DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

Coffee is a daily ritual for many of us, and having the right machine can make all the difference. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew promises the best of both worlds with its traditional espresso options and a unique cold brew function, all in one appliance. After weeks of using this machine, I’m sharing my hands-on experience to give you an honest take on its features, usability, and overall value.

Whether you’re an espresso lover or someone who enjoys a cool coffee refreshment, the Eletta Explore covers a range of coffee styles and preferences. Here’s a deep dive into what it’s like to use this machine daily, including its standout features and a few potential drawbacks.

First Impressions: Sleek Design with an Intuitive Layout

The Eletta Explore made a great first impression with its sleek and modern look. It fits easily on my countertop, without taking up too much space, and blends seamlessly with my kitchen's stainless-steel appliances. Its touch display is the first thing that catches the eye, giving it a tech-savvy, user-friendly feel that isn’t overwhelming. DeLonghi has clearly put thought into the design, ensuring that the machine looks as good as it performs.

One thing I appreciated immediately was how accessible all components were. The water tank, drip tray, and milk frother are easy to access, making it convenient for daily use. This attention to design is essential for anyone who values a machine that looks good and works efficiently.

Brewing Customization and Quality with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

The Eletta Explore goes beyond simple coffee making, with settings that allow you to customize nearly every aspect of the brewing process. For example, you can choose the grind size, shot length, and strength. For someone like me who likes to tweak their coffee for different moods or types of beans, these customizable options are invaluable.

I found the espresso quality on par with that of higher-end machines. The crema was thick and rich, and the flavors well-extracted. I appreciated how the Eletta Explore maintained consistent pressure during extraction, which is key for espresso quality. This machine isn’t just about versatility—it’s also about delivering a reliable espresso experience, which has been a game-changer for my morning routine.

Cold Brew Convenience: A Unique and Valuable Feature

The standout feature that convinced me to try the DeLonghi Eletta Explore was its cold brew functionality. Unlike traditional cold brew, which can take up to 12-24 hours to prepare, the Eletta Explore can whip up a cold brew in just a few minutes. At first, I was skeptical about how authentic the taste would be, but I was pleasantly surprised. The cold brew option is smoother and less acidic than hot coffee, with the refreshing taste I’ve come to love.

This feature alone makes the machine worth considering for anyone who enjoys cold brew or iced coffee. It’s perfect for those hot days when a chilled coffee hits the spot, or when you need a quick coffee refreshment without waiting hours for traditional cold brew.

Comparing the DeLonghi Eletta Explore to Other Machines

Having tried several espresso machines, I can say the Eletta Explore stands out in terms of versatility. Most espresso machines don’t offer a cold brew option, which adds a unique value. While it’s easy to find machines that brew espresso or froth milk, finding one that also handles cold brew makes the Eletta Explore appealing for those who appreciate a variety of coffee options.

Compared to single-function machines, this machine is an all-in-one solution that covers multiple coffee cravings. If you’re like me and enjoy having the freedom to switch between espresso and cold brew, this versatility adds significant value.

The Milk Frother: A Quality Addition for Cappuccino and Latte Lovers

The milk frother on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore deserves its own mention. I was able to make creamy cappuccinos and smooth lattes without any hassle. The frother has adjustable settings, which was perfect for experimenting with different foam textures depending on the drink. The smoothness of the froth worked equally well with both dairy and non-dairy milks, which was a pleasant surprise.

For me, the milk frother is an essential feature, and this one has exceeded my expectations. It’s particularly user-friendly and delivers a consistent froth without needing constant adjustments. Anyone who enjoys milk-based coffee drinks will find this feature adds a café-like experience at home.

Daily Use and User Experience with the Eletta Explore

Using the Eletta Explore daily has been straightforward. I was initially concerned that a multi-function machine like this might be complex, but DeLonghi has done a great job in making it easy to operate. The touchscreen display guides you through each step, from brewing espresso to frothing milk or selecting cold brew. I found it intuitive, even when trying new settings.

One feature that’s been a big time-saver is the ability to save drink preferences. I’ve programmed my favorite espresso and cold brew settings, so I just press a button and let the machine take care of the rest. It’s a thoughtful touch that saves time and eliminates the need to re-adjust settings every morning.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Easier Than Expected

When it comes to coffee machines, maintenance can make or break the user experience. I was pleased to see that DeLonghi has made cleaning the Eletta Explore fairly easy. The milk frother has a self-cleaning function, which is incredibly convenient, especially if you use it daily. The drip tray and brew group are also removable, making it easy to give everything a thorough cleaning when needed.

This ease of maintenance is important to me because a well-maintained machine makes for better-tasting coffee and ensures the machine’s longevity. The Eletta Explore has made it easy to stick to a cleaning routine without feeling like a chore.

Energy Efficiency and Eco-Friendly Features

Another point worth mentioning is the Eletta Explore’s energy-saving design. The machine automatically switches to eco-mode after a period of inactivity, which is both practical and eco-conscious. For those of us who want to minimize our energy consumption, this feature provides peace of mind, knowing the machine won’t run unnecessarily if I forget to turn it off.

Who Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Best Suited For?

In my view, the Eletta Explore is an ideal machine for those who enjoy variety in their coffee routine. If you like to switch between espresso, lattes, and cold brew, this machine offers the flexibility to accommodate all these preferences without the need for multiple appliances. It’s also great for households with different coffee tastes since everyone can customize their drinks to their liking.

That said, if you only drink one type of coffee, you might find this machine more than you need. But for anyone who enjoys experimenting with different coffee styles, the Eletta Explore makes a worthwhile addition to your kitchen.

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

In conclusion, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is a versatile and user-friendly choice for coffee lovers who want to enjoy both espresso and cold brew from one machine. It’s a thoughtfully designed appliance that not only looks great but also performs reliably, with a range of customizable settings that allow you to make café-quality coffee at home.

While it’s an investment, the Eletta Explore delivers solid value with its range of features, from rich espresso shots to refreshing cold brew and creamy lattes. The machine’s intuitive display, easy maintenance, and energy-saving mode make it convenient for daily use. For those looking for versatility and quality in one package, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a strong contender worth considering.

Frequently asked questions and answers for the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew:

Q: What types of coffee can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine make?

A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a versatile machine that can make espresso, cappuccino, latte, and even cold brew coffee. With its customizable settings, you can adjust the strength, temperature, and size of each drink to suit your preferences.

Q: How does the cold brew feature work on the Eletta Explore?

A: The cold brew feature on the Eletta Explore is designed to brew a refreshing, smooth cold coffee in just a few minutes, unlike traditional cold brew methods that take several hours. Simply select the cold brew option on the touchscreen, and the machine will adjust the brewing process to deliver a lower-temperature extraction, producing a less acidic and naturally sweet coffee.

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

A: Yes, the Eletta Explore has an option for pre-ground coffee, which is ideal if you want to use a decaf option or already have pre-ground beans on hand. Just add the grounds to the designated compartment and select the appropriate settings on the display.

Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore come with a milk frother?

A: Yes, the Eletta Explore includes an automatic milk frother. The frother can be adjusted to create different levels of foam, suitable for various milk-based drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites. It’s also compatible with plant-based milks and includes a self-cleaning feature for easy maintenance.

Q: How easy is it to clean and maintain the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?

A: The Eletta Explore is designed for easy maintenance. The machine has a removable brew group, water tank, and drip tray, which makes regular cleaning straightforward. Additionally, the milk frother has a self-cleaning function, and the machine notifies you when it needs descaling.

Q: How much counter space does the Eletta Explore take up?

A: The Eletta Explore has a relatively compact design for an espresso machine with multiple functions. It’s about 14 inches wide and 18 inches deep, so it fits well on most kitchen counters without taking up too much space.

Q: Can I adjust the strength and temperature of the coffee?

A: Yes, the Eletta Explore offers customizable settings that allow you to adjust the strength, temperature, and volume of each drink. This flexibility lets you personalize each cup, making it as strong, mild, hot, or cool as you prefer.

Q: Does the Eletta Explore have an energy-saving mode?

A: Yes, the Eletta Explore is equipped with an eco-mode, which helps conserve energy by automatically shutting down the machine after a period of inactivity. This feature is both environmentally friendly and convenient for users who may forget to turn off the machine manually.

Q: Can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore handle non-dairy milk for frothing?

A: Absolutely. The milk frother on the Eletta Explore works well with non-dairy options such as almond, soy, and oat milk, producing a creamy and consistent froth. Non-dairy users will still enjoy quality lattes and cappuccinos with this machine.

Q: How noisy is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore during operation?

A: While the Eletta Explore makes some noise during grinding and frothing, it’s relatively quiet compared to other high-end espresso machines. The grinding is the loudest part, but it only lasts a few seconds and doesn’t disrupt daily activities too much.

Q: Does the machine come with a warranty?

A: Yes, DeLonghi offers a warranty for the Eletta Explore. The specifics may vary by region, but typically it includes a one- or two-year limited warranty, covering any defects in materials or workmanship.

Q: Can I make multiple drinks in a row without waiting?

A: Yes, the Eletta Explore is designed to handle consecutive drink orders without extensive waiting times. It quickly recovers to the correct temperature for back-to-back brewing, which is ideal for serving multiple people or making a second cup for yourself right away.