De'Longhi Eletta Explore review
Elevate your coffee game with the De'Longhi Eletta Explore. Combining style and functionality, this espresso machine offers rich flavors and customizable settings for every coffee lover.
check best priceSummary / TL;DR
The De'Longhi Eletta Explore espresso machine aims to enhance the home coffee experience with a blend of style and functionality. It features a sleek design combining plastic and stainless steel, offering durability with a modern look. The intuitive touchscreen and customizable settings cater to both novice and seasoned coffee lovers, though some users may find the setup complex and the price on the higher side.
The machine excels in espresso extraction with a 19-bar pressure pump and offers versatile milk frothing capabilities. It includes smart features like app connectivity, though the app might be challenging for non-tech-savvy users. Despite its bulkiness, it provides a range of coffee options, maintaining consistent quality across beverages.
Ease of use is supported by an automatic cleaning function, although manual cleaning is still necessary. The Eletta Explore competes well against models like the Breville Barista Express and Jura E8, offering automation and variety at a competitive price. In conclusion, it's a solid choice for those seeking convenience and quality in their coffee-making routine, despite a learning curve and higher cost.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro or De'Longhi Dedica Arte EC885 or De'Longhi Rivelia EXAM440.55.
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Introduction
Are you ready to elevate your home coffee experience? The De'Longhi Eletta Explore might just be the espresso machine you're looking for. This machine aims to bring the café experience right to your kitchen counter, offering a wide range of features for coffee enthusiasts. But does it live up to the hype?
In a market filled with options, finding an espresso machine that strikes the right balance between performance and ease of use can be tricky. The Eletta Explore is designed for those who appreciate the finer details of their coffee, without needing a barista degree to operate it. From its sleek design to its customizable settings, this machine promises to cater to both novice and seasoned coffee lovers.
However, no product is without its quirks. While the Eletta Explore offers a lot, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Some users might find the initial setup a bit complex, and the price point could be a consideration for those on a tight budget. But if you're looking for an espresso machine that combines style with functionality, this could be a strong contender.
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the De'Longhi Eletta Explore is a mix of modern aesthetics and practical functionality. At first glance, its sleek and compact form catches the eye, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen counter. The machine is housed in a combination of plastic and stainless steel parts, offering a nice balance between durability and a lightweight feel. While the plastic elements help keep the weight manageable, some users might prefer a more metallic finish for a premium touch.
The control panel is intuitive and well-organized, featuring a touchscreen interface that makes it easy to navigate through the various options. The buttons are responsive and clearly labeled, which is great for quick selections, especially when you're in a morning rush. However, the screen may be a bit too reflective under direct lighting, making it slightly challenging to read at certain angles.
One of the standout aspects of the design is the adjustable coffee spout. It accommodates different cup sizes, from small espresso cups to larger mugs, without any hassle. This feature ensures that you won't have to worry about coffee splashing everywhere when using a taller cup. Plus, the water reservoir is conveniently located at the top and is easy to remove for refilling.
In terms of build, the Eletta Explore feels solid and well-constructed. However, some components, like the drip tray, might feel a tad flimsy compared to the rest of the machine. This doesn’t affect the overall performance but is something to keep in mind if you're particular about every detail.
Overall, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore combines a modern look with practical features that cater to everyday coffee brewing needs. While there are minor areas for improvement, such as the screen readability and some plastic components, it still stands as a well-designed machine that fits seamlessly into most kitchen spaces.

Features and Specifications
When you're looking for an espresso machine that packs a punch, the features and specifications are where you get the real scoop. The De'Longhi Eletta Explore is loaded with some pretty impressive stuff, so let's break it down.
Advanced Brewing System
This machine comes with an advanced brewing system that ensures a consistently rich and aromatic espresso shot. It uses a 19-bar pressure pump, which is industry-standard for extracting the best flavors from your coffee beans.
Milk Frothing Options
If you're a fan of milk-based drinks, you'll be stoked about the milk frothing capabilities. There's an automatic milk frother that can whip up creamy lattes and cappuccinos with just a touch of a button. Plus, it offers adjustable settings so you can customize the froth to your liking.
Temperature Control
Temperature plays a massive role in coffee quality, and the Eletta Explore doesn't skimp here. It features precise temperature control to maintain the ideal heat throughout the brewing process, ensuring your coffee is neither too hot nor too cold.
Intuitive Display and Smart Features
The machine boasts an intuitive touch display that makes navigating through options a breeze. It even has smart connectivity, allowing you to control it via a smartphone app. This is a neat trick, especially when you want to start brewing from the comfort of your couch. However, some might find the app a bit clunky, especially if you're not too tech-savvy.
Customizable Settings
Personalization is key, and this machine offers customizable settings for grind size, coffee strength, and cup size. This flexibility is great for those who like to experiment with their coffee preferences.
Specifications at a Glance
- Dimensions: 15.1 x 10.2 x 17.5 inches
- Weight: 24.6 pounds
- Water Tank Capacity: 60.9 ounces
- Bean Hopper Capacity: 10.6 ounces
- Power: 1250 watts
While the De'Longhi Eletta Explore is feature-rich, it's not without its minor flaws. The machine is somewhat bulky, which might be a dealbreaker if counter space is tight. But if you've got the room, it's a solid choice for coffee enthusiasts who want a bit of everything in their espresso machine.

Performance and Coffee Quality
When it comes to performance and coffee quality, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore does not disappoint. This espresso machine is designed to deliver a delightful coffee experience, catering to both espresso enthusiasts and those who enjoy a variety of coffee beverages. Let's break down how it fares in different areas.
Espresso Extraction
The machine excels in espresso extraction, thanks to its 19-bar pressure pump. This ensures a rich and aromatic coffee shot every time. The crema is thick and golden, capturing the essence of a professional barista's touch. Whether you prefer a single or double shot, the machine consistently delivers with precision.
Milk Frothing
Milk frothing is another area where this machine shines. The integrated milk system allows you to create perfectly textured milk for lattes or cappuccinos. It produces a creamy froth that enhances the overall flavor and presentation of your drink. However, if you're used to manual frothing, you might find the automated system a bit less customizable.
Coffee Customization
Customization is a strong suit of the Eletta Explore. It offers a wide range of settings to adjust the strength, temperature, and volume of your coffee. Whether you like it bold or mild, hot or just warm, you can tweak it to your liking. The only downside is that the menu can be a tad overwhelming for first-time users, but once you get the hang of it, the possibilities are endless.
Beverage Variety
This machine isn't just about espresso; it's versatile enough to handle a variety of beverages. From flat whites to macchiatos, it covers a good range. The coffee quality remains consistent across different types, maintaining a balance between flavor and aroma. However, if you're a purist looking for that artisanal coffee experience, you might find the machine's automatic settings a bit limiting.
In summary, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore is a solid performer in the coffee-making department. It offers an impressive balance of convenience and quality, with just a few areas that might need a bit of user adjustment. Whether you're an espresso lover or someone who enjoys experimenting with different coffee drinks, this machine has something to offer.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Using an espresso machine should be a stress-free experience, and the De'Longhi Eletta Explore mostly delivers on that front. This machine is designed with the user in mind, making it fairly intuitive to operate. The touchscreen interface is user-friendly, providing an easy-to-navigate menu that lets you select your preferred coffee style with just a few taps. Whether you're in the mood for an espresso or a latte, the machine does a good job of simplifying the process.
Now, let's talk about cleaning. The Eletta Explore comes equipped with an automatic cleaning function for the milk frother, which is a real time-saver. You won't have to worry about milk residue clogging up the system. Additionally, the drip tray and water reservoir are both removable, making them easy to rinse and wipe down. If you're someone who dreads cleaning chores, these features will definitely be appreciated.
However, there's a bit of a downside. The machine has various compartments and parts, which might seem a tad overwhelming at first. It could take a bit of time to get used to where everything is and how to best maintain it. Also, while the automatic cleaning is handy, it doesn't completely eliminate the need for regular manual cleaning sessions to keep everything in top-notch condition.
In summary, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore scores well in terms of ease of use and cleaning. It has a few minor quirks, but nothing that would be a dealbreaker for most users. If you're willing to invest a little time in learning its layout, you'll find it to be a reliable and convenient kitchen companion.

What's in the Box
When you unbox the De'Longhi Eletta Explore, you'll find a well-thought-out package that's designed to get you brewing right away. Here's what you'll get inside:
- Espresso Machine Unit: The main attraction, of course. It comes with a sleek design and a sturdy build, ready to be the centerpiece of your kitchen.
- LatteCrema System (for hot and cold foam): An essential for those creamy lattes and cappuccinos. It includes both hot and cold foam capabilities.
- Water Tank: The machine includes a sizeable water tank that's easy to remove and refill, ensuring you can brew multiple cups without constant refilling.
- Coffee Bean Container: Holds a generous amount of beans, so you can enjoy fresh coffee with every brew.
- User Manual: A comprehensive guide that walks you through the setup process and features. It's user-friendly, though some might find the instructions a tad too detailed.
- Cleaning Kit and Accessories: Includes tools like a measuring scoop, carbon active filter, and possibly a cleaning brush, to help maintain your machine and keep it in top-notch condition.
While the box includes most of what you need to get started, it would be nice if it came with a few coffee samples to test the machine's capabilities right out of the box. Nonetheless, the included items ensure you have all the essentials to start your espresso journey. If you're missing anything, it might just be the coffee beans to kick things off
Competitor Comparison
When shopping for an espresso machine, comparing options is always a good idea. Let's see how the De'Longhi Eletta Explore stacks up against some of its top competitors.
Breville Barista Express
The Breville Barista Express is another popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. It offers a built-in grinder and allows for a high level of customization. While it doesn't have the same level of automation as the Eletta Explore, it gives you more control over the grind size and extraction time. If you're someone who enjoys the process of making espresso, the Barista Express might be up your alley. However, the Eletta Explore's fully automatic operation is a big plus if convenience is your top priority.
Philips 3200 Series LatteGo
The Philips 3200 Series LatteGo is known for its user-friendly interface and straightforward design. It also features a unique milk frothing system that makes cleaning a breeze. While the Eletta Explore offers more drink options and a slightly more sophisticated design, the Philips model might be more appealing to those looking for simplicity and ease of maintenance.
Jura E8
The Jura E8 is a premium competitor with advanced features like pulse extraction technology and an intelligent water system. It excels in producing high-quality coffee with minimal effort, much like the Eletta Explore. However, the Jura E8 comes with a heftier price tag. If budget is a concern, the Eletta Explore offers a similar experience without breaking the bank, although the Jura might slightly edge out in the refinement of coffee quality.
Gaggia Anima Prestige
The Gaggia Anima Prestige is another automatic espresso machine that offers a good balance between functionality and cost. It includes a milk carafe for automatic frothing, similar to the Eletta Explore. However, it lacks some of the advanced personalization options and drink variety that the Eletta Explore brings to the table. For those who love experimenting with different coffee drinks, the De'Longhi machine might be the better choice.
In summary, while each competitor has its unique strengths, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore finds its niche by offering a broad range of features and automation at a competitive price. It's great for those who want a hassle-free espresso experience without sacrificing quality or variety.

Conclusion
In wrapping up our review of the De'Longhi Eletta Explore, it's clear this machine has a lot to offer for espresso aficionados and casual coffee drinkers alike. Its sleek design and robust build, featuring a mix of plastic and stainless steel parts, make it a handsome addition to any kitchen. The machine excels with its wide array of features, from customizable settings to a variety of coffee options, including over 50 hot and cold recipes.
The coffee quality it delivers is impressive, producing rich and aromatic espresso shots that can compete with your favorite café's brew. However, some of its advanced features might feel a bit overwhelming for beginners, and the learning curve could be steeper than expected. On the flip side, the convenience of its automatic functions can't be overstated. It simplifies the process of making a great cup of coffee, saving you time and effort.
The cleaning process, while generally straightforward, does require a bit of regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. In terms of value, the machine sits on the higher end of the price spectrum, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Still, for those willing to invest, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore offers a comprehensive espresso experience right at home. To sum it up, if you're looking for a machine that combines style, functionality, and quality, this might just be the right fit. Just be prepared to spend a little extra time familiarizing yourself with its features to truly make the most of it.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Sleek and modern design
- Customizable coffee settings
- Automatic milk frother
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- High-quality espresso extraction
Cons
- Complex initial setup
- Bulky size for small counters
- Reflective touchscreen under light
- Higher price point
Frequently Asked Questions
To clean the milk system of your De'Longhi Eletta Explore, disassemble the parts daily and clean them with mild dish soap and water. Use De'Longhi EcoMultiClean once a week for deeper cleaning. This helps remove milk residue and maintain the machine's performance.
The De'Longhi Eletta Explore features a stainless steel conical burr grinder with 13 grind adjustment settings, allowing you to customize your coffee's texture and flavor.
Yes, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore offers an auto-clean function, making maintenance easier. It also has detachable and dishwasher-safe parts for convenience.
Yes, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore can make cold brew coffee using its Cold Extraction Technology, allowing you to prepare cold brew in under 3 minutes.
The De'Longhi Eletta Explore supports four user profiles, allowing multiple users to save their preferred coffee settings.
The De'Longhi Eletta Explore has a water reservoir capacity of 60.9 fl oz (1.8 liters), which is removable for easy refilling.
Yes, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore features an integrated milk carafe with both hot and cold foam technology, allowing you to create lattes and cappuccinos with ease.
Yes, the De'Longhi Eletta Explore accommodates cups up to 6.7 inches (17 cm) in height, making it suitable for large cups and travel mugs.
The De'Longhi Eletta Explore can prepare over 50 different specialty coffee drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, and cold brews, using its touchscreen interface.
The De'Longhi Eletta Explore comes with a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind for its users.
Important
Before buying any product, check all details of this product on the website or in the store where you purchase it. Aspects and specifications mentioned in the text above might differ.
Where to buy
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