DeLonghi America, Inc EC685R Dedica Deluxe 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine, Red

There is a learning curve with this machine, but once you get the hang of it, a nice shot of espresso takes only 5 minutes from start to finish (cleaning). The machine quickly reaches operating temperature; It only takes 40 seconds to get up and running. I do, however, begin by pulling an empty shot to warm up the filter and the cup. After the initial pull, I discovered that the water temperature rises slightly. The next step is to obtain the espresso shot itself. I do double shots the majority of the time, which takes about 25 to 30 seconds. It takes around 20 seconds for a single shot. (For comparison, Starbucks' fully automatic Mastrena machine costs $180,00 and takes 1824 seconds to make quad shots. ) ) For an entry-level espresso machine, a 30 second double shot isn't bad, and I found the shot quality to be consistent. Of course, a perfect shot of espresso isn't made by the machine alone, but the consistency of the machine is crucial when it comes to the quality of the shots. I find that the default medium temperature is sufficient for me, but I can adjust the temperature to low or high as needed in the settings. br>Because I don't drink lattes or cappuccinos, I don't steam very often, but when I do, this machine is up to the task. I don't get super creamy, velvety frothed milk (steaming milk), but it does the job. It takes about 60 seconds to reach a temperature of about 160 degrees. And, before pulling the shots, the water must be purged immediately after steaming. There are a few extra steps to take, but they only take about 20 seconds to complete. Overall, this is a nice little machine that is only slightly larger than my Nespresso Pixie, and I like the compact design because it takes up less counter space. My Pixie recently began to leak, and I became frustrated with the high cost of Nespresso's 'capsules. ' I also couldn't find a dependable nespresso filter that could be reused. So, in my defense, a manual machine like this might be able to justify my decision. I was looking for a manual/semi-automated machine that was not too expensive, "small," and simple to maintain. br>I believe the machine is overpriced for what it is, but I am satisfied with the shot quality I am getting. The previous 680 model (currently $235) is a good option for a better price, in my opinion, and the only difference I found is the steaming wand: the newer version has steaming options for 'hot milk' and 'cappuccino,' whereas the 680 model does not. Since milk steaming relies (not 100%) on pitcher handling,’t think this minor change is worth more than $100 price difference I don’t think this minor change is worth more However, for an americano, espresso con panna, straight espresso shots, or just a simple last and cappuccino, I am confident that both models would perform admirably.

Sky Maloney

| Oct 13, 2021

Let's take a look at some of the negative feedback. I've had this machine for six months and am extremely pleased with it. Let me tell you what's on my mind. As a result, many of the negative reviews are only partially accurate. true; Yes, after just two cups of coffee, the machine warns you that it's overheated. However, by running the machine for 5 seconds with water, you can quickly solve the issues. Yes, after a few months, the machine will issue a descaling warning, but you can simply ignore it (the color of one of the buttons is the only thing that changes). I use Brita water to avoid descaleing the machine, but everything else works fine and the coffee tastes great. The machine is designed in a stylish manner. The temperature is comfortable and can be changed as needed. The cappuccino maker works well and is simple to clean (purge it before and after each use, wipe it down with a tissue, and you're done). So far, it hasn't caused me any issues. The only problem I have with it is that if the coffee is ground extremely finely, it will not run. And I occasionally get or buy very good coffee; that is my only gripe with it. But it's not worth it to spend $1,000 on an espresso machine.

Sariah Delgado

| Apr 27, 2021

BUY THIS COMPANY'S PRODUCT AT YOUR OWN RISK. This machine gets very little use in my house, so it isn't overworked. I make one latte per day about four times per week. I paid over $360 for it, and it's only been 2 months. It's overheating and not producing steam. I called DeLonghi and was told that I would have to pay for shipping to have a product repaired that I had only had for a short time. This company has disappointed me, and if it is returned, this will be the last product I buy from them. br>br>UPDATE: br>br> 1/30/18. The machine has been out of commission for more than a month. They're not sure when they'll be able to get the part. Perhaps in a few weeks. I was in desperate need of a new pump. So I'm left with a two-month-old machine that I had to pay $40 to ship back for repair and have no idea when I'll get it back. It's really nice. br>NOTE: THIS PAGE HAS BEEN UPDATED. 2/8/18 Machine was returned the day before yesterday, and when I took it out of the box, the bag and machine were both soaked. The water came out of the machine everywhere EXCEPT into the coffee holder when I set it up to make a cappuccino. Even after I turned off the machine, it continued to drip around the coffee holder, and when I returned to try again, the entire counter was covered in a large puddle of water, and the reservoir was nearly empty. I complained to Amazon about this product, which was returned in worse condition even after being repaired for two months. They gave me a refund, and I'm returning the item to Amazon. On the basis of product support and repair, I would not buy this machine.

April Sharp

| Dec 30, 2021

In January 2018, I bought this machine. I haven't been able to use it since last week due to leaking around the boiler gasket. I've reached out to DeLonghi directly. They've tried four times to force me to upload video as proof of the problem, but each time they've failed because their systems, both over the phone and online, don't work. I now have to ship it to a service center on my own dime, and while I haven't checked, I can only imagine how much shipping something so heavy must cost. I'm not going to buy another DeLonghi item.

Marco MELLOR

| Jul 23, 2021

Until recently, it had been working flawlessly. In January, I purchased this item. Up until this week, everything was fine. When my machine indicated that it needed descaling, I used Delonghi filters and Delonghi DeCaulking liquid. I've thoroughly cleaned the unit after each use, which is on a daily basis. It has stopped working as of today. When I contacted Customer Service, they advised me to try everything I had already tried, but it still didn't work. They now want me to drive 40 miles to a service center, where they claim someone will try to repair it. To drop off and pick up, you'll have to drive 80 miles round trip twice. I inquired as to what would happen if the problem could not be resolved. They stated that they would be contacted, but that they would most likely not be able to replace the unit with a new one. I strongly advise against purchasing this item.

Halle Howard

| Oct 28, 2021