DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As someone who enjoys a great cup of coffee daily, finding the right espresso machine can be a challenge. I’ve tested my fair share of coffee machines, from basic models to more advanced machines, and each one has its own pros and cons. Recently, I had the opportunity to try the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, and I have to say, this machine truly caught my attention.

One of the standout features is the ability to brew cold brew coffee, which is a rare and often overlooked option in many espresso machines. This caught my eye immediately, as I’ve become a fan of cold brew coffee in recent years. But the DeLonghi Eletta Explore doesn’t just focus on cold brew. It also offers a range of brewing options, from rich espressos to creamy cappuccinos, making it a versatile addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.

After spending a few weeks using the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I feel confident in sharing my thoughts on its performance, features, and overall value. In this review, I’ll walk you through what I like about the machine, how it performs, and whether it’s a good fit for those looking for a new espresso machine.

Features of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore has quite a few features that make it stand out from the competition. When you’re spending money on an espresso machine, you want to ensure it’s not just pretty to look at, but also functional and reliable. I’ve found that this model delivers on all fronts, offering flexibility in brewing and ease of use, all while maintaining consistent quality.

The Cold Brew Function: A Game Changer

What really sets the DeLonghi Eletta Explore apart is the cold brew feature. Cold brew coffee has become incredibly popular, and with good reason: it’s smooth, less acidic, and great for hot summer days. Before trying this machine, I had to rely on making cold brew by steeping grounds in water overnight—time-consuming and not always reliable.

With the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I can make cold brew in a fraction of the time. The machine uses a dedicated cold brew function, which lets you brew a large batch that’s perfect for enjoying over ice or storing for the next few days. The result is a smooth, well-balanced cup that doesn’t taste watered down, even after adding ice.

Design and Build Quality: Sleek and Functional

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a well-built machine, with a sleek and modern design that fits perfectly in my kitchen. The stainless-steel finish gives it a professional look, and the intuitive touchscreen interface makes it easy to control. Navigating through the different options is a breeze, and I didn’t feel overwhelmed by buttons or confusing settings.

Although compact, this machine is built to last. The materials feel premium, and the overall design is sturdy, which is important when you’re investing in a product that you’ll use daily.

Versatility and Coffee Customization

I appreciate that the DeLonghi Eletta Explore doesn’t just cater to one type of coffee drinker. Whether I’m in the mood for a quick espresso shot or want to indulge in a frothy cappuccino, this machine has the settings to make it happen. The LatteCrema system, for instance, makes creating creamy, velvety milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos incredibly simple. I’ve found it particularly useful when making a latte, as the texture is consistently smooth without any lumps.

One of the other things I like about this machine is the adjustable grind size. I have some favorite beans that I love using for espresso, but the grind size is key to making a perfect shot. With the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I can easily tweak the grind setting to match my preferences, whether I want a stronger, more intense espresso or something lighter.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

For me, one of the most important factors in any coffee machine is ease of use. I’m not interested in a machine that’s complicated or time-consuming to operate. Thankfully, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore makes brewing coffee as easy as pressing a button. I can select my coffee style, adjust the strength, and even set the temperature—all with a few taps on the touchscreen.

The cleaning process is also straightforward. The machine comes with a removable brewing unit, which makes cleaning less of a chore. I particularly like how easy it is to clean the milk frother. Instead of having to disassemble it and scrub every part, I can just rinse it under water, and it’s good to go.

Coffee Quality: How Does It Stack Up?

When it comes to coffee quality, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore truly delivers. As someone who’s tried a wide variety of coffee machines, I know how important it is for the coffee to be consistently good. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore doesn’t disappoint. Whether I’m making an espresso shot or a cappuccino, the flavor is rich, balanced, and satisfying.

The cold brew feature, in particular, stands out. I didn’t expect the machine to replicate the smoothness and depth that you typically get from a dedicated cold brew maker, but it does. I can easily make a refreshing cold brew whenever I want, and it tastes just as good (if not better) than anything I’ve purchased from a café.

The espresso shots are another highlight. The machine does a great job of extracting rich, flavorful coffee, with a nice crema on top. It’s not quite the same as a manual espresso machine, but it’s close enough for those who prefer convenience without compromising on taste.

Comparing the DeLonghi Eletta Explore with Other Machines

In my opinion, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore compares favorably to other espresso machines in its class. Many espresso machines focus on one or two coffee styles, but this one offers a diverse range of options, from espresso to cold brew. That versatility makes it an appealing choice for people who want more than just a standard espresso machine.

There are certainly more expensive models out there, such as the Breville Oracle Touch or the Saeco Xelsis, which have even more advanced features. But for the price, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers an excellent balance of quality, versatility, and ease of use.

The Best Fit for Cold Brew Lovers and Coffee Enthusiasts

If you love cold brew and enjoy experimenting with different coffee drinks, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a great machine to consider. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy café-quality drinks from the comfort of their home without the steep learning curve of more advanced machines.

While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, its performance and convenience make it worth the investment, especially for those who appreciate the value of a good cup of coffee.

Product Review Conclusion: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Worth It?

Having used the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew for a few weeks now, I can confidently say that it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile, easy-to-use coffee machine. The range of brewing options, coupled with features like the cold brew function and customizable settings, makes it an excellent addition to any kitchen.

If you’re someone who enjoys a variety of coffee styles—from classic espresso to smooth cold brew—this machine will meet your needs without any hassle. While it might not be the most high-tech option on the market, it strikes a great balance between price and performance.

In conclusion, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers a great combination of quality, convenience, and value for those who want to enjoy their favorite coffee drinks at home with minimal fuss. It’s definitely a product I’d recommend to anyone looking to upgrade their coffee game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

Q: What is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is an espresso machine that offers a range of coffee options, including espresso, cappuccino, latte, and even cold brew coffee. It’s designed to bring café-quality drinks to your home with an easy-to-use interface and customizable features, including an adjustable grind size and a milk frother system for creamy, textured milk.

Q: How does the cold brew function work on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The cold brew function on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is one of its standout features. Unlike traditional espresso machines, this model has a dedicated setting for brewing cold brew coffee. It brews coffee slowly at a lower temperature, resulting in smooth, rich coffee that’s perfect for serving over ice. The machine is designed to make cold brew in less time compared to the traditional overnight method.

Q: How easy is it to use the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is very user-friendly. It features a touchscreen interface that allows you to select your preferred coffee style with just a few taps. The settings are intuitive, and the machine does most of the work for you, whether you’re brewing espresso or frothing milk. Cleaning is also simple, as the machine has a removable brewing unit and an easy-to-rinse milk frother.

Q: Can I adjust the strength of my coffee with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: Yes! The DeLonghi Eletta Explore allows you to adjust the strength of your coffee. You can customize the coffee strength, grind size, and even the temperature to suit your personal preferences. This flexibility ensures that you can make everything from a light espresso to a strong, bold brew.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore easy to maintain?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is relatively easy to maintain. The machine has a removable brewing unit, which makes cleaning a lot easier. The milk frother is also easy to rinse after each use. Additionally, the machine has a self-cleaning function for the internal parts, so you don’t have to worry about deep cleaning it often.

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make traditional espresso?
A: Absolutely! The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is designed to brew high-quality espresso. It has an automatic grinding system and adjustable settings, which ensures that each espresso shot is rich, flavorful, and topped with a nice crema. You can enjoy classic espresso shots, as well as other coffee drinks like cappuccinos and lattes.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee in the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore allows you to use both whole beans and pre-ground coffee. If you prefer to use pre-ground coffee, there’s a compartment for it, but the machine performs best when using freshly ground beans. The integrated grinder can be adjusted to suit your desired grind size for maximum flavor extraction.

Q: How does the milk frother work on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore features the LatteCrema system, which automatically froths milk to create smooth, velvety foam for lattes and cappuccinos. You can adjust the milk foam texture based on your preference, whether you like a dense foam for cappuccinos or lighter foam for lattes. The milk frother is easy to clean, making it convenient for daily use.

Q: How long does it take to brew a cup of coffee with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is designed to brew coffee quickly. It takes just a few minutes to make espresso, cappuccino, or latte, depending on your settings. The cold brew function takes a little longer, but still, much less time than traditional cold brew methods, typically brewing in around 10-15 minutes.

Q: How does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore compare to other espresso machines?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore stands out for its versatility. While many espresso machines are limited to espresso or cappuccino, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers a wider variety of drinks, including cold brew, making it a great choice for people who want more options. It’s also user-friendly, with intuitive controls and easy maintenance. While there are more advanced machines available, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers excellent value for its price, especially for those who want convenience and high-quality coffee without breaking the bank.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore a good option for beginners?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a great choice for beginners. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, and the machine takes care of many of the complex steps involved in brewing coffee. While it offers customizable settings for those who want more control, beginners will appreciate how easy it is to make great-tasting coffee with just a few taps.

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore have any drawbacks?
A: While the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a solid machine, there are a few things to consider. Some users might find that the machine is a bit bulky, especially in smaller kitchens. Additionally, while the cold brew feature is convenient, it’s not as advanced as a dedicated cold brew maker. Finally, it is on the pricier side compared to entry-level espresso machines, though it justifies the cost with its versatility and high-quality performance.