Delonghi all in one review: have your cake and eat it!

DeLonghi Dedica – What’s it like to use?

While the Dedica’s design is simple, the brewing process is more complex. Like other pump-driven machines, the coffee making is more a ritual than a convenience, designed to value the result rather than rapidity.

The process starts with you selecting either the single or double filter or the ESE filter – each is helpfully embossed on the underside to prevent mix-ups – and then inserting it into the holder, which is filled with ground coffee and tamped down until it’s level using the separate presser, unless you’ve used an ESE capsule, of course. Choose ground coffee and it’s hard not to spill it, while if you prefer less mess, capsules are the way to go.

Getting the filters in and out of the holder is tricky, as the fitting is tight and it’s wise to make sure your fingers are well out of the way. The filter holder is then inserted and twisted into the machine – again, the fitting is snug and requires a little effort to secure it.

Select the one or two shots option button and coffee dispenses quickly and smoothly, with minimal drips once it’s finished. For longer drinks, a steam wand at the side can be used to froth milk to a firm, creamy consistency for cappuccinos. While it requires cleaning straight after use, the outer cover detaches to reveal a rubber spout, making it easy to spot and remove any residue.

One issue we did have was the boiler growing too hot after prolonged use, preventing the machine from continuing to make coffee or operating the steam wand. However, there was an easy resolution for cooling it by letting out hot water from the wand.

Who Are Delonghi?

Known for their high-quality products with a focus on design, Delonghi are amongst the most popular home appliance manufacturers. The company is based in Italy and, aside from coffee machines, produces gelato makers, air conditioners and many other products.

Delonghi tends to focus on mid-range coffee machines costing between £200-£800 – although they have some premium models too (such as the Prima Donna range). While this might sound expensive, the priciest bean-to-cup models can cost £1500+, so Delonghi machines often provide excellent value for money. They also offer slightly less expensive options such as the ESAM2800.

DeLonghi All in One vs Other Combination Machines

I couldn’t wrap up my DeLonghi All in One Review without talking about how this coffee machine fares in comparison with other machines.  With that said, let’s get into it!

DeLonghi All in One COM532M vs BCO430BM

The and the All in One may look very similar but at $599.99, you’ll be spending a lot less on the BCO430BM.

What’s missing is a digital display, although it does have a clock. Plus, you’ll find a warming plate on top of the lid. This one does have a manual milk frother but it lacks the advanced settings of the COM532M.

DeLonghi All in One COM532M vs Espressione EM1040

Besides its stainless steel housing, there are a few differences between the Espressione EM1040R and the DeLonghi All in One, starting with its $299.95 price tag.

Further, the Espressione can achieve an impressive 19 bars of pressure, compared to the DeLonghi’s 15 bars. The user interface on this machine also gives you more control over your espresso shots. However, it lacks a digital display and programmable timer.

DeLonghi All in One COM532M vs Galanz GLEC02S3CT14

One of the biggest differences between the DeLonghi All in One and the Galanz 2 in 1 Espresso Pump Machine and Single Serve Coffee Maker is the size. The Galanz machine is even more compact, although there’s no carafe for the regular coffee side.

Given its single serve size, it’s no surprise the Galanz is a little cheaper at $64.81. Just like the DeLonghi, you’ll also find a filter holder and a reusable filter to eliminate the need for paper waste on this Galanz machine.

DeLonghi All in One Specifications

Tips for Using Your Delonghi Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine

Delonghi bean-to-cup coffee machines produce fantastic coffee, but there are a few factors that can affect the quality. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your new machine:

• Don’t be afraid to experiment with the coarseness of the grind – especially when using a new coffee variety. Each type of coffee bean varies in terms of taste and other characteristics, so you’ll need to test a few coarseness settings to find the best option. When testing different grind settings, make sure other settings are kept the same.
• Make sure you buy high-quality fresh coffee beans. Any bean-to-cup coffee machine is limited by the quality of the beans you use – there’s no point paying hundreds of pounds for a great machine only to waste it on poor-quality beans!
• Regularly clean your bean-to-cup coffee machine to make sure it’s always in good working condition. Most of the machines on this list have various indicators for when the descaling programme should be run or drip tray emptied – but don’t rely on indicators for everything. Set a reminder for cleaning the brewing unit, running the descaling programme and other important maintenance tasks.

Verdict: DeLonghi All in One Review

makes coffee and espresso

The best of all worlds

Compact design

Versatile steam wand

Dual heating system

Good value for money

No milk pitcher included

Flimsy plastic espresso tamper

Combining the versatility of two separate machines into one compact package, there’s a lot to like about the DeLonghi All in One. I’m glad I decided to embark on this DeLonghi All in One review. I guess I can understand what all the fuss is about now.

There are loads of good things about this dual coffee maker, and for the money it’ll please a lot of people. Not only does it come with a timer to automatically brew coffee, digital touchscreen and a steam dial, it packs all this in without taking up too much counter space. Still, if you’re serious about espresso you may be left disappointed.

Now I just need to decide whether to include this review in my best coffee maker guide or espresso machine guide!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my DeLonghi All in One Review. I’d love to hear what you think of this compact combination machine, so keep the comments coming!

What is the DeLonghi Dedica?

A slimmer version of the traditional bar pump machine, the Dedica aims to incorporate all that’s attractive about this type of coffee maker, but with a few extra features and in a smaller, more worktop-friendly package. It’s almost half the width of most pump-driven machines, yet still manages to shoehorn in a good-sized cup warmer on top and a generous water tank at the back.

In addition to ground coffee, the Dedica can also use ESE (easy serving espresso) capsules, making the brewing process a little easier with less mess. It comes in three smart finishes – stainless steel, red or black – on a robust metal body.

SEE ALSO: Best Coffee Machines Round-up

DeLonghi All in One Review Overview

I’ll go into more detail about the coffee machine’s best features later on in this DeLonghi All in One Review. However, here’s a quick rundown if you’re in a rush.

My first impressions of the DeLonghi All in One left me with more than a few questions. Sure, this hybrid device looks pretty sophisticated. However, can it deliver high quality coffee and espresso for just $319.95? Plus, am I going to get convincing milk foam out of this thing or is the steam wand just a gimmick?

In case you were wondering, the DeLonghi All in One uses a dual heating system that allows you to brew coffee and espresso drinks at the same time. On the espresso side, you’ll get a 15 bar pump, which is fairly standard for most home espresso makers.

There’s also a manual steam wand with two settings. I mean, what’s the point of an espresso machine if you can’t make steamed milk? In case you’re already having trouble choosing between making espresso or drip, the DeLonghi All in One gives you other options too. For example, there’s a 2 in 1 portafilter in case you favor pods over ground espresso.

When it comes to the coffee maker side of this machine, there’s a spill proof carafe to ensure not a drop of your favorite drip gets wasted.

If you’re someone who likes control over flavor and aroma preferences, you’ll certainly appreciate the option to customize the brew strength. Plus, the digital touchscreen allows you to program the brew time up to 24 hours in advance.

How To Use the DeLonghi All in One

Since the DeLonghi All in One has both drip coffee and espresso capabilities, I’ll cover how to use it for both. Either way, you should be able to get great tasting coffee in no time.

Here’s how you can make drip in this coffee machine:

1. Start by opening the filter holder door, then add fresh water to the tank. To avoid overfilling, be sure to use the glass carafe and don’t exceed the max line.

2. Make sure your gold tone filter is correctly positioned, then use the measuring spoon to add coffee grounds to the filter.

3. Close the filter holder door, make sure you’ve got your carafe on the warming plate and press the Coffee ON/OFF button.

4. If you want to use the bold setting, press the button after you’ve turned the coffee machine on.

And here’s a rundown for cooking up espresso:

1. First, you’ll want to add ground coffee beans to the portafilter and make sure you’ve filled the water tank up appropriately.

2. Press the Espresso ON/OFF button and let the espresso machine preheat. The button will continue to flash while it’s preheating but once it’s ready, you’ll see a solid light.

3. Rinse your demitasse cup with a little warm water before placing it under the spout.

4. Now it’s time to press the button with an espresso cup icon.

5. Take a moment to marvel at the wonderful aromatic liquid making its way out of the spout!

6. Seeing as this is a manual machine you’ll need to press the espresso icon button again to stop the extraction.

DeLonghi All in One Review FAQ

Can I make both espresso and coffee at the same time on the DeLonghi All in One?

Yes, the dual heating system we’ve talked about in this DeLonghi All in One review means that you can be making espresso and drip simultaneously – no need for long wait times.

How do I make a cappuccino on the DeLonghi All in One?

To make a cappuccino in the DeLonghi All in One, start by preparing a shot of espresso. Next, add cold milk to a stainless steel milk pitcher and press the steam button. Once the button has stopped flashing, immerse the steam wand and turn the steam dial counter clockwise. You should aim to triple the volume of the milk. Once you’ve finished steaming, spoon the foam over the espresso and add a touch of hot milk.

US versions: Delonghi ECP3220, ECP3420, ECP3620, ECP3630 review

For the US/Canada market, Delonghi produces three slightly different models. Or six if you count color variations. The main difference between North American and European versions is that all American ECPs are equipped with ‘double drip tray’ system, the same ‘innovation’ that earlier was introduced on :

It’s hard to use this mini drip tray for a long time because it’s capacity is literally a few drops. That’s why normally you will use the big one, which limits the maximum cup height to 90 mm = 3.5 inches.

All models are very similar, however, there are some distinctions. Here is a comparison:

New! ECP3120. New variation is announced on the North American market. If compared to all other Delonghi ECP models the ECP3120 is the simpliest one – full plastic body (except for the grouphead), simple panarello wand w/o hot milk mode and no double drip tray (see above). However, there are no taste differences.

De’Longhi ECP3220 is the cheapest ‘sister’ in the family. For some reason, some shops call it ‘Deluxe’. However, it is an exact copy of the European ECP 33.21. And it is definitely less ‘luxe’ than ECP3420 (so there is no reason to pay for ECP3220 more).

1. Plastic body with some metal decoration: drip tray and panarello aremade of metal. Nevertheless, it’s still mostly plastic in coating.
2. Simple steam wand (panarello).
3. It comes in three colors (color is the only difference): simple black ECP3220, red ECP3220R and white ECP3220W:

De’Longhi ECP3420 is similar to the ECP3220, but without color option (only black plastic) and more metal used. Another model – the De’Longhi ECP3620 – might seem to be made of stainless steel. However, the body is not 100% metal – it’s just plastic colored with silver paint. Thus, I consider both 3420 and 3620 to be one model in different colors:

1. Body is mainly made of plastic, however, more parts are metallic – the front side almost fully is covered in metal plates. In the case of cup stand (which has a function of the cup warmer as well), it helps to warm cups more efficiently. However, it’s still a passive cup warmer, so don’t count on it much – the stand is located above the boiler it becomes warm in a ‘natural’ way. It’s not electrical. Sides are plastic.
2. Simple steam wand (panarello)
3. Black (3420) or silver (3620)

De’Longhi ECP3630 is remarkable for the new steam wand installed. The milk frother has hot milk/foam settings, which is described above. In the foam mode, it will froth as simple steam wand does. Switching to the hot milk mode will help you to heat up the milk without frothing it.

1. Body is still made of metal and gray colored plastic (see photo below)
2. New steam wand – panarello with regulator ring for less/more foam
3. Silver

I also want to pay attention one more time to the fact that Delonghi Espresso and Cappuccino maker ECP3220/3420/3630 is namely espresso maker, not similar to classic American drip coffee makers. It means it can deliver maximum 60 ml/2 oz (or 90 ml/3 oz being well heated) of coffee of right temperature that is equivalent of two espressos or one lungo. If you want to make an American coffee (e.g. full 200 mg mug of black coffee), you should make an espresso first, than add hot water from steam wand.

If you will try to brew a mug of coffee by simply letting a lot of water come through tampered coffee the result would be pour. Because a) the taste will be bitter due to overextraction under high pressure, b) the temperature of the coffee will be low, since Delonghi ECP has a boiler, not a thermoblock inside. If you want an espresso maker with thermoblock, which can deliver more amount of hot water of right temperature, you should check my Delonghi EC680 coffee maker review.

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Summary

Delonghi bean-to-cup coffee machines are amongst the best in the UK. In fact, three of their models made our list of the 10 best bean-to-cup machines – and there were others that came close.

But what makes this brand so popular? For a start, most of their models provide outstanding value for money, with many including features that are usually only found on more expensive models. Delonghi coffee machines also have a reputation for producing excellent espresso and being highly reliable.

If we had to choose our favourite Delonghi machine it would be the ECAM44.660.B. The combination of automated cappuccino making, excellent quality espresso and range of customisation features make it our top pick.

DeLonghi All in One Observations

I started out the hands-on testing phase of my DeLonghi All in One review by checking out the coffee maker side. I’ve been drinking a lot of single origin Kenya coffee lately, and was excited to see how it would taste in the DeLonghi.

As always, I used the included coffee scoop rather than my coffee scale, seeing as that’s how most of you would do it. I also followed the manufacturer’s recommendations for ground coffee to water ratios. In short, I used one level scoop for every ‘cup’ of coffee.

I must say I was really impressed by the results when brewing normally. The machine did a great job of highlighting the Kenya’s bright, sparkling acidity and the familiar notes of cherry and orange zest were present. Plus, the coffee was delivered at what I’d consider to be the ideal temperature.

However, when I brewed using the bold setting, the coffee tasted bitter and over-extracted. Incidentally, I’d used the exact same ratio of ground coffee to water. So, I’d recommend ignoring that setting altogether.

Now that I was good and caffeinated, I moved on to the espresso side. One thing I noticed is that the machine took longer than expected to heat up. Still, I only had to wait a couple of minutes. Again, I followed the manufacturer’s recommendations and used two scoops of finely ground coffee in the double basket.

At first I thought I’d hit the jackpot – my shot looked great and timed out perfectly. However, the taste was completely wrong – more like strong coffee than espresso. Then I remembered I was using a pressurized basket. I experimented with different grind sizes and doses, but the results were always the same.

Ultimately, the fact remains that you’ll need a non-pressurized filter basket to get the best out of this espresso machine.

DeLonghi Dedica – Design and Features

Given its compact footprint, the Dedica has had to step away from the conventional styling of a pump machine and take on its own identity. Features that would usually be at the front, such as the control for the steam wand, have been swivelled round to the side.

The option buttons – for selecting single or double espressos, as well as steam – which are typically found on a front panel, have been elevated to the chrome strip around the top, while the power button is discreetly hidden along the bottom trim at the side. All of this promotes the sleek lines and minimal appearance of the machine while still maintaining a professional-style configuration.

Good looks aside, its attraction lies in being able to produce the sort of drink that appeals to coffee connoisseurs, and there’s lots of features that go towards that experience. Using the option buttons, you can set the water hardness of your area, how hot you want your coffee and how long you want it to stay on after use – and that’s before you’ve even started on the universal brewing variables of adjusting the amounts of coffee, how much it’s tamped down and how long or short you want your espresso to be.

There’s also a boiler safeguard in place to stop your coffee scorching, and a removable drip tray to allow for larger cups beneath the spout, so you can make longer drinks using the steam wand.