DeLonghi Eletta Explore Review

In my journey through the world of coffee, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has truly stood out. From the moment I unboxed this machine, I could tell it was designed for coffee enthusiasts like me. Its sleek design and intuitive controls caught my eye, but it was the promise of rich, barista-quality brews that really drew me in. 

After several weeks of using it, I’ve had the chance to explore all its features, from the built-in grinder to the impressive milk frother. Each cup has been a delightful experience, showcasing the machine’s ability to elevate my coffee routine. In this review, I’ll share my thoughts on the DeLonghi ecam45055s eletta explore, covering everything from its brewing performance to the taste of the coffee it produces. I hope my insights will help you decide if this machine is the right fit for your kitchen.

Overall Design and Look 

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore has a sleek, modern design that immediately catches your attention like Philips Barista Brew Espresso Machine. Having used it myself, I can confidently say that the machine feels premium from the moment you set it up on your kitchen counter. Its metallic silver finish with black accents adds a sophisticated touch to any space. It’s the kind of machine that blends well with both contemporary and classic interiors.

One of the first things I noticed was the intuitive control panel. The large touch screen interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate. You have several drink options right at your fingertips, from espresso to lattes, and even iced coffee, which makes this machine incredibly versatile. The icons are clear and well-labeled, so even if you’re new to using an espresso machine, it won’t feel overwhelming.

Another standout feature is the dual milk carafes. The machine comes with two different containers: one for hot milk frothing and another for cold frothing, which is ideal for iced lattes or cappuccinos. It’s a thoughtful touch that makes preparing different coffee drinks seamless. The carafes are easy to attach and remove, and cleaning them is a breeze. They fit securely into place, ensuring no spills or mess during operation.

The compact design is also worth mentioning. Despite being fully automatic, the Eletta Explore doesn’t take up much space. It’s well-proportioned for a home kitchen, fitting comfortably on the counter without feeling bulky. The machine has a built-in grinder, which saves space and adds convenience since you don’t need a separate grinder on hand.

One of my favorite features is the removable drip tray as I saw in Neretva Espresso Coffee Machine. Not only does it catch excess drips, but it’s also adjustable to accommodate taller glasses, making it easy to brew your favorite to-go coffee. You can brew directly into a travel mug or a regular cup, depending on your needs.

The bean hopper on the top has a decent capacity, and the transparent lid lets you see when it’s time to refill. The hopper’s sealing is excellent, which helps keep the coffee beans fresh for a longer time. You also get adjustable grinding settings, allowing you to customize the grind for your preferred coffee strength.

Finally, the machine is solidly built, and you can feel the quality in its construction. The stainless steel parts, combined with durable plastic elements, make it feel sturdy without being too heavy. It’s evident that De’Longhi put a lot of thought into the design, not just for aesthetics but also for practicality.

User Interface 

The control panel of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is one of its standout features. Having used it multiple times, I can say it’s designed with convenience and simplicity in mind. The touchscreen display is large and responsive, making it easy to navigate through different coffee options. Every time I use it, I appreciate how clearly the icons are laid out – you’re never confused about what each button does. I didn’t this feature in Ninja CFN601 nor Ninja CM371.

You can choose between a variety of drinks, like espresso, cappuccino, latte macchiato, flat white, and even iced coffee, right from the front display. The cool part? There’s no need to scroll through complicated menus. Just a simple tap, and you’re on your way to a customized coffee experience. The control panel is very intuitive, even if you’re not a tech-savvy person.

The My LatteArt button, for example, allows you to control milk frothing independently, which I found super helpful when I wanted to get creative with my coffee. I could easily adjust the froth density, making it perfect for crafting both rich, creamy lattes and light, airy cappuccinos.

Another great thing about the panel is that it gives you the option to save your favorite coffee settings. After experimenting with different grind levels, milk froth, and coffee strength, I saved my personal settings for both a regular latte and an iced cappuccino. Now, instead of adjusting settings every morning, I just hit “My Favorite” and the machine remembers exactly how I like my coffee.

One feature I frequently use is the cold brew option. It’s easy to select, and I don’t have to mess around with extra settings. I just hit the cold brew icon, and the machine does the rest, making a refreshing iced coffee in minutes.

The LED indicators also deserve a mention. They let you know when the machine needs attention, like when the water tank is empty or the beans need refilling. I found this really handy because I never had to guess when maintenance was needed. It’s great at keeping you informed without interrupting your coffee-making experience.

Overall, the user interface is extremely user-friendly, and you can tell that De’Longhi has made it with everyday convenience in mind. Whether you’re rushing in the morning or experimenting with different drinks on the weekend, the control panel is your ally, offering smooth functionality and easy-to-access options.

Milk Frother 

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore features a fantastic built-in milk frother that takes your coffee drinks to the next level like Teglu Espresso Machine and ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine. 

When I want to make a creamy cappuccino, the frother whips up milk into a rich, velvety foam. It’s impressive how quickly it works, allowing me to create that perfect froth in just seconds. I can easily adjust the density of the foam, whether I’m going for a light and airy texture or a thicker, more indulgent froth. The control I have over the frothing process is a game-changer.

For lattes, the milk frother blends the milk and espresso beautifully, producing a smooth and creamy drink that’s incredibly satisfying. I love how it makes it easy to achieve that café-style experience right in my kitchen. The frother even allows me to prepare milk for various drinks, whether I want a bit of foam on my espresso macchiato or a thick layer for my favorite flat white.

Cleaning the milk frother is straightforward too. After I finish brewing, I can simply detach the frothing jug and rinse it under warm water. The machine also has a self-cleaning function, which makes maintaining it hassle-free. This means I can enjoy my coffee creations without worrying about lengthy cleanup sessions.

Grinder 

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore boasts a stainless steel conical burr grinder with an impressive 13 adjustment settings unlike Gevi 4 in 1 Coffee Machine. This feature, while standard for many De’Longhi automatic espresso machines, proves to be a game-changer in crafting the perfect cup of coffee. From my personal experience, this grinder allows for remarkable flexibility, letting me dial in the grind size to suit my specific tastes. Whether I’m aiming for a fine grind for a bold espresso or a coarser texture for a French press, the options are plentiful.

One particularly noteworthy aspect is the Bean Adapt Technology. This smart innovation automatically adjusts the brewing parameters based on the type of coffee beans I use. It’s like having a personal barista who understands the nuances of different beans, ensuring I get the best flavor extraction every time. This feature has truly elevated my brewing experience, allowing me to fully appreciate the distinct flavors that various coffee beans bring to the table.

However, I must mention that during my time testing the De’Longhi Eletta Explore, the grinder exhibited a somewhat screechy operation. While this might be a common trait among De’Longhi machines, it’s not the most pleasant experience. The noise was a bit off-putting, especially in the early mornings when I was hoping for a peaceful brewing session. I’ve encountered quieter grinders in similarly priced machines from other brands, which might be something to consider if noise is a significant factor for you.

Despite the auditory challenges, the overall performance of the grinder is commendable. Its effectiveness, combined with the smart features, makes it a worthy addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen. The De’Longhi Eletta Explore grinder truly stands out for its versatility, allowing me to experiment with different brewing styles while ensuring I enjoy every sip of my coffee.

Fast Brews 

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore brews faster than many other machines I’ve used like Icuire Espresso Machine. One thing I immediately noticed is how quickly it heats up and starts brewing after selecting your drink. Thanks to its Thermoblock heating system, the machine reaches the ideal brewing temperature in under a minute, meaning you don’t have to wait long for your coffee to start pouring.

For everyday use, especially during busy mornings, the fast brewing is a big plus. Whether you’re making an espresso or a more complex drink like a cappuccino or latte, the process is quick. I also appreciate that the machine has a dual serving option, so it can brew two espressos at once, cutting the time in half if you’re making coffee for more than one person.

Even with its iced coffee feature, the brewing is fast, making it incredibly convenient. Unlike traditional methods where cold brew can take hours, the Eletta Explore’s cold brew mode delivers a refreshing cup in just a few minutes. For those who need their coffee in a hurry but still want a high-quality brew, this machine excels.

Different Coffee Flavors 

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore truly elevates the coffee-making experience with its diverse range of options. I’ve had the pleasure of experimenting with nearly all the settings, and each one has impressed me in its unique way.

Starting with espresso, this machine delivers a rich, aromatic shot with a perfect layer of crema on top. I love the robust flavor it brings, and you can easily adjust the strength to match your mood. When I want something creamier, I turn to the cappuccino option. The built-in milk frother creates a luscious froth that pairs beautifully with the espresso, allowing me to customize the froth density. It’s satisfying to have that control and make a cappuccino just the way I like it.

One of my favorites is the latte macchiato. The De’longhi ecam45055s crafts this drink flawlessly, layering milk and espresso into a beautiful presentation. I’ve perfected the art of layering, making each sip a delightful experience. On days when I crave a smoother drink, I opt for a flat white. It’s a comforting choice that balances the milk and coffee perfectly, offering a creamy texture without being overly foamy.

If I’m in the mood for a longer coffee, the Americano option is my go-to. The combination of rich espresso and hot water creates a well-balanced cup that feels comforting, especially in the mornings. And let’s not forget about those hot summer days when nothing beats a refreshing cold brew. This machine has a fantastic cold brew feature that brews a delicious cup in just minutes, saving me from the long wait that traditional methods require.

For my friends who love a milk-forward drink, I recommend trying the caffè latte. It’s rich and smooth, with just the right balance of espresso and milk. The iced coffee feature is another standout. It prepares a chilled coffee over ice in no time, and it’s perfect for those lazy afternoons on the patio.

On days when I want something a bit bolder, the espresso macchiato is an ideal choice. Just a dollop of froth over a strong shot of espresso creates a delightful balance. I’ve also enjoyed making cortados, where the equal parts of espresso and milk deliver a satisfying punch without overwhelming the senses.

When I want a more intense flavor, I turn to the ristretto option. It’s a concentrated shot that packs a punch and satisfies my craving for a bold coffee experience. The best part is that I can save my favorite settings, which makes brewing my go-to morning latte or iced cappuccino effortless. The ease of access to my custom drinks has transformed my coffee routine.

Overall, the variety of flavors and options offered by the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has truly enhanced my coffee experience, allowing me to craft each cup to my liking.

Coffee Taste 

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore consistently delivers an exceptional coffee taste that impresses with each brew. From the very first cup I made, I noticed the rich, aromatic flavors that this machine brings out in every coffee type.

When I prepare espresso, the results are nothing short of stellar. The shots are intense, featuring a velvety crema that adds a luxurious texture. I’ve experimented with various grind sizes and strengths, and the machine excels at extracting the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity from the beans. Each sip bursts with flavor, showcasing the unique characteristics of the coffee I’ve chosen.

Moving on to my favorite cappuccino, the balance between the rich espresso and the frothy milk is impeccable. The milk frother works wonders, creating a dense foam that perfectly complements the espresso. The smoothness of the milk mingles beautifully with the boldness of the coffee, resulting in a harmonious drink that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.

For lattes, the De’Longhi Eletta Explore again shines. The combination of milk and espresso is expertly balanced, allowing the rich coffee flavor to shine through without being masked by the milk. This is particularly noticeable when using high-quality beans, as the nuanced flavors remain intact, creating a deliciously satisfying beverage.

I’ve also appreciated the machine’s ability to produce a delicious Americano. By adding hot water to the espresso, I get a well-rounded cup that retains the robust flavor profile without the bitterness often associated with drip coffee. It’s a comforting option for mornings when I want something more straightforward yet full of depth.

The versatility of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore means I can explore a variety of drinks. Whether I’m crafting a smooth flat white or indulging in a flavorful cold brew, each coffee maintains its integrity and taste. The machine captures the essence of the beans, ensuring that every cup is a delightful experience.

Easy to Clean 

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is impressively easy to clean, which makes daily maintenance a breeze. After using it regularly, I found that the design of the machine takes much of the hassle out of the cleaning process.

First off, the machine features a removable brewing unit, which makes it simple to clean thoroughly. You can easily take it out, rinse it under running water, and slide it back into place. This prevents the buildup of coffee residues, ensuring your machine runs smoothly and your coffee stays fresh.

The milk carafes are also designed with convenience in mind. Each carafe has an automatic cleaning function that kicks in after each use. Once you’ve made your milk-based drink, like a latte or cappuccino, the machine will prompt you to clean the milk system. All you have to do is press a button, and the system will rinse out any milk residue. I really appreciate that I don’t have to disassemble the milk carafe every time, making it very low maintenance.

As for the drip tray, it’s removable and dishwasher safe, which I found super convenient. You can slide it out easily to empty any excess water or coffee spills and then pop it right into the dishwasher or rinse it manually. The drip tray also has a built-in water level indicator to let you know when it needs to be emptied, so you don’t have to worry about overflows.

The descaling process is straightforward as well. The machine provides step-by-step instructions on the display when it’s time to descale, and the automatic descaling program handles most of the work. You just need to add the descaling solution and follow the on-screen prompts. I’ve done this a couple of times now, and it only takes about 20 minutes.

Even the bean hopper and grinder are designed with cleanliness in mind. The hopper is easy to wipe down, and the grinder has a cleaning brush included with the machine, which helps you keep it free from excess grounds or coffee dust.

Overall, cleaning the De’Longhi Eletta Explore is incredibly user-friendly. The machine’s self-cleaning features, easy-to-remove parts, and clear instructions make sure that you can keep it in top condition with minimal effort. It’s designed to be as hassle-free as possible, letting you enjoy your coffee without worrying about tedious maintenance.

Final Verdict 

After thoroughly testing the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I can confidently say that this machine is a fantastic addition for anyone serious about their coffee. Its combination of sleek design, intuitive controls, and impressive brewing capabilities makes it a standout choice. The built-in grinder offers excellent versatility, allowing for customizable grind sizes and ensuring fresh coffee with every cup.

The Bean Adapt Technology is a brilliant feature, automatically adjusting brewing parameters to highlight the unique flavors of different beans. This is particularly useful for coffee lovers who enjoy experimenting with various blends.

While the grinder can be a bit noisy during operation, the rich, flavorful coffee it produces more than makes up for it. From robust espressos to creamy cappuccinos, every drink showcases a depth of flavor that’s truly satisfying.

In short, the De’Longhi Eletta Explore is a worthy investment for coffee aficionados. Its ability to deliver café-quality beverages right at home is a game changer. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile machine that enhances your coffee experience, this is definitely one to consider.