Explore De’Longhi EC680M Espresso Machine Review: Is It Worth Your Investment?

Description

Design & Build Quality

The sleek design of the De’Longhi EC680M Dedica espresso machine instantly caught my eye. Its stainless steel finish gives it a modern and minimalist appearance that fits perfectly in my small kitchen. At only 6 inches wide, it barely takes up any counter space, which is a blessing for anyone with limited room. The build feels sturdy and well-crafted, though I did notice the water tank could use a better grip for removal. My fingers awkwardly fumbled the first few times I tried to detach it. If you prioritize compactness and aesthetics, this machine delivers on both fronts.

Brewing Performance

Using this machine daily, I’ve come to appreciate its consistency in brewing. It heats up in an impressive 40 seconds thanks to its thermoblock technology, which means no waiting around for my caffeine fix. The 15-bar pressure ensures every shot of espresso is rich and aromatic. I did have to play around with the grind size and tamping pressure initially to avoid watery shots, but once I figured out the sweet spot, it was smooth sailing. Even my coworker, who’s a self-proclaimed coffee snob, gave it a thumbs up after trying a shot.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The milk frother is one of the standout features. As someone who loves lattes and cappuccinos, I found it relatively easy to create creamy, textured milk foam. The manual frother produces a velvety froth that’s impressive for a machine in this price range. My 12-year-old nephew even managed to whip up a decent cappuccino on his first try, though he did make a mess with the steam wand. The frothing wand could be a bit longer for better maneuverability, but it’s manageable with smaller pitchers.

Coffee Quality

The espresso shots this machine pulls are consistently flavorful with a decent crema on top. I tested the machine with both pre-ground coffee and freshly ground beans, and the difference was noticeable. If you’re serious about your coffee, invest in a good burr grinder. I also experimented with ESE pods for convenience and found the results satisfactory, though not as rich as using freshly ground beans. My grandmother, who prefers her coffee strong, was delighted with the bold taste.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

This machine is surprisingly energy-efficient, with an auto-shutoff feature that can be customized. I set mine to turn off after 15 minutes, which is perfect for my morning routine. However, the noise level surprised me. The pump is quite loud, especially when frothing milk. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re an early riser like me, be prepared for some side-eye from family members still in bed.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning the De’Longhi EC680M is straightforward. The removable drip tray and water tank make it easy to wash and rinse. The descaling process, though a bit time-consuming, is automated and hassle-free. A light indicator lets you know when it’s time to descale, which is a helpful feature. I do recommend investing in a knock box for used coffee grounds—it makes cleanup less of a chore. My only complaint is the awkward design of the water tank, which can be challenging to reattach properly.

Water Tank & Capacity

The water tank holds enough for multiple shots of espresso, but if you’re making back-to-back lattes or cappuccinos, you’ll find yourself refilling it often. The transparent design allows you to see the water level at a glance, which is handy. I do wish it had a handle for easier removal, as the small grip space is not the most user-friendly.

Warranty & Support

De’Longhi offers a standard warranty, and from my experience, their customer service is responsive. I had a minor issue with a missing filter, and they shipped me a replacement within a week. Other users have reported mixed experiences with support, but I had no complaints. It’s worth registering your product to ensure you’re covered.

Positives

Highlights:

• Compact and stylish design fits small spaces.
• Quick 40-second heat-up time thanks to thermoblock technology.
• Produces rich, flavorful espresso with a lovely crema.
• Manual frother creates creamy, textured milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos.
• Easy-to-clean removable water tank and drip tray.

Negative Attributes

Pitfalls:

• Loud pump and frothing system can be disruptive.
• Water tank design lacks a proper handle for easy removal.
• Requires some trial and error to perfect espresso shots.
• Frothing wand could be longer for more flexibility.

Product Alternatives

Among the competing brands, the Breville Bambino Plus stands out as a strong contender. While it’s slightly more expensive, it boasts an automatic frothing system that’s ideal for beginners. However, it lacks the compactness of the De’Longhi EC680M Dedica, making it less suitable for tight spaces. On the other hand, the Gaggia Classic Pro offers a more robust build and better espresso extraction but comes with a steeper learning curve. For those who prioritize ease of use, the Nespresso VertuoLine provides one-touch brewing but sacrifices the authentic espresso experience.

Quality for Price

This machine offers a solid balance of features and affordability. Compared to higher-end models, it lacks some bells and whistles like a built-in grinder or pressure gauge. However, for its price, it delivers impressive espresso quality and a satisfying milk frothing experience. If you’re looking for an entry-level machine that doesn’t skimp on performance, this one delivers excellent value.

Additional information