Delonghi ECP3420 Review – A Coffee Machine for Coffee Lovers

Last Updated on May 27, 2021 by YourBestCoffeeMachine

Updated: March 9th, 2021

Just so you know, if you click on a product on our site and decide to buy it, we may earn a small commission.

If you are someone who loves coffee, then you probably have considered purchasing a Delonghi ECP3420 machine that can bring the coffee house experience into your home. The problem is, that with so many options to choose from, it can be confusing to know which coffee machine is the right one for you. The comparable model in the UK is the ECP33.21 and in Australia it is the EC260BK and although there are slight variations, our review below should still be helpful.

If you are after affordability, versatility and looking for a high-quality machine, then the De’Longhi ECP3420 is a good unit worth looking at. De’Longhi has been in the coffee business for a long time, ever since the family founded the business in 1902, and they have made quite the name for themselves.

The brand has a number of innovative staff, as well, with design director Giocomo Borin being recognized as one of the 50 most influential designers in the world in 2006. They have a reputation for high-quality goods that are considered high-end,whichare sometimes on the more expensive side of the market.

Yet, the De’Longhi ECP3420 is exciting as it represents a product that takes the experience and tradition of the company and comes to the market at an accessible price point for the average consumer.

Read on for a full look at the Delonghi ECP3420 Coffee Machine to learn if it’s the right fit for you

Convenience

The De’Longhi ECP3420 coffee machine has clearly been designed with convenience in mind. Right out of the box, the machine requires very little set up. In fact, you will have it up and running, and brewing coffee in no time at all. Everything about the brewing process has been streamlined which is ideal for those who are short on time, or those who are just getting their feet wet with coffee making.

The 37oz. water tank is removable, which allows for easy filling and it has a self-priming system which significantly reduces wait time. Consumers can choose at the touch of a button between double and single shots of espresso depending on their need for a caffeine hit. The in-built milkfrothier functions well and produces the perfect textured milk which is great for those with a penchant for cappuccinos.

Additionally, much of the processes that are required to make coffee are automated with the De’Longhi ECP3420. This is great from a convenience perspective, but may not be ideal for those who are looking for a more engaged and proactive coffee making experience.

Check Price Now

Cleaning

An extension of the convenience and ease of use that this coffee machine offers is its relatively pain-free,clean-up process. Additionally, many of the parts can be placed in the dishwasher to cut down on the hassle associated with traditional coffee making and clean-up.

Construction

The majority of the ECP3420 coffee machine is made out of plastic. Some consumers have expressed a little disappointment at the quality of the build, given that De’Longhi has such a long-standing tradition of high-quality construction. However, at this price point, we think that the build quality is acceptable when compared to other machines in the same bracket. While it is certainly not what one would traditionally associate with the De’Longhi (high-grade stainless steel), it is durable and certainly not cheap in any way. The boiler is made from stainless steel and we have no doubt that the machine will have a long operating life.

Consistency

One of the most common complaints from consumers who purchase a low to mid-range espresso machine is that it fails to consistently pull quality shots day after day. However, the engineers at De’Longhi seem to have addressed this concern. The machine boasts 15-Bars of pressure, which is the same pressure used in coffee houses. The majority of users rave about its ability to produce great tasting espressos, which are true to the beans day in and day out. This is a huge bonus as it provides a piece of mind that your morning coffee or mid-day break will always been one of good quality.

Diversity

This coffee machine lets users try their hand at making both espressos and cappuccinos. If you want to try your hand at being a barista, then the De’Longhi ECP3420 can be the ideal machine for you to get started. Also, many users are quite surprised with the quality of the milkforother; it steams and mixes milk, or milk alternatives, and produces a surprisingly high-quality of froth for a well textured cappuccino.

Temperature

As any coffee enthusiast knows, temperature control is absolutely essential to a decent cup of joe. A nice feature of the ECP3420 is that it has two separate thermostats. This means that, despite the diverse temperature requirements for an espresso and a cappuccino, you can make both without having to use a sub-optimal temperature for either one.

Drawbacks of the Delonghi ECP3420

As previously mentioned, the primarily plastic construction of the machine may disappoint some consumers who are expecting a café style build quality. The plastic tamper is somewhat less than ideal as stainless steel is always preferred. Additionally, since this machine may be the first stepping stone for treading into the world of coffee making for some consumers, it would be better if it included more detailed instructions in the box.

Final Thoughts – Delonghi ECP3420 Review

The De’Longhi ECP3420 is a decent, entry level espresso machine that provides reliable operation and good performance. If you’re looking for a starting machine to get into the hobby of coffee making, or if you’re just looking for a convenient way to make your coffee in the morning, then this machine is absolutely for you.