DeLonghi Magnifica Evo Review

In this review, we’ll dive deeper into our experience with the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo, sharing our thoughts on its design, coffee quality, milk frothing performance, and overall value to help you determine if it’s the right machine for your coffee needs.

Overall Design & Build Quality

The DeLonghi Magnifica Evo is a thoughtfully designed espresso machine that strikes a balance between compactness, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. While it may not boast the luxurious finishes of high-end models, its clean lines, glossy plastic exterior, and intuitive layout make it a visually appealing and user-friendly appliance. Its design feels somewhat familiar, drawing parallels to other models in the market, such as the DeLonghi Eletta Explore and the Bosch 300 Series VeroCafe, but it carves its niche with simplicity and practicality.

The Magnifica Evo’s compact footprint—standing at 14.2 inches tall, 9.5 inches wide, and 17.4 inches deep—makes it an excellent fit for a variety of kitchen spaces. It avoids the bulkiness that often characterizes higher-end models while maintaining enough presence to feel substantial. Like the DeLonghi Eletta Explore the Magnifica Evo uses its space efficiently, offering front-loading access for both the water reservoir and the drip tray. This design choice is not only convenient for small kitchens but also reflects the practical ethos shared with the Bosch 300 Series, a machine equally lauded for its efficient layout.

In terms of materials, the Magnifica Evo primarily uses plastic, which might initially seem like a compromise. However, this choice is consistent with other models in its price range and contributes to the machine’s lightweight, approachable build. The plastic is durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for daily use, though it lacks the premium feel of stainless steel machines. Internally, components like the conical burr grinder, made of robust stainless steel, reflect the machine’s commitment to quality where it matters most. This grinder, with 13 adjustable settings, ensures consistent and precise grinding, comparable to higher-end machines.

The design also prioritizes adaptability, with an adjustable coffee spout that accommodates cups of varying sizes, up to 5.5 inches tall. This thoughtful feature mirrors the versatility found in the Bosch 300 Series VeroCafe, which similarly caters to diverse preferences. However, where the Magnifica Evo distinguishes itself is in its seamless integration of the LatteCrema system (on specific models). This automatic milk frothing system is akin to what’s seen in the Eletta Explore, offering creamy and consistent froth for milk-based drinks. Although the milk temperature may not reach the high levels desired by some, the froth quality is excellent, making it suitable for cappuccinos and lattes.

Visually, the Magnifica Evo adopts a straightforward yet modern look, with its touch-button interface adding a contemporary flair. While it lacks the digital display screens found on more advanced machines like the Eletta Explore, its minimalist controls are intuitive, ensuring ease of use for all levels of coffee enthusiasts. This approach is particularly appealing to those who value simplicity over extensive customization, a sentiment that aligns with the straightforward philosophy of the Bosch 300 Series.

Water Reservoir

The DeLonghi Magnifica Evo features a 60.9-ounce (1.8-liter) water reservoir, which is a well-thought-out element of the machine’s design. It is transparent and fully removable, making it easy to monitor water levels and clean when necessary. The reservoir is located at the front of the machine, allowing users to slide it out effortlessly without needing to move the machine or access it from the rear. This is especially convenient for kitchens with limited space or overhead clearance, as it eliminates the need to lift lids or shift the unit.

The material of the reservoir is lightweight and durable plastic, and it includes clear markings to indicate the maximum fill level. Users can fill it directly under a faucet or use a pitcher, depending on preference. The design accommodates a water filter for those in areas with hard water, improving the taste of the coffee while protecting the internal components from limescale buildup. Regular maintenance is straightforward, as the reservoir can be rinsed and reinserted easily.

While the capacity is sufficient for most households, heavy users or office settings may find it requires more frequent refilling. The machine does not include a built-in alert for low water levels, so users need to monitor the reservoir visually, which may be a minor inconvenience for some.

Compared to similar models, the Magnifica Evo’s water reservoir stands out for its practical front-loading design. This feature provides an edge over machines that use top-loading or rear-mounted reservoirs, which can be cumbersome in confined spaces. The capacity is also on par with competing models like the Bosch VeroCafe and larger than entry-level options like the Philips 2200 Series.

User Interface

The DeLonghi Magnifica Evo features a simple and intuitive user interface designed to make brewing coffee as straightforward as possible. The interface consists of a row of touch-sensitive buttons that light up to indicate active selections, creating a modern aesthetic. However, it lacks a digital display, which is a feature often found on higher-end models like the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus or Philips 4300 LatteGo. While this omission simplifies operation, it does limit the level of customization and feedback provided to the user.

Navigating the interface is seamless for most users. Each drink option, such as espresso, cappuccino, or latte macchiato, is clearly marked with an icon. This eliminates guesswork, making it accessible for beginners or those who prefer a no-fuss experience. Additionally, the My Latte button allows users to personalize milk foam volume to suit their preferences, which is a nice touch of customization within the otherwise straightforward interface​

One potential downside is the sensitivity of the buttons. Some users report accidentally activating functions when brushing against the interface, which can be frustrating, especially in compact spaces. Additionally, the lack of a display means users must rely on the icons and manual instructions to understand features like descaling, water refill alerts, or brew group maintenance. This might feel less intuitive compared to machines with visual prompts​

Despite these limitations, the interface complements the Magnifica Evo’s philosophy of simplicity and reliability. It’s designed to provide essential features in a clear, approachable format. Advanced coffee drinkers looking for precise control over temperature or strength might find the interface restrictive, but for casual users or households with varied preferences, it strikes a good balance between ease of use and functionality.

Milk Frother

The milk frother on the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo is equipped with the LatteCrema System, which is designed to create creamy, smooth froth for milk-based drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos. This system automatically froths milk to a silky texture and ideal temperature, eliminating the need for manual frothing. It works by drawing milk into the frothing chamber and injecting steam, ensuring a rich, velvety consistency with minimal effort from the user.

While it does a solid job for most milk-based drinks, one of the limitations of the Magnifica Evo’s milk frother is that it doesn’t heat milk to the higher temperatures preferred by some coffee aficionados. The milk froth it produces is generally creamy and smooth, but it may not be hot enough for those who like their lattes or cappuccinos at a higher temperature. This is a common feature in many automatic machines at this price point, but it may disappoint users who prioritize hotter drinks.

The frother is easy to use and clean, with a detachable milk container that simplifies storage and cleaning. This is a significant advantage over traditional steam wands, which often require more manual attention. Users can also adjust the milk frothing settings to control the amount of foam, giving them a degree of customization for their drinks.

Compared to other machines in its range, the LatteCrema System on the Magnifica Evo stands out for its automation and user-friendly design. It’s simpler than the manual steam wands found on other models like the Breville Barista Express, but still provides high-quality froth for most casual coffee drinkers. However, serious baristas might find it lacks the control and precision of more advanced frothing systems.

For the milk frother, I would give the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo a 77/100. It delivers good, consistent froth and is very easy to use, but its froth temperature may not meet the preferences of all users, and it doesn’t offer the level of control seen in higher-end machines. For users who prioritize ease of use and consistent results, it works well, but those seeking more advanced frothing features might consider a machine with a more powerful or customizable steam wand.

15 Bar Pressure

The 15-bar pump pressure in the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo is one of its notable features, ensuring that the machine delivers good espresso extraction. This pressure is considered optimal for home espresso machines, as it allows water to flow through the coffee grounds at the right speed, helping to extract the full range of flavors and oils from the beans.

As a result, you get a rich, smooth espresso with a good crema layer, which is an essential element of a quality shot. While the 9-bar pressure is often regarded as the ideal for espresso, the 15-bar pump in the Magnifica Evo offers extra power, ensuring the coffee is consistently brewed at the correct pressure, even if some resistance occurs during extraction.

The combination of this pressure and the machine’s thermoblock heating system helps maintain temperature stability, which is crucial for achieving an even and balanced extraction. The result is that you get espresso that is not only rich and flavorful but also well-rounded in terms of bitterness and body. While the 15-bar pressure is more than sufficient for everyday home use, those looking for the highest level of professional espresso might prefer machines with higher-end extraction systems or even a dual boiler setup, which offers greater control over both pressure and temperature.

In comparison to other machines in the same price range, like the Breville Barista Express or Philips 3200 Series, the 15-bar pump performs similarly. It provides consistency and reliability, which is what most home espresso drinkers are looking for. For casual enthusiasts or those new to espresso making, the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo’s pump pressure delivers a solid performance without the need for the more complex features of professional-grade machines.

Considering these factors, the 15-bar pump pressure on the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo warrants a rating of 80/100. It strikes a good balance between performance and value, offering consistent and rich espresso, though it may not satisfy those seeking the precision and control of higher-end, commercial-style machines.

Built in Grinder

The DeLonghi Magnifica Evo features a built-in grinder that is a standout aspect of this machine, offering a convenient way to grind fresh coffee beans for each brew. The grinder is a conical burr grinder, which is considered one of the best types for consistent grinding and preserving the coffee’s flavor. Unlike blade grinders, which can produce uneven grounds and affect the taste, the burr grinder in the Magnifica Evo ensures uniform consistency, which is crucial for a balanced extraction and a smooth espresso shot.

The grinder has 13 adjustable settings, allowing users to control the grind size, ranging from coarse for drip coffee to fine for espresso. This level of adjustability gives you the flexibility to tailor your grind based on the type of coffee you are making. The finer the grind, the more surface area the water can extract from the coffee, which is especially important for espresso. However, some users may find that even at its finest setting, the grind may not be as finely tuned as higher-end machines with more precise grinders.

One of the benefits of the built-in grinder is the convenience of freshly ground coffee with every cup, which is a significant improvement over pre-ground coffee. Freshly ground coffee preserves essential oils and flavors, ensuring that each shot is as flavorful as possible. The grinder is fairly quiet in operation, but it’s worth noting that, like many automatic espresso machines, it can be slightly louder than a manual grinder, though it’s not disruptive for most users.

In terms of capacity, the grinder’s bean hopper can hold a decent amount of beans, reducing the need for frequent refilling. The hopper is clear, so you can easily see how many beans are left, and it’s designed to keep the beans sealed to maintain freshness.

However, the grinder does have its limitations. While it performs well for most espresso-making needs, it may not meet the standards of coffee aficionados who prefer highly specific grind settings. In comparison with standalone grinders, the Magnifica Evo’s integrated grinder doesn’t have the same level of precision or control. Additionally, it doesn’t have a bypass doser, which would allow you to use pre-ground coffee if desired.

7 Different Coffee Flavors

The DeLonghi Magnifica Evo offers a good degree of coffee flexibility, making it a versatile machine for a variety of coffee preferences. After using the machine, we found that it caters well to those who like to experiment with different types of coffee, as it allows for several customizable options in terms of grind size, coffee strength, and milk frothing.

Firstly, the adjustable grind settings on the built-in grinder are a key factor in the coffee flexibility. With 13 settings to choose from, the machine gives you the ability to select the right grind size for your taste. Whether you like your espresso strong and intense or a bit milder, the grinder allows you to fine-tune the coarseness or fineness of the grounds. This customization ensures that you can get the right extraction for whatever type of coffee you prefer. However, for those looking for even finer precision, particularly with more delicate beans, the grinder might feel a bit limited compared to high-end standalone grinders.

The machine also allows you to adjust the coffee strength. With settings for mild, medium, and strong coffee, you can easily change how intense your espresso or coffee drink turns out. This feature is especially handy for users who like to change things up depending on the time of day or their mood. While it’s a great feature for most users, coffee aficionados may find that the adjustments aren’t as nuanced as those found in more advanced machines, but it’s still sufficient for daily use.

As for milk-based drinks, the LatteCrema System provides excellent flexibility for different types of frothing. You can make a cappuccino, latte, or flat white depending on the texture and amount of foam you prefer. The system automatically adjusts the frothing to create smooth, creamy foam, though the temperature might not be as high as some would prefer. The frother is easy to use and offers enough flexibility to make drinks that are tailored to personal taste, although it might not have the degree of control that a professional steam wand would provide.

Additionally, the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo can brew a variety of coffee drinks with ease. From a simple espresso to more complex drinks like macchiatos or long blacks, it offers a wide range of options for different tastes. However, if you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with various coffee beans, you may feel limited by the single boiler setup, as switching between drinks could require some minor adjustments to ensure the temperature and pressure remain optimal.

Coffee Taste

After spending some time with the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo, we can confidently say that the coffee taste it produces is impressive, especially considering its price range and the convenience of an all-in-one espresso machine.

The 15-bar pump pressure and conical burr grinder work in harmony to extract the full flavor from freshly ground coffee, delivering a smooth and well-rounded espresso with a rich crema on top. One of the most noticeable things is the freshness of the coffee, as the built-in grinder ensures that beans are ground just before brewing, preserving those essential oils and flavors that make a big difference in the cup.

We found that the machine delivers a balanced espresso with a nice level of sweetness and just the right amount of bitterness. The flavors are robust without being overwhelming, making it suitable for a wide range of coffee preferences. When brewing medium and dark roasts, the taste is especially satisfying, with a good body and smooth finish. However, when we tried lighter roasts, we noticed that the machine didn’t extract quite as intensely as we would have liked, perhaps due to the grind not being as fine as what some of the more expensive machines can provide.

The milk frother also plays a big role in enhancing the coffee experience, creating a velvety foam for lattes and cappuccinos. While the temperature of the froth could be a little hotter for some, it was still creamy and perfectly complemented the espresso’s flavor. The LatteCrema System is easy to use, and the milk is frothed to a nice consistency, though for those who prefer their drinks at a higher temperature, it might not quite hit the mark.

Coffee Making Time

The coffee making time with the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo is generally efficient, especially considering that it is an automatic machine. From start to finish, the process is relatively quick, thanks to its thermoblock heating system, which heats water rapidly to the ideal temperature.

The grinding and brewing process, including the milk frothing for lattes or cappuccinos, typically takes around 1-2 minutes for a single shot of espresso, and about 3-4 minutes for drinks like cappuccinos or lattes. This is comparable to other automatic espresso machines in the same category, such as the Breville Barista Express or Philips 3200 series.

In our experience, the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo doesn’t require long preheating times, which is an advantage for those who want a quick coffee fix. The grinder also operates efficiently, grinding fresh beans quickly, though the time can vary slightly depending on the grind setting you choose. For instance, a finer grind for espresso can take a little longer to process, but this isn’t a significant delay.

While it doesn’t match the speed of simpler coffee machines like drip coffee makers, which can brew an entire pot in a matter of minutes, the Magnifica Evo is competitive with other automatic espresso machines in terms of speed, considering that it both grinds the beans and brews the espresso in a single process.

For coffee making time, I would rate the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo 80/100. It’s quick, especially for single-shot espressos, and it handles grinding and brewing smoothly. However, if you are looking for something that can serve multiple cups in quick succession or requires less time per cup than typical automatic espresso machines, it may be a little slower than you’d expect for larger servings.

Coffee Temperature

After using the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo for some time, we found that the coffee temperature it delivers is generally quite good, though there are a few things worth noting based on our experience. The espresso temperature comes out at around 190°F to 200°F (88°C to 93°C), which is in the sweet spot for espresso brewing. It’s hot enough to enjoy immediately, with that perfect balance of warmth that extracts the right flavors from the coffee.

However, if you prefer your espresso scalding hot, you might find it a little on the milder side. For most casual coffee drinkers, this temperature is perfectly fine, but those who like their shots very hot might need to pre-warm their cup to get it just right.

When it comes to milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, the LatteCrema System does a decent job of heating the milk, bringing it to a moderate temperature of around 140°F to 150°F (60°C to 65°C). The milk froth is creamy and velvety, but the temperature isn’t as high as you might get from a manual steam wand, which can sometimes heat the milk to higher temperatures. We noticed that while the milk was certainly warm enough for most drinkers, those who like their cappuccinos or lattes piping hot might find it falls a bit short. The milk froth is smooth and complements the espresso well, but again, for higher heat, you may need to adjust expectations.

In terms of overall coffee temperature, the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo hits a good middle ground for the average coffee drinker. It delivers well-brewed espresso at the right temperature, though for users who prefer extremely hot drinks, it might not quite reach their ideal. Pre-warming your cups is a helpful tip to keep the drinks warmer for longer, especially for milk-based beverages.

For coffee temperature, based on our experience, we would give the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo a 75/100. It brews espresso at a solid temperature for optimal flavor extraction, and the milk is adequately heated, but if you’re someone who prefers your drinks significantly hotter, you might be a bit disappointed.

Final Verdict 

After spending some time with the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo, we’ve been able to really get a feel for how it performs in a daily coffee routine. From the moment we started using it, we were impressed with its user-friendly interface and the way it quickly delivered rich, flavorful espresso without much hassle. The built-in grinder ensures that each cup is made from freshly ground beans, giving a noticeable boost in flavor compared to pre-ground coffee.

As we experimented with different coffee drinks, we found that the coffee flexibility was one of its best features. The ability to adjust grind size, coffee strength, and milk frothing gave us the freedom to create drinks ranging from smooth espressos to creamy cappuccinos. While the milk frother doesn’t heat the milk as hot as we might like for certain drinks, the foam it creates is velvety and smooth, making it perfect for our daily lattes.

Overall, the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo is a solid machine that delivers great results with minimal effort. It’s not as customizable or high-powered as some more expensive models, but it’s a fantastic choice for those looking for consistent quality and ease of use without breaking the bank. In this review, we’ll break down our experience with the machine, from its design to the coffee taste, and share our thoughts on how it stacks up against other espresso machines we’ve used.