Comparing Breville and DeLonghi coffee makers to determine the optimal choice for you.
In the world of home espresso machines, two brands stand out: Breville and De'Longhi. Both offer a range of manual and semi-automatic coffee machines for various budgets. Let's delve into some of their best models.
Breville Options
The Breville Bambino Plus is a popular choice, striking a balance between semi-automatic and manual control. It features pre-infusion, volumetric dispensing, and a MilQ Plus setting for automatic milk steaming, allowing users to manually steam as well. Despite being an entry-level model, it boasts a premium feel and is compact, making it ideal for beginners [1][3].
De'Longhi Options
On the other hand, the De'Longhi Dedica Style is a truly compact manual espresso machine, perfect for small kitchens. It operates quietly at 55dB and includes a manual steam wand. It doesn't come with an integrated grinder, but it supports Easy Serve Espresso (ESE) pods for convenience [4].
Comparison
| Feature | Breville Bambino Plus | De'Longhi Dedica Style | |--------------------|----------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------| | Automation Level| Semi-automatic (manual control over steam) | Manual | | Key Features | Pre-infusion, volumetric dispensing, MilQ Plus for milk steaming | Manual steam wand, compact design, ESE pod support | | Price | Generally more expensive than purely manual machines | Budget-friendly, compact | | Reliability | Breville is known for high reliability scores[5] | De'Longhi also has a good reliability record[5] |
The Verdict
Breville offers machines like the Bambino Plus, which provide a balance of automation and manual control. They are known for reliability and premium features but may be more expensive.
De'Longhi, on the other hand, provides compact, budget-friendly options like the Dedica Style, ideal for those who prefer manual control and a smaller footprint. Both brands are reliable, but Breville edges out slightly in this aspect.
It's worth noting that in CHOICE testing, performance of specific models may vary significantly, so it's advisable to check the results of individual models in their espresso machine review before buying [6].
[1] CHOICE experts regularly test dozens of semi-automatic and manual home espresso machines, providing detailed reviews exclusively to CHOICE members to help decide which one is right for you.
[2] Coffee temperature is generally good for Breville machines, and they have fewer problems with milk frothing and controls/buttons not working compared to other brands.
[3] Breville The Barista Express, which costs slightly more ($949), has an auto-dose and built-in tamper.
[4] The De'Longhi Dedica Style doesn't have a built-in grinder, but it supports Easy Serve Espresso (ESE) pods for convenience.
[5] Among the brands CHOICE has data on, Breville consistently comes out on top for brand reliability when it comes to espresso machines, with Breville customers reporting they're very satisfied with their machines. De'Longhi also has a good reliability record.
[6] It's important to bear in mind that in CHOICE testing, performance of specific models may vary quite significantly, so it's advisable to check the results of individual models in their espresso machine review before buying.
- When considering privacy policy, it's essential for users to review the privacy policies of websites like CHOICE, as they collect personal information to provide detailed reviews and recommendations for various products, including food-and-drink items such as home espresso machines.
- In addition to manual and semi-automatic espresso machines, both Breville and De'Longhi offer a diverse range of products suited to different lifestyles, such as food-and-drink appliances and home-and-garden tools.
- Comparing product reviews, Breville's Bambino Plus performs better in terms of milk frothing and control consistency, but both Breville and De'Longhi achieve good coffee temperatures, as mentioned in the reviews provided by CHOICE experts.
