly with warm water. This step ensures that every part of the machine is free from any residue or coffee splatters.

Even with the use of a filter, descaling the machine is essential to maintain the quality of the coffee. Fortunately, the DeLonghi Eletta comes with an alert system that notifies you when it’s time for descaling using DeLonghi Descaler.

As you can see, regular maintenance is critical, and it doesn’t require any fancy tools or techniques. You can use mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft cloth to clean every part of the machine thoroughly.

DeLonghi Eletta vs Eletta Explore

First and foremost, the Eletta Explore offers an impressive selection of 40+ hot and cold recipes, which is a significant advantage compared to the more limited options available on the Eletta model.

Additionally, the Two LatteCrema Systems with Hot and Cold Foam Technology found in the Eletta Explore is a notable feature that the Eletta model lacks. This feature gives you the option to create both hot and cold milk foam.

Lastly, the Eletta Explore’s 3.5″ TFT full-touch and colourful display is a significant upgrade from the traditional LCD display with manual buttons found on the Eletta. The touchscreen display is not only visually appealing but makes navigation and customization a breeze.

One might assume that with all these added features, the Eletta Explore would come with a heftier price tag. However, it’s surprising to note that the Eletta Explore actually costs $500 less than the Eletta model, making it a more affordable option without sacrificing quality.

Overall, both the DeLonghi Eletta and Eletta Explore are fantastic machines that produce high-quality coffee beverages. However, for me, the added features and affordability of the Eletta Explore make it the clear winner between the two.

DeLonghi Eletta vs Dinamica Plus

Firstly, let’s talk about the brewing and steaming system. The Eletta boasts dual boiler technology, offering a superior performance that can handle both tasks simultaneously.

On the other hand, the Dinamica Plus only has one thermoblock, which means it can’t steam milk while brewing. This could be a disadvantage if you plan on making milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos regularly.

However, the Dinamica Plus makes up for it with its impressive touchscreen display. Navigating through its menu and customizing coffee options is incredibly simple, thanks to its user-friendly interface.

The Eletta’s LCD screen is also easy to use, but it doesn’t offer the same level of customization as the Dinamica Plus.

One standout feature of the Dinamica Plus is its TrueBrew Over Ice function. This feature allows you to brew coffee over ice, resulting in a delicious iced coffee that’s perfect for hot summer days.

Unfortunately, the Eletta doesn’t have this feature, which could be a deal-breaker for some coffee aficionados.

Finally, let’s talk about cost. The Dinamica Plus is significantly cheaper than the Eletta ($600 less). For super-automatic coffee lovers on a budget, the Dinamica Plus is a great choice that offers plenty of features and customization options at an affordable price.

If you value iced coffee, user profiles, and a more advanced touchscreen display, the Dinamica Plus is the way to go. However, if you prefer a superior brewing and steaming system, the Eletta is the clear winner.

If you are interested in learning more about the contender in this short comparison, here is our DeLonghi Dinamica Plus review.

Who Is DeLonghi Eletta Best For?

In short, DeLonghi Eletta is designed for those who love to indulge in a barista-style espresso, latte, or cappuccino at home, without compromising on the quality or the convenience.

Furthermore, the DeLonghi Eletta is best for those who want to enjoy their coffee drinks with a touch of personalization. Sure, some units like Dinamica Plus are easier to use and customize, but Eletta does a good job too.

With its intuitive touchscreen interface, you can adjust the strength, temperature, and even the size of your drink, just the way you like it. And with its one-touch cappuccino system, you can enjoy a foamy cappuccino or a velvety latte with minimum effort.

Who Is DeLonghi Eletta Not For?

While it is a great investment for coffee lovers who are willing to spend a bit more on a high-quality machine, Eletta may not be suitable for those who simply want a quick and easy espresso in the morning.

If that’s what you are looking for, and you don’t care about extra features like customization or the Lattecreama system, go with DeLonghi Magnifica instead.

Additionally, if you are someone who prefers manual brewing methods or enjoys the art of espresso-making, then the automatic functionality of DeLonghi Eletta may not appeal to you.

Check out the La Specialista from DeLonghi or even the best Breville espresso machines as they are more focused on the semi-automatic brewing experience.

DeLonghi Eletta Review – Verdict

After thoroughly researching and testing the DeLonghi Eletta, I am now certain that it is one of the best super-automatic cappuccino makers on the market. This machine combines quality with convenience for a mid-range price.

The only issue I have with this machine is its size, which may be too big for some kitchen workspaces. Its siblings, Eletta Explore or Dinamica Plus are a bit smaller.

However, if you’re looking for capacity – this machine delivers! It also comes with plenty of additional features such as a cup warmer, digital LCD display, adjustable coffee spout, dual boiler heating, and more!

All in all, I would definitely recommend purchasing DeLonghi Eletta – it’s an excellent choice that will ensure your mornings are filled with delicious and quick coffee.

Thanks for reading my DeLonghi Eletta review! PS. Credits to DeLonghi’s product page for images.

DeLonghi Eletta Review – FAQs

Does the DeLonghi Eletta have a built-in grinder?

Yes, the Eletta has a built-in burr grinder that grinds beans on demand to ensure freshly ground coffee every time.

Can I customize my coffee preferences on the Eletta?

Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta allows you to customize your coffee preferences from the strength of the coffee to the amount of milk used in frothing.

How many coffee drinks can Eletta make?

The DeLonghi Eletta can make 6 different coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, latte macchiato, flat white, long black, and hot milk.