I bought this device to replace my previous device, a Saeco Moltio (entry-level model 1-button cappucino). This started to show some defects after a few years, especially with the milking mechanism.
looks
Personally, I'm not a fan of glossy black (my wife is), but I have to say that it fits this device extremely well. Together with the chrome elements it is a beautiful whole. What also immediately struck me is how compact this device is, our countertop immediately looks a bit more streamlined.
Water reservoir
This device has a large water reservoir of 1.8 liters. With the water filter installed, it can effectively hold 1.65 liters of water up to the MAX line, which is still more than enough for the average user. The water reservoir is also not clogged in the device as with other devices, so you can check the water level at all times.
bean container
The bean container is easy to open and is very spacious. The beans also slide easily into the grinder without leaving anything behind.
The coffee
At first I was afraid that my espressos would taste slightly different in this device because it does not have ceramic grinding discs like the previous one. I've been using both units side by side for a day and can't detect a noticeable difference in taste between the metal and ceramic grinders. DeLonghi has done well with this device. I also like my espresso as hot as possible, and in terms of temperature, the Delonghi leaves the Saeco far behind. What is also striking during the brewing process is that this device is significantly quieter when brewing a nice cup of coffee. This is one of the quieter units I've seen in action.
The milk specialties
The rest of the family mainly consumes the milk specialties, and we are also positively surprised there, whether it is a Cappucino or a Latte Macchiato, these come out just as beautiful and taste delicious every time. You can adjust the frothing level of the milk from flat to extra frothy to suit everyone's taste. What we find particularly useful is that the complete milk reservoir can be stored in the refrigerator, with the previous appliance we had to empty it every time to be able to clean the milk circuit. This is not necessary with this device, because with the milk in the reservoir you can start a rinse of the milk circuit with the turn of the knob. I should also note that the noise level of frothed milk is many times quieter than with our old appliance.
Maintenance
When designing this device, I think the focus was on excellent coffee and ease of use. The coffee grounds drawer and water collector are easy to remove and very easy to clean with a little soapy water. What stands out here with the previous unit is that there is a separate area for collecting ground coffee, so that it does not mix with the water surplus. With the Saeco this is 1 compartment and that was usually a gunk. The brew group must be cleaned once a month. This can also be done very easily by removing the water reservoir, opening a hatch, removing the brew group and letting it soak in cold water for a while. then rinse and let dry and the machine is ready for use again.
Maybe a small minus?
The heated bag holder on top, it takes a long time before it is up to temperature, now I personally don't mind because I first rinse my cups with hot water to bring them up to temperature.
Conclusion: no regrets!
