DeLonghi EC260BK Review: Authentic Italian Espresso at Home Without Breaking the Bank
I’ve been living with the DeLonghi EC260BK for a few weeks now, and I think I’m finally ready to share my thoughts. As someone who was tired of spending $5 every morning at the local coffee shop, I decided it was time to bring the espresso experience home. The DeLonghi caught my eye with its reasonable price point and promise of authentic Italian espresso. But does it deliver? Well, that’s what we’re here to find out.
My morning routine has certainly changed since this machine arrived. There’s something oddly satisfying about the ritual of making espresso at home – tamping the grounds, waiting for that perfect extraction, and watching the rich, caramel-colored liquid drip into the cup. It’s not perfect (nothing ever is), but this little machine has surprised me in more ways than one.
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
- Includes Portafilter, measuring scoop/tamper and two filters for single or double espresso
- Stainless steel boiler is engineered to last long and work for years
- Manual steam wand to texture milk for lattes and cappuccinos
Sleek, Space-Saving Design
The first thing that struck me about the DeLonghi EC260BK was its compact footprint. My kitchen counters aren’t exactly spacious, so I was relieved to see this wouldn’t be hogging precious real estate. The predominantly black design with stainless steel accents gives it a somewhat premium look that belies its budget-friendly price tag. I particularly appreciate the simple control dial on the front – nothing overly complicated or intimidating for someone who’s not a coffee expert.
The build quality feels decent for the price point. Some parts are obviously plastic, but the machine doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap. The water reservoir is easy to remove and fill, though it’s a bit on the smaller side at 35oz. Perhaps not ideal for entertaining, but perfectly adequate for my daily needs. The drip tray removes easily for cleaning, which is a small detail but one I’ve come to appreciate after using it regularly.
Performance That Impresses
I was skeptical at first – can a machine at this price point really produce café-quality espresso? The answer is… mostly yes. The 15-bar pressure pump does an admirable job extracting rich, aromatic espresso with a decent crema on top. It took me a few tries to get the grind size and tamping pressure right (my first attempts were either watery or painfully slow to extract), but once I found that sweet spot, I’ve been consistently getting enjoyable shots.
The manual milk frother was perhaps the biggest learning curve. Initially, I created more bubbles than actual microfoam, but after watching a couple of YouTube tutorials and practicing, I can now create passable cappuccinos. It’s not barista-level steaming, but it gets the job done. The machine heats up surprisingly quickly – I’m usually ready to brew within about 30-40 seconds of turning it on, which is perfect for those rushed mornings.
One thing worth mentioning is that this machine works with both ground coffee and ESE pods, which adds some welcome flexibility. I typically use freshly ground beans on weekends when I have more time, and the pods during busy weekday mornings.
The Technical Breakdown
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure | 15 bars |
| Water Tank Capacity | 35oz (1 liter) |
| Power | 1100W |
| Dimensions | 9.6 × 7.2 × 11.9 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 9 pounds |
| Coffee Compatibility | Ground coffee and ESE pods |
| Cup Warmer | Yes |
| Removable Drip Tray | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable entry into real espresso making
- Compact design that won’t overwhelm small kitchens
- Quick heating time
- Works with both ground coffee and ESE pods
- 15-bar pressure produces good crema
- Easy to clean with removable components
- Simple operation with minimal learning curve
Cons:
- Manual milk frother requires practice
- Relatively small water tank needs frequent refilling
- Plastic components may affect longevity
- No built-in grinder
- Limited temperature control options
- Drip tray fills up quickly
What Real Users Are Saying
After combing through the Amazon reviews, the general sentiment seems mostly positive, with the machine scoring a respectable 4.1 out of 5 stars. Many users praise the value for money and the quality of espresso produced.
One satisfied customer wrote: “I’ve had this machine for 6 months now and use it daily. Makes great espresso with good crema. The steamer works well too. For the price point, you can’t beat it!”
However, some critical reviews mention longevity concerns. As one user noted: “Worked great for the first three months, then started leaking from the bottom. Disappointed as I really enjoyed the coffee it made while it worked.”
Several reviewers did mention the learning curve, particularly with the milk frother, but most found the machine easy to use once they got the hang of it.
Is This Machine Right For You?
For Beginners: If you’re just starting your home espresso journey, the DeLonghi EC260BK is an excellent choice. The straightforward controls, reasonable price point, and forgiving nature make it perfect for learning the basics of espresso making without feeling overwhelmed. The option to use ESE pods is also a nice safety net while you’re mastering grinding and tamping.
For Intermediate Users: If you already know your way around espresso but don’t want to invest in a high-end machine, this could serve as a decent daily driver. You might find yourself wanting more control over temperature and pressure eventually, but for the price, it’s a capable performer that will satisfy most coffee needs.
For Advanced Users: Honestly, if you’re a serious coffee enthusiast with developed tastes and techniques, you’ll likely find this machine limiting. The lack of precise temperature control, pressure profiling capabilities, and a more powerful milk steaming system means you might want to look at higher-end options. That said, it could make a serviceable backup machine or travel companion.
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Ready to Elevate Your Morning Coffee?
If you’re tired of mediocre coffee and expensive café visits, the DeLonghi EC260BK offers a surprisingly affordable entry into authentic espresso making at home. With its user-friendly design and solid performance, your morning routine might just become your favorite part of the day.
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
- Includes Portafilter, measuring scoop/tamper and two filters for single or double espresso
- Stainless steel boiler is engineered to last long and work for years
- Manual steam wand to texture milk for lattes and cappuccinos
