De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 review

The De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885M is a compact and stylish espresso machine ideal for those with limited kitchen space. It offers a sleek design and reliable performance, making it a good choice for espresso enthusiasts. The machine features a 15-bar pressure pump for rich espresso and a Thermoblock heating system that quickly reaches optimal brewing temperature. It is compatible with both ground coffee and E.S.E pods, providing flexibility for users.

While the Dedica Arte EC885M delivers quality espresso, it may not be suitable for brewing multiple cups in quick succession due to its smaller drip tray and water reservoir. The steam wand requires practice for frothing milk, but it can produce satisfying results for lattes and cappuccinos. Maintenance is straightforward, with easy-to-clean removable parts, although regular descaling is necessary.

Compared to competitors like the Breville Bambino Plus and Gaggia Classic Pro, the Dedica Arte offers a balance of convenience, customization, and size. It is well-suited for beginners and experienced users seeking a hands-on espresso-making experience. Overall, the Dedica Arte EC885M is a reliable and efficient machine that provides good value for its price point.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 or De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo EC9255 or De'Longhi Rivelia EXAM440.55.

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Welcome to the world of home espresso machines, where the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885M takes center stage. This machine is crafted for those who appreciate a good cup of coffee but want to avoid the hassle of overly complicated gadgets. It's compact, stylish, and promises to deliver quality espresso without occupying too much counter space.

With its sleek design, the Dedica Arte is perfect for urban dwellers or anyone with limited kitchen space. It’s not just about looks, though; this machine packs a punch in performance. But before you get too excited, it's worth mentioning that while it offers great espresso, it might not be the best fit for those who need a machine to handle multiple cups in quick succession. Think of it as your personal barista—focused and dedicated.

In a market flooded with espresso machines of all shapes and sizes, this model stands out for its ease of use and reliability. But let's be real—no machine is perfect. If you're someone who loves frothy milk-based drinks, you might find the steam wand a bit of a learning curve. However, once you get the hang of it, the results can be quite satisfying.

Overall, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885M is a great choice for espresso enthusiasts looking for a compact, efficient, and stylish addition to their kitchen. Ready to dive into the details? Let's explore what makes this machine tick, and see if it’s the right fit for your coffee needs.

The design and build quality of the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 is something that truly catches the eye. Sporting a sleek and compact design, this espresso machine is perfect for those of us who are a bit tight on counter space. At just about 5.9 inches wide, it slips easily into tight spots without crowding your kitchen. Its stainless steel finish gives it a modern and polished look that fits seamlessly into any kitchen décor.

Despite its compact size, the build quality doesn't cut corners. The machine feels sturdy and well-constructed, which is a huge plus for something that you'll use daily. The control panel is straightforward, featuring a few well-marked buttons that are easy to understand. You won’t need a degree in engineering to figure out how to operate it, which is always a win in my book.

However, the drip tray is a bit on the small side. If you're someone who enjoys brewing multiple cups in one go, you might find yourself emptying it more frequently than you'd like. It’s not a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind.

Another point worth mentioning is the portafilter. It's solid and has a good weight to it, which adds to the machine's overall durability. But, if you're used to larger commercial machines, you might find it slightly smaller, which can affect the amount of coffee grounds you can use.

Overall, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 manages to balance between style and functionality pretty well. It’s not just a pretty face; it’s built to last, although a few minor features could benefit from a bit of tweaking. Still, for its price point, the design and build quality offer great value.

The De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 packs a punch in terms of features and specs. For starters, it's got a compact design that fits perfectly on any kitchen counter without hogging up space. But don't let its size fool you; this machine is loaded with functionalities.

At the core of this espresso machine is a 15-bar pressure pump, which is key for extracting rich and creamy espresso shots. This pressure level is ideal for maximizing flavor and achieving that perfect crema layer on top of your coffee. One of the features that really stands out is the Thermoblock heating system. This system ensures that the water heats up quickly, so you won't have to wait long for your morning caffeine fix. In fact, it reaches the optimal brewing temperature in just about 40 seconds. Not too shabby, right?

The EC885 also comes with a My LatteArt steam wand, which allows you to customize the texture of your milk froth, making it easy to craft everything from a silky latte to a frothy cappuccino. However, some users mention that the frother's power could be a tad stronger for those who prefer extra frothy milk. In terms of customization, the machine offers Automatic Flow Stop for dispensing the right amount of espresso, though it does not have adjustable coffee lengths in the traditional sense. You can easily make single or double espresso shots depending on your preference.

For those who like their espresso a bit more personalized, the Dedica Arte EC885 allows for ground coffee and ESE pods compatibility. This flexibility is great for people who enjoy experimenting with different coffee blends or simply want the convenience of pods. On the downside, the water reservoir is a bit on the smaller side, holding just 1 liter. This means you might find yourself refilling it more often if you're brewing multiple cups a day. But for a compact machine, it's a trade-off many are willing to make.

In summary, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 is a feature-rich machine that's perfect for both espresso newbies and seasoned baristas. It's got the essentials covered and then some, with just a few minor limitations.

When it comes to performance, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 is pretty awesome for its size. This compact machine packs a punch, delivering a rich and aromatic espresso shot that rivals those made by larger machines. The thermoblock technology ensures the water reaches the ideal brewing temperature quickly, so you won't be waiting around in the morning for your caffeine fix.

The 15-bar pressure pump is a standout feature, creating the perfect crema and extracting the full flavor from your coffee grounds. It’s like having a mini barista in your kitchen The machine is compatible with both ground coffee and E.S.E pods, offering flexibility depending on your preference.

As for ease of use, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 is pretty straightforward. The control panel is intuitive, with buttons that make it simple to choose between a single or double shot of espresso, or to activate the steam wand for frothing milk. Speaking of the steam wand, it’s quite efficient at creating creamy and velvety milk froth for your lattes and cappuccinos. It does take a bit of practice to master the frothing technique, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be impressing friends with your barista skills.

One minor gripe is that the water tank, while removable, is on the smaller side, so you might find yourself refilling it more often if you're making multiple cups. But hey, it’s a trade-off for having such a slim and stylish machine.

Overall, the performance and ease of use of this espresso machine make it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts. It's reliable, efficient, and delivers consistently good results with minimal fuss.

When you crack open the box of the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885, you'll find everything you need to start crafting your own espresso. Here's a peek at what's inside:

• Espresso Machine Unit: The main attraction, of course, is the sleek espresso machine itself, ready to become the centerpiece of your kitchen.
• Portafilter: A sturdy portafilter is included, designed to hold the coffee grounds securely during brewing.
• Single and Double Shot Filters: You'll find both single and double shot filters, allowing you to customize the strength and volume of your espresso.
• ESE-Pod Portafilter: An ESE-pod portafilter is also included for added convenience.
• Milk Frothing Jug: A stainless steel frothing jug is included, perfect for steaming and frothing milk to create creamy cappuccinos and lattes.
• Tamper: A handy tamper is provided to help you pack your coffee grounds evenly, ensuring a consistent extraction every time.
• Mini EcoDecalk Descaling Liquid: A small bottle of descaling liquid is included to help maintain your machine.

While the box is well-equipped, it lacks additional accessories like a cleaning brush, which might be handy for maintenance. However, the essentials are all here, ensuring you're ready to brew right out of the box.

Maintaining your espresso machine is essential for ensuring it delivers a perfect brew every time. The De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 makes this task relatively straightforward, although there are a few things to keep in mind.

Daily Cleaning

After each use, it's a good idea to wipe down the exterior and the steam wand with a damp cloth. This prevents milk residue from building up, which can affect the taste of your coffee. The drip tray and water reservoir are both removable, making them easy to rinse and clean. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before reattaching.

Descaling

Descaling is a critical part of maintenance to keep the machine running smoothly and to avoid mineral buildup. The De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 has an indicator light to alert you when it's time to descale. Use a recommended descaling solution and follow the instructions carefully. This process usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

Filter and Portafilter

The portafilter and filter baskets should be rinsed after each use. For a deeper clean, soak them in warm soapy water once a week. This prevents coffee oils from accumulating, which can lead to a bitter taste.

Challenges

One area where some users find this machine a bit challenging is the cleaning of the steam wand. It requires a bit of effort to ensure it's thoroughly cleaned. A quick tip is to purge the wand by letting steam pass through it for a few seconds after each use. This helps in dislodging milk residue before it hardens.

Overall, while the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 requires a bit of regular maintenance, the process is uncomplicated. Staying on top of these simple tasks will ensure your espresso machine continues to deliver top-notch coffee with minimal fuss.

When you're in the market for an espresso machine, it's always good to see how your options stack up against each other. Let's take a look at how the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885M compares to some of its competitors.

Breville Bambino Plus

The Breville Bambino Plus is often mentioned alongside the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885M. Both machines are compact, making them ideal for small kitchens. The Bambino Plus heats up incredibly fast, in about 3 seconds, which is quicker than the Dedica Arte's 40-second wait time. However, the Dedica Arte offers more flexibility with its customizable settings, allowing you to tweak the brew to your liking. If you value speed, the Bambino Plus might have the edge, but for those who enjoy a bit more control, the Dedica Arte shines.

Gaggia Classic Pro

Another contender in the same price range is the Gaggia Classic Pro. This machine is known for its robust build and commercial-grade components, which can be appealing for those who want a more traditional espresso experience. However, the Gaggia Classic Pro is bulkier and might not fit as seamlessly into smaller spaces as the Dedica Arte does. Plus, the Dedica Arte's sleek design and ease of use make it more beginner-friendly. If you're looking for something compact and straightforward, the Dedica Arte might be the better choice.

Nespresso Pixie

The Nespresso Pixie is another option, especially for those who prefer a pod-based system. While the Pixie offers convenience and speed, it lacks the authentic espresso-making experience that the Dedica Arte provides. The Pixie's simplicity is its strong suit, but the Dedica Arte allows you to enjoy the art of making espresso with fresh grounds and manual frothing. For true espresso enthusiasts, the Dedica Arte delivers a more authentic brew.

In summary, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885M holds its ground well against its competitors. It offers a great balance of convenience, customization, and size, making it a solid choice for both beginners and more experienced espresso lovers.

In conclusion, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 is a solid choice for anyone looking to bring a bit of barista magic into their home without breaking the bank. Its slim design makes it a perfect fit for compact kitchens, yet it doesn't skimp on delivering a robust espresso experience.

The machine's 15-bar pressure system ensures you get a rich and aromatic espresso every time. On the flip side, it might not be the best fit for those who want a fully automated experience. You'll have to manually grind your beans and tamp them, which might be a bit of a learning curve for beginners. However, for those who enjoy the process, this hands-on approach can be quite rewarding.

One of the standout features is its My LatteArt steam wand, which lets you experiment with milk textures for different types of drinks. This feature is particularly useful if you enjoy a creamy cappuccino or a silky smooth latte. Just remember, the steam wand does require a bit of practice to master. In terms of maintenance, it's relatively easy to clean, although regular descaling is necessary to keep it running smoothly. The drip tray and water tank are removable, making them easy to rinse out.

Overall, the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 strikes a nice balance between functionality, design, and price. It's an excellent option for those who want to dive into the world of espresso-making without going overboard on features or cost. If you're willing to put in a little effort, this machine can deliver café-quality coffee right at home.

Video by: De'Longhi How-To

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