De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 review

The De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 is a compact espresso machine designed for home use, offering a balance of style and functionality. Its sleek design and user-friendly interface make it suitable for both beginners and seasoned baristas. The machine features an Advanced Thermoblock heating system for quick heating, a 15-bar pump pressure for rich crema, and an auto milk frothing feature. While its compact size is a plus, the 1.6-liter water reservoir might be small for heavy users. The machine lacks a built-in grinder, requiring a separate purchase for fresh beans. Maintenance is straightforward with a removable water tank and drip tray, though regular descaling is necessary. Compared to competitors like the Breville Bambino Plus and Gaggia Classic Pro, it offers a good mix of features and affordability. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, space-saving espresso machine at home, though it requires some practice to master. Regular cleaning is essential for optimal performance.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 or De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine EC260 or De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo EC9255.

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Espresso lovers, rejoice If you're on the hunt for a compact yet powerful espresso machine, the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 might just be your new best friend. This machine is designed for those who crave a rich, authentic espresso experience right in their own kitchen. But, does it deliver on its promises? Let's take a closer look.

This espresso machine is all about bringing the café-quality brew to your countertop without taking up too much space. It's packed with features that aim to please both beginners and experienced baristas alike. However, being compact does come with its own set of trade-offs. While it scores high on convenience and style, some might find its water reservoir, which holds 1.6 liters, a tad small for heavy use.

The Dedica Maestro Plus also stands out with its sleek design and user-friendly interface, making it a great addition to any modern kitchen. But before you jump the gun, it’s important to weigh its strengths against any potential shortcomings. After all, finding the perfect espresso machine is all about balancing aesthetics, functionality, and personal preference.

The design and build quality of the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 is pretty impressive. This espresso machine is designed with a sleek, modern aesthetic that fits well in any kitchen. Its body combines stainless steel and plastic, giving it a premium look and feel, which is both stylish and durable. The machine is compact, taking up minimal counter space, which is a huge plus for those with smaller kitchens.

The control panel is intuitive and easy to navigate, featuring a mix of buttons and dials for selecting your desired coffee type and strength. The buttons are responsive, and the overall layout is user-friendly, making it simple even for newbies to get started.

One thing to note, though, is that while the stainless steel parts of the exterior are sturdy, they can be prone to fingerprints. So, if you're a neat freak, you might find yourself wiping it down more often than you'd like. However, that's a small price to pay for such a classy design.

The drip tray is adjustable, which is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to accommodate different cup sizes. However, the water tank, while adequate for personal use, might feel a tad small for those who drink espresso frequently. You'll find yourself refilling it more often if you're brewing for multiple people.

Overall, the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 strikes a fine balance between form and functionality, offering a design that's both eye-catching and practical. The high-quality materials ensure it not only looks good but is built to last, making it a solid choice for any coffee enthusiast.

The De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 is packed with features that make it special for espresso enthusiasts. First off, it uses an Advanced Thermoblock heating system, which quickly heats water to the ideal brewing temperature, ensuring consistent flavor extraction. This system is efficient and ensures that your espresso is brewed at a stable temperature, crucial for flavor extraction.

Another notable feature is the 15-bar pump pressure, though it's capped for optimal espresso extraction. This helps create a rich crema on top of your espresso. The machine also offers an auto milk frothing feature, allowing you to easily switch between hot milk and foam, giving you control over your drink texture.

The EC950 includes a removable drip tray, which allows for taller cups or mugs, accommodating larger coffee preferences. The machine has programmable settings for coffee volume, so you can customize your drink. It also features an automatic flow stop, stopping the espresso flow once the preset amount is reached, preventing overflow and ensuring consistency.

One downside is that the machine doesn’t have a built-in grinder. If you prefer fresh beans, you'll need a separate grinder. Some users might see this as a hassle, but others might prefer having a separate, higher-quality grinder.

There is no cup warmer mentioned in the specifications of the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950. However, maintaining cup temperature is important for the perfect espresso experience.

In summary, the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 offers a blend of innovative features and traditional espresso-making techniques. While it has a lot going for it, keep in mind the absence of a built-in grinder if that’s a priority for you.

When we talk about performance, the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 doesn't disappoint. This espresso machine is designed to deliver a consistently rich and flavorful cup of espresso. The thermoblock technology ensures that the machine heats up quickly, reaching the optimal brewing temperature in just about 40 seconds. This is a real time-saver for those busy mornings when you need your caffeine fix pronto.

The 15-bar pressure pump is another highlight, though it's worth noting that the actual operating pressure for espresso is typically around 8-9 bars. The machine ensures that every espresso shot is extracted with a perfect crema on top. The crema is that lovely golden layer of foam that sits atop your espresso, and it's a sign of a well-brewed shot. If you're an espresso aficionado, you know this is key for flavor and aroma.

Now, let's chat about the milk frothing experience. The De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 features a quality steam wand for frothing milk, which is great for cappuccinos and lattes. The wand allows for precise control, so you can achieve that silky microfoam texture. However, some users might find the steam wand a bit short, which can make frothing larger quantities of milk a tad challenging.

Speaking of espresso shots, the machine gives you the flexibility to use either ground coffee or pressurized baskets, but it does not support E.S.E. pods. This is a nice touch for those who like to switch it up or have different preferences in the household. The portafilter is sturdy, but some users have noted that it can be a tight fit when locking it into place. Just a minor quirk, but worth mentioning.

Overall, the brewing experience with the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 is quite satisfying. Whether you're pulling a single shot or indulging in a frothy cappuccino, the machine delivers with consistency and quality. Just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve if you're new to home espresso machines, particularly with the milk frothing technique.

Using the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 is a breeze, even if you're not a barista. Its intuitive control panel makes crafting your perfect espresso shot straightforward. The buttons are clearly labeled, so there's no second-guessing what each one does. The machine heats up quickly, so you can enjoy your coffee without waiting around forever.

When it comes to maintenance, the Dedica Maestro Plus keeps things simple. The removable water tank is easy to fill and clean, which is a big plus if you're not a fan of complicated procedures. The drip tray is also detachable, making it easy to empty and rinse.

However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The machine requires regular descaling to maintain optimal performance. This isn't particularly difficult, but it's something you'll need to remember to do. Also, the machine itself can be a bit noisy, which might be a concern if you're using it early in the morning.

On the bright side, the included cleaning tools make it easy to keep the machine in top shape. The instruction manual provides clear guidance on how to clean and maintain each part. If you're diligent with upkeep, the Maestro Plus will serve you well for years.

In summary, the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 is user-friendly and doesn't demand heavy maintenance, but staying on top of cleaning and descaling is key to enjoying consistently great espresso.

When you open the box of the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950, you'll find a well-thought-out package that gets you started on your espresso journey. Here's what you can expect to find inside:

• Espresso Machine Unit: The main star, of course, is the Dedica Maestro Plus itself, with its sleek design and compact size.
• Portafilter: A sturdy portafilter is included, which is crucial for holding and filtering your coffee grounds during brewing.
• Single and Double Shot Filters: You get both pressurized and non-pressurized baskets, allowing you to brew just the right amount of espresso to suit your needs.
• Milk Frothing Jug: If you're into crafting lattes or cappuccinos, the included 350ml milk pitcher will be your go-to for steaming and frothing milk.
• Measuring Scoop: A handy scoop ensures you're using the right amount of coffee each time, making your brewing process consistent.
• Tamper: A 51mm tamper is included to help you compress your coffee grounds evenly.
• Cleaning Tools: The box includes a few essential cleaning tools, such as a brush and a steam wand cleaning tool, that help maintain your machine's longevity and performance.
• User Manual: A comprehensive manual is provided to guide you through the setup and operation of the machine. It's helpful for both beginners and seasoned baristas.

The contents are pretty standard for a machine in this range, but it's worth noting that some users might miss additional accessories like a water filter. However, the included items are of good quality and should serve you well in your espresso-making endeavors. Whether you're pulling a quick shot or indulging in some latte artistry, the Dedica Maestro Plus has got you covered with its initial setup.

When comparing the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 to its competitors, several aspects stand out, but there are also areas where it might not be the top choice for everyone.

Breville Bambino Plus

The Breville Bambino Plus is a popular choice, especially for those who prioritize quick heat-up times. It can be ready in just a few seconds, thanks to its advanced ThermoJet heating system. In contrast, the De'Longhi model takes a bit longer to reach optimal temperature. However, the De'Longhi offers more control over the brewing process with its customizable settings, which might appeal to coffee aficionados who enjoy tweaking their espresso to perfection.

Gaggia Classic Pro

The Gaggia Classic Pro is another strong contender in the semi-automatic espresso machine market. Known for its robust build and commercial-grade components, it offers a more traditional espresso-making experience. On the downside, it lacks some of the modern features and technologies found in the Dedica Maestro Plus, such as the automatic milk frothing capability. If you're someone who enjoys the hands-on approach to making coffee, the Gaggia might be more your speed.

Nespresso Creatista Plus

For those who prefer convenience, the Nespresso Creatista Plus is a solid alternative. It uses pods, making it incredibly easy to brew espresso without the fuss of grinding beans or tamping. However, it may not deliver the same depth of flavor as the De'Longhi, which uses fresh grounds. If you value the ritual and taste of freshly brewed espresso, the Dedica Maestro Plus could be the better choice. In terms of price, the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 sits in the mid-range, offering a balance of features and affordability. While it might not have the rapid heat-up time of the Breville or the commercial feel of the Gaggia, it provides a great mix of modern convenience and traditional espresso-making capabilities. Each of these machines has its strengths, so the best choice really depends on what you prioritize in your coffee experience.

In wrapping things up, the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 is a solid choice for anyone looking to bring a bit of barista magic to their kitchen. It stands out with its sleek design and compact footprint, making it a great fit for both spacious and cozy kitchens.

The machine's stainless steel and plastic build ensures durability, which is always a plus. The features and technology packed into this espresso machine are quite impressive. From its customizable settings to the advanced milk frothing system, it’s equipped to deliver a rich and flavorful espresso experience. The performance is generally consistent, allowing you to brew your favorite coffee with ease.

However, be prepared for a bit of a learning curve if you’re new to manual espresso machines. One thing to note is the maintenance. While it’s not overly complex, regular cleaning is necessary to keep the machine in top shape and maintain the quality of your brew. The included accessories, such as a metal tamper, stainless steel milk pitcher, and cleaning supplies, are helpful, but some users might find themselves wishing for a more robust set of tools. 

When comparing to competitors, the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950 offers a good balance of performance, features, and price. While there are cheaper options out there, they often compromise on build quality or features. On the flip side, more expensive models may offer additional bells and whistles but might not be necessary for the average home barista.

In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a reliable espresso machine that doesn’t take up much space and offers a good range of features, this model is worth considering. Just remember, like with any espresso machine, patience and practice are key to unlocking its full potential.

Video by: De'Longhi How-To

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