De’Longhi Eletta
Advanced bean-to-cup coffee machine with Cold Brew technology. Features adjustable grind settings, temperature control, and customizable drink options. Produces rich espresso with silky crema and refreshing cold brews. User-friendly interface with self-cleaning function and height-adjustable spout. Ideal for coffee enthusiasts seeking versatility and convenience in a sleek, automated package.
Summary Rating: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4 out of 5 Nutz)
The De’Longhi Eletta is a sophisticated bean-to-cup coffee machine that seamlessly blends convenience with customization, making it suitable for both casual drinkers and coffee enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the ability to brew both hot and cold beverages, including espresso, cappuccino, and cold brew, thanks to its integrated grinder and milk frothing system. With an intuitive control panel and user-friendly interface, the Eletta aims to deliver café-quality drinks at home. While positioned in the premium price range, it offers a comprehensive solution for those looking to elevate their coffee experience without the need for barista skills.
It’s Known for
Versatile Hot and Cold Beverage Options
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore stands out for its ability to produce both hot and cold coffee drinks. It’s particularly noted for its Cold Brew technology, which allows users to enjoy iced coffees and cold milk-based beverages alongside traditional hot espresso drinks.
User-Friendly Interface
Many reviews highlight the machine’s intuitive control panel, featuring a colour touchscreen display and soft-touch buttons. This interface makes navigating through the numerous drink options and customisation settings straightforward, even for those new to automatic coffee machines.
Dual LatteCrema System
The Eletta Explore is recognised for its innovative approach to milk frothing. It features two separate milk carafes – one for hot milk and another for cold – enabling the creation of both hot and cold milk foam. This dual system is frequently praised for its versatility and convenience.
Customisation and Consistency
Users appreciate the machine’s ability to remember personalised drink settings, ensuring consistent results with each use. The Bean Adapt Technology is noted for optimising brewing parameters based on the coffee beans used, contributing to reliable flavour profiles.
Size and Design
While the Eletta Explore offers numerous features, it’s also known for its relatively large footprint. Some reviews mention that its size might be a consideration for those with limited counter space. However, the sleek design and quality of materials, particularly the stainless steel elements, are often commended.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The machine’s self-cleaning functions, especially for the milk system, are frequently highlighted as a positive feature. The ability to clean the milk carafes automatically after each use is seen as a significant convenience.
Pros and Cons
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore offers versatile drink options, user-friendly features, and innovative milk frothing technology. Its customisation capabilities and automatic cleaning functions are notable strengths. However, its size, price, and potential learning curve may be considerations for some users. The machine balances advanced features with ease of use, appealing to coffee enthusiasts seeking variety and convenience.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Bean-to-cup/super-automatic espresso machine |
| Dimensions | 38.5 cm (width) x 26 cm (depth) x 45 cm (height) |
| Weight | 14.8 kg |
| Water Tank | 2.0 litres, removable with optional water filter |
| Hopper | 400 grams |
| Pump | 15 bar pump |
| Grinder | Built-in stainless steel conical burr grinder with 13 settings |
| Heater | Dual independent thermoblock system (for coffee and milk) |
| Frother | Integrated LatteCrema system with dual carafes for hot and cold milk |
Standout Features: (1) dual LatteCrema system with separate hot and cold milk carafes, (2) Cold Brew technology for iced coffee options, (3) Bean Adapt Technology for optimised brewing parameters, (4) To-Go function accommodating travel mugs, and (5) interactive touchscreen with user profiles and customisation options.
Design and Build
Aesthetic appeal
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore boasts a sleek, modern design that would complement most contemporary kitchens. Its stainless steel accents and glossy black finish exude a premium feel, while the colour touchscreen display adds a high-tech touch. The machine’s overall appearance strikes a balance between professional-grade equipment and home appliance aesthetics, making it an attractive addition to the countertop.
Durability and construction
Built with quality materials, the Eletta Explore demonstrates robust construction. The use of stainless steel for key components, such as the drip tray and parts of the casing, enhances durability and resistance to wear. The plastic elements, while present, feel sturdy and well-fitted. The dual milk carafes are made of thermal-resistant materials, designed to withstand frequent temperature changes. Overall, the machine’s build quality suggests it’s engineered for longevity, capable of withstanding daily use in a busy household.
Ease of use and ergonomics
The Eletta Explore’s design prioritises user-friendliness. The colour touchscreen interface is intuitive, with clear icons and easy-to-navigate menus. The bean hopper and water tank are conveniently located for easy access and refilling. The height-adjustable coffee spout accommodates various cup sizes, from espresso cups to tall glasses, enhancing versatility.
Ergonomically, the machine’s controls are well-placed for comfortable operation. The milk carafes are designed for easy attachment and removal, with clear markings for minimum and maximum fill levels. The drip tray and used coffee container are readily accessible for cleaning and emptying.
However, the machine’s size may present challenges in smaller kitchens. Its depth, in particular, might require careful consideration of placement to ensure easy access to all features, especially the bean hopper and water tank at the rear.
Performance
Brewing process
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore employs a sophisticated brewing process that begins with freshly ground beans. The integrated conical burr grinder offers 13 settings, allowing users to fine-tune the grind size to their preference. The machine uses a pre-infusion step, wetting the grounds before full extraction, which enhances flavour development. For espresso-based drinks, the 15-bar pump ensures proper pressure for extraction, while the Cold Brew feature uses a different process, steeping grounds in cold water for a smoother, less acidic result.
Temperature stability
Temperature stability is crucial for consistent coffee quality, and the Eletta Explore addresses this with its dual independent thermoblock system. One thermoblock is dedicated to coffee brewing, while the other manages milk frothing. This separation allows for precise temperature control during the entire drink preparation process. The machine also offers three temperature settings for coffee, catering to individual preferences and different coffee roasts.
Consistency of results
The Bean Adapt Technology is a standout feature for ensuring consistent results. This system optimises brewing parameters based on the bean type, roast level, and grind setting. Combined with the ability to save user profiles and customised drink recipes, the Eletta Explore delivers remarkably consistent drinks from one brew to the next. The automatic milk frothing system also contributes to consistency, producing reliably textured milk for cappuccinos and lattes.
Speed and efficiency
In terms of speed, the Eletta Explore performs admirably. The dual thermoblock system allows for quick heat-up times, typically under a minute from a cold start. Espresso-based drinks are prepared in about 90 seconds, while milk-based beverages take slightly longer due to the frothing process. The Cold Brew function, however, requires more time, with a typical cycle lasting about 20 minutes. The machine’s efficiency is enhanced by its ability to prepare two coffee drinks simultaneously and its self-cleaning milk system, which saves time on maintenance.
Coffee Taste
Flavour Profile of Coffee Produced
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore produces a well-rounded flavour profile, particularly excelling with medium to dark roasts. Espresso shots exhibit a balanced taste with noticeable chocolate and nutty undertones. The machine’s ability to adjust brewing parameters allows users to fine-tune the flavour, bringing out subtle notes in single-origin beans or maintaining consistency in blends.
Crema and Body
Espresso shots from the Eletta Explore boast a rich, golden-brown crema that persists for several minutes. The body of the coffee is generally full and satisfying, with a smooth mouthfeel. The machine’s 15-bar pump ensures proper extraction, contributing to the robust body and creamy texture of the espresso.
Extraction Consistency and Customisation
The Bean Adapt Technology plays a crucial role in maintaining extraction consistency across different beans and roasts. Users can further customise their drinks by adjusting coffee strength, temperature, and volume. This level of control allows coffee enthusiasts to dial in their preferred taste profile and maintain it across brewing sessions.
Milk-Based Drinks
The dual LatteCrema system excels in producing both hot and cold milk-based beverages. For hot drinks, it creates silky, well-textured microfoam ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. The cold milk frothing capability adds versatility, producing smooth, chilled milk for iced lattes and other cold coffee drinks. The system’s consistency in milk texturing contributes significantly to the overall quality of milk-based beverages.
Versatility with Different Roasts
While the Eletta Explore performs well with a variety of roasts, it particularly shines with medium to dark roasts. These roasts tend to produce a richer crema and more pronounced flavours. Light roasts can be more challenging, sometimes resulting in slightly under-extracted shots unless the grind and brewing parameters are carefully adjusted.
Aroma and Aftertaste
The aroma of coffee produced by the Eletta Explore is notably rich and inviting, particularly evident in espresso shots. The aftertaste is generally clean and lingering, with a pleasant sweetness in well-extracted shots. However, the intensity of both aroma and aftertaste can vary depending on the beans used and the chosen settings.
Acidity and Bitterness Balance
The machine manages to strike a good balance between acidity and bitterness in most cases. The pre-infusion step helps in reducing excessive acidity, while the adjustable brewing parameters allow users to minimise unwanted bitterness. The Cold Brew function, in particular, produces coffee with notably low acidity and smooth flavour.
Comparison with Other Brewing Methods
Compared to manual espresso machines, the Eletta Explore offers comparable quality with significantly more convenience. Its espresso shots may lack some of the nuanced flavours achieved by skilled baristas using high-end manual machines, but they consistently outperform capsule-based systems. The Cold Brew function provides a unique advantage, producing smoother, less acidic coffee than traditional hot brewing methods, though it requires more time.
Versatility
Range of coffee styles
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore offers an impressive array of coffee styles, catering to diverse preferences. Its repertoire includes classic espresso, lungo, and ristretto for purists, alongside milk-based favourites such as cappuccino, latte, and flat white. The machine’s standout feature is its ability to produce both hot and cold beverages, including iced coffee and cold brew. This versatility extends to non-coffee options like hot water for tea and hot chocolate, making it a comprehensive beverage station.
Adjustability and customisation options
The Eletta Explore provides extensive customisation capabilities, allowing users to fine-tune their drinks to personal tastes. The 13-setting grinder offers precise control over grind size, crucial for optimising extraction. Users can adjust coffee strength across five levels, altering the coffee-to-water ratio to suit different preferences or bean types. The three temperature settings cater to those who prefer their coffee hotter or cooler.
Milk-based drink lovers benefit from adjustable milk foam levels, enabling the creation of everything from velvety lattes to frothy cappuccinos. The machine also remembers personal preferences, storing up to four user profiles with customised drinks, streamlining the brewing process for households with multiple coffee drinkers.
The Bean Adapt Technology adds another layer of customisation, automatically adjusting brewing parameters based on the bean type and roast level. This feature helps users extract the best flavours from different coffee varieties without manual intervention.
For those who enjoy experimenting, the ‘Coffee Pot’ function allows brewing larger quantities, ideal for entertaining or for those who prefer their coffee in larger servings. The ‘To-Go’ function accommodates travel mugs, a thoughtful addition for on-the-go coffee drinkers.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Ease of cleaning
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore incorporates several features to simplify the cleaning process. Its automatic cleaning cycles for both the coffee and milk systems are particularly noteworthy. After each use, the milk system undergoes a quick rinse, while a more thorough cleaning can be initiated at the touch of a button. The brew group is easily removable for manual cleaning, allowing users to maintain optimal hygiene.
The drip tray and used coffee container are accessible and dishwasher-safe, further easing the cleaning routine. The machine also prompts users when it’s time to empty these components, preventing overflow issues. The exterior can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, with the stainless steel parts maintaining their appearance well over time.
Required maintenance
Regular maintenance of the Eletta Explore is straightforward but essential for optimal performance. The machine indicates when descaling is necessary, typically every 2-3 months depending on water hardness and usage. This process is guided step-by-step through the display, making it manageable even for those new to coffee machine maintenance.
The grinder requires occasional adjustment to maintain the ideal grind size, especially when switching between different coffee beans. While the grinder doesn’t need frequent cleaning, it’s advisable to brush it out periodically to remove coffee oils and fine particles.
Replacing the water filter every 2-3 months is recommended to ensure water quality and reduce the frequency of descaling. The machine prompts users when it’s time for a filter change, simplifying this aspect of maintenance.
Longevity and reliability
The Eletta Explore is built with durability in mind, using high-quality materials in key components. The stainless steel parts and robust plastic casing contribute to its longevity. With proper care and regular maintenance, users report reliable performance over several years.
The dual thermoblock system is designed for long-term use, and the separate milk carafes help prevent milk residue from entering the machine’s internal components, a common issue in some coffee machines. However, like all complex appliances, occasional issues may arise. De’Longhi offers a warranty and customer support, which users generally find responsive and helpful.
The machine’s software can be updated, allowing for potential improvements and bug fixes over time. This feature contributes to the Eletta Explore’s long-term viability, potentially extending its useful life beyond that of less technologically advanced machines.
Value for Money
Price point analysis
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore sits in the premium segment of the automatic coffee machine market, with a price tag of around £1,000. This positions it as a significant investment for home coffee enthusiasts. While it’s not the most expensive option in De’Longhi’s lineup, it represents a substantial step up from entry-level automatic machines.
The price reflects the machine’s advanced features, particularly its ability to produce both hot and cold beverages, including cold brew. The dual LatteCrema system, Bean Adapt Technology, and extensive customisation options contribute to justifying the cost. However, the lack of a touchscreen display and app connectivity at this price point may give some potential buyers pause.
Comparison with similar products in the market
When compared to other machines in its price range, the Eletta Explore holds its own in several areas but falls short in others. It competes well with brands like Jura, Melitta, and Siemens in terms of drink variety and milk frothing quality. The Eletta Explore particularly excels in its cold brew capabilities and dual milk system, features not commonly found in competitors at this price point.
However, machines like the Jura E8 or Melitta Barista TS Smart offer touchscreen displays and app connectivity, which the Eletta Explore lacks. The Eletta Explore’s grinder, with 13 settings, is on par with most competitors, though some high-end Jura models offer more precise adjustments.
In terms of build quality and durability, the Eletta Explore is comparable to its peers, with a robust construction that should withstand years of use. Its ease of cleaning and maintenance is a strong point, matching or exceeding many competitors in this regard.
When compared to slightly less expensive models like the Philips 3200 Series or Melitta Caffeo CI, the Eletta Explore offers more advanced features and greater versatility, particularly in its cold drink options. However, the price difference may be significant for some buyers, and they’ll need to weigh whether the additional features justify the cost.
Ease of Use
Learning curve
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore strikes a balance between feature-rich complexity and user-friendly operation. Initial setup is straightforward, with clear instructions guiding users through the process. The machine’s interface, while not a touchscreen, is intuitive with well-labelled buttons and a clear display. Most users report feeling comfortable with basic functions within a day or two.
However, mastering the full range of customisation options and understanding the nuances of the Bean Adapt Technology may take longer. The variety of drink options and adjustable parameters can be overwhelming at first, but the logical menu structure helps mitigate this. De’Longhi provides comprehensive documentation and online resources, which prove valuable during the learning phase.
Daily usability
In day-to-day use, the Eletta Explore proves to be user-friendly. The ability to save personalised drink profiles streamlines the brewing process, especially in households with multiple coffee drinkers. The machine’s quick heat-up time and one-touch operation for most drinks contribute to a smooth morning routine.
Maintenance tasks are well-integrated into daily use. The machine prompts users when it’s time to refill the water tank, empty the drip tray, or clean the milk system. These reminders, coupled with the automatic cleaning cycles, make it easy to keep the machine in optimal condition without much effort.
The height-adjustable coffee spout and the To-Go function add to the machine’s practicality, accommodating various cup sizes and travel mugs. The dual milk carafes, while offering versatility, do require some extra attention in terms of storage and cleaning.
Quirks or unique aspects
One notable quirk is the Cold Brew function’s 20-minute preparation time. While this is significantly faster than traditional cold brew methods, it may require some planning ahead compared to other drink options.
The Bean Adapt Technology, while innovative, can take some getting used to. Users accustomed to manually adjusting all parameters might find it initially challenging to trust the system’s automatic adjustments.
The machine’s size and depth may present a challenge in smaller kitchens. Accessing the water tank and bean hopper, located at the top and rear of the machine, might require pulling the machine forward or having ample clearance above it.
Lastly, the absence of a dedicated hot water spout means that hot water is dispensed through the coffee spout. While not a major issue, it’s a design choice that differs from some competitors and may require occasional extra cleaning of the spout.
Comparison with other Products
How it stacks up against similar products
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore competes well with other high-end bean-to-cup machines in its price range. When compared to the Jura E8, the Eletta Explore offers a wider range of cold drink options, including cold brew, which the E8 lacks. However, the Jura E8 edges ahead in grind settings with 15 compared to the Eletta Explore’s 13.
Against the Melitta Barista TS Smart, the Eletta Explore holds its own in terms of drink variety but falls short in connectivity features. The Barista TS Smart offers app control, which is absent in the US version of the Eletta Explore.
In comparison to the Siemens EQ.700, the Eletta Explore offers more customisation options for milk-based drinks, thanks to its dual LatteCrema system. However, the EQ.700 boasts a larger bean hopper capacity of 350g compared to the Eletta Explore’s 300g.
What makes it unique or preferable
The Eletta Explore’s standout feature is its dual LatteCrema system, with separate carafes for hot and cold milk. This is a unique offering in its price range, allowing for greater versatility in milk-based drinks, both hot and cold.
The machine’s Cold Brew function sets it apart from most competitors. While the Jura Z10 offers a similar feature, it comes at a significantly higher price point. The Eletta Explore’s ability to produce cold brew in minutes rather than hours is a notable advantage for iced coffee enthusiasts.
The To-Go function, with its adjustable drip tray accommodating travel mugs up to 16 cm tall, is another unique feature. This, combined with the option to brew larger volumes (8, 12, or 16 oz), makes it particularly appealing for on-the-go coffee drinkers.
The Bean Adapt Technology, which optimises brewing parameters based on bean type and roast level, is a sophisticated feature not commonly found in this price range. It offers a level of customisation that coffee aficionados will appreciate.
Lastly, the Eletta Explore’s user interface, with its colour touchscreen and intuitive menu structure, offers a more modern and user-friendly experience compared to many competitors in its class.
Real World Experiences
Aggregate of user experiences
Users generally report high satisfaction with the De’Longhi Eletta Explore, praising its versatility and the quality of beverages it produces. Many appreciate the machine’s ability to cater to diverse coffee preferences within a household. The learning curve is often described as manageable, with most users feeling comfortable with the machine’s operation within a week or two. Long-term users note that the machine maintains its performance well over time, provided regular maintenance is carried out.
Common praise
The Cold Brew function receives widespread acclaim, with users appreciating the ability to make iced coffee quickly and easily. Many highlight the quality of milk-based drinks, citing the silky texture of the foam produced by the LatteCrema system. The customisation options are frequently mentioned as a strong point, allowing users to fine-tune their drinks to personal taste.
The ease of cleaning, particularly the automatic cleaning cycles for the milk system, is often praised. Users find the maintenance reminders helpful in keeping the machine in optimal condition. The build quality and aesthetic appeal of the machine are also commonly mentioned positives, with many users feeling it adds a touch of sophistication to their kitchen.
Common complaints
Some users find the machine’s size challenging, particularly in smaller kitchens. The depth of the unit can make accessing the water tank and bean hopper difficult if not placed with ample clearance. A few users report that the grinder can be noisy, which might be an issue for those brewing early in the morning in shared living spaces.
There are occasional mentions of inconsistency in drink temperature, particularly with milk-based beverages. Some users feel that even at the highest temperature setting, drinks are not hot enough for their liking. The lack of a dedicated hot water spout is a minor but frequently noted inconvenience.
A small number of users report issues with the touchscreen’s responsiveness over time, though this doesn’t appear to be a widespread problem. Lastly, some find the initial cost high, although many feel the machine’s performance justifies the price.
Sustainability
Environmental Impact
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore’s environmental impact is a mixed bag. On the positive side, its bean-to-cup system eliminates the need for single-use coffee pods or capsules, significantly reducing plastic waste compared to pod-based machines. The use of whole beans also typically results in less packaging waste than pre-ground coffee.
The machine’s durable construction and serviceable design contribute to a longer lifespan, potentially reducing electronic waste. De’Longhi offers a repair service and sells spare parts, encouraging users to fix rather than replace their machines.
However, the machine’s complex design, incorporating multiple electronic components and two separate milk carafes, does mean a higher material footprint compared to simpler coffee makers. The production process and transportation of such a large appliance also contribute to its overall environmental impact.
Energy Efficiency
In terms of energy efficiency, the Eletta Explore incorporates several features to minimise power consumption. Its auto-off function, which can be programmed by the user, helps reduce standby energy use. The dual thermoblock system allows for efficient heating of water and milk separately, potentially using less energy than a single, larger boiler system.
The machine is rated as an energy class A, indicating good efficiency for its category. However, it’s worth noting that bean-to-cup machines generally consume more energy than simpler brewing methods due to their multiple functions and constant readiness to brew.
The Eletta Explore’s ability to make cold brew coffee without heating water is a potential energy-saving feature for iced coffee lovers. This process uses significantly less electricity compared to brewing hot coffee and then cooling it.
While the machine doesn’t have an explicit eco-mode, users can optimise energy use by adjusting settings like water temperature and standby time. The clear display of these settings makes it easier for users to make energy-conscious choices.
Accessories and Upgrades
Available Add-ons
De’Longhi offers several accessories to complement the Eletta Explore, enhancing its functionality and maintenance. A key add-on is the water filter, which helps reduce limescale build-up and improves water quality for better-tasting coffee. The company also provides descaling solution and cleaning tablets, essential for maintaining the machine’s performance over time.
For those who frequently prepare milk-based drinks, additional milk carafes are available for purchase. This allows users to have separate carafes for different types of milk or to always have a clean one on hand.
De’Longhi also offers a range of coffee beans specifically selected to work well with their machines, though the Eletta Explore is compatible with any whole bean coffee.
A thermal travel mug, designed to fit under the adjustable spout, is available for those who frequently use the To-Go function. While not essential, it complements the machine’s on-the-go capabilities.
Potential for Future Upgrades
The Eletta Explore’s potential for future upgrades primarily lies in its software. De’Longhi has a history of providing firmware updates for their smart appliances, potentially adding new features or improving existing ones over time. These updates could include new drink recipes, enhanced customisation options, or improvements to the Bean Adapt Technology.
While hardware upgrades are less common in coffee machines, the Eletta Explore’s modular design allows for relatively easy replacement of individual components. This means that if De’Longhi were to develop improved parts, such as a more advanced grinder or milk frothing system, these could potentially be retrofitted to existing machines.
The machine’s interface, while not a touchscreen, is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. Future software updates could potentially enhance this interface, adding new functionalities or improving user experience without the need for hardware changes.
It’s worth noting that while the European version of the Eletta Explore includes app connectivity, this feature is not available in all markets. There’s potential for this functionality to be expanded to other regions in the future, possibly enabling remote control and additional customisation options.
Conclusion
Final verdict
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore stands out as a versatile and capable bean-to-cup coffee machine, offering a wide range of drink options with a particular strength in milk-based beverages. Its unique Cold Brew function and dual LatteCrema system set it apart from many competitors in its price range. The machine delivers consistently good coffee quality, with ample customisation options to suit various preferences.
While it excels in many areas, the Eletta Explore is not without its drawbacks. Its size may be challenging for smaller kitchens, and some users might find the lack of a dedicated hot water spout inconvenient. The initial investment is significant, placing it firmly in the premium category of home coffee machines.
Despite these minor issues, the Eletta Explore’s overall performance, build quality, and innovative features make it a strong contender in the high-end automatic coffee machine market. Its user-friendly interface and automated maintenance features contribute to a positive user experience, even for those new to bean-to-cup machines.
Recommendation (who should buy this)
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore is best suited for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate variety in their daily brew and are willing to invest in a premium machine. It’s an excellent choice for households with multiple coffee drinkers who have different preferences, thanks to its ability to produce a wide range of both hot and cold beverages.
This machine is particularly appealing to those who enjoy milk-based drinks, given its advanced milk frothing capabilities. The Cold Brew function makes it an attractive option for iced coffee lovers who don’t want to wait hours for their cold brew.
The Eletta Explore is also well-suited for busy professionals who value convenience but don’t want to compromise on coffee quality. Its one-touch operation, customisable user profiles, and To-Go function cater well to those with hectic schedules.
However, it may not be the best choice for those with very limited counter space or those who primarily drink simple black coffee, as simpler, less expensive machines might suffice for such needs.
Ultimately, the Eletta Explore is recommended for coffee lovers who appreciate technological innovation, desire a cafe-like variety of drinks at home, and are willing to invest in a machine that can deliver consistent quality across a broad range of coffee styles.
Detailed Ratings
Overall score
🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4 out of 5 Nutz)
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore earns a solid 4 out of 5 on our Coffee Nutz rating scale. This score reflects its impressive versatility, particularly in producing both hot and cold beverages, and its user-friendly interface. While it excels in many areas, minor issues with size and price prevent it from achieving a perfect score.
Subscores for key aspects
Performance: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Consistently good coffee quality
- Excellent milk frothing with dual LatteCrema system
- Unique Cold Brew function
Value for Money: 🌰🌰🌰½ (3.5/5)
- Premium pricing
- Extensive feature set justifies cost
- Potential for long-term savings over cafe-bought coffee
Design: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Durable construction with quality materials
- Large footprint may be challenging for some kitchens
Versatility: 🌰🌰🌰🌰🌰 (5/5)
- Wide range of hot and cold beverages
- Customisable drink options
- To-Go function for travel mugs
Ease of Use: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Intuitive interface with colour display
- One-touch operation for most drinks
- Some learning curve for advanced features
Maintenance: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Automatic cleaning cycles
- Clear maintenance reminders
- Easy access to removable parts
Durability: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Robust construction with quality materials
- Serviceable design for potential repairs
- Generally reliable with proper care
Milk Frothing: 🌰🌰🌰🌰½ (4.5/5)
- Dual LatteCrema system for hot and cold milk
- Consistent, high-quality foam
- Adjustable foam levels
Speed and Efficiency: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Quick heat-up time
- Efficient brewing process
- Cold Brew function faster than traditional methods
Customisation: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Bean Adapt Technology for optimised brewing
- Adjustable coffee strength, temperature, and volume
- User profiles for storing preferences
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Cold Brew function work?
The Eletta Explore’s Cold Brew function uses a unique brewing process that takes about 20 minutes. It steeps coffee grounds in cold water, resulting in a smoother, less acidic coffee compared to traditional iced coffee methods. This feature sets the Eletta Explore apart from many competitors in its price range.
Is the machine easy to clean?
Yes, the Eletta Explore is designed for easy maintenance:
- It features automatic cleaning cycles for both coffee and milk systems
- The brew group is removable for manual cleaning
- The machine provides clear prompts for when cleaning or descaling is needed
- Most removable parts are dishwasher safe
However, regular cleaning is essential to maintain optimal performance and hygiene.
How customisable are the drinks?
The Eletta Explore offers extensive customisation options:
- Adjustable coffee strength across five levels
- Three temperature settings
- Customisable milk foam levels for milk-based drinks
- Grind size can be adjusted with 13 settings
- The machine can store up to four user profiles with personalised drink preferences
Additionally, the Bean Adapt Technology automatically adjusts brewing parameters based on the coffee beans used.
How noisy is the grinder?
The grinder on the Eletta Explore is reported to be relatively loud compared to some competitors. This might be a consideration for those who are sensitive to noise or who brew coffee early in the morning in shared living spaces.
Can it accommodate travel mugs?
Yes, the Eletta Explore features a To-Go function specifically designed for travel mugs. The drip tray can be adjusted to accommodate mugs up to 16 cm tall, making it convenient for those who prefer to take their coffee on the go.
How hot are the milk-based drinks?
Some users have reported that milk-based drinks, particularly lattes, may not be as hot as they prefer, even at the highest temperature setting. Temperatures around 110°F (43°C) have been noted. Pre-warming cups can help maintain the desired temperature.
Is the Coffee Link app necessary to use the machine?
While the Coffee Link app offers additional recipes and customisation options, it is not necessary for the basic operation of the machine. The Eletta Explore’s built-in interface provides access to all essential functions and a wide range of drink options without needing the app.
How does it compare to Jura machines in the same price range?
The Eletta Explore competes well with Jura machines in terms of drink variety and milk frothing quality. It stands out with its Cold Brew function, which is rare in this price range. However, some Jura models may offer more grind settings or a quieter operation. The choice often comes down to specific features and personal preferences.
