Delonghi's Best Budget Home Espresso Machines: Stilosa vs Dedica vs ECP 3420

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for watching, comments welcome! Look in the video description for links to the machines and accessories. Check out the full reviews below: Dedica: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fV6qlo1vm8eUoNk Stilosa: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnunnnlpr9Fjq8k ECP 3420: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6acY4msd75_qKM

[@jonathangarzon2798]

How does the ecp compare to the gevi?

[@luckyPiston]

The temperature measurements are in Celcius right ? just below boiling point ?

[@luckyPiston]

So is the only difference mechanically between a ECP and a Stilosa the shower head /shower screen design , kind of a deal breaker on the Silosa if your going for max optimization ? tks

[@aileencrane7700]

I’m brand new to making espresso at home but I absolutely love my stilosa.

[@Ryxem34]

I join u in this adventure man !

[@powerupcorporation5659]

What about the electricity consumption?

[@juansisniega3641]

I have a soft spot for the ECP3420, it was my first machine and I added a rancilio steam wand to it. Absolutely great place to begin your espresso rabbit hole.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Heck yeah, totally agree! It is my favorite budget machine to use.

[@Ghjhfbnn]

I even would say: “Espresso Marketing rabbit hole”

[@LukaEscu]

My first one too and still use it. One of my friends bought the same model after he drunk my espresso and I explained to him that is not really the coffee is more the machine and now he has all kind of accessories lolz

[@Tax_Szn]

Just started mine a month ago and haven’t missed one day of making an espresso shot. Replicated my favorite iced starbucks drink with my De Longhi. It really is reliable less the steam wand and my less desirable latte art skill 😂

[@bruneti12]

It is my first machine and I'm having a blast! I'm a big optimizer and the learning curve of the espresso rabbit hole is perfect for me 😄

[@bingleekkong8939]

Thank you Tom! Just got myself the ECP after watching your video. Into the blackhole of coffee I go!

[@kaede_jing]

Thank you Tom! I come to this video because I was interested in Stilosa. But I purchased ECP3420 just now after watching your video. I highly believe that it suits my need and it's the perfect machine for me.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome, enjoy your machine!

[@LifeByKpop]

Thanks Tom. I got an ECP 3630 recently and I'm having a blast. Delonghi rocks. Thanks for all the details.

[@justinbouchard]

Hi! does it have the same shower head as the 3420?

[@ceciliaaliaslacorunda7017]

Cuál es mejor

[@LifeByKpop]

@@justinbouchard Yes, it does.

[@LifeByKpop]

@@ceciliaaliaslacorunda7017 I really don't know. I only have the one machine.

[@justinbouchard]

@@LifeByKpop thanks!!

[@johhny.d.]

Tip for hot espresso with Dedica EC685: 1. Program a third (highest) level of temperature (User Manual); 2. Before dialing the coffee, you need to preheat the brew group - pull the water two times (double espresso button); 3. Voila! Now you can brew your hot espresso.

[@tudorpottudorpot8423]

I fill a yogurt tub with very hot water, then set the portafilter in while I grind the beans.

[@---Maksim---]

I have an ECP 31.21 with a custom Arduino thermostat, a bottomless portafilter and a rancilio steam wand. In my opinion, this is the best home coffee machine under 500$. The espresso it makes is incredible. The temperature is very stable - about 92-93°. Cheers! 😊

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Oh my gosh, that sounds awesome! Would you mind sharing your parts list? Do you have a PID on it, or a full blown Gagguino?

[@Delgut]

Would love to also know that parts list 👀

[@lopesfamily1352]

31.21 its the european version, full plastic, 34.20 its only in usa and Canada, i think.

[@Bloodysugar]

Leaving a comment for algos, and thank you again. I was looking for reviews of the Dedica as I was hesitating between it and the Gaggia classic pro, and finally this review and your Dedica/Classic pro comparison, you made me go for the ECP. And it was quite a bargain as many people look for newer things and there are a bunch of good deals to find for the ECP. I had mine in almost new condition for 40€, leaving me a nice budget to mod it. For about the price of a second hand Classic pro my ECP has its fair chances to beat it when I'll be done modding. ^^ Results are already beyond my expectations, and my coffee addicted buds and neurons thank you a thousand times.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That's awesome - thanks much for sharing!

[@eimersongenerao9872]

I own an ECP for 2years and I believe tom. It pulls delicious chocolatey espresso all the time. Totally worth it.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Heck yeah, very nice!

[@xAzarathx]

A very nice comparison between these DeLonghi's! It seems like the boiler equipped ones are the best bang for your buck right now :). And as always, a great contribution to the coffee community from your videos! Great job, Tom!

[@GamePro-gd7rm]

We will buy EC685 .it is good design n got memory . Other two are old design

[@jolonf]

I’ve had the Delonghi Dedica Arte EC885M for a few months and really wrestled with the temperature instability. Based on these videos I recently picked up the Stilosa EC230, which is the only of the boiler models available in Australia. It is very cheap and nasty, all plastic. In fact the first time I turned it on I noticed the plastic top actually curves as the boiler underneath heats up. Also when I went through the setup procedure to run water through it the pump ran loudly and no water flowed. I was going to return it but turned off and back on and finally water flowed. I haven’t had an issue since. The good news is from the first shot where I guessed the settings it came out tasting great, none of the unevenness of the Dedica. The biggest limitation is the 40mm shower screen. For the double shot basket I use a puck screen to help distribute the water. However it occurred to me that the showerscreen is about the same size of the bottom of the single shot basket, which I’ve had some success using. I dose about 9 grams and tamp. I have the metal tamper which came with the Dedica and I use the handle end which is slightly curved to tamp the centre. I don’t use a puck screen because I don’t want water down the sides. I did try the puck screen on a finer setting and there was a dark ring around the bottom of the puck. I also needed to grind slightly coarser than the double basket. Using this approach I was able to get good results even with light roasts which were impossible with the Dedica. A couple of things to note. Mine came with non-pressurised baskets and they measure 52.5mm so they don’t fit in the standard 51mm Delonghi portafilter and the 51mm baskets float in the Stilosa portafilter. With the Dedica if the flow stops for a few seconds the process will stop and all three lights will flash which I find annoying. The Stilosa doesn’t appear to do that. It is a shame the external construction is so cheap and one with more metal isn’t available in Australia. But it is so much better than the Dedica for thermal stability and the fact the cheapest model comes with non-pressurised baskets you don’t really need anything else to get good shots.

[@jolonf]

I measured the temperature of the Dedica Arte with a multimeter: High setting: Ramps up to 95c, then drops to 91c, and then ramps to finish at 105c Low setting: Ramps up to 92c, then drops to 88c, and then ramps to finish at 100c

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for posting your experience! I find the boiler models better than the Dedica, too. I love my ECP3420. You're right, the Dedica has a flowmeter, and it will stop if the pump stalls. The boiler models are manual - they have no such feature. They also warm the brew group and by extension the portafilter. I've gotten great results with mine. Cheers!

[@jolonf]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner I went back to the double basket with the puck screen, the shots really come out tasting great and the smaller shower screen doesn’t seem to be detrimental when using the Normcore 0.8mm puck screen. I’ve also noticed that the Stilosa is much quieter than the Dedica, I’m not sure if this is due to all the plastic. I did read that the shower screen on the Stilosa has a spring valve behind it which opens at about 5-6 bars, I wonder if this might help dampen the pump and might also help with the puck? I did noticed also that when the extraction stops the flow seems to stop faster than the Dedica and I wonder if this spring valve has something to do with it.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

They both have expansion valves, if you take them apart, you'll see. But they're a little different. Cheers!@@jolonf

[@tudorpottudorpot8423]

I have the Dedica machine. I preheat the brewgroup by resting it in very hot water in a empty yogurt tub.

[@tudorpottudorpot8423]

Oops preheat portafilter in hot water

[@user-sg6xv2kb8s]

FYI the newest version of the EC230 machine sold in Argos UK comes with a 54mm non-pressurised basket as standard.

[@chryseass.5143]

Fantastic video, Tom.. I would have been swayed to get the ECP instead of the Dedica if I had seen this before I bought mine but so far, I am very pleased with my Dedica. I have a Dedica and a Sage/Breville Bambino and also a Bambino Plus ( at different locations) and my least favourite one to use, by far, is the Bambino which is definitely inferior to the Bambino Plus. I would have bought another Dedica instead of the Bambino if I had to buy again. My first , very cheap, Delonghi machine lasted well over a decade and still pulled good shots but was rusting out.. These videos do help people a lot ,Tom- good work!

[@Yirgamalabar]

Can you share what do you dislike about the Bambino vs the other two?

[@chryseass.5143]

@@Yirgamalabar The Bambino is not as user friendly as the other two and it feels like Breville/Sage cut as many corners as they could to get it to certain price point Everything about it is a step down from the Bambino Plus including the ergonomics. Saying that, if I did not have the experience of the other two machines, the Dedica and the Plus. , I probably would be okay with it but also would soon outgrow it and immediately would need to buy a proper tamper ( the included one is lightweight plastic) and a decent portafilter . The portafilter included in the Bambino is of a much cheaper quality than what comes with the Plus although they look the same in photos..... If you were choosing between the basic Bambino and the Dedica EC685 , I would say get the Dedica and look for a sale price, I regret buying the Bambino and did consider replacing it with the Dedica after I had spent time with both machines. Two things the Dedica has that the the Bambino ( as well as the Plus) lacks is dedicated on/off switch and a steam/water lever - both make the user experience better (imo) Hope that helps you to decide if you are planning to purchase. If the budget allows, get the Bambino Plus as it is the nicer machine to use, overall. but you will also be happy with the Dedica for less money. I love my silver one and it looks great on the counter top! I did buy a nice tamper and a bottomless portafilter for each machine and that really does make a big difference.

[@Yirgamalabar]

@@chryseass.5143 Thank you for the detailed answer!

[@chryseass.5143]

@@Yirgamalabar Glad to help. It really was hard to decide without hands on experience! Tom's videos and also Coffee Kev's helped me a lot! Just a side note- the two Brevilles use a 54mm portafilter and the Dedica use a 51mm size.

[@nottherealgtechairram402]

​@@chryseass.5143hi. I'm still undecided on which machine to get and Tom's videos are a huge help. Do you know if the Bambino machines (either) can use ESE pods? Their site suggests not but I would have thought a replacement portofilter perhaps and pod basket combo would work? My wife needs an ESE compatible machine for decaf and speed so I'm edging towards Dedica 885 (for improved wand) but really like the Bambino's. Thanks

[@tedmounsteven621]

Just purchased an ECP 3420 (on sale $130 Canadian) which will be delivered today! Seems like I made a good choice :D

[@junkgrrr]

Thank you so much! What an informative video! I haven’t used my dedica for a year bec im so ignorant of these things. Im inspired to use it now and buy other tools to use it better now. Thanks tom!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Glad it was helpful, enjoy your machine!

[@ΕυθύμιοςΚαραδήμας]

got stilosa and upgraded using non press portafilter. The result is amazing, way better than many esspresso cafe here in Greece. Keep the good work Sir!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Happy to hear it!

[@NinjAsylum]

I have the Stilosa and with most 3rd party portafilters you need to REALLY Torque it down and tighten it wayyyyyyy more than the stock one. Once I figured that out I never had another leak.

[@shannonrachelrafuse1950]

I LOVE my ECP3420 I just want to recommend it to all my friends!!!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Heck yeah! It's may go to for this price range as well!

[@jd-py5nm]

the stilosa was my first machine got it used I think I paid $20 used it for a bit (6mo a year idk anymore) and donated to my wifes office coffee bar where I wouldn't be surprised if its still in use (she has a new job now)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@jd-py5nm Great deal! Goodwill find?

[@kenpage3321]

Thanks, great videao. I love delonghi and just bought my 2nd ECP 35.31. Your video would have been really helpful in selecting a machine in this price range

[@fraven1801]

I will go for dedica since I cannot drink very hot coffee since I have a sensitive tongue

[@alexismeza6987]

Im in love with you! Ive seen your videos this year and a lot of them from yesterday until now in searching for my espresso machine I would say you definitely help with my choice, Im gpoing to buy Delongui ECP 3420 because of you! and there is a very good sale rigth now in Mexico with this machem soooo thanks! I love the way you explain everything about the machines and the descriptions you make when tasting coffee, i really love you!

[@zammie01]

Thank you Tom for this breakdown! I confess I am one of those who have written off these '15 bar appliances' for making coffee. The insight to the actual brew pressure is game-changing. Also, did not realize the cheaper ones were single boilers. Now I'm thinking about getting one to play around. Cheers!

[@SunriseLAW]

I just purchased an "open-box" Stilosa off e-bay for $50. At that price, you just can't go wrong, and it does produce an excellent brew. I once owned a higher-end machine with its own water supply. It took 15 minutes to get to temperature and it just was not practical for me to leave it on all the time for a couple of espresso's each day. I eventually sold it because it was taking up counter space and I switched to French press.... until I got the Stilosa, which can crank out a nice shot within a couple minutes of being turned on.

[@zammie01]

@@SunriseLAW 1-2min to get up to temp in amazing for early mornings! How close did the Stilosa espresso quality get to that commercial machine's in your case?

[@SunriseLAW]

@@zammie01 The Stilosa produces a better brew, probably because of the 'closed portafilter'. That takes away the guesswork. Also, the Stilosa uses less coffee. It is easy to assume that a $500 - $1000 machine should be better than a $50 plastic machine but it really isn't. How awesome? I fine-ground some already ground FOLGERS (in a can:):) and it produces a decent shot with impressive crema. Yes, I have real espresso but was amazed what it did with the Folgers :):)

[@panggilakuantok]

thank for the video, finally i ordered 35.31 for my first espresso machine 👍

[@budjoh1]

How do you like it so far?

[@panggilakuantok]

@@budjoh1 its great, i like this machine ...

[@PastorJury]

I have watched this a couple of times as I consider which machine I should buy first. My goal is the Gaggia eventually, but I want to get an entry-level machine for now. Thank you, Tom.

[@OMGodini]

Tom great videos you are putting out, raising the bar of quality! Keep it up!

[@MadMackz]

Being Manual , doesnt this enable the user to simply "pre-infuse" on their own terms? or am I missing something here? , Regardless, love your video's , Thanks for the entertaining reviews , I Appreciate the effort and your realistic views for the average person

[@marcoagostoni8827]

I bought an ECP3630 after watching your videos on the ECP3420. They should be the same. What do you mean by being a bit too late at 4:17? you do not way for the green steam LED to be on when making a cappuccino. Why?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Because you want to keep the heater engaged. If you wait until the light, then the steam thermostat has been met, and it will take quite a while until it starts heating again. The steam won't last long enough for a whole cappuccino. If you start steaming earlier, before the thermostat is met, then you will have good steam power the whole time.

[@qmduong3209]

Any problem with water leaking around filter ? What to do with it ?

[@Glasmesser]

Danke für die ausführliche Bewertung. Die 3531 wird meine neue Espresso Maschine.

[@MrlFixZ]

Thank you tom, i made up my decision, im going to buy ecp3531... since my current one is china branded CM3020 and happened to stop heating now, idk why but im going to change now.. im thinking about ecp3531, but notice dedica and stilosa, luckily u got the review... im going to get one now

[@digitalbladeca]

Thanks for the very detailed video. After not drinking coffee regularly for years I came across extensive research of its benefits, and since I do love a good macchiato, espresso, or cappuccino over drip coffee I decided to get the Stilosa, my first espresso machine. Decided to go for it as it's an Amazon best seller and the brand is world-famous and reputable over some no-name brands that may or may not be good. Had my first cappuccino from it today and have to say it was pretty solid. Will be fun dialing in the process to perfect my daily cup of java. Subscribed to your channel for more helpful tips.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome, hope you enjoy your Stilosa!

[@joaobizarro7564]

Just ordered my Dedica.. due to partner acceptance factor! :)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Right on!

[@KFP1828-wp4jd]

Check the tab holder material. You can see plastics vs aluminum 1:30

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

All of the OEM portafilters have aluminum and plastic.

[@drsus0]

the tip to remove the panerello ( sp?) is what changed my whole eperince w yhis machoine ( stilosa)...THANK YOU!

[@Bilal_El-Hassan]

I bought a second hand delonghi icona for $25 2 years ago after your review vid and never looked back. It's aged and seen better days so I'm back and it seems I'm going with another delonghi after this video. Thanks for the great advice and very good videos

[@justinmakak759]

Great video! I have been considering getting my future wife an espresso machine for Christmas and I think you just sold me on the ECP 3420!

[@PeterPete]

De'Longhi are made by Kenwood. Just bought a ECP35.31 and on the sticker located on the base it clearly states 'Kenwood'.

[@Hez0]

Hey, fancy seeing you here. Old subscriber, but haven't watched one of your videos for a couple years. I'm deciding what espresso machine to get when I move house soon. I've been using a Delonghi EC155 for a while (doesn't belong to us).

[@PeterPete]

@@Hez0 well a lot of them are more or less the same - the ECP3531 is okay. The only thing I would improve is that I'd make the milk steamer pipe longer and more flexible or make the machine slightly taller. This would mean you'd have more room to remove your milk jug after steaming your milk!!

[@tod.100]

Wow man I do appreciate the effort you put on making this video! Keep up the good stuff thank you!

[@vladessilva]

Uma pena que Delongui ECP 3420 não seja vendida no Brasil. Fiquei muito tentado a comprar uma..

[@lopesfamily1352]

Existe mesmo modelo para o brasil mas tem outra referência. Procure a ecp35.31

[@andreyogogo]

Hi Tom. Great video! I look forward to new comparisons with Dedika.

[@luckyPiston]

So is the only difference mechanically between a ECP and a Stilosa the shower head /shower screen design , kind of a deal breaker on the Silosa if your going for max optimization ?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, you are correct. Cheers!

[@floyah-9843]

Wow, if every item in the world was reviewed like this..... soo insightful, thank you.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you sir!

[@floyah-9843]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner thank you miss 😄

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@floyah-9843 Oops! It’s mostly men watching, so I assumed. Nice to have a few ladies here as well. 😉

[@AlbertBrucelee]

Thank you Tom!

[@damnhockey]

Excellent comparison, I am looking for a decent budget-friendly Espresso machine and you have lots of details. Thanks so much, Subscribing is a must, great job

[@chuckv8838]

Fairly easy to add xmt7100 pid to the stilosa or ecp for better and modifiable temp control. Even adding Gaggiuino type arduino mod is possible.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That would be sweet!

[@Nathan00at78Uuiu]

I made four shots of espresso yesterday on the stilosa and they each got progressively more bitter and hit the ratio faster each time. I was wondering why this was happening. Now I know. After each shot my niece would steam milk and then I would make a shot and so on. So that was the problem. But even my first shot was not good at all. I do have my own ECP 3420 that just arrived today so will try that and see how things go.

[@sudesu6589]

How is ecp3420 now?

[@gnuder13]

Best review ever. And the best coffee cannel.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

That's super kind of you to say, thank you!

[@abdullahsyria6145]

Thank you tom..after i see this video I buy one and I'm excited to try it when delivering to me.. but i think the name deferent the machine i ordered the name is delonghi ecp35.31 i think they are same but different name from continent to another.. thanks again

[@joyce-harmoniegoutane8140]

Wow, this video was incredibly helpful! 🙌 Thank you so much for sharing such high-quality content. Your detailed explanation really made a difference for me. This video has been a lifesaver in my quest for the perfect BUDGET coffee machine! ☕💡 By the way, I'm based in Europe, and I've been eyeing the DeLonghi ECP 31.21. However, I noticed there's also the ECP 3420(3531) model available. They look almost identical! 🤔 Do you happen to know if there are any significant differences between the two? Your expertise would be greatly appreciated! Keep up the fantastic work! 🌟

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Go for the ECP 35.31, since it has a much better drip tray. I hate the drip tray on the 31.21, lol, because the cups are wobbly on it. Cheers!

[@Stanwis]

I bougt used stilosa that was dripping water - simple fix and i got working machine for 20 euro :) Its good enought for now ;)

[@alexandermashkin2395]

The shower screen on Stilosa is 30 seconds to change with no need to disassemble the maschine. And if using a good stainless steel puck screen (which is a must imho) - there is even no need to change it. The only thing I did not understood so far about Stilosa is whether it has an opv or not and How it works, because there is only one hole in the water tank.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

There's an OPV in every Delonghi, but it's not adjustable. It's more of a safety valve, in case the pressure gets too high. Cheers!

[@MihirK007]

Guess the benefit with Dedica is that you can change the temperature at least.

[@ericl2189]

Yes, automation is the benefit. Also, not having to shut off the flow of water manually. I moved from an ECP to a Dedica, and I did not notice a degradation of espresso flavor. Seems the same to me.

[@majkon93]

@@ericl2189 Hi, in my country ECP is priced 30 % less than Dedica, would you say Dedica is worth it? Also is there anything that bothers you on either of them? It's going to be my first and I wonder, while the taste is the same, if ECP is more convenient in some aspects (it seems to me it has to be more stable since it's wider, maybe filling water is easier..?)

[@ericl2189]

I like the Dedica and find it to be worth the extra cost because of the automation. If that is not important to you, then I think you might as well go with the ECP.@@majkon93

[@masonryjoe]

I love your vids, put together so well, you get a little geeky but you do it in a way I find easer than anybody ells on youboob to understand, even though Ive been pulling shots on cheeper machines I can do a good job but just watching a few of your vids I have learnd more great tips, Thank you ! Think I'm going to pull the trigger on the ECP 3420 and get the bottomless portafilter, I've watched you pull a shot with one on another vid and was blown away with the crema you got out of it, I subbed and liked, cheers from Canada eh !

[@MinhNguyen-zo3oi]

thank you so much, for a newbie like me, it save my life

[@justinbouchard]

Super awesome job with this video!! I feel like more people that are getting into "fancy" coffee are in the budget for machines like this and sub $400 currency. Helping people make a decision purchasing something that is "cheap" will keep garbage out of landfills for sure. Almost all these "cheap" machines operate in a similar way. I feel strongly that De'Longhi is honestly smashing it out of the park taking everything about "fancy" coffee into consideration. I had no idea that ECP had such a different shower screen!!! Imma for sure be buying that machine now and changing my gaggiuino set up from my stilosa onto that purely for that reason lol. For me I also agree that the 3 way solenoid valve is kind of just a selling feature that isn't necessary. I literally don't even use my drip tray. I hate cleaning more things than necessary. A 3 way release valve for pressure after pulling a shot makes so much more cleanup outside the machine and forces you to have to descale and thoroughly clean the internals of the water system because it's very much so pulling coffee back through the system when it opens up. I swap cups when my shot or spro over is done to catch the drips and use a puck screen every time for everything. My machine is so clean and I never have to "clean" it.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Heck yeah Justin, I totally agree with you, especially about the omitted 3 way valve. On the Delonghis, the pucks knock out cleaner, and there's no 3 way valve water circuit to have to clean. I do the same thing, just let the drips go into a swapped espresso glass. Easy peasy. I do also think that these budget offerings from Delonghi can provide a nice espresso, with good beans and a capable grinder. Heck, with these I have often gotten better shots than at a fancy cafe, where the baristas are not paying attention to their ratios or tamping. Cheers! Tom

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I'd be quite excited to see a Gagguino mode with the ECP. Let me know how it goes!

[@justinbouchard]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Might be until the end of the year before it happens but I'm for sure doing it lol. Gaggiuino works well on my stilosa :)

[@davidmorrison2694]

Tom and Justin, Thank you both so much for your contributions on these budget ECP type machines!! Being very low budget I started looking at used Gaggia Classic after a Hoffman video, but those are so $$$ in the states. Then almost got a new Dedica, but after watching Tom's videos and seeing the mods that Justin did, I got a used ECP 3120 for $35. Cut off the pressurized portafilter to make it bottomless, a Hugh basket and a cheap dimmer mod to pre infuse. Think I will upgrade shower screen next. It makes wonderful espresso and latte, the artist still needs practice though! It is all manual, but I don't find that any problem, rather enjoyable actually. Would love to try Justin's gaggiuino mod, but I'm happy where I am. Maybe if I find another cheap second hand ECP! lol Agree on the 3 way solenoid, my pucks are dry and so easy to knock out. Only exception is if you are pulling back to back shots and not steaming any milk the puck doesn't have time to drip/dry out and it is a bit soupy. I follow the same workflow with a drip cup and never have to touch the drip tray. Thank you both again for sharing your knowledge!!

[@justinbouchard]

@@davidmorrison2694 This makes me so happy!!!! I'm super glad you found your way to good coffee for yourself on your budget :D I'm kinda lazy so I like how the gaggiuino mod kind of just makes my coffee for me now, especially since I added a stop on weight feature to it. Tons of love from Canada :)

[@alfer9920]

Thanks for the video Tom!

[@ciprian7243]

Great review. Just one small question: who the hell takes their espresso machine with them in vacation?... :))

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Haha, I do!

[@ciprian7243]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner that takes commitment :)))

[@nikcar23]

Hi, can you list here all of the items that you used in the video as far as the scale and the pressure measurement tool. And also the round thing that goes onto the porta filter so that you can swish the coffee around …and then I also need a the swisher thingy. Thank you! . Next…what should my numbers be ideally for amount of coffee grounds and amt of pulled espresso. Was it 16 g and 32 g? Lastly, how much pressure do you apply when tamping? Thank you SO much!

[@locketsNcharms]

I got a ECP3420 here at Target and after the first couple days, the performance got worse and worse. We tried different grounds to see if it would make a change. Before 30 days, I gave up trying as I’ve done and tried all the tips. Annoying too was that the puck always came out with grounds intact but the espresso thing (opera filter? went into the uses grounds bowl.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Sorry to heat that!

[@joedoe2407]

5:30 how come the manual machines do not have pre-infusion? They have everything: pre-infuse, post-infuse you name it.

[@danideangilis]

Awesome video, thoroughly enjoyed watching, thank you!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for posting feedback! Tom

[@mr.soyhair8888]

I noticed when you were testing the temperature that the porta filter was leaking is that always an issue wi the these machines?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It was just leaking a tiny bit down the side of the temp probe, since I snuck it between the group head gasket and portafilter lip.

[@TreyJustice]

I have the 420. It’s good but I do want to upgrade soon. Can you do another video of stepped up machines ? Maybe $500 range

[@tobymoby8524]

Hey Tom, i am looking for my first espresso machine. I have to decide between the ECP 35.15 and the dedica 785. The ecp is 133 euro and the dedica 155 euro. The dedica model include the better tamper from the 885 model. Which model should i choose and why? The automatic water flow on the dedica seems nice. But which one does make the better coffee?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

For me the ECP makes better espresso, but the Dedica is also a nice machine and heats up faster. Good luck with your choice!

[@ptcollura]

Tom could you please test the new Philips Baristina. This is a no frills espresso machine but appeals to those who just want coffee without fussiness.

[@humamtakla6894]

What amaze me is that all the test data resulting from the tests shows the Dedica as better option but still you prefer the ECP model.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Well yes, it's what I have gotten the sweetest shots from. Dedica is still pretty good though.

[@humamtakla6894]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner I'm looking for the sweetest shots definitely will try the ECP one. Thank you.

[@MBergyman]

I wonder if rewiring the heating element to come on during the extraction to offset some of the thermal sink from the incoming cold water might solve the temperature drop you are seeing in your extraction. I may try that when I perform the modification on my ECP.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hey Michael, that could be interesting. That's also why some people do temperature surfing, waiting for the light to just go off, before pulling a shot, so that it's heating the duration of the shot. Cheers!

[@ruthcetz3051]

En mexico no se comercializa la ecp3420, si la compras desde amazon eeuu no obtienes la garantia, asi que me quede con la stilosa

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

They are very similar machines. Cheers!

[@alemholas]

Hello @TomsCoffeeCorner ! Thank you for all your videos. I have always thought I needed more money than what I could justify before even attempting to do espresso. You have given me a path closer to my reality. I can't wait to make espresso for my friends and family! And now I am torn between the ECP and the Dedica! You prefer the espresso form the ECP, but could you elaborate on the difference? Given the same coffee was it more sweet or less acidic/more bitter? It would help me decide u.u Thank you again! Your presence as a coffee KZbinr is more than needed! Cheers!

[@alexandermashkin2395]

There are sorts of coffee that you just wont be able to brew on dedica. You will get something sour, bitter, unpleasand.. Stilosa and ecp will brew it easily and it will be balanced and sweet. With temperature jumps dedica makes underextracted and overextracted tones for the same cup. On the other side on fully manual mashines you can control everything - preinf time, flow, make tricks. Fill water tank with hot water and you get even better temperature stability Additional Big Plus to stilosa is the most convinient drip tray of there three. Drip tray on dedica is so small it is a nightmare to work on.

[@alemholas]

@@alexandermashkin2395 Thank you for this! This is very helpful to understand why ECP/Stilosa are better. I get from this that all termoblock machines would be similar? O is the Dedica a worse implementation of that technology Regardless, I appreciate the time you took to answer my doubts. I will try to look for a Stilosa. And eventually a very nice Manual machine, Like the Oddisey. Cheers!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Agreed!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Like Alexander mentioned below, the ECP and Stilosa have better heat. The brew groups and portafilters are heated from the boiler. I find those extractions sweeter and in general more balanced than those from the Dedica, or most other thermoblock machines for that matter. Cheers!

[@alexandermashkin2395]

@@alemholas but if you are about Cappuccino only, go for dark roast brazil beans and dedica will work absolutely good! 😂🍾

[@oronzocana1103]

Hello @TomsCoffeeCorner , would the use of a puck screen make the shower screen upgrade redundant? You can get used ECP machines for the same price of an ims shower screen.

[@allisonm7223]

You are supposed to move the milk cup up and down as it’s steaming to create the foam.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hmm, I have found that keeping it steady works best. But do what works for you!

[@gregoirepare833]

nice! i have de ECP and it works great indeed!

[@jenniferlivengood2379]

Your videos helped me decide what machine I wanted . My old machine didn't allow me to use a bottomless portafilter so I went for the Stilosa. I am still learning and grinding is still a challenge because I can't afford a good one and the Kingrinder I got is messy and had to do for every time I make fresh shots for my lattes. I did learn about coffee and now I get better beans and great flavor from the little machine. When my skills and equipment improve I'll get a higher end model. For now I am getting good coffee from the Stilosa. Thanks for all the information on all your videos.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks very much for your feedback, Jennifer! Have fun and happy coffee drinking! Tom

[@jesj7806]

I have stilosa also and I am beginner which kingrinder you have?

[@busraodabas6390]

Hi Tom, great video ! I am a little confused about boiling water flow 🙄 I want to use the machine also to make tea so do both of them pour enough hot water to make tea as well?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You can, but it's not super hot. A water kettle is honestly your best bet for tea.

[@WarpSRP]

Great comparison which helped me down the path to purchasing the 35.31! My first espresso machine and I am enjoying it so much. Thank you Tom. But I recently bought the DL200NT shower screen you show in the video @10:52 and cannot get it to flow as evenly as yours. The water mainly comes out of the 5 or 6 centre dispersion points, not near the edges. Any tips or ideas to get the flower to come out of the shower screen more evenly?

[@Tristan_the_ultimate]

Really appreciate your in depth videos on really affordable espresso machines cause other coffee content creators only create content for hyped up and relatively expensive equipment. Hopefully we can get cheap grinders review soon 🙏 Would also like to ask your insight on these, in terms of espresso quality, Flair Signature vs delonghi ecp? Those two are at the same price range here in the Philippines.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you. Which grinders were you thinking? I love the design and price of Flair, but I do find it cumbersome to preheat the chamber, which is super important to not having a too cold extraction. Therefore, I really like the ECP in that comparison.

[@Tristan_the_ultimate]

​@@TomsCoffeeCornerthanks for the insight, sir Tom! Would you say I could get good quality espresso shots, that are good drinking on its own even without milk, on the advance mode delonghi ecp even with light to medium roast beans?

[@checkwhatsleft4565]

Do you have another thermocouple thermometer , I find that mine was inaccurate when I tested on the electric cattle and brew temp on my Delonghis, and that was dual channel fancy one, I noticed that issues with other fancy 4 channel thermometer as well, last time you got 92-93c ish on your ECP 3420, you could be look at 100c-103c instead if you have a one that's accurate.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You are right - I don't think it's accurate, but it should at least show a difference in the temp curves. I would like to purchase an accurate one. Can you recommend a better alternative?

[@checkwhatsleft4565]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner It's weird that I have replied two messages and it's either got deleted or on a review hold,.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@checkwhatsleft4565 Sometimes KZbin self censors. Did you include a link? If so, KZbin normally scrubs those comments. But you could describe the one you mean.

[@checkwhatsleft4565]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner No, I didn't post links but mentioned Amazon.

[@checkwhatsleft4565]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner The model that I got was 902c thermocouple thermometer, and before you place an order for that, you might wanna to try your luck by testing the boil water in your electric cattle, to see yours is how far off in terms of temperature reading.

[@zolitoronto]

Hi, if I remove the original shower screen from the ECP, can I use the old screw to attach the new Shower Screen DL200NT? Or do I need to buy a new screw for it?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@zolitoronto Yes, you can reuse the old screw.

[@zolitoronto]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thank you 💛

[@jeffcsMN]

Great review! I've had my Stilosa for about 6 months and have been fairly happy it, especially after switching to bottomless portafilter and removing the panarello. In the video you suggest waiting 10-15 seconds before steaming milk, does this mean one should wait 10-15 secs after the light comes on before steaming milk?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

No, it means to actually not wait for the light to come on. The reason is, because if you wait for that, then the boiler has stopped heating, and therefore stopped producing steam. So you will quickly void the boiler of the steam, and it takes quite a while for it to get back up to temperature, and therefore pressure, and therefore more steam. The effect I'm referring to is like hysteresis. It's better just to flip the switch, wait 15 seconds, purge, and start steaming! Then you'll have steam the whole time, since it will never stop heating.

[@jt_r209]

Could you do a comparison of these delonghi machines and the casabrews CM5418?! It's like a boiler dedica would be an amazing video

[@s.p.c.3724]

I am looking for a replacement for my EC155 which seems to be on its last legs. I really enjoyed the video and thought the ECP3420 seemed like a great option, but it is out of stock. Should I consider the Stilosa, the ECP3220 or the ECP3630?

[@kaly7256]

I replaced the 155 with the stilosa. 90 € ,about a year ago, same machine inside, think, changed the portofilters. , it gets hot like the old machine, since I don't make more than 5 coffees a week, with ese pots (single dose) I always have fresh coffee, tastier, which is strange cause the nespressos reminded me of canned in taste, and I assumed the same is will be with ese, but no

[@EliHernandezy808]

Any information on the inside contents of these brewers? Plastics or metals? I was just curious. These Delonghi machines look promising.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Check my most recent video :)

[@mariep1107]

I'm using the 3420 and only able to get 12-13g of coffee in the double basket/portafilter that came with the machine. I've watched your other 3420 video and you got 14g using the basket/portafilter that came with the machine. I prefer a larger latte. Could my grinder be the problem-not fine enough grinds? Or should I just get a larger basket and bottomless portafilter?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Well, it is hard to get 14 grams in the original basket. It's designed more for 11-12 grams. But you can just use a nice IMS basket, like the one I have listed in the video description. FYI, you can fit a lot more coffee in if it's a lighter roast, since it's denser.

[@mariep1107]

Will the basket your referencing fit the portafilter that came with the machine? Or should I purchase the bottomless portafilter you reference… I believe it comes with a basket.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@mariep1107 Most PFs come with a basket, but the IMS basket is my favorite.

[@alexandrelefebvre8]

Did he mention anything about stilosa temp. ? I feel stilosa and ecp share the same parts so we can expect similar temps? - my stilosa feels hot sometimes

[@EGY-SA3KA]

black & decker vs de'longhi espresso coffee machine whose best ?

[@turkcepop9159]

There is a $25 difference between stilosa and ecp3420. Is it really worth it? Should I go for ecp3420 for a better espresso taste?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I just like the EPC form a little more. It also has a better shower screen.

[@Isa-LeicaR35mmf2Lover]

In Nicaragua the stilosa costs $200 and the ECP 3420 $250, which one should I buy to learn? Then I will buy a rancilio classe 5, thank you very much 😊❤

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I'd go for the ECP, to be honest. I just like it a little better. Cheers!

[@he7230]

I wonder how the ECP would compare to a stock Gaggia Classic in a blind taste test?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Their temperature curves are actually quite similar, because they're both small boiler machines with heated brew groups. 👍

[@samuellizarraga6970]

Hola, disculpa una pregunta el porta filtro sin fondo de tu máquina ecp 3420 es compatible con la ecp3630? Agradecería tu respuesta!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Si. They are exactly the same machine, just the ECP has more metal on the housing.

[@wizardfpv7856]

I bet you could get a ecp gasket and screen 52mm and it would fit the ec stilosa 42mm machine

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Maybe...I haven't tried to be honest. Cheers!

[@ArefinGamingandWork]

to get a nice extraction out of dark roast beans ground coffee - do you think stilosa has a better value than dedica for the price? (americano)

[@gregesterhuysen7979]

I would also prefer the ECP3420. Has larger shower screen too, but this model not available in South Africa, so 2nd option will have to be the Stilosa, but it has a smaller shower screen. Are there a larger screen available for this model or a mod.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Justin Bouchard fitted the IMS shower screen to his Stilosa, but I don't know if it was finicky or not...

[@cazznazz8016]

Does the ECP series dispense hot water so I could make an Americano by adding water to a double shot?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes it does!

[@unpluggedcyborg]

Does it matter if I get the plastic vs the stainless steel option on the ecp machines? Better temperature distribution or nah?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It's the same, but the build will be a little sturdier with the metal variants. Cheers!

[@unpluggedcyborg]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner thanks Tom, I didn't think you'd reply so fast or reply at all. You've earned yourself an aspiring coffer enthusiast and subscriber. Cheers

[@chianti95]

I just went ahead and ordered an EPC 3630 after this great review ( hoping it’s as good - I was seduced by the extra stainless steel in the housing). I have a few newbie questions. With a bottomless portafilter is it okay to use a deeper 51 mm basket that holds a larger amount of coffee, or would it be better to make two small double cups back to back and combine? Is there a long time delay for pulling shots? For espresso this 30g volume is fine, but I am accustomed to making cappuccino with about 4 oz of coffee and I think this may leave me wanting more! For an americano style, do you just let the water keep running longer through the puck ( manual shutoff) or do you add plain hot water after it’s done? I’m coming from years of moka pot use and a lavazza mini pod machine, so this will be an interesting change! Finally, is is advisable to run a small amount of hot water thru the coffee as a workaround pre-infusion, or is it better to just let it run normally? So much to learn! Really appreciate these detailed videos. Thanks! Update: it arrived today! First impressions - smaller than I had feared. It’s adorable and doesn’t take up a lot of counter space. Love the all stainless look. I had trouble twisting the portafilter to 90 degrees, but maybe it’s just tight because it’s new. It’s light so there’s little torque - It didn’t leak so I guess it was twisted in far enough. Had a bit of trouble getting basket out, too. I’m not concerned because I’ve ordered a non pressurized basket, a bottomless portafilter, better tamper, etc. My intro to the panerello was amusing. I couldn’t get it off! This model has the milk vs cappuccino slider, so at first I thought it might be in the wrong position - I struggled mightily. Finally realized that the slider comes off along with the wand and with a mighty tug it came off. I tried steaming without the wand cover and (of course) it immediately blew right off! I don’t have any cable ties (a bread tie didn’t work!) so put the wand back on temporarily to keep it in place. Instructions say you’re supposed to remove the silicone piece each time, but no way that’s going to happen. Once the tie is on, I guess purging it with steam is the way to clean it. I’m having trouble picturing where the tie goes ( assuming towards the top under the red ring?). Having lots of fun just using pre ground and the OEM baskets. Tomorrow I will play with freshly ground and will try oat milk. The experiments are fun. It’s a bit fussier than my usual coffee routine, but so far, fairly easy. Very happy with my new toy! Thanks, Tom!

[@amirhoseinniknezhad112]

Very informative Thanks a million 🌹