DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As a coffee enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for machines that can deliver a café-quality experience at home. When I came across the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew capabilities, I was intrigued by its promise to offer both hot and cold coffee beverages with ease. After spending considerable time with this machine, I have gathered insights that I believe will be valuable to fellow coffee lovers.

First Impressions of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

When I first unboxed the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I was struck by its design. It combines sophistication with practicality, featuring clean lines, a high-quality finish, and a relatively compact footprint for a fully automatic machine. Even if you’re short on counter space, this machine fits in well without dominating the kitchen.

I also appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of accessories, like the travel mug and separate milk carafes for hot and cold drinks. It signaled that this wasn’t just a coffee machine—it was an all-in-one beverage station ready to adapt to my ever-changing cravings.

Using the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine for the First Time

Getting started with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore felt effortless. The machine walked me through its initial setup step by step, from rinsing the components to calibrating the grinder. The water reservoir and bean hopper are both spacious, which is ideal for someone like me who doesn’t want to refill every other day.

The Wi-Fi connectivity also deserves a mention. At first, I was skeptical about controlling a coffee machine with my phone. But after customizing a few drinks through the DeLonghi Coffee Link app, I started to see the appeal. Being able to adjust strength, temperature, and milk settings with precision gave me the confidence that I’d get the perfect cup every time.

Customization Features of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

For someone who loves experimenting with coffee, the Eletta Explore’s customization options are a game-changer. You can tweak nearly every aspect of your beverage, from grind size to milk foam density. The built-in grinder is especially handy—it allows you to use fresh beans and control the grind size, which is a critical factor in achieving your desired flavor.

The machine even lets you save your favorite recipes. I found this feature particularly useful for mornings when I didn’t want to think too hard about what I wanted. Just a tap on the touchscreen, and my go-to latte or cold brew was ready in minutes.

Cold Brew on Demand: A Unique Feature

I’ve always enjoyed cold brew coffee, but let’s be honest—waiting 12 to 24 hours for the traditional steeping process isn’t exactly convenient. That’s where the Eletta Explore truly shines. The cold brew function delivers a smooth, low-acidity coffee in less than three minutes.

At first, I was doubtful that it could replicate the flavor profile of traditional cold brew. However, after trying it out, I was pleasantly surprised. The machine managed to capture that rich, mellow flavor I love, making it a perfect option for hot summer days or post-workout refreshment.

Who Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine With Cold Brew For?

I think this machine is best suited for households with diverse coffee preferences. In my home, my partner enjoys classic espresso, while I like to mix it up with iced lattes or cold brews. The Eletta Explore caters to both of us without compromise.

It’s also a great option for anyone who values convenience without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re rushing out the door with a travel mug or enjoying a leisurely Sunday morning with a frothy cappuccino, this machine keeps up with your lifestyle.

Maintenance: Easy Yet Comprehensive

I’ve owned other espresso machines in the past, and one of my biggest gripes has always been the cleaning process. Thankfully, the Eletta Explore makes this part easy.

The automatic cleaning feature activates after every use, ensuring that milk and coffee residues don’t build up. Plus, the milk carafes are dishwasher safe, which is a huge time-saver. The machine even reminds you when it’s time to descale, taking the guesswork out of maintenance.

A Balanced Look: The Drawbacks

No product is without its flaws, and the Eletta Explore is no exception. While I love the grind settings, the grinder itself can be a bit noisy. It’s not overly disruptive, but if you’re brewing early in the morning, it might wake light sleepers.

Another consideration is the machine’s price point. This is an investment piece, so it may not be the best choice for casual coffee drinkers or those on a tight budget. That said, the features and performance do justify the cost for serious coffee enthusiasts.

My Favorite Features of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine With Cold Brew

One of the features I use the most is the dual milk carafe system. Switching between hot and cold beverages is seamless, and the quality of the milk foam is consistently excellent. I’ve even used the cold frother to make non-coffee drinks like matcha lattes and iced chai teas, which turned out just as good as my café versions.

I also love the variety of pre-programmed recipes. With over 50 options, including specialty drinks like flat whites and affogatos, the Eletta Explore keeps things exciting.

How It Compares to Other Machines

When compared to other espresso machines I’ve tried, the Eletta Explore stands out for its versatility. For example, the Jura E8 delivers excellent espresso but doesn’t offer cold brew capabilities, which are a huge selling point for me. Meanwhile, the Breville Barista Express provides a more hands-on experience but lacks the automation and recipe variety that make the Eletta Explore so convenient.

Product Review Conclusion: DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine With Cold Brew

If you’re looking for a coffee machine that combines quality, versatility, and convenience, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is a solid choice. It’s not perfect, but its ability to deliver both hot and cold beverages with ease makes it a standout option in the market.

For someone like me, who values variety and precision in coffee-making, this machine has been a worthwhile addition to my kitchen. Whether you’re a traditional espresso drinker or someone who enjoys experimenting with cold brews and specialty drinks, the Eletta Explore can handle it all. While it’s an investment, the time and money saved on café trips make it a compelling option for serious coffee lovers.

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

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make cold brew coffee?

A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore features a cold brew function that delivers smooth and low-acidity coffee in under three minutes. This is a unique feature that distinguishes it from many other fully automatic coffee machines.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?

A: Yes, the machine allows you to use pre-ground coffee if you prefer. This is particularly useful for decaf options or when you don’t want to use the built-in grinder.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore easy to clean?

A: Absolutely! The machine has an automatic cleaning cycle for the milk system, and the milk carafes are dishwasher safe. It also provides descaling reminders to keep the internal components in top condition.

Q: How customizable are the beverages?

A: The Eletta Explore offers extensive customization options. You can adjust the coffee strength, milk foam density, temperature, and even save your favorite recipes for quick access.

Q: Is the grinder adjustable?

A: Yes, the built-in grinder has 13 settings, allowing you to select the perfect grind size for your preferred coffee type. This feature helps achieve optimal flavor extraction.

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore come with Wi-Fi connectivity?

A: Yes, the machine is Wi-Fi enabled and works with the DeLonghi Coffee Link app. This lets you customize recipes, save profiles, and operate the machine remotely.

Q: How noisy is the machine?

A: While the grinder can be somewhat noisy during operation, the overall noise level is typical for a fully automatic coffee machine and not overly disruptive.

Q: What types of milk can I use for frothing?

A: You can use various types of milk, including dairy and plant-based options like almond, oat, and soy. The LatteCrema system creates consistently creamy froth regardless of the milk type.

Q: What is the capacity of the water reservoir and bean hopper?

A: The water reservoir holds approximately 2 liters, and the bean hopper can store around 380 grams of coffee beans. Both are generous sizes, reducing the need for frequent refills.

Q: How does the Eletta Explore compare to other machines in terms of size?

A: The Eletta Explore has a relatively compact design for a fully automatic machine, but it still requires enough space for the milk carafes and accessories. It fits comfortably on most standard kitchen counters.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore worth the price?

A: While it is a premium-priced product, the machine’s versatility, convenience, and quality make it a worthwhile investment for serious coffee enthusiasts or households with diverse coffee preferences.

Q: Can I make non-coffee beverages with this machine?

A: Yes, the machine’s milk frother and customization features allow you to prepare beverages like hot chocolate, matcha lattes, and chai tea lattes in addition to coffee drinks.