Breville Vs DeLonghi: When it comes to selecting a home espresso machine, many people find themselves torn between Breville and DeLonghi. These reputable brands both offer top-notch machines at affordable prices. So, how do you make the right choice? This article will explore the intricacies to assist you in determining which company is producing the perfect machine to suit your needs.
We will begin by examining both brands and then proceed to compare their respective machines in head-to-head battles.
An Introduction to DeLonghi
DeLonghi, an Italian company with a rich heritage in espresso, has been in existence for over a century. While it took them some time to gain significant market share in the home coffee and espresso machine industry, they have made substantial strides in recent decades.
One noticeable feature of DeLonghi machines is their slim profile and stainless steel casing, setting them apart from Breville’s offerings. Additionally, DeLonghi machines are more likely to be equipped with dual boilers, which is a significant advantage for latte enthusiasts.
The inclusion of dual boilers in DeLonghi machines solves the issue of varying temperature requirements. Brewing water needs to be at approximately 200 ℉, while steam requires a temperature of 212 ℉. With dual boilers, DeLonghi machines can cater to both needs seamlessly.
Furthermore, DeLonghi machines often come with the Pannarello wand, which excels in generating fine microfoam. This is particularly useful for creating intricate latte art.
Pros
– Dual boilers for espresso and steamed milk: DeLonghi machines often feature dual boilers, allowing you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This feature saves time and ensures optimal temperature control for both processes.
– Standard stainless steel casing: DeLonghi machines are known for their sleek and durable stainless steel casings, which not only enhance their appearance but also contribute to their longevity.
– More programmability: DeLonghi machines offer a higher level of programmability, allowing you to customize various settings and parameters to achieve your desired coffee preferences .
– Compact units save space: DeLonghi machines are designed with a slim profile, making them ideal for those with limited countertop space.
Cons
– Smaller water reservoirs: DeLonghi machines tend to have smaller water reservoirs compared to some other espresso machines. This may require more frequent refilling, especially if you frequently make multiple drinks in a row.
– Less manual control: Some users may prefer more manual control over the brewing process, which may be limited in certain DeLonghi models.
All About Breville
Breville, established in Australia in 1932 by Harry Norville and Bill O’Brien, derived its name from a combination of their surnames. The company gained recognition when it introduced the toaster in 1974 and has since evolved into a global powerhouse, renowned for producing top-notch home espresso makers. In this section, we will delve into some of the best Breville models.
Breville machines often captivate users with their artistic style, drawing admiration for their aesthetic appeal. They differentiate themselves from DeLonghi machines through their button interfaces, which provide users with greater control over the espresso-making process. Additionally, Breville machines typically boast larger water reservoirs and longer wands equipped with 360° swivel capabilities. These features contribute to a more convenient and customizable brewing experience.
Pros
– Beautiful design: Breville machines are often praised for their visually appealing and artistic designs, adding a touch of elegance to any kitchen.
– More manual control over espresso shots: Breville machines offer users greater control over the espresso-making process, allowing for more precise adjustments and customization of each shot.
– Long, articulated steam wands: Breville machines typically come with longer steam wands that offer a 360° swivel, providing flexibility and ease of use when frothing milk for lattes and other milk-based drinks.
Cons
– Less programmability: Compared to some other espresso machines, Breville machines may offer fewer programmable options, limiting the ability to customize settings and parameters.
– Higher price: Breville machines are often priced at a higher range compared to some other brands, which may be a consideration for those on a tighter budget.
It’s important to note that the pros and cons mentioned above are general observations and may vary depending on the specific model of Breville machine.
Breville Vs DeLonghi: The Face-To-Face Showdown
Now, let’s delve into the range of machines produced by each brand across various categories and assess how they stack up against each other.
Automatic Espresso Machines
Automatic espresso machines require minimal user input, eliminating the potential for human error and ensuring consistent results. This category serves as a showcase for a brand’s technology, making it an excellent starting point for our comparison.
We will be comparing the popular Breville Barista Touch espresso machine with the DeLonghi La Specialista automatic espresso machine. It’s worth noting that the Breville Barista Express is also commonly compared, although its operation leans more towards a semi-automatic approach.
Breville Barista Touch vs DeLonghi La Specialista
| Features | Breville Barista Touch | DeLonghi La Specialista |
|---|---|---|
| Heating System | Single ThermoJet boiler | Twin thermoblocks |
| Pressure | 15 bar | 19 bar |
| Interface | Touchscreen buttons and dials | Buttons and dials |
| Programmability | Programmable automatic steam wand | Automatic steam wand |
| Water Reservoir | – | 1.3 liters |
| Simultaneous Operation | No | Yes |
| Steam Wand | Automatic | Manual |
Based on the comparison, the Breville Barista Touch features a single ThermoJet boiler, while the DeLonghi La Specialista has twin thermoblocks.
Espresso Quality
Both machines are equipped with built-in conical burr grinders. The Breville offers a wider range of grind sizes, while the DeLonghi features its patented sensor grinding technology, ensuring an optimal dose for every shot.
In terms of pump pressure, the DeLonghi takes the lead with 19 bars compared to Breville’s 15 bars. However, both machines are more than capable of producing true espresso with a rich crema.
The DeLonghi stands out with its dual boilers, providing enhanced temperature stability for optimal coffee extraction and milk texturing simultaneously.
User-friendliness
The Breville espresso machine boasts a user-friendly experience, featuring a touchscreen interface for easy navigation through a variety of pre-programmed drink options. It also includes a pressurized filter basket, making it ideal for novice espresso makers. Additionally, the Breville machine comes with a water filter, reducing the need for frequent descaling.
The DeLonghi espresso machine offers a convenient 1-second quick start feature. Simply turn on the power and start grinding, and the machine will be ready for use. When it comes to cleaning, the DeLonghi sets itself apart with a removable brew head, allowing for easy rinsing.
Both machines feature stylish and easy-to-clean exteriors.
Milk Frothing
Both machines offer automatic milk frothing capabilities. However, the Barista Touch espresso machine by Breville offers more control. It allows you to program the milk temperature between 110 and 170 ℉ and choose from 8 levels of froth density, ranging from dense steamed milk to airy foam. The La Specialista from DeLonghi also includes a steaming wand for hands-free frothing, but it only offers options for flat and foam milk.
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
Semi-automatic espresso machines give users control over dosing and extraction time, allowing for a more hands-on approach. While they may not offer the same level of consistency as automatic machines, skilled users can achieve exceptional results and create superior espresso.
Let’s compare two entry-level models: the Breville Cafe Roma ESP8XL espresso machine and the DeLonghi ECP3630 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine. These machines are ideal for those starting their espresso-making journey.
Breville Cafe Roma vs DeLonghi ECP360
| Features | Breville Cafe Roma | DeLonghi ECP360 |
|---|---|---|
| Heating System | Thermoblock | Thermoblock |
| Steam Wand | Stainless steel with froth enhancer | – |
| Pressure | 15 bar | – |
| Cup Warmer | Double-wall | – |
| Portafilters | – | Self-priming auto tamper |
| Water Reservoir | 40 oz | 37 oz |
Based on the available information, the Breville Cafe Roma features a thermoblock heating system, a stainless steel steam wand with a froth enhancer, and a 15-bar pressure pump. It also includes a double-wall cup warmer and a 40 oz water reservoir. On the other hand, the DeLonghi ECP360 also utilizes a thermoblock heating system, but specific details about its steam wand, pressure, and cup warmer are not provided in the available information. It does, however, have a self-priming auto tamper and a 37 oz water reservoir.
Drink Quality
Both machines are equipped with a 15-bar pump, ensuring the ability to produce true espresso. The Cafe Roma utilizes a thermoblock heater, while the ECP3630 features a stainless-steel boiler with the patented Rapid Cappuccino System, maintaining optimal temperature for drink quality.
In terms of milk frothing, the Breville espresso machine comes with a standard steam wand that includes a froth enhancer, offering the potential for better results in the hands of a skilled user. On the other hand, the DeLonghi espresso machine features an automatic wand, providing easier and more consistent frothing, especially for new users.
For individuals new to the world of coffee, mastering the art of steaming and texturing milk can be challenging and intimidating. The choice between these machines depends on whether you are looking to explore the craft of making exceptional coffee or simply seeking an easy way to enjoy a latte.
User-friendliness
As entry-level espresso machines, both the Breville Cafe Roma and the DeLonghi ECP3630 are designed to be user-friendly. The Cafe Roma includes dual-wall single and double portafilters, making it accessible for even novice users to pull delicious shots. Additionally, it features a convenient cup warmer on its top surface.
The DeLonghi stands out with its self-priming operation, ensuring quick and easy start-up, and it also incorporates an automatic tamper. Both machines are compatible with easy-serving espresso pods, providing ultimate convenience.
Design
In terms of style, these two machines have similar aesthetics. Both feature a durable stainless steel exterior and are relatively similar in size, with the Cafe Roma being slightly wider. The Breville machine boasts a slightly larger water tank, which offers the added advantage of an external window to monitor the water level.
Winner
DeLonghi: While these entry-level machines share many similarities, we prefer the DeLonghi ECP3630 for its convenient automated steam wand and space-saving narrow profile.
Nespresso De’Longhi vs Breville Machines
Nespresso has collaborated with two renowned brands, Breville and DeLonghi, to produce machines specifically designed for brewing Nespresso’s proprietary capsules. These single-serve pod-based machines have gained popularity for their convenience and are found in over 40% of households in the US.
Let’s compare two top models: the Breville Creatista Plus and the DeLonghi Silver Lattissima Plus. These machines offer exceptional performance and features for Nespresso enthusiasts.
Breville Creatista Plus vs DeLonghi Silver Lattissima Plus
| Features | Breville Creatista Plus | DeLonghi Silver Lattissima Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Pump Pressure | 19 Bars | 19 Bars |
| Steam Wand | Automatic with Carafe | Automatic |
| Water Reservoir | 50 oz | 30 oz |
| Heat-up Time | 3 Seconds | – |
| Drink Options | One touch Lattes and Cappuccinos | – |
| Finish | Premium non-metal | Plastic |
Based on the available information, the Breville Creatista Plus features a 19-bar pump pressure, an automatic steam wand with a carafe for convenient milk frothing, a 50 oz water reservoir, and a quick 3-second heat-up time. It also offers one-touch options for lattes and cappuccinos and has a premium non-metal finish. On the other hand, the DeLonghi Silver Lattissima Plus also boasts a 19-bar pump pressure and an automatic steam wand.
Drink Quality
The DeLonghi Silver Lattissima Plus features a powerful 19-bar pump, offering two coffee strengths and three milk options. The milk is automatically frothed from a carafe, creating airy foam that is great for cappuccinos but may not match the fine microfoam produced by a steam wand. The carafe can be conveniently stored in the fridge when not in use.
In contrast, the Breville Creatista Plus, also equipped with a 19-bar pump, combines Breville’s high-end automatic steaming wand with a capsule brewing system. This unique combination allows users to select from 11 milk temperatures and 8 textures, resulting in top-quality lattes and cappuccinos.
Design
The Creatista Plus measures 6.7 x 16.1 x 12.2 inches and includes a sizable 50-ounce removable water tank. Its retro design pays homage to the original manual espresso machines, giving it an attractive appearance.
On the other hand, the Lattissima Plus is more compact, measuring 12.5 x 6.6 x 10.2 inches, and features the durable casing that DeLonghi machines are known for. It holds 30 ounces of water and 12 ounces of milk, providing enough capacity for 3 or 4 drinks before needing a refill.
User-friendliness
Both machines offer ease of use with the Nespresso capsule system. The Lattissima Plus allows for one-touch cappuccinos and lattes, thanks to its automatic milk frothing. It also includes a self-cleaning cycle and an adjustable auto-off timer. Although the Creatista Plus does not offer one-touch drink options, its automatic wand simplifies cappuccino creation, and the ThermoJet heater ensures a quick 3-second heat-up time.
Winner
Breville: Despite being slightly pricier, Breville emerges as the winner in this comparison due to its superior milk frothing capabilities, larger water reservoir, and stunning aesthetics.
The Verdict
Ultimately, both Breville and DeLonghi are popular brands known for producing great espresso machines. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
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