Delonghi Stilosa EC260 REVIEW: In Basic and Advanced Mode.

The Delonghi Stilosa ranks with the ECP 3420 as one of the best selling espresso machines on Amazon. Is that because of the low price, or because of the quality drink it can provide, or both? In this video, we take an in depth look at the Delonghi Stilosa EC260, in both basic and advanced mode.
-- Products used/recommended in this video --
(these are affiliate links that help fund videos like this, at no extra cost to you)
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► Single Basket by Graef (only EU): geni.us/GraefSiebe
► Bottomless Portafilter, for diagnosing shots:
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► Dosing ring:
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Last but not least, a capable grinder is necessary. Here are some suggestions:
► Grinder Suggestions: kit.co/tomscoffeecorner/grind... (Amazon)
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:40 Delonghi Stilosa Review
2:29 Basic Mode
4:47 Advanced Mode
----------------------------
*DISCLOSURE: The above Kit.co and Amazon links lead to Amazon, and since I am an affiliate, help fund videos like this one, at no extra cost to you.
#TomsCoffeeCorner #Espresso #homebarista 8715 switch

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you for watching, comments welcome! Product links in the description above 👆🏻 Subscribe for more coffee reviews & tips! www.youtube.com/@TomsCoffeeCorner?sub_confirmation=1

[@gentz8310]

@Tom's Coffee Corner: I have already a Dedica EC885 but I need another machine for our "Ferienhaus". Would you recommend a Dedica EC685 or a Stilosa? Both are nearly the same price. Thanks in advance

[@sunshine21911]

What kind of milk did you use? I see mixed reviews on whole vs. 2%, etc.

[@Nydas]

Hey Tom! Great video, i bought the Stilosa and several accessories based on this video. Loving it, but im having one problem that im hoping you can help with. Im using the bottomless portafilter and the double basket you recommended, but the basket gets stuck in the grouphead virtually every time i use it. Is this something youve encountered, and do you know how to solve this issue?

[@kthomas3280]

Tom, why did you leave the metal panarello on during basic mode but took it off and used the plastic one with zip tie during advanced mode? Just wondering. Thanks for the great overview of the Stillwater? I’m considering getting one. Merry Christmas

[@abdelrahmanabdelazeem9839]

is there a shower screen upgrade from ims that fits this machine ?

[@hangman2332]

Just bought one this year. A year later and this review and tutorial is better than any other one I have found. Thanks!

[@realretrorelapse]

How are you liking it? I have the same machine as well and that is all thanks to Tom's channel 😂. I absolutely LOVE the stilosa!

[@charlescoats7425]

Great to watch you first thing in the morning while enjoying my Espresso budy! Loved the video! Make it a great day!

[@cloudpunked]

This video has been very helpful, you articulate yourself extremely well. It allows your description of the machine to be clear and easy to understand. You also have a very kind energy and passion for what you create which shines throughout this video. Thankyou very much!!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you for your kind feedback - I really appreciate it!

[@SpartacusDog]

Thank you Tom; that Stilosa is inviting. I too have the K4 grinder (as well as a Normcore). But, I'm still experimenting with the K-4 grinder's settings. I most often use dark-medium roast beans and would greatly appreciate the K-4 number setting (starting from the actual #0) of your "one full revolution around" grind setting used here. Btw, I currently use an older, only partially modified Gaggia Classic. Thanks & keep up your great videos!

[@A266509]

Tom I love your videos… you are so authentic and feel like I’m listening an old friend… keep doing your great work!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hello Dante, that’s so kind of you to say! Thanks for your feedback.

[@brianbackovich]

Just wanted to say thanks! You transformed my little machine and I'm so excited! The grinder purchase was big for me but totally worth it if I ever upgrade to a higher end machine. HOWEVER . The little delonghi is doing great!

[@realretrorelapse]

May I ask what setting you use on the K2? I have a stilosa as well as a K2 grinder. I'm curious to know what setting works best for you.

[@emmy4691]

THANK YOU! I'm new to coffee brewing and just got one of these for Christmas. Was a bit overwhelmed to say the least! I'm gonna be keeping it all basic for now, but the advanced stuff looks great.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome, have fun with it! Espresso is about experimenting. Cheers!

[@tiagofpribeiro]

Hi, i’m running this setup for over a year now and the machine is holding strong despite the low price. Got myself a doublespouted portafilter beside the botomless one so i can split the shots and the only concern is the cleareance the double spout takes to use taller cups, but just remove the drip tray and away we go. About the steam wand it’s a bit of a learning curve but because it’s bot that powerfull you can correct yourself along the way, and i am able to pour some latte art

[@DarthChainsaw]

Excellent video! I just got one of these machines and know nothing about making espresso. This answered pretty much all of my questions. First cup turned out way better than i expected. I'll be using this daily. Thank you!

[@romandanilov7404]

Thank you for reviewing these more affordable machines. It is good to know that you can get a decent espresso without spending a huge amount.

[@mallow173]

Tom after you fixed my Delonghi machine it's rocking now!! Milk foam is way better than before and just loving it!! And i never knew about the 2:1 ratio either!! Going to do that in the AM!! Thanks again Tom!! you're channel rocks!!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Rock on, Mark!

[@Eiramilah]

I wasn't sure about the stilosa because it has a boiler, whereas its competitor, the Breville Café Roma, has a thermoblock heater. I keep hearing good things about this machine. Nice demo

[@rock_and_coffee]

I purchased my De’Longhi Stilosa thanks to this great review by Tom. Thank you for doing reviews on affordable espresso items for us who don’t have the budget to spend thousands of dollars. ❤

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Glad you like them! Have fun!

[@mrjjohnson2935]

Tom, New subscriber here! You won me over when you said go buy the inexpensive k2 grinder for 80 bucks, set it at 6.5 .. and BAM!! First shot to come out was on point!!! Thank you.. you’re keeping it real.. we dont need expensive equipment to make a very good espresso! Great Channel!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome! I am really happy to hear that!

[@stephenschultz1401]

Thank you so so much for the steamer wand tip on this machine. The first time I tried frothing with it I was so frustred but removing that stupid panarello helped a ton!! I already got that bottomless portafilter upgrade which is sweet. I've been experiencing some spraying out the sides during a pull but I don't think I have the grind setting and tamp down just yet

[@gipsasl]

Do you know anything about the BREVILLE VCF125 Mini Barista? It's currently on sale in the UK and i am debating between the Stilosa and the Breville.

[@dufflitplaysgames7406]

Thank you for the advanced tips! They make this budget espresso machine so much more fun and delicious!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I totally agree!

[@dawsontennant3900]

Thanks again Tom. I like your videos a lot. They are great for learning, and you make them interesting too.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Grazie mille, Dawson! Have fun making coffee - that's my motto.

[@gastonsenac1092]

Very nice review Tom! Try to show the coffee mug before and after the mod, the same as you did in your 3420 review, as the difference is quite shocking to see. Also the cappuccino will look quite different. Keep the videos coming 👍

[@joes.4149]

Im drinking my first espresso from the stilosa right now thanks to this video. You’re dope! 😂 keep it up. Subscribed now.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome! Thank you! Have fun experimenting with your machine! Cheers!

[@luistiagorico3187]

buying this machine right now after your review of this great machine. Thank you and well done

[@emmetgibson6599]

What have you thought about it thus far? I am between this and the Breville Bambino currently.

[@Euclideanaxiom]

This has been such a good and informative video so far and I'm only about three minutes in. You have a very clear and concise way of explaining things which I appreciate. Also another good thing is that I do not sense any sort of pretentious-ness from you which is refreshing haha. Please keep up the good work!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for the feedback - glad it's helpful! Tom

[@aketabi]

Another great video, thank you. This is one of the models I’m considering purchasing.

[@kristinaparker5597]

My husband bought one of these today and your video was an amazing tutorial! Thank you! I will save this for easy referral until I get good at making espresso. 😄

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome - thanks for the feedback! Enjoy your coffees :)

[@JohnnyFD]

Really great video thanks. You've inspired me to finally buy a bottomless portafilter.

[@realretrorelapse]

Anyone else think the "basic" shot looked pretty good too? Lol

[@brownjonathan86]

The law of diminishing returns. The advanced shot only looked marginally better but the basic was a damn good shot!

[@user-fy4lv6mf5n]

Absolutely. That looks fine for me.

[@realretrorelapse]

​@brownjonathan86 Right! I upgraded my portafilter and purchased the K2 grinder just like Tom used. My shots are better than using the pressurized portafilter, but not by a lot.

[@GSpacmanvice]

@@realretrorelapse I appreciate the update to your post! I just bought one of these and it should arrive tomorrow. Hit me up if you've got any other tips you think are worth doing :)

[@tiagoalmeida653]

Your skills are amazing. Even the first coffee took look amazing

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks so much 😊

[@gcntech9071]

Just got mine and followed the simple mode first and the coffee was great! Just need to find the the other filter to try the advance mode as well! Nice and useful video!

Really helpful video! I bought this now. Thank you 😊

[@sharonb7258]

I’ve just bought this machine, my first espresso machine. This video is very helpful, thank you :)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Glad it was helpful! Have fun!

[@n7s159]

This is a high quality video thanks for showing us this beautiful machine, also thanks for the subtitles (I don't use them anyway but thanks again)👌

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you very much!

[@johne7100]

My Delonghi Magnifica has a 2-function panarello with the usual sleeve you slide down for foam or leave up for warm milk. I have found, however, that if you leave it up then you can use it as a straight steam wand to produce a perfectly creditable foam with bubbles small enough to draw wee pictures with. I actually like it better than the wand on my Barista Express, which gets so hot that the milk cakes on it before you have a chance of getting a damp cloth onto it.

[@SunriseLAW]

This may be a good tip for a future related video. I wanted to try the 'advance mode' with my Stilosa but I didn't want to pay out for the open-bottom portafilter (PF). It is super-easy to convert the pressurized PF to open-bottom. Each of the baskets provided with the machine can be easily taken apart (and put back together). Use your fingers to unscrew the black plastic 'nut'. Remove the screen and gasket. Pull off the little plastic part that is between the screen and the bottom of the basket. Now you have just the metal screen. Put the gasket on it, put it back into the PF and .... VIOLA, an open PF !!!!!! I tried it and it WORKED. >>>>> My opinion: I got a better TASTE with the open PF, but the pressurized basket delivered a better crema. My feeling is that the open PF will be my choice, once I 'dial in' the correct grind and puck-pressure to get more crema. :):)

[@lw6913]

Such an easy rework! Did all the trick. Thanks!

[@sktigress9659]

Great video! Thank you can’t wait to try mine 😊

[@guitarist99john]

i like your videos, it's very relaxing to watch. keep up good work!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you very much!

[@kirthgersen291]

I am pleasantly surprised by the work put into the description. It is very pleasant. A cheap machine like this would suit me but with a water filter. I only want to use a Brita carafe. It takes up an important place.

[@superlimpiter1135]

Tom, I love that you are showing us how to mod and hack these budget models ! This is so fun...I just love your channel.😍😍😍

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Glad you like them! And thanks for watching!

[@Pipppo]

Just ordered mine. Excellent review

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@LeJimster]

When I'm at work I use the professional espresso machine and bean grinder to make myself an Americano. I prefer to keep running the water through the puck long after you'd stop for an espresso. The Stilosa in advanced mode looks like it ticks all the boxes for me, I'm very tempted to get one.

[@juanmponciano]

Just here to say I'm using your advanced setup and my wife is super happy w her morning drink!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Great to hear! Happy wife, happy life!

[@Doublertbs]

Thanks, just got one of these and so much easier to watch a video then read instructions....

[@CiscoSaeed]

Great video I came here bcz I bought one and my espresso was with no creama but will try your method❤

[@alexandermashkin2395]

Your latte art is absolutely gorgeous!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Oh gosh, thank you!

[@shirelderfel827]

Excellent video 🎉

[@derekc369]

Thank you so much for making novice friendly videos.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You betcha! Thanks for watching!

[@zetnnik]

Nice and very informative vid. 😊👍

[@vickymacdonald1473]

Just ordered one of these it looks fab

[@marilyncartagena521]

Excelent demostration.

[@cypherLabs]

That was a perfect brewing . Thanks for the video.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You betcha!

[@omanleader2020]

Thanks for the detailed explanation. This my first experience with this machine let’s discover its magic

[@alfer9920]

Thank you Tom, nice video!

[@Ayrton4everrr]

Subbed❤ I am thinking to get this machine to start. Please make more videos about it. Especially comparing it with the Active by Delonghi

[@andrey2995]

ecp3420 and ec230bk are exactly the same internally. ec230bk already comes with a non-pressurised basket and an 'advanced' steam wand - no need for modification. I own an ec230bk myself. I flush the water untill the green light turns off, wait about 21-29 seconds and start the pump, while the green light is still off. The water gets heated during the process thus compensating for the incoming cold water from the tank. The light turns green somewhere in the middle of the shot. This way the puck doesn't get overheated in the beginning and is properly extracted in the middle and no need to install PID. Great review as always, cheers from Russia.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for your input, and for the feedback! I will have to try that method. Cheers, Tom

[@andrew.triggs]

Can anyone verify the part about the non-pressurized basket?

[@alexandermashkin2395]

I purchased stilosa 230 as a backup for my 685.. Price - 50 euro) lBut it absolutely knocked down my 685 in espresso brewing. With my kingrinder k2 and a bottomless portafilter it performs quite equally to professional mashienes. Espresso is balanced and sweet. Highly, Highly recommend it!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome - thanks for posting your results! I agree that these boiler machines from Delonghi are better than the Dedica.

[@ideaoverload910]

A little tip/hack if you have a expresso machine with a 4 shot basket. I have a mr coffee express machine which has a 4 shot basket portafilter. It fits perfectly in my Delonghi Stilosa, and makes 4 shots, instead of the 2 shots which is the max you can make at once with the filter from Delonghi. BUT… there is one Con: You will notice dripping water from the side of the portafilter, but it’s an easy clean up, and you get 4 shots instead of 2. Great for company, otherwise just use the included 2 shot basket.

[@MBCoChannel]

Thanks for the great video 🙏🏽 which machine do you prefer: EC260 or ECP3420? Thank you so much for sharing your experience

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

3420. Cheers! And thanks for watching!

[@jonathanspivey5842]

I was literally just looking at this one on Amazon for my first espresso machine. As I was about to pull the trigger, I was really hoping you had a video on it. I didn’t have to wait long.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Nice. We are on the same wavelength, Jonathan.

[@therulingelite3875]

I just bought it from amazon after watching this😅

[@athenamac2470]

Thanks for this. I pulled the trigger and bought one

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@ralphmulet8430]

Hi Tom! Love your videos. What coffee did you use? That crema was awesome. Thanks

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I don't remember..either Lavazza (but less than 2 months off roast), or Dinzler.

[@SIAFU]

Great 👍🏽 video. Can't wait to try advanced mode.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Go for it!

[@HauntedChronicles]

As I sit here drinking my espresso from my Stilosa I got a month ago...I am enjoying the video as well. LOL.

[@Mrs.K100]

Appreciate the links for uk! Helpful

[@thepizzaguyty]

Hey Tom was wondering if during the middle of extraction if your ready light ever shuts off… great video btw !

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Um, sure sometimes it does, depending on where in the heat cycle between the thermostats the boiler is...

[@willfunk4]

Excellent review

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you kindly!

[@visabledarkness]

Great info on proper prep and upgrade. Having trouble getting the original wand sleeve back on, suggestions? I have used a little oil to lubricate...we'll see I might have to search for a ziptie ;)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It should just slip on...but I leave mine off - with a zip tie holding the rubber nozzle on.

[@dereklloyd381]

Not a bad machine, but I could not get two consistent shots in a row. Figured out the steam mod myself, I may try it again with an unpressurized filter, it seemed to work well for you. It may turn out to be a decent backup for my Gaggia.

[@quasimodo5177]

Nice. Thx. for the good video.Danke schön. Wie immer sehr gut gemacht.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I sog danke! Scheana Gruass aus Bayern!

[@user-jj5oj4hi1m]

@TomsCoffeeCorner thank you very much for the time you take to film and share all your valuable knowledge and coffee hacks ! Silly question for you: can you actually just buy the non pressurized filter ( the IMS H26 reference) meanwhile keeping the original portafilter ? Will it fit with the non pressurized basket? Thank you for your reply and help!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You can, but you have to remove the plastic insert in the PF.

[@user-jj5oj4hi1m]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner thank you very much! You rock !

[@TheMark58harr]

Hi tom.i Got a EC260 GR. What size is the filter shower screen.????

[@JayJay-xo4vb]

Hey Tom, loved the video! What do you mean by cooling the boiler by adding some new water in? Im a newbie in the espresso world and just bought this machine and was wondering if that step is necessery for something. Thanks!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You have to cool the boiler from steam temp, back down to espresso temp, or you'll scorch your next espresso.

[@johnwilson3375]

Good stuff! Thanks for the review! Note: don’t let your shots sit that long before adding the steamed milk. I try to limit the time to no more than ten seconds.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for the tip!

[@AbbieMoir]

Love this video! Thank you so much for your great info! I want to make smoother milk like yours, do I need to zip tie it or can I just take the cover off?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Put a zip tie on, so that the nozzle doesn't fly off. 👍

[@giancarco]

Hi Tom, nice video as always! Did you know that some variants of the stilosa came with a proper steam wand? I found a model time ago but I ended up to buy the dedica :D Also, I think you can depressurize the filter by unscrewing the block ( I'm not sure, I saw some videos of some old DeLonghi models that come with that, and it was possible )

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for sharing, Gianmarco! I do still think it's better howerver, to get a plain and simple unpressurized basket. IMS makes a real nice one. Cheers! Tom

[@yummy4567]

Try the Delonghi EC230. It comes with non-pressurised portafilter and a proper steam wand.

[@Cheranetube]

Thanks for a great video. Just curious, is your phone warm yet? 😛

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It's reluctantly held up to my abuse up to now. ;)

[@naasirsalafee]

I've been no joke watching all of your videos one after another. I really love this channel. I bought the Stinosa after your review and now I want to upgrade a 'power user' machine. So many choices lol.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for your feedback, I do appreciate it! Have fun experimenting!

[@djstock02]

much appreciated that to you took the time to go through the whole process. call me old fashioned, but its how we humans learn best :)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for that kind comment!

[@wazzup105]

I just learned that the Stilosa EC230 + 235 come without that panarello... And the 230 even comes without a pressurized basket.. so unpressurized only! Not a bottomless portafilter though. (and they both are cheaper as well)

[@mikeflory1578]

Hi, what milk are you using please and how many ml did you use for that size shot in advanced mode please? Love the videos, keep up the great work.

[@sic.5583]

Wonderful and informative video, thank you. What if I steam milk first before espresso with this machine? Is that not advisable ? I like the my latte in a see through glass with layers

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Sure, you can do that. Just be aware that you have to cool down your boiler after milk steaming, otherwise you'll burn your espresso. Cheers!

[@esmeduran4581]

Thank you for your tips I loved this video 😊 I just bought this machine and it hasn’t arrived yet BUT im wanting to get a bottomless portafilter do you have a link for the one you used in the video? I’m not sure if all bottomless portafilters will fit this machine

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Yes, I have links in the video description. Have fun! Cheers!

[@pranavsharma3769]

It was quite an insightful video. Thanks for the details and the mods 😍 Can you please tell what’s the difference between the EC260BK and EC235BK and call everything you mentioned in this video be done to EC235BK?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! I think the EC235 just has a different steam wand. The rest looks the same to me. But the EC260 is more established, as a product. Maybe it's the older one.

[@pranavsharma3769]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks for the quick response. Looking forward to more of your reviews and mods :)

[@melissa9868]

I just came here to figure out how to get the filter shots out of the portafilter 🤭😭😭 thank you!!

[@mayhem1712]

Great video as always! Quick question - How does this compare to the Dedica (aside from the steam wand) in your opinion? I like the idea of the heated brew group on the EC260 and would be going the 'advanced' route in either case. Trying to pick a first machine to get into manual Espresso tinkering. Thanks :)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Well the Stilosa and ECP line both benefit from a heated brew group, so I have gotten better results with these, than the Dedica. Check out the ECP here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6acY4msd75_qKM

[@rileychu4489]

ive had mine for two years. if you upgrade portafilters they are basically the same machine, i cant see any reason to spend $200 more on a dedica. same water pump and heating elements. stilosa only takes about 15-20seconds to switch from brewing to steaming which is nice

[@Chris-derf5]

​@@TomsCoffeeCorner stilosa vs ECP. saw youve reviewed both. any summary of how they compare? great vids btw, very educational!

[@jeet-Seattle]

Amazing videos thanks

[@wilsonfong7862]

Great video Tom! Can you simply swap the original basket to an aftermarket 51mm non pressurized one using the original portafilter?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, but you'll need to remove the plastic insert.

[@aldireyhan5241]

I just bought it, and it's amazing,

[@wafflez7]

Thanks for the great video Tom! Just got the machine and this is super useful, just wanted to doble check that the portafilter is 51 mm? Thanks!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, it's a 51mm portafilter. All Delonghis are.

[@wafflez7]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thank you very much!

[@SangNguyen-bw8vh]

Thank you for reviewing this model! What's different between ec260 and ec230? Is it just the housing with more steel on ec260?

[@PintoSixty]

I own a Stilosa and discovered not too long after owning it that the temperatures for the espresso, boiler and milk are highly inconsistent. I have to play games with the machine in order to get the temps right. For instance, after the boiler warming light is lit, I have to run about 10 seconds of water until that light goes off. Then, I have to turn the machine to the off position, then back on to the warming position and wait for the green light again. Then, I have to run about 2 seconds of water thru, then insert the portafilter with the coffee, then create the espresso shot. Hopefully, it'll be in the warmed cup at around 160 degrees F. The milk frothing isn't as bad a problem with heat, but the wand wants to spit water throughout the entire frothing process, which adds about 3-4 tablespoons of water into the milk. That much dilution definitely affects the taste. However, if I run the wand for about 2 minutes and wait to see that there's just a little bit of spitting happening, the milk turns out much better, even though you can hear occasional spits. I have taken the temp of the water before I discovered this odd technique, and I was only getting 145 degrees F from the boiler to the warmed cup. Please note that I always use a warmed cup, I always clear the frothing nozzle and boiler after each use. And I have decalcified the unit several times over the past year that I've owned it. Nothing seems to help. I've sent three emails to Delonghi support about these problems, but have never received a reply. So ... Tom ... I wish this video had included a temperature check. If you had done this, I think you would have seen the problems this machine has.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I find it is about as stable as the GCP, so that's not bad. You really can't beat it for the price.

[@PintoSixty]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Sorry, Tom. What's "GCP"?

[@PintoSixty]

Gaggia Classic Pro?

[@cs6373]

Just bought the Stilosa 235 a couple of weeks ago, our very first espresso machine 🙂 Didn’t have to play around much for a decent cuppa 🥳 😅. Can’t seem to get around the problem with the milk steamer though, just like you describe @PintoSixty, the steamer just releases so much water that the milk becomes waaay too diluted. I will definitely try the running the wand for two minutes method. Fingers crossed 🤞🏽

[@racerman1235]

Thanks a million for this video Tom. I have just bought this machine and have high hopes of great coffees. I have tried it a few times, but no Crema yet, however that is probably because the ground coffee I bought is too old. One question - with this specific model, it looks like from your video you need to manually turn the control knob off when the coffee pours, so it does not turn off automatically I assume. Is that correct? thks ..

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You have to manually engage, and then disengage the pump for your extraction. Cheers!

[@MrMarcolondonuk]

Many thanks Tom

[@user-jp7yc9xc9y]

Thank you for this! I have been trying to see if there’s options for changing out the steam wand? Like buying a new type and attaching, do you know if this is possible for this model as I own it myself !

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

See here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYibl6dtpbF9prM&lc=UgxC_blD7rnNizDUzet4AaABAg

[@williamstone1536]

Awesome! Wife and I just got this delightful machine, and I'm really enjoying my 'barista' training, lol. Question, how many seconds do you let the expresso pour for? Thanks! :-)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi! I aim for around 25-30 seconds, at a 2:1 yield. Cheers!

[@williamstone1536]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks so much!! I really appreciate it! 🙂

[@pualynn]

Hi Tom - great video. I souped up my E260 based on this video and all was going well. Then I was gone for two months and now when I brew, I get water and coffee spurting everywhere. I am using unpressurized basket, twirling distributor, and then tamping. I'm hoping it is just the coffee and not a gasket or pressure issue. I ground the the beans so that my husband could also use them for his French press. Could it be they are not fine enough or too old? Is there any fairly easy way to check / clean inside area above gasket? I feel the basket may not be making as tight a contact as needed with the machine. I love how responsive you are!! Oh - and when I just run straight water through, it show some very weak coffee color from somewhere.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hello there! Well, after 2 months the beans will certainly be too old. Also, if you were grinding for french press, then you need to be sure to be back to a fine enough grind for espresso. Cleaning the shower screen is not difficult - just remove the phillips screw, and use a small prying tool to remove the screen. Try prying gently from the middle screw hole. It may be suctioned to the gasket, just so you know. Cheers!

[@Booth_]

I’ve had this machine for 6 months now. I have a 51mm bottomless portafilter for this machine. It can hold 20 grams of ground espresso beans and I can a great extraction for this machine. If you’re an entry level espresso machine user 100 percent would recommend this machine. Amazon has 51mm portafilters that fit this machine very very well.

[@Booth_]

If anyone wants me to link the portafilter I use let me know.

[@maeve.starlight]

Yes please!!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I have some listed in the video description. And Booth, yes let us know which one you're using.

[@sharonthomas6175]

Hi!! What grinder do you use to grind your beans?

[@Booth_]

@@sharonthomas6175 I use the Baratza Sette 30

[@Tom-sq9co]

I have to find a used one of these to keep at work.

[@ericw2229]

One trick to get a hotter overall temp is starting it on the "steam" setting and then jumping to "pump" when the green light appears.

[@user-gk2rt4qm8q]

Yes, I did get the IMS basket. The basket is loose when you put it into the original PF even after spring adjustment. Pls note my husband is an engineer, you shouldn't advise to purchase inappropriate products.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Oh ok, well I always use the bottomless PFs. It may very well be a little loose in the original, I am not sure. I really advice to buy a bottomless, so you can diagnose your shots, and those generally come with a well fitting basket, and the IMS fits nicely in those too. Sorry to hear you're having issues with the IMS in the original. I guess you'll have to return it then. Cheers!

[@peddaeck3526]

Hi Tom, first of all I really like your videos and your channel. I want to start getting into making Espresso. So I wanted to buy the Dedica but after watching the videos about the ECP3420 and the Stilosa I am not sure if they aren’t the better Option. Which one would you recommend? And how quickly do they heat up compared to the Dedica? I already have good scale and a good grinder. So these aren’t any problem. Thanks a lot!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Between those three, I would recommend the ECP 3420. It heats up quickly, but it’s still best to wait 10 minutes for the best shot. Even so, this machine heated up even only for five minutes gives me a comparable or better shot to view Dedica. For me, the difference is in the heated brew group, which also heats the Porta filter and basket. Cheers!

[@peddaeck3526]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks a lot for your advice!

[@lingchi152]

Hi Tom! Thnak you for your videos! But comparing Stilosa and Ecp35. 31 which one would you recommend? 😅

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I prefer the ECP line, but I am noticing lately that the Stilosa is more popular on Amazon. Which do you like better?

[@ninaninabonita]

Praying you make a video dialing espresso using the introductoryGevi grinder-Lord knows how frustrated I was this morning trying in to dial in for a pressurized basket, I can only wonder how difficult it’ll be using a non-pressurized 😅 WHY IS THIS SO DIFFICULT?! Lol

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi Nina, what is the model called? Is it this one? amzn.to/3j8pPk0