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De'Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine, Silver
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Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | De'Longhi |
Color | Silver |
Product Dimensions | 11"D x 15.3"W x 14.4"H |
Special Feature | Integrated Coffee Grinder,Milk Frother,Auto Clean Function |
Coffee Maker Type | Espresso Machine |
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About this item
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- FRESH ESPRESSO FOR EVERY CUP: The professional burr grinder with 13 adjustable settings grinds fresh beans every time to ensure maximum freshness. You can also use pre-ground in the second chamber. Your choice of regular, specialty or decaf.
- YOUR FOAM, YOUR WAY: A manual frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks – just the way you like them.
- CONSISTENT BREWING EVERY TIME: Each cup is automatically brewed to the perfect temperature, richness and density. And you can customize the settings to ensure its always just the way you like it.
- EASY TO CLEAN AND HANDLE: The compact, extractable brew unit is not only easy to clean, it self-adjusts for one or two shots of espresso.
- DELICIOUS CAPPUCCINO AND LATTE: The adjustable manual Cappuccino System mixes steam and milk to create the thickest, longest-lasting foam for your cappuccino. And it’s easy to adjust the levels to prepare a creamy latte, macchiato or flat white.
- CUSTOMIZED ESPRESSO DRINKS: Design your ideal espresso and cappuccino experience by programming in your preferences. The machine “remembers” the details, from the strength of your espresso to your preferred size beverage and much more.
- EASY-TO-USE CONTROL PANEL: Simply adjust the menu settings for temperature, coffee strength and cup size according to your preferences. The machine takes care of the rest.
- COMPACT DESIGN: Each model has the features of a full-size automatic machine but in a streamlined, compact design that fits beautifully on your kitchen countertop.
- NO WAITING BETWEEN CUPS: The Rapid Cappuccino System maintains the optimal temperature so you can brew cup after cup instantly..FRONT-ACCESSIBLE COMPONENTS: Removable water tank and drip tray, as well as used espresso grounds, are front-accessible for easy cleanup. Indicators tell you when it’s time to clean the machine, and all parts are dishwasher safe.
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This Item De'Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine, Silver | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | |
Price | $636.00$636.00 | -38% $649.95$649.95 List: $1,039.95 | -14% $776.56$776.56 List: $899.00 | -10% $1,799.95$1,799.95 List: $1,999.95 | $349.99$349.99 | $139.98$139.98 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | — | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Easy to use | 4.5 | 3.8 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.2 | 4.2 |
Blending power | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.1 | 4.0 |
Flavor | 4.3 | 4.1 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.2 | — |
Easy to clean | 4.1 | 3.8 | 4.3 | — | 4.2 | 5.0 |
Value for money | — | 4.2 | 3.6 | — | 3.6 | 3.8 |
Sold By | DJ Books & More | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | PharmacBeauty | Aroprank Store |
capacity | 1.8 liters | 60 fluid ounces | 60 ounces | 60 ounces | 1.2 liters | 1.1 liters |
material | Stainless Steel | Plastic | Ceramic | Stainless Steel, Plastic | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
input interface | buttons | touch screen | touch screen | touch screen | touch screen | buttons |
voltage | 120 volts | 120 volts | — | 120 volts | — | 120 volts |
wattage | 1350 watts | 1250 watts | 1500 watts | 1250 watts | 1235 watts | 1450 watts |
model name | ESAM3300 | Magnifica Evo, Fully Automatic Coffee Machine, | EP4347/94 | Eletta Explore | Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine | BY001 |
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From the brand
From the manufacturer
Features & Benefits
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Fresh Espresso For Every CupThe professional burr grinder with 13 adjustable settings grinds fresh beans every time to ensure maximum freshness. You can also use pre-ground in the second chamber. Your choice of regular, specialty or decaf. |
Your Foam, Your WayA manual frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks – just the way you like them. |
Consistent Brewing Every TimeEach cup is automatically brewed to the perfect temperature, richness and density. And you can customize the settings to ensure its always just the way you like it. |
Easy To Clean And HandleThe compact, extractable brew unit is not only easy to clean, it self-adjusts for one or two shots of espresso. |
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Delicious Cappuccino And LatteThe adjustable manual Cappuccino System mixes steam and milk to create the thickest, longest-lasting foam for your cappuccino. And it’s easy to adjust the levels to prepare a creamy latte, macchiato or flat white. |
Customized Espresso DrinksDesign your ideal espresso and cappuccino experience by programming in your preferences. The machine 'remembers' the details, from the strength of your espresso to your preferred size beverage and much more. |
Easy-To-Use Control PanelSimply adjust the menu settings for temperature, coffee strength and cup size according to your preferences. The machine takes care of the rest. |
De'Longhi Coffee Specialist SupportNeed help choosing a Coffee Machine? Setting up your new Machine or choosing right coffee beans? We're here to help! |
ESAM3300 | ESAM04110S | ECAM23260SB | ECAM37095TI | ECAM35075SI | ECAM45760B | |
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Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars
4,149
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4.1 out of 5 stars
249
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4.1 out of 5 stars
280
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4.1 out of 5 stars
3,494
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4.1 out of 5 stars
3,494
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4.2 out of 5 stars
217
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Drink Options | 5: Espresso (multi-length), Cappuccino, Latte, Hot Water, Americano | 5: Espresso (multi-length), Cappuccino, Latte, Hot Water, Americano | 6: Drip Style Coffee, Espresso (multi-length), Cappuccino, Latte, Hot Water, Americano | 18: Espresso, Double Espresso, Long, Coffee, Doppio+, Truebrew Over Ice, Coffee Pot, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato, Milk, Cappuccino +, Cappuccino mix, Caffelatte, Flat White, Espresso Macchiato, Hot Water + 3 custom drinks via app | 18: Espresso, Long (drip style), Truebrew Over Ice, Cappuccino, Latte, Milk, Lungo, Ristretto, Double Espresso+, Coffee, Cappuccino+, Latte Macchiato, Flat White, Espresso Macchiato, 2 Espresso, 2 Ristretto, 2 Lungo, Hot Water | 11: Regular Coffee, Espresso (multi-length), Cappuccino (auto), Caffe Latte (auto), Lattemacchiato (auto), Espresso Macchiato, Flat White (auto), Milk (auto), My Milk, Hot Water, Americano |
One Touch Recipes | 2: Single Espresso, Double Espresso | 2: Single Espresso, Double Espresso | 6: Drip Style Coffee, Single Espresso, Long Coffee, Hot Water, Cappuccino, Lattemacchiato | 16: Espresso, Double Espresso, Long, Coffee, Truebrew Over Ice, Coffee Pot, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato, Milk, Cappuccino +, Cappuccino mix, Caffelatte, Flat White, Espresso Macchiato, Hot Water | 5: Espresso, Long (drip style), Truebrew Over Ice, Cappuccino, Latte, Milk | 7: Single Espresso, Double Espresso, Hot Water, Cappuccino, Caffelatte, Lattemacchiato, Long |
User Interface | Rotary Control | Rotary Control with Display | Rotary Control with Display | TFT LCD Color Touch Screen | LCD Display | Touch Control with LED |
Thermoblock | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Milk Preparation System | Manual Steam Wand | Manual Steam Wand | Automatic Frother with Latte Crema System + Manual Steam Wand | Automatic LatteCrema One Touch System | Automatic LatteCrema One Touch System | Automatic Frother with Latte Crema System + Manual Steam Wand |
Water Tank Capacity | 1.8 L / 60 oz. | 1.8 L / 60 oz. | 1.8 L / 60 oz. | 1.8 L / 60 oz. | 1.8 L / 60 oz. | 2 L / 68 oz |
Programmable Timer | - | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Average Heat-up Time | ≈75 seconds | ≈55 seconds | ≈60 seconds | ≈45 seconds | ≈45 seconds | ≈60 sec |
Bean Container Capacity | 8.8 oz. | 7.1 oz. | 8.8 oz. | 10.5 oz. (300g) - Flavor Saving Lid | 10.5 oz. (300g) - Flavor Saving Lid | 14.1oz |
Product guides and documents
Product information
Brand | De'Longhi |
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Color | Silver |
Product Dimensions | 11"D x 15.3"W x 14.4"H |
Special Feature | Integrated Coffee Grinder,Milk Frother,Auto Clean Function |
Coffee Maker Type | Espresso Machine |
Filter Type | Reusable |
Style | Magnifica ESAM3300 |
Specific Uses For Product | Coffee maker |
Included Components | Automatic Espresso Machine |
Operation Mode | Fully Automatic |
Voltage | 120 Volts |
Model Name | ESAM3300 |
Number of Items | 1 |
Human Interface Input | Buttons |
Package Type | Frustration-Free Packaging |
Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
Item Weight | 23.1 pounds |
Department | Small Appliances |
Manufacturer | Delonghi |
ASIN | B000N2YKQ0 |
Item model number | ESAM3300 |
Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #371,529 in Home & Kitchen (See Top 100 in Home & Kitchen) #62 in Super-Automatic Espresso Machines |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | February 7, 2008 |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Videos
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Customer Review: Don’t get discouraged ! EDIT: 1/2024
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Product Description
Capable of preparing espresso, coffee, cappuccino, latte drinks, and more, this super-automatic machine features a unique beans-to-brew system that grinds coffee beans right before brewing for exceptionally aromatic espresso. The appliance comes equipped with two stainless-steel boilers that provide excellent heat distribution, as well as an instant reheat function, which keeps the machine at an ideal temperature, no matter how long the interval between cups. In addition, its quiet burr grinder automatically grinds beans and can be set to a specific grinding level, but the unit can also be used with ground coffee if preferred. The unit's front panel offers easily accessible controls for the on/off switch and cappuccino system, as well as for adjusting the quantity of water and coffee to suit individual tastes, from long or short to weak or strong. Its patented cappuccino system rotates 180 degrees to allow for any size milk container, plus the coffee spigot height can be adjusted to accommodate all different cup sizes from a classic espresso cup to a tall mug. Even more, the units exclusive cup tray keeps cups warm before use, and its three-hour automatic shutoff provides added safety. Other highlights include a 60-ounce removable water tank, a handy water-level indicator, a 7-ounce bean container, an electronic steam and coffee thermostat, rinse and decalcification auto programs, and a removable drip tray for easy cleanup. Made in Italy. From the Manufacturer Capable of preparing espresso, coffee, cappuccino, latte drinks, and more, this super-automatic machine features a unique beans-to-brew system that grinds coffee beans right before brewing for exceptionally aromatic espresso. The machine makes espresso at a consistently ideal temperature because of its new stainless-steel double boiler, which provides excellent heat distribution, as well as its instant reheat function, which keeps the machine at an ideal temperature, no matter how long the interval between cups. Its space-saving, integrated quieter burr grinder automatically grinds beans and can be set to a specific grinding level, but the unit can also be used with ground coffee if preferred. Its 60-ounce removable water reservoir and 7-ounce bean container allow for conveniently filling the water tank and emptying coffee grounds. The unit's front panel offers easily accessible controls for the on/off switch and cappuccino system, as well as for adjusting the quantity of water and coffee to suit individual tastes, from long or short to weak or strong. The machine's patented cappuccino system rotates 180 degrees to allow for any size milk container, while its coffee spigot height can be adjusted to allow for all different cup sizes from a classic espresso cup to a tall mug. The unit features an exclusive cup tray to keeps cups warm before use, as well as a three-hour automatic shutoff for safety. For added convenience the unit comes with a water-level indicator, an electronic steam and coffee thermostat, rinse and decalcification auto programs, and a removable drip tray for easy cleanup. Brewing Unit: The "Heart" of Magnificent The Magnifica features the smallest removable brewing system available on the market. Because DeLonghis patented boiler is so compact. And, thanks to the removable boiler, cleaning the inside of the machine is easy. Even areas normally difficult to reach can be easily cleaned and without the use of harsh detergents. And because regular maintenance helps prolong the life of the machine, DeLonghis reliability is second to none.Beans-to-Brew System One of the secrets to making a high-quality espresso is using freshly ground coffee beans. Because of the beans-to-brew system, the Magnifica offers you coffee that has a delicious aroma. The coffee is freshly ground and no traces are left in the machine. Magnifica is the only super-automatic machine that delivers the freshest results. Features Compact and High Performance: Because DeLonghis new patented boiler is so compact. Timeless Reliability: Thanks to the stainless-steel removable double boiler, the inside can be cleaned easily. Regular cleaning of the machine is essential for maintaining the best flavor possible and for minimizing the need for service. A Perfect Aroma. No traces of stale grounds are left in the machine. Instant Reheat: This special function heats the core of Magnifica, ensuring the machine is always at the ideal temperature for espresso, no matter how long the interval between cups. Removable Water Tank and Bean Container: Magnifica knows that the counter space in your kitchen is always at a premium. Magnifica is the only super-automatic machine that allows you to fill the water tank and empty the coffee grounds without moving the machine. All of the controls are at the front of the machine, from the on/off switch to the cappuccino system. Integrated Burr Grinder: A space-saver container for beans is fully integrated into the Magnifica. You can set the grinding level to customize your espresso. Magnifica can also be used with ground coffee. DeLonghi recommends the use of illycaffe for the best tasting espresso. Rich, smooth, balanced, and never bitter, illy provides the same consistent distinctive taste cup after cup. Coffee Spigots: Magnificas coffee spigot height can be adjusted to allow for all different cup sizes from a classic espresso cup to a tall mug. Cappuccino System: The patented cappuccino system rotates 180 degrees to allow for any size milk container. Cup Tray: Magnificas exclusive cup tray, similar to those found in cafs, keeps cups warm before use. Front Panel: Magnifica allows you to customize your coffee by adjusting the quantity of water and coffee to suit your taste: long or short, weak or strong. Technical Data Power: 1,150 watts Rated voltage/frequency: 110/120V, 50/60 Hz Water container capacity: 60 ounces/1.8 liters Beans container capacity: 7.10 ounces/200 liters Dimensions-11 x 15.3 x 14.4 inches Selection for 1 cup Selection for 2 cups Cappuccino system Decaling program Removable water container.
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, ease of use, and value of the coffee maker. They mention that it makes great espresso, produces nice crema, and is easy to clean. Some appreciate the performance and value for money. That said, opinions are mixed on capacity and heat.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the quality of the coffee maker. They say it makes great espresso, consistently good, and produces nice crema. Customers also say the settings are sensitive enough, and the machine can make solid espresso with a minimum of effort. They like that the machine allows them to freshly grind beans for every cup, and that they can use ground espresso if they like.
"...Keep in mind, we are traditional coffee drinkers, but this makes wonderful coffee by simply adding your frothed milk to the expresso, and we enjoy..." Read more
"...The settings are sensitive enough - something I have not seen in the Solis - that I find I must vary them from roast to roast...." Read more
"...When you do so it makes a pretty good cup of coffee!Initially, the Saeco seems a lot less fussy...." Read more
"...Granite tile countertop is beginning to buckle and crack at grout lines from water damage..." Read more
Customers like the performance of the coffee maker. They say it works well, has zero issues so far, and is a perfect machine. It can create very fine micro bubbles with some practice, and it works great under the cabinet. The quality of the espresso is exceptional, and the strong espresso it makes is close to perfect.
"...When it came, you could tell it was Brand new/ never used, and it worked perfectly!..." Read more
"...to the latte foam issue, I chose 5 stars because the machine does perform well as advertised, including claiming to only provide foam for..." Read more
"...This machine is about 14.25" high when closed and it works great under the cabinet...." Read more
"...For example, by default the unit turns itself off really fast. Even if you adjust the setting to the maximum, it shuts off in an hour...." Read more
Customers find the coffee maker easy to use. They say it makes great espresso, froth milk, and Americana. They appreciate the super-automatic function, which makes it easy to make cup after cup. They also say the decalcifying process is easy, and it takes only 30 minutes to complete. Overall, customers are satisfied with the ease of use and portability of the product.
"...There are controls for grind preferences and strength. They made everything super easy, which is great because to put it kindly, I'm not..." Read more
"...The Breville BES870XL based on quality of espresso and ease of use (it's not a super-automatic but it has an integrated grinder)...." Read more
"...Fortunately, there are plenty of instructions on the web and the replacement parts are readily available...." Read more
"...The convenience is amazing.Not only does it do whole beans(which is ideal) it can also use pre ground. The grinder works great...." Read more
Customers find the coffee maker easy to clean. They mention that it foams milk pretty well, and requires relatively little cleaning. They also say that it is a low maintenance machine and that the only thing they need to do is clean it.
"...That's it! And it's very easy to clean and maintain as well.But we don't drink Expresso?..." Read more
"...get a little moldy before the bin fills up but all of it is very easily cleaned (and you can obviously empty it as often as you want)...." Read more
"...Cleaning is pretty simple so far...." Read more
"...Worse, on each startup it shoots water to clean itself up, so it wastes more than the DeLonghi...." Read more
Customers appreciate the value of the coffee maker. They say it's well worth the price and the most reliable in this price range.
"...(How lazy can we get?)Do I think it's worth the price? We purchased this machine used 'LIKE NEW', which we guessed was an unused..." Read more
"...This is a great machine for the money and I would recommend it to anyone." Read more
"...produces a good product with very minimal effort, came in at a lower price than many similar machines, and I have had no problems whatsoever...." Read more
"...said, even if my second one fails after 3 years, it's still good value for the money...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the capacity of the coffee maker. Some mention that it has a good size water reservoir, while others say that it is not overly large. The front opens up and you pull out a little bin to empty every so many pours. It does an excellent job and is easy to refill. However, some customers say that the water tank is not large enough, and it uses a lot of water in the various cycles. The bean holder does not hold much, and you have to watch out, and the machine only produces about a teaspoon of coffee with the double cup setting.
"...Use a flat-bottom container; there is no reservoir for milk...." Read more
"...two settings to get the flow at that point of perfect extraction: not gushing, not dripping. Can be done, just takes patience...." Read more
"...At the default grind setting the coffee was really awful: totally watery. We thought the machine was defective...." Read more
"...The Saeco's water tank is slightly larger...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the heat of the coffee maker. Some mention that it heats up in moments and then dispenses lovely espresso, while others say that the temperature of the espresso is much hotter with the DeLonghi than the Saeco. The steam wand heats and froths the milk pretty quickly. So far, they've had no problems, but some say that it doesn't get overly hot or steamy on top and everything except the beans is hot. The milk temp and foam are good, but others say the temperature is much higher with the deLonggi than the saeco and that the cup warmer isn't worthwhile.
"...I can use my tall mugs. It's faster to turn the unit on, and it doesn't insist that you clean things up quite so often...." Read more
"...The single shot is maybe just a bit better but its temperature is a couple of degrees cooler than I like...." Read more
"...It doesn't get overly hot or steamy on top and everything except the beans is accessed from the front. To access the beans, the top cover hinges up...." Read more
"...The machine heats up quickly when turned on - about 3 min...." Read more
Customers are not happy with the noise the coffee maker makes. They say it is a bit loud, it starts making a weird sound, and the grinder whines fast and loud. Some customers also say that the machine groaned and clunked, spilling the entire carafe of water all over their floor.
"...Noise</b>It’s loud when grinding the beans, making the coffee, and when using the steam wand to froth milk...." Read more
"...Grinding and brewing the coffee isn't quiet, but it doesn't seem to wake sleepers up in our 2-bedroom apartment...." Read more
"...The machine groaned and clunked, spilled the entire carafe of water all over my counter and floor, and lit up with a series of error lights...." Read more
"...Others have also noted that it is loud. Totally agreed on that point!..." Read more
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Our purchase was based on wanting to improve our morning coffee without the mess of a dirty coffee pot and often wasted coffee, using harmful plastic capsules, or committing the time and effort needed to use a manual expresso machine.
What do we love about it?
We love everything about it. You simply set your grind preferences, turn it on and after its ready (maybe a minute?) you hit one button and your hot amazing expresso comes out! That's it! And it's very easy to clean and maintain as well.
But we don't drink Expresso?
Keep in mind, we are traditional coffee drinkers, but this makes wonderful coffee by simply adding your frothed milk to the expresso, and we enjoy adding a little sweetness too. I was surprised to find I'm using less sugar now because the coffee has no bitter taste. We were not even aware our old coffee was bitter until we got this new De'Longhi, and my husband has completely stopped adding sugar all together.
What kinds of beans do we use?
We use Lavazza Espresso Italiano Whole Bean Coffee Blend as several reviews suggested. The coffee that comes out of this machine with these beans is simply delicious, but sure you can use any quality coffee or expresso beans of preference. We also enjoy using this same brand of expresso beans too, both are excellent.
What features are helpful?
This automatic machine has smart and helpful light indicators to let you know when it needs water, beans or dumping of grinds so your coffee will never again stop pouring mid-stream. It's well designed and takes us only a few minutes to maintain each week. There are controls for grind preferences and strength. They made everything super easy, which is great because to put it kindly, I'm not technically inclined.
Is frothing difficult?
Since we are not baristas, and both drink regular coffee with creamer, we were happy that the steam spout is powerful and needs no fancy maneuvers to pile up a quick cup of hot creamy froth.
Any Negatives?
There is nothing hard or difficult about this machine, with the exception of leaving home, as it will be very 'hard' to pay for a pricey cup of Starbucks as you will find it 'difficult' to go without your wonderful morning coffee!
How long do we expect this machine to last?
Lastly, we researched different manufactures and discovered Delongi has been around over 200 years and they have shops all over the US that will help maintain your machine to last a lifetime. My sister has same Magnifico De'Longhi machine but a manual model she bought over 20 years ago and it's still going strong!
Doubting new automatic machines will last as long as the manual ones (which I think with proper care will last a lifetime) but for the convenience of automation we will be happy to replace it after a decade or so. Imagine by then they will have "touchless" where you just talk to it and tell it what you want, and it will automatically put your cup under the spout and pour it out for you. Then in the not-too-distant future, a robot will bring it to you! (How lazy can we get?)
Do I think it's worth the price?
We purchased this machine used 'LIKE NEW', which we guessed was an unused return, and we saved half the retail price! When it came, you could tell it was Brand new/ never used, and it worked perfectly! If you'd like to save a small fortune like we did, I suggest you wait for Black Friday or search now for a similar 'like new' return. We knew Amazon would take it back if there were any issue in 30 days at no cost to us as prime members, so it was a 'low risk' for an inconvenience, to save over $600. Would I pay full price for it? Not if I could save a bundle like I did, but if I couldn't and if I could afford it retail, yes, in a heartbeat.
Bought this machine after heavy and satisfactory use of a Solis Palazzo over the last 4 years.
The DeLonghi Magnifica performs as advertised, providing convenience with, given sufficient patience and understanding, the prospect of also making quality drinks. The machine is a bit more complicated for a novice to use, compared to the Solis, and takes more tinkering to get a consistent drink. With that territory, though, also comes the possibility of making a better shot than I could with the Solis. I will explain.
We all pursue that shot with perfect extraction and aromatic crema delicately gracing the surface. Nothing is more fundamental. How does the DeLonghi do? For a shot of set volume, this machine gives us the typical two variables to play with: fineness of grind and quantity of grounds. I found it took a great deal of tinkering with those two settings to get the flow at that point of perfect extraction: not gushing, not dripping. Can be done, just takes patience.
Further, get the settings right for the one cup setting, push the two-cup button, and the results will be worthless. That such a button cannot be found on most comparable machines has a reason. Two shots means a thicker puck, throwing off all your careful adjustments of grind and quantity. Forget about that two-shot button, set things for a single shot and hit that button as many times as required by the lateness of your prior evening.
The settings are sensitive enough - something I have not seen in the Solis - that I find I must vary them from roast to roast. What works for a darker roast leaves a lighter roast mostly dripping out the delivery spouts. Perhaps a liability for those interested in convenience over quality. For others, another opportunity to get it right instead of settling for the lowest common denominator. Quantity of grounds wheel is conveniently located on front so such adjustments are easy to make.
Some other initial observations:
* After a half-dozen cups, my machine locked up. Blinking lights and manual told be something was binding in the grinder and to contact manufacturer. My examination showed that the chute immediately below the grinder was packed up. Bent little bristle brush and some awkward maneuvering cleared up the problem which, so far, has not reoccurred.
* Specs say bean capacity is about 7 ounces. Anticipated this being an inconvenience as I roast in 12 oz lots. The bean hopper will actually take 11 or 12 ounces with no problem.
* Buried in the instructions is the observation that, if it has been 2 or 3 minutes between brews, then one should do a quick flush, hitting the descaling button, to assure optimal water temperature. Easy to do but not something I have seen on other machines. I see this as a positive. Yes, another step but one that improves quality.
* Specs suggest this will fit under a cabinet 14 inches above the counter. True, but if you want to be able to open the bean bin and fill, 18 ¼" clearance is necessary.
* The grounds you now grind are not those you next brew. There's a 1- or 2-shot lag. So, that first shot in the morning has been sitting for, say, 20 hours, ground and letting the volatiles vanish. There go the qualities you sought by carefully selecting a particular bean and then finding the perfect and perfectly fresh roast for it. Discard that first morning shot. Or use it for the family member who likes to add flavorings.
Finally, foam. Two boilers meant, I hoped, extra oomph for the steam. And, that is the case. Makes great foam for those afternoon cappuccinos, wet or dry.
But, what about those morning lattes? Need that perfect micro-foam, nary a single visible bubble, to pour through the surface and float the delicate crema to the surface. Pull the outer aerating sleeve off the foam nozzle and, with practice, can get micro-foam. As the nozzle swings out and not, like most machines, out and up, it remains perpendicular so cannot get the spinning in the pitcher that experts recommend for those of us unable to get perfect micro-foam in the first stages; amazing what steaming sins the swirling milk will bury.
That's not the real problem, though. Inner nozzle, when aerating outer sleeve is removed, is held on only by the friction of an o-ring, unlike others I have used where there is some kind of firm lock. Now and then, the inner nozzle, when used solo, fires itself into the cream pitcher.
So, lattes are not easy. Options I am considering: keep aerating sleeve in place and hold back the foam as I pour, making a 100% "wet" cappuccino; plug up the air intake hole in the aerating sleeve; or, hacksaw off the lower 2/3rd's of that outer sleeve, keeping the portion that holds everything together. But, then, no cappuccino's.
Update: Ended up taking a hack saw to the outer nozzle to kill the frother function, keeping just enough of the outer piece to hold the inner nozzle in place. Has worked very well. Can get microfoam good enough even to make my feeble attempts at latte art.
Summary: These machines are designed for convenience. The DeLonghi does deliver: want a fast, effortless beverage, you will get it after some initial tinkering. The complications that arise open the door for those who want to pursue a bit more but are not ready for all the hassles (and expense) of a full bore machine, requiring attention to several other variables. As to the latte foam issue, I chose 5 stars because the machine does perform well as advertised, including claiming to only provide foam for cappuccinos.
Update: Oct, 2010 - Has worked just fine until now - average of 5 or 6 double shot drinks/day day in, day out - over half include steaming milk. Steam system has now failed and so am in the market for a new machine. Steam nozzle always dripped a bit, became worse, eventually control would rotate only with great force. Then, control knob broke. Vice grips applied to knob are my temporary solution while deciding on next machine.