DeLonghi EC680M Espresso Machine Review

As avid coffee lovers, we’re always on the lookout for espresso machines that combine quality, ease of use, and affordability. So when we got our hands on the DeLonghi EC680M espresso machine, we were eager to see if it could meet our expectations. This sleek and compact espresso machine promises to deliver a rich, café-style coffee experience, all while fitting perfectly in smaller kitchens. From its 15-bar pressure to its powerful steam wand for frothing milk, the EC680M claims to offer everything we need for a satisfying espresso shot or creamy cappuccino. After using it for several weeks, we’re ready to share our real hands-on experience and whether this machine truly stands up to its promises.

Design and Material

The DeLonghi EC680M Espresso Machine is a true gem when it comes to design and size. From the moment we unboxed it, its sleek and modern appearance stood out. The stainless steel finish gives it a premium, professional look that instantly elevates the feel of your kitchen. It’s not just a coffee machine; it feels like a statement piece on the countertop like DeLonghi Eletta Explore.

One of the first things we noticed was its compact size like Icuire Espresso Machine. At just 5.9 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 13 inches tall, it barely takes up any counter space. This is perfect if you have a small kitchen or limited workspace. We found it easy to fit into a corner without it feeling intrusive or bulky. Despite its slim profile, it doesn’t compromise on quality or performance, which is quite impressive.

This DeLonghi Dedica Coffee Machine boasts a sleek and intuitive design, making it a breeze to navigate and enjoy a perfectly crafted cup of coffee, every time. Everything is thoughtfully placed, so there’s no confusion when operating it. The controls are straightforward, and the buttons have a satisfying click when pressed. The steel drip tray not only looks good but is also very practical. It’s sturdy, easy to clean, and does a great job of keeping your space mess-free.

Another thing we appreciated was the 35 fl oz removable water tank. It’s large enough to make several cups of coffee before needing a refill. Removing and refilling the tank was smooth and hassle-free. The tank fits snugly in place but comes out effortlessly when needed. This little detail adds so much convenience to your daily coffee routine.

In terms of looks, it truly shines. It has this polished, professional vibe that makes it feel like a café-quality machine. Whether you place it in a modern or traditional kitchen, it blends in perfectly. Even the small details, like the DeLonghi branding, feel thoughtfully designed.

Water Reservoir

The water reservoir on the DeLonghi EC680M Espresso Machine is one of its standout features. It’s designed with practicality and convenience in mind, which makes your coffee-making experience smooth and enjoyable.

With a capacity of 35 fl oz, the reservoir holds enough water to make several cups of espresso or coffee before needing a refill. This is ideal for both single users and small households. We found it to be the perfect size—not too small to require constant refilling, and not so large that it becomes cumbersome to handle.

One of the features we loved is how easy it is to remove and reinstall the water tank. It slides out effortlessly from the back, making it simple to refill directly from the tap or with a pitcher. The design ensures there’s no awkward fumbling or spilling, even if you’re in a hurry. Once filled, it locks back into place securely, so you don’t have to worry about leaks or misalignment.

The transparency of the tank is another plus. You can easily see the water level without having to guess or open it up. This is a small but thoughtful detail that adds to the machine’s user-friendly nature. Additionally, the tank is made of durable plastic that feels sturdy, yet lightweight enough to handle with ease.

When cleaning, the reservoir doesn’t disappoint. It’s fully removable, so you can rinse it thoroughly to ensure there’s no buildup or residue over time. We appreciated how low-maintenance it was—just a quick rinse, and it’s ready to go.

User Interface

The user interface of the DeLonghi EC680M Espresso Machine is designed to be simple and straightforward, making it easy to use even for beginners. From the moment we started using it, we appreciated how intuitive everything felt. It’s clear that DeLonghi focused on functionality and ease of operation when designing this machine.

The control panel is located on the top front of the machine, making it easily accessible. It features a few buttons with clear icons that allow you to choose between a single or double espresso shot. The icons are crisp and easy to understand, so you don’t need to dig into a manual every time you want to brew.

One feature we loved is the built-in descaling alert. It lights up to let you know when the machine needs cleaning. This small but thoughtful addition ensures that the machine stays in top condition without you having to keep track manually.

The interface also includes indicator lights for when the machine is heating up or ready to use. This eliminates any guesswork, which is especially helpful if you’re new to espresso machines. The lights are bright and visible, even in dim lighting.

The sleek design of this coffee machine extends to its controls, which offer a delightfully tactile experience, responding precisely to every press and making the whole coffee-making process a joy. They don’t feel flimsy or overly sensitive, giving you just the right amount of control. Switching between settings is quick and seamless, which adds to the overall user-friendly experience.

The only slight drawback is the lack of a digital display, which could have made customizing settings even more convenient. However, the minimalist approach works well for those who prefer simplicity over complex features.

Warming Tray

The warming tray on the DeLonghi EC680M Espresso Machine is a feature that adds both convenience and functionality. From the moment we started using it, we noticed how much it elevates the coffee-making experience. It’s positioned on the top of the machine like Neretva Espresso Coffee Machine, which makes it easily accessible and practical.

The tray is designed to preheat your cups before brewing, ensuring your espresso stays hot for longer. We tested it with a variety of cup sizes, and it comfortably fits standard espresso cups and small mugs. The surface warms up efficiently, so you don’t have to wait long for your cups to be ready.

One thing we particularly liked is the consistent heat distribution. Unlike some machines where the warming tray feels hotter in certain spots, the De’Longhi EC680M Espresso’s tray heats evenly. This attention to detail ensures every cup gets the same preheating treatment, enhancing the overall coffee experience.

The tray is also made from a durable material that complements the machine’s sleek stainless steel design. It’s easy to clean, and any spills or coffee drips can be wiped off quickly without leaving stains or damage.

However, it’s worth noting that the tray only works while the machine is powered on. If you’re someone who likes to warm cups well in advance, this might be a minor limitation. But for regular use, it’s a reliable and efficient feature.

15-Bar Pressure Pump

The DeLonghi EC680M espresso machine is equipped with a 15-bar pressure pump, a feature that truly sets it apart when it comes to espresso extraction. This level of pressure is ideal for producing rich, full-bodied espresso with a layer of velvety crema on top. During our testing, the 15-bar pressure consistently delivered espresso shots that felt professional and tasted authentic. If you want more pressure then you may check some models like Homtone Espresso Machine 20 Bar or ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine.

What makes the pressure system impressive is its reliability. Each shot is extracted evenly, ensuring the coffee grounds are thoroughly infused with water. This results in a balanced flavor profile, with no bitterness or under-extraction issues. Doesn’t matter if you’re using pre-ground coffee or pods, the machine maintained consistent performance, showcasing its capability to bring out the best flavors.

We noticed that the machine reaches optimal pressure quickly, so there’s no long waiting time before you can start brewing. This is a big plus, especially for busy mornings. The high-pressure system also contributes to the speed of the brewing process, making it efficient without sacrificing quality. 

Another aspect we appreciated is how the 15-bar pressure works seamlessly with the machine’s compact design. Even though it’s smaller than many other espresso machines, it doesn’t compromise on power. The result is an espresso shot that tastes just as good as what you’d get from a high-end café.

The 15-bar pressure system on the De’Longhi Dedica Pump Espresso earns a solid 85 out of 100 in our rating. It delivers exceptional results, making it easy for anyone to craft espresso with depth, aroma, and that essential crema layer. While the pressure system itself is flawless, some users might wish for a larger portafilter for higher coffee doses, but this is a minor trade-off for such consistent performance.

Milk Frother

The milk frother on the DeLonghi EC680M espresso machine is a highlight of this espresso machine, perfect for anyone who enjoys crafting café-style beverages at home. It’s compact yet powerful, offering a hands-on frothing experience that adds a professional touch to your coffee routine.

Using Its frother is straightforward, even for beginners. The manual steam wand provides complete control, allowing you to customize the froth to suit your drink like Takywep Premium Espresso Machine. During our experience, it worked flawlessly, quickly transforming cold milk into warm, creamy froth in under a minute. Its design ensures even steam distribution, so the foam is uniform without any large bubbles or uneven spots.

What stood out most is how quietly it operates compared to other machines. The milk frother doesn’t create disruptive noise, making it ideal for early mornings or peaceful environments. Cleaning it is equally simple. The steam wand is detachable, and wiping away any milk residue is quick and effortless. Regular cleaning after each use keeps it running smoothly and prevents buildup, ensuring consistent performance over time.

We loved the hands-on feel of the frothing process. It’s satisfying to control every step, and the results are genuinely café-worthy. 

The DeLonghi EC680M espresso machine’s milk frother earns a solid 93 out of 100 in our rating. It combines power, precision, and ease of use, making it one of the best features of the machine. While a slightly longer steam wand might have provided even more versatility, this frother’s performance is outstanding, turning your home coffee setup into a true barista station.

Coffee Taste

The DeLonghi espresso machine excels when it comes to coffee taste, delivering a rich, café-style experience right in your kitchen. From the very first brew, the flavors are bold, balanced, and aromatic. The machine’s advanced features, like the 15-bar pressure and precise temperature control, work together to bring out the full potential of your coffee grounds.

What stood out most during our experience was the depth of flavor in the espresso shots. The crema on top was thick and golden, adding a touch of sophistication to every cup. This crema is a testament to the machine’s ability to extract coffee with just the right balance of water pressure and temperature.

We also tried making lattes and cappuccinos with the integrated steam wand, and the results were equally impressive. The DeLonghi EC680M espresso machine held its robust flavor, even when combined with milk, creating drinks that were perfectly creamy yet rich in coffee notes. For black coffee lovers, the espresso alone provides an intense, satisfying taste that’s never watered down.

One of the things we appreciated was the consistency. Shot after shot, the coffee taste remained uniform, with no signs of over- or under-extraction. This consistency makes it easy to trust the machine.

The flavor profile can be slightly adjusted depending on your coffee grind and tamping pressure, allowing you to customize your brew to suit your taste preferences. We recommend experimenting with medium to fine grinds to get the best results.

It earns a well-deserved 91 out of 100 in our rating. The taste rivals what you’d get from professional coffee shops, making this machine a fantastic investment for espresso enthusiasts. The only slight limitation is its focus on espresso-based drinks, which might not cater to those who prefer traditional drip coffee, but for espresso lovers, it’s a dream come true.

Coffee Making Time

The DeLonghi EC680M espresso stands out when it comes to brewing coffee quickly and efficiently. From the moment you power it on, the machine heats up in about 40 seconds, making it one of the faster espresso machines in its class. This quick heat-up time means you’re not left waiting long for your morning espresso fix.

Once heated, the actual coffee brewing process is swift. For a shot of espresso, it takes around 25 to 30 seconds, which is pretty standard for machines in this range. The water flows through the grounds at a consistent pressure, extracting the rich, full flavor of the coffee in that short amount of time.

If you’re making a milk-based coffee drink, like a cappuccino or latte, the time it takes will slightly increase due to the milk frothing process. The steam wand is powerful and heats the milk quickly, usually taking about 45 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the amount of milk you’re frothing and your desired consistency.

So, if you’re in a rush, the coffee maker won’t slow you down. The entire process — from heating up to brewing and frothing — takes just a few minutes, allowing you to enjoy a high-quality cup of coffee without the wait. We rate the DeLonghi EC680M espresso’s coffee-making time at 93 out of 100, as it delivers coffee efficiently without sacrificing quality.

Coffee Temperature

The coffee temperature produced by the DeLonghi EC680M espresso is consistently impressive, ensuring that each cup is brewed to perfection. From the moment you start brewing, the machine is quick to heat up, with the ability to deliver hot espresso shots in under a minute. The heating system efficiently maintains the ideal brewing temperature, keeping your coffee hot without overheating it.

During our experience, the espresso was always served at an optimal temperature — hot enough to extract the best flavors but not so hot that it burns the coffee. This is important because espresso brewed at too high a temperature can result in a bitter, over-extracted taste. Fortunately, the EC680M avoids this issue, delivering smooth, rich espresso with every shot.

When it comes to milk-based drinks like cappuccinos or lattes, the steam wand also heats the milk to a perfect temperature. The milk reaches a creamy, velvety consistency, hot enough to enjoy but not scalding, so you can savor every sip without worrying about burning your tongue. The consistency of the milk foam is impressive, as the machine ensures it’s heated to the ideal temperature for frothing.

If you’re someone who likes their coffee on the hotter side, you may need to experiment with the steam time to achieve the level of heat you desire, as some users prefer slightly higher temperatures. However, for most, the EC680M offers a perfectly balanced temperature range that enhances the coffee’s flavor profile.

Overall, the coffee temperature from the DeLonghi EC680M is highly satisfactory, striking the right balance between heat and flavor extraction. It’s earned a 92 out of 100 for its consistent ability to brew and steam coffee at the perfect temperature. 

Final Verdict 

If you are a coffee enthusiast looking for an espresso machine that doesn’t take up much space but still delivers excellent results, the DeLonghi EC680M espresso is a fantastic choice. On the other hand, if you need more advanced features, like customizable temperature or grind settings, you might want to explore other options.

Ultimately, for most users, this machine provides an excellent mix of convenience, performance, and value for money. We would rate the DeLonghi coffee maker 86.3 out of 100, as it delivers great espresso and frothed milk, while also being easy to maintain and operate. If you’re looking for a reliable, everyday espresso machine, it’s definitely worth considering.