DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As a coffee enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by how technology continues to evolve in the coffee industry. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew was an exciting find for me. Promising a wide range of beverages from traditional espresso to trendy cold brew, it seemed like the perfect addition to my morning routine and weekend coffee experiments. After using it for several weeks, I’ve gathered my thoughts to share a balanced and personal perspective on its performance.  How hard should you tamp when making espresso at home?

First Impressions: DeLonghi Eletta Explore’s Design and Build

The first thing that struck me about the Eletta Explore was its sleek and modern design. It’s a sizeable machine, so you’ll need adequate counter space, but it’s stylish enough to command attention in any kitchen. The color touchscreen is a standout feature. Navigating through its extensive menu of drink options felt almost like scrolling through a coffee shop’s digital menu.

I also appreciated the inclusion of both a hot milk carafe and a cold frothing carafe. For someone like me who loves variety—one day sipping cappuccinos and the next enjoying iced lattes—this dual setup was ideal. The machine feels sturdy and well-built, which is reassuring given its price point.  How to fix a sour espresso

Ease of Use: Getting Started with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

Despite being a feature-rich machine, I was relieved to find that the Eletta Explore wasn’t intimidating to set up or use. The step-by-step setup instructions on the touchscreen made it a breeze. I didn’t even need to consult the manual; the machine practically walked me through the process, from filling the water tank to adding coffee beans.

One feature I found particularly helpful was the Bean Adapt Technology. This adjusts brewing parameters like grind size, water quantity, and brewing temperature to suit the beans you’re using. I tend to experiment with different roasts, so this feature ensured I got the best out of every batch without fiddling with complicated settings. Tips and Tricks on How to make iced coffee with espresso

Exploring the Beverage Menu on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew isn’t just an espresso machine—it’s practically a mini café. It offers over 40 customizable beverages, from classics like espresso and cappuccino to more niche options like flat white and cold brew.

The cold brew function was a revelation. Instead of waiting hours for traditional cold brew, the machine prepared a smooth, lightly sweet cold brew in under five minutes. While it might not rival the depth of flavor achieved with a traditional 12-hour steep, it’s more than sufficient for quick refreshment on hot days.

The ability to make iced coffee drinks with cold frothed milk was another standout feature. I loved experimenting with iced lattes and even crafted a few custom recipes using syrups and flavored milk. The travel mug that came with the machine was a thoughtful touch—it fit snugly under the spouts, making it easy to prepare drinks to-go.

How the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Elevates the Coffee Experience

Using the Eletta Explore felt like stepping up my coffee game. Here are some features that stood out to me:

• Customizable Drink Profiles: I could adjust everything—from the strength of the espresso shot to the frothiness of the milk. Once I perfected my preferences, I saved them in the user profiles for quick access.

• Connectivity via the Coffee Link App: This feature allowed me to create and customize beverages directly from my phone. While the app’s interface could use a little refinement, it was convenient for mornings when I wanted my coffee waiting for me as I got ready.

• Hot and Cold Milk Frothing: Having separate carafes for hot and cold milk made all the difference. It ensured the milk temperature was spot on for every drink, from steaming lattes to chilled iced cappuccinos.

Everyday Use: Convenience Meets Quality

As someone who works from home, the Eletta Explore became a part of my daily routine. The programmable settings allowed me to wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. I also appreciated the rapid heat-up time. The machine was ready to brew in under a minute, which is perfect for busy mornings.

For leisurely weekends, I enjoyed diving deeper into the menu to try specialty drinks like the Doppio+ and even crafted my version of a mocha by adding cocoa powder to the milk frother. The versatility of this machine kept things interesting.

However, it wasn’t all perfect. The grinder, while effective, was a bit noisy, especially early in the morning. And while the touchscreen was generally responsive, there were occasional lags that slowed down the selection process. Still, these were minor inconveniences in the grand scheme of things.

Maintenance: Keeping the Eletta Explore in Top Shape

Maintenance is often where premium coffee machines can lose points, but the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew simplifies this process. It has built-in cleaning programs for the milk frother and brewing components. The removable brewing unit was easy to rinse under water, and the drip tray and grounds container were both dishwasher-safe—a huge time-saver.

I did notice that the machine prompted me for descaling more frequently than expected, which might be due to the hardness of my local water. However, the on-screen instructions made the process straightforward, and it didn’t take much time.

Who Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Best Suited For?

I’d recommend this machine to anyone who loves variety in their coffee routine. It’s perfect for families or households with multiple coffee drinkers, as the customizable profiles ensure everyone gets their ideal cup. The cold brew function and the ability to prepare iced drinks make it an excellent choice for warmer climates or anyone who enjoys chilled coffee year-round.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If you’re short on counter space or primarily drink black coffee, the Eletta Explore might be overkill. It’s an investment, both in terms of cost and size, so it’s best suited for those who truly want to elevate their coffee experience.

Alternatives to the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

While the Eletta Explore offers impressive versatility, it’s worth considering how it compares to other machines. For example, the Jura E8 is another premium option with excellent brewing quality. However, the Eletta Explore’s cold brew function and dual milk carafes give it a unique edge. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, the Breville Barista Express provides excellent espresso quality but lacks the same level of automation and customization.

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

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew exceeded my expectations in many ways. It’s a powerhouse for anyone who loves both hot and cold coffee beverages. While it has its quirks, the pros far outweigh the cons. From its extensive beverage menu to its customizable features, this machine feels like a personal barista at home. If you’re serious about coffee and have the space and budget for it, the Eletta Explore is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

Q: Can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make authentic cold brew coffee?
A: The Eletta Explore creates a quick cold brew-style coffee in about five minutes using its specialized cold extraction process. While it’s not a traditional 12-hour cold brew, the result is smooth, less acidic, and ideal for iced coffee drinks.

Q: How many drink options does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offer?
A: The machine offers over 40 customizable beverages, including espresso, cappuccino, latte, flat white, and cold brew, as well as iced variations with cold frothed milk.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, the machine is user-friendly with an intuitive touchscreen and guided setup. Even those new to espresso machines will find it easy to navigate, thanks to its step-by-step instructions and pre-programmed options.

Q: How does the Bean Adapt Technology work?
A: The Bean Adapt Technology adjusts brewing parameters like grind size, water quantity, and temperature based on the type of coffee beans you use. This ensures optimal flavor extraction for each batch of beans.

Q: How noisy is the grinder on the Eletta Explore?
A: The grinder is slightly noisy, which is typical for built-in grinders in espresso machines. However, the noise lasts only for a few seconds while the beans are ground.

Q: Can I customize and save my drink preferences?
A: Yes, the machine allows you to customize drink strength, temperature, and size. You can save up to four user profiles, making it easy to quickly access your personalized settings.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore easy to clean?
A: Yes, the machine features automatic cleaning programs for the milk system and brewing unit. The drip tray, grounds container, and removable brewing unit are all easy to clean, with some parts being dishwasher-safe.

Q: What is included in the box with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The package includes the espresso machine, two milk carafes (one for hot and one for cold milk), a travel mug, an ice tray, and a cleaning kit.

Q: How long does it take for the machine to heat up?
A: The Eletta Explore heats up in under a minute, allowing you to start brewing quickly.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Coffee Link app necessary to operate the machine?
A: No, the machine can be fully operated using the touchscreen. The app is an optional feature for customizing beverages and remote operation.

Q: Does the Eletta Explore support pre-ground coffee?
A: Yes, the machine has a bypass doser that allows you to use pre-ground coffee instead of whole beans, which is great for decaf or specialty grounds.

Q: How often does the machine require descaling?
A: The frequency of descaling depends on your water hardness and usage. The machine will prompt you when it’s time to descale, and the process is guided through the touchscreen.

Q: Can the machine froth milk for non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk?
A: Yes, the machine froths non-dairy milks, though the texture and foam consistency may vary depending on the milk used. Oat milk typically froths better than almond or soy milk.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore energy-efficient?
A: Yes, the machine has an energy-saving mode that reduces power consumption when not in use. It also automatically shuts off after a set period of inactivity.

Q: How does the Eletta Explore compare to other DeLonghi models?
A: The Eletta Explore stands out for its dual milk carafes, cold brew functionality, and extensive drink customization options. Other models like the Dinamica or Magnifica focus more on traditional hot beverages.