DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

If you're an espresso enthusiast, you know how much quality matters when it comes to making that perfect cup of coffee. As someone who takes their morning espresso seriously, I’ve tested my fair share of espresso machines over the years, but the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew has truly caught my attention. It’s a versatile, feature-packed machine that promises to deliver a café-quality coffee experience right at home. I’ve been using it for a few months now, and I’m excited to share my honest thoughts about this machine. In this review, I’ll cover everything from the machine's design to its performance, and help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your coffee routine.

What Makes the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine Stand Out?

When I first got my hands on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and user-friendly features. But, of course, design alone doesn’t make or break an espresso machine; it’s the performance that really counts. I’ve found that this machine does not disappoint on that front either. From the variety of drink options to its ability to brew both hot and cold coffee, this machine is packed with impressive features that make it stand out in a crowded market.

The Sleek Design and Build Quality of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

I’ve always believed that a good espresso machine should not only perform well but also look great on your countertop. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore checks both boxes. Its modern, polished stainless-steel exterior gives it a sophisticated look that fits perfectly in any kitchen. The machine is compact enough not to overwhelm your counter, yet large enough to house a range of advanced features that are easy to access and use.

The build quality is sturdy, and every part feels durable, which is important for a machine that will be used daily. The control panel, with its high-resolution touchscreen, is intuitive and easy to navigate. I can adjust everything from coffee strength to milk frothing settings with just a few taps.

Brewing Quality and Performance of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

Of course, the most important factor when choosing an espresso machine is its brewing quality. After using the DeLonghi Eletta Explore for a while, I can confidently say it delivers outstanding results. The machine offers a variety of customization options that allow you to tailor your coffee to your specific preferences. Whether I’m in the mood for a traditional espresso, a creamy cappuccino, or a rich latte, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore can handle it all.

Espresso Shots That Rival the Coffee Shop

One of the things I love most about this machine is how consistently it produces rich, flavorful espresso shots. The espresso is always smooth with a nice crema on top, just like you’d get from a professional machine. I can adjust the coffee strength, grind size, and water temperature to suit my preferences, ensuring every cup is just right.

Cold Brew That’s Perfect for Hot Days

As someone who also enjoys cold coffee, the cold brew function was a game-changer for me. Cold brew typically requires a long, slow extraction process, but with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I can make cold brew in just a few minutes. The smooth, low-acid coffee it produces is perfect for iced coffee drinks. On those hot summer mornings when I need something refreshing, this feature is an absolute lifesaver.

Latte and Cappuccino Perfection

I’ve always enjoyed making lattes and cappuccinos, and the DeLonghi Eletta Explore makes the process incredibly easy. The LatteCrema system automatically froths milk to a creamy, velvety texture every time. Whether I’m using oat milk or traditional dairy, the machine consistently delivers perfect frothed milk. I can also adjust the amount of foam, allowing me to make my lattes exactly how I like them.

Convenience and Ease of Use

When I’m starting my day, the last thing I want is a complicated espresso machine. Thankfully, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore makes brewing coffee an effortless experience. The touchscreen interface is straightforward, and the machine walks you through every step. Whether I’m brewing a shot of espresso or preparing a cappuccino, I can select the desired drink type, and the machine takes care of the rest.

Self-Cleaning and Easy Maintenance

Another feature I really appreciate is the ease of maintenance. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore has a self-cleaning function, which helps keep both the coffee and milk systems in top shape. The drip tray, coffee grounds container, and water tank are all easy to remove and clean. I find that the machine alerts me when it’s time for descaling, ensuring that I stay on top of maintenance without having to think about it too much.

While it requires occasional cleaning, the process is far less tedious compared to other espresso machines I’ve used. The design is user-friendly, and DeLonghi has clearly thought about making upkeep as simple as possible.

The Milk Frothing System: Why It’s So Good

I’ve always found that milk frothing can make or break a drink, and the DeLonghi Eletta Explore excels in this department. The integrated LatteCrema system delivers perfectly frothed milk every time, producing thick, silky foam that enhances lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. I can adjust the foam consistency and temperature, ensuring my drinks are as creamy as I like.

What I really appreciate is the consistency. The machine automatically froths the milk to the perfect texture, so I never have to worry about under or over-frothing. Plus, the milk container is removable and easy to clean, making it a convenient feature to use daily.

A Few Drawbacks of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

While I’m generally very pleased with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, there are a couple of drawbacks that are worth mentioning.

Price Point

First and foremost, this machine comes with a hefty price tag. It’s definitely an investment, and not everyone will be willing to spend this much on a home espresso machine. However, if you’re someone who regularly enjoys high-quality coffee at home and you want the convenience of a versatile machine, it’s definitely worth considering.

Size and Counter Space

Another minor downside is the size of the machine. While it’s not excessively large, it does take up a fair amount of counter space, especially if you have a small kitchen. It’s something to keep in mind if you have limited space or need to be mindful of where you place it.

Noise During Operation

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore isn’t the quietest espresso machine out there. It makes a noticeable sound when grinding beans and brewing coffee, which might be a consideration if you prefer a quieter machine. However, this isn’t a deal-breaker for me, as the performance and results are well worth the slight noise.

How Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Compare to Other Espresso Machines?

When compared to other espresso machines in its price range, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore holds its ground. Machines from brands like Breville and Jura offer similar features, but I find that the DeLonghi Eletta Explore excels in certain areas, particularly in the cold brew function and milk frothing. While the competition offers great machines, the DeLonghi provides a well-rounded and reliable experience, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned coffee lovers.

Final Thoughts on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

After spending several months with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, I can confidently say that it delivers an exceptional coffee experience. Whether you’re brewing espresso shots, lattes, or cold brew, this machine consistently produces high-quality results with ease. The cold brew function is a standout feature for anyone who enjoys iced coffee, and the intuitive design makes it a joy to use daily.

While the price may be a bit steep for some, the performance and versatility of this machine make it a worthy investment for those who appreciate high-end coffee. If you’re looking for a reliable espresso machine that can handle both hot and cold coffee beverages, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine make good espresso?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore consistently produces high-quality espresso with rich flavor and smooth crema. It offers customizable settings such as grind size, coffee strength, and water temperature, ensuring that you can tailor your espresso to your preferences.

Q: How does the cold brew function work on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The cold brew function on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore uses a slow extraction process to create smooth, less acidic cold brew coffee. It’s a convenient way to make cold brew in minutes, perfect for iced coffee lovers.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore easy to clean?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is very easy to clean. It features a self-cleaning function, and the milk frothing system is detachable for easy rinsing. The drip tray, coffee grounds container, and water tank are all removable and simple to maintain.

Q: Can I make a variety of coffee drinks with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: Absolutely! The DeLonghi Eletta Explore can brew a wide range of coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos. It also allows you to customize the milk froth consistency for different drinks, giving you flexibility in your coffee creations.

Q: How noisy is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore during operation?
A: While the DeLonghi Eletta Explore isn’t excessively loud, it does make some noise, especially when grinding beans and brewing. The noise level is comparable to most high-end espresso machines, so it’s not a significant concern unless you’re sensitive to sound.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore suitable for a small kitchen?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a bit larger than some other models, so it might take up more counter space. If you have a small kitchen, you may need to make sure you have enough space to accommodate the machine comfortably.

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore have a milk frother?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore comes with an integrated LatteCrema milk frothing system. It automatically froths milk to create creamy, velvety foam for drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.

Q: How often do I need to descale the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The machine will alert you when it’s time to descale, which typically happens after a few weeks of regular use, depending on your water hardness. Regular descaling helps maintain the machine’s performance and longevity.