Uncover if the De’Longhi Dinamica Plus Espresso Machine lives up to the hype!

Description

Design & Build Quality

Testing the De’Longhi Dinamica Plus ECAM38085SB every day has been quite an experience, and I’ll admit, I started calling it “Nico” as if it were my new barista friend. The sleek silver finish and compact dimensions (16.9″ D x 9.3″ W x 13.7″ H) make it fit perfectly on my kitchen counter without taking up too much space. The plastic-coated exterior doesn’t scream luxury but feels durable enough for daily use. Its clean lines and soft-touch buttons give it a modern, polished look. While the build quality is generally impressive, the weight of 21.7 pounds makes it less portable than I expected.

Brewing Performance

The brewing performance of this espresso machine is where things get interesting. Using the built-in conical burr grinder with 13 settings, I was able to adjust the grind for different coffee beans. This feature ensured the freshest espresso every time, though I’ll admit it took some trial and error to perfect the settings. The brewing unit itself is reliable, and the machine consistently delivers piping hot coffee. However, the learning curve is real, especially if you’re transitioning from a simpler coffee maker.

Coffee Quality

I’m no coffee snob, but the richness and aroma from freshly ground beans are unbeatable. Each cup of espresso, cappuccino, or latte was bold and satisfying. I used various brands of whole beans, including a strong roast from Death Wish Coffee, and the results were consistently delightful. That said, on days I craved a more nuanced flavor, the brew lacked the complexity I get from my old semi-automatic espresso machine. Still, the quality is leagues ahead of anything you’d make with a standard drip coffee maker.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

Here’s where the LatteCrema™ system stole the show. Frothing milk (and even oat milk) has never been easier, thanks to its automatic frother. I played around with the three customizable settings—light, creamy, and dense foam—and was surprised by how much control I had. My go-to latte came out creamy, with a foam texture I’d expect from a café. My father-in-law even declared it the best latte he’s ever had, which is high praise coming from him! However, cleaning the milk frother daily can feel like a chore.

Features

The Dinamica Plus ECAM38085SB is loaded with features, and I mean loaded. The 3.5” TFT touchscreen display deserves special mention—it’s intuitive and makes navigating the 24+ one-touch recipes a breeze. I loved the Smart One-Touch feature that remembers my most-used drinks, saving me time during my rushed mornings. The inclusion of multiple user profiles was a hit in my household; my partner could have her strong espresso while I enjoyed my milky cappuccino without reprogramming settings. However, the machine’s “auto shut-off” and “adjustable brew strength” features were what made it feel truly premium.

Maintenance & Cleaning

I won’t sugarcoat this part: maintenance is a mixed bag. While the self-cleaning functionality is a lifesaver, it doesn’t eliminate manual cleaning entirely. Several parts, such as the milk frother and the removable brew unit, need regular handwashing. I found that even after a single use, components could get sticky or splattered, requiring extra attention. Dishwasher-safe parts are a bonus, but if you’re someone who dislikes cleaning, this might be a slight inconvenience.

Water Tank & Capacity

The water tank deserves a shoutout for its decent capacity. Holding enough water for multiple drinks, it reduced the need for constant refilling, which is a massive plus when hosting friends or family. The removable design made it easy to clean and refill, though I did notice that the float indicator sometimes got stuck.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

Energy efficiency is another area where this machine shines. The automatic shut-off feature ensures that the machine doesn’t waste energy if I forget to turn it off. As for noise levels, it’s quieter than most grinders I’ve used but not completely silent. Early morning brewing won’t wake the entire house, but it’s not whisper-quiet either.

Warranty & Support

I haven’t had to use the warranty yet, but knowing that De’Longhi includes a standard warranty gives me peace of mind. Customer support has a solid reputation, and the online resources, including how-to videos, are a big help when troubleshooting minor issues.

Good Points

• The Smart One-Touch remembers your favorite drinks, making mornings easier.
• Impressive milk frothing system with options for different textures.
• Compact and stylish design that fits kitchens of all sizes.
• Built-in grinder ensures the freshest possible coffee.
• Multiple user profiles make it ideal for families or shared households.

Areas for Improvement

• Cleaning can be time-consuming, especially for the milk frother.
• Brew flavor lacks the complexity of a semi-automatic machine.
• The weight makes it less portable than some alternatives.
• Float indicator in the water tank occasionally malfunctions.

Industry Competitors

Comparing the De’Longhi Dinamica Plus ECAM38085SB to other high-end machines like the Breville Barista Pro or Jura E8 highlights some interesting differences. The Breville offers better manual control, appealing to those who enjoy tweaking every detail of their brew. The Jura, on the other hand, excels in simplicity and ease of use but comes with a significantly higher price tag. What sets the Dinamica Plus apart is its balance between automation and customization, as well as its ability to handle milk alternatives better than many competitors.

Quality for Price

This coffee machine feels like a long-term investment. While it’s not the cheapest, it strikes a balance between high-end features and everyday functionality. If you’re a coffee enthusiast—especially someone transitioning from café drinks to home brewing—this is a worthy option. The customizable profiles and intuitive touchscreen make it accessible for beginners, while the built-in grinder and frothing system satisfy more experienced users.

Additional information