De'Longhi Dedica EC685 Review: Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the De'Longhi Dedica EC685, a popular espresso machine that's been making waves in the home barista scene. Is it the real deal? Does it live up to the hype? We're gonna break down everything you need to know, from its features and performance to its pros and cons. Whether you're a seasoned coffee aficionado or just starting your espresso journey, this review is for you. Get ready to find out if the Dedica EC685 deserves a spot on your countertop!

Unboxing and First Impressions

When you first unbox the De'Longhi Dedica EC685, you'll immediately notice its sleek and stylish design. It’s got a slim profile, which is a huge plus if you're tight on counter space. The stainless steel finish gives it a modern, premium look. Inside the box, you'll find the machine itself, portafilter, two filter baskets (for single and double shots), a tamper, and a measuring scoop. The setup is straightforward, so you won’t need to be a tech wizard to get started. Honestly, the first impression is pretty darn good – it looks fantastic and doesn't take up a ton of room. The build quality feels decent, especially for its price point. It doesn't feel like a super-high-end machine, but it's definitely not flimsy. Overall, the first impression is positive – a stylish, compact machine that's ready to make some coffee.

Now, let's talk about the details. The Dedica EC685 boasts a thermoblock heating system, which means it heats up pretty quickly, usually in about 40 seconds. This is great when you're in a hurry and need that caffeine fix ASAP. It also has a 15-bar pump, which is crucial for extracting espresso with a rich crema. The machine has a removable water tank, which is easy to fill, and a drip tray that's also removable for easy cleaning. Plus, it has a built-in steam wand for frothing milk, so you can make lattes and cappuccinos. The controls are simple and user-friendly, with illuminated buttons for single and double shots, as well as a steam function. The Dedica EC685 also has a cup warmer on top, which is a nice touch for preheating your cups. The design is all about convenience and accessibility, making it a great option for beginners. The machine's overall design is a blend of functionality and aesthetics, making it a good fit for modern kitchens. It’s a machine that tries to make the espresso-making process as simple as possible without sacrificing quality, aiming to deliver a good balance of features and ease of use.

Key Features to Get You Pumped

Sleek Design: The slim profile is a major space saver.
Fast Heating: Ready to brew in about 40 seconds.
15-Bar Pump: Delivers that perfect espresso crema.
Steam Wand: Froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos.
Easy to Use: Simple controls for beginners.

Performance and Espresso Quality

Alright, let's get down to the most important part: how does the De'Longhi Dedica EC685 perform when it comes to making espresso? The good news is, it does a pretty solid job, especially considering its price. The 15-bar pump ensures a good extraction, giving you espresso with a decent crema. The crema isn't always as thick or as long-lasting as you'd get from a high-end machine, but it's certainly respectable. The espresso itself is flavorful, with a good balance of acidity and bitterness. It's not going to rival the shots you get from a commercial machine, but for home use, it's more than adequate.

One thing to keep in mind is that the quality of your espresso also depends on the coffee beans you use and your grinding technique. The Dedica EC685 doesn’t have a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to grind your beans separately. Using freshly ground beans makes a huge difference in the taste and quality of the espresso. Also, the Dedica can be a bit sensitive to the grind size; it might take a little practice to get it just right. The ideal grind size is crucial for proper extraction, and if it's too fine, you might get a bitter taste. If it's too coarse, the espresso will be weak. The thermoblock heating system does a decent job of maintaining a consistent temperature, which is essential for good espresso. It heats up quickly, which is a huge convenience, especially on busy mornings. The steam wand, while functional, might take some practice to master. It can be a little tricky to get the perfect microfoam for lattes or cappuccinos. However, with practice, you can get pretty decent results. The steam wand's performance is adequate for a machine in this price range.

The Dedica EC685 offers a balance of quality and ease of use. It’s perfect for those who are just starting to explore the world of espresso. It allows you to produce pretty good espresso at home without emptying your wallet. The machine's performance is good for the price, making it a viable option for those looking to enjoy quality espresso without a significant investment. Getting the hang of it takes a bit of time, especially when it comes to the grind and steam wand, but with practice, it’s a machine that can deliver consistent and enjoyable results. The results are good, but remember that the quality of your beans and your technique will make a big difference.

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Espresso Extraction

Crema: Respectable, but not as thick as high-end machines.
Flavor: Good balance of acidity and bitterness.
Grind Size: Requires adjusting for best results.

Brewing Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let's walk through how to brew a shot of espresso with the De'Longhi Dedica EC685. It's pretty straightforward, but here's a detailed guide to get you started.

Prepare the Machine: Make sure the water tank is filled with fresh, filtered water. Turn on the machine and let it heat up. The indicator lights will let you know when it's ready, usually in about 40 seconds.
Grind and Dose: Grind your coffee beans to a fine consistency. Use the measuring scoop to add the right amount of ground coffee to the filter basket. For a single shot, use the single-shot basket; for a double shot, use the double-shot basket. Tamp the coffee grounds firmly and evenly. This step is super important for a good extraction. Make sure to level the grounds and tamp them with about 30 pounds of pressure.
Insert the Portafilter: Once your coffee is tamped, insert the portafilter into the machine and lock it into place. Ensure it’s securely locked to prevent leaks during extraction.
Brew the Espresso: Place your cup under the portafilter. Press the single-shot or double-shot button, depending on what you want. The machine will start extracting the espresso. Watch for the coffee to flow smoothly, forming a rich crema.
Enjoy: Once the brewing is complete, remove the portafilter, and admire your espresso. You can enjoy it as is or add milk to make a latte or cappuccino. You can remove the portafilter to clean it immediately. This prevents coffee grounds from drying and makes cleaning easier. If you are making a milk-based drink, use the steam wand to froth your milk.

Milk Frothing

Preparation: Fill your frothing pitcher with cold milk (about half full).
Steam: Purge the steam wand to remove any water. Insert the wand tip just below the surface of the milk and start the steam.
Froth: Create a whirlpool to introduce air and froth the milk. Move the pitcher up and down slightly to stretch the milk.
Texture: Continue steaming until the milk reaches your desired texture and temperature. Remove the pitcher and wipe the wand clean.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your De'Longhi Dedica EC685 clean is essential for its longevity and performance. Regular cleaning prevents build-up, ensures better-tasting espresso, and extends the life of your machine. Here's a simple guide to cleaning and maintenance.

Daily Cleaning: After each use, remove the portafilter and discard the used coffee grounds. Rinse the portafilter and filter basket under warm water. Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
Weekly Cleaning: Clean the drip tray and water tank. The drip tray should be emptied regularly to avoid spills. Soak the filter basket and portafilter in warm, soapy water to remove any oil build-up. Wipe down the steam wand and clean it by purging it after each use to prevent milk from clogging the nozzle.
Descaling: Descale the machine regularly to remove mineral build-up, which can affect its performance and taste. Follow the descaling instructions provided in the machine's manual. Typically, you'll need a descaling solution and should run it through the machine's brewing cycle. The frequency depends on the hardness of your water; if you have hard water, you will need to descale more often. Descaling is essential for maintaining your machine and preventing it from malfunctioning. You should check the water filter and replace it regularly to keep your water clean, and also helps to avoid mineral build-up.

Key Maintenance Tips

Regular Cleaning: Prevents build-up and ensures better-tasting espresso.
Descaling: Removes mineral build-up.
Follow the Manual: Always refer to the user manual for specific cleaning instructions.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the good and the not-so-good of the De'Longhi Dedica EC685. This will give you a clear picture of what to expect.

Pros:

Compact Design: Perfect for small kitchens and limited counter space.
Fast Heating: Heats up quickly, so you don't have to wait long for your coffee.
Easy to Use: Simple controls and straightforward operation, great for beginners.
Good Value: Offers a decent espresso experience for the price.
Stylish Appearance: Modern and sleek design.

Cons:

Plastic Build: Some parts feel a bit plastic-y.
Steam Wand: Steam wand can be tricky to master.
No Built-In Grinder: Requires a separate grinder, which adds to the cost.
Requires Practice: It takes a bit of time to get the grind size and tamping just right.

Alternatives to Consider

If you're on the fence about the De'Longhi Dedica EC685, here are a few alternatives you might want to consider, depending on your needs and budget.

1. Breville Bambino:

Pros: Compact, great espresso quality, and fast heat-up time. Breville is a well-respected brand, known for its quality appliances. It usually produces a high-quality espresso and a great alternative to the Dedica.
Cons: Price, usually a bit more expensive than the Dedica.

2. Gaggia Classic Pro:

Pros: Durable, high-quality espresso, and a great entry-level machine. The Gaggia classic is a step up in terms of build quality and espresso extraction.
Cons: Can be more expensive and requires more advanced skills.

3. Flair Espresso Maker:

Pros: Manual, high-quality espresso, and affordable. If you are a fan of manual espresso, the Flair is a great option. It’s a completely manual espresso maker, which gives you complete control over every aspect of the brew.
Cons: Manual operation.

Final Verdict: Is the De'Longhi Dedica EC685 Worth It?

So, after everything, is the De'Longhi Dedica EC685 worth the hype? The short answer is yes, especially if you're looking for an affordable, compact, and easy-to-use espresso machine. It's an excellent choice for beginners and those with limited space. The espresso quality is good, and it’s a great way to start your home barista journey without breaking the bank. The steam wand can take some practice, but with a little effort, you can make some pretty decent lattes and cappuccinos. The plastic build quality might not be the most premium, but it doesn't detract from the overall value. The bottom line is this: If you want a stylish, functional, and affordable espresso machine, the De'Longhi Dedica EC685 is a solid choice. It's a great machine for the price, offering a good balance of features, performance, and ease of use. Just remember to invest in a good grinder and practice your technique, and you'll be well on your way to enjoying delicious espresso at home!

Overall, the De'Longhi Dedica EC685 offers a great entry point into the world of home espresso making. It’s user-friendly, compact, and delivers a pretty satisfying espresso experience. It's a great pick for anyone looking for a stylish and affordable espresso machine. It delivers good results, making it a viable option for those looking to enjoy quality espresso without significant investment. It's a machine that tries to make the espresso-making process as simple as possible without sacrificing quality, aiming to deliver a good balance of features and ease of use, even if the user is a newbie.