DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

As a coffee enthusiast, I've always been on the lookout for machines that can deliver both quality and versatility. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew caught my attention with its promise of hot and cold beverage options. After spending considerable time with this machine, I'm eager to share my comprehensive review.

Unboxing the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

Upon unboxing the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design. The machine boasts a modern aesthetic with a combination of matte and glossy finishes, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen. Its compact footprint is a bonus for those with limited counter space.

Included in the package are two separate milk carafes: one for hot beverages and another specifically designed for cold brews. This thoughtful inclusion ensures optimal performance for both hot and cold milk-based drinks. Additionally, the machine comes with a water filter, cleaning kit, and a detailed user manual to guide you through setup and maintenance.

Features and Specifications

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is packed with features aimed at enhancing the coffee-making experience:

• 3.5-inch Color Touchscreen Display: This intuitive interface allows for easy navigation through the machine's extensive menu of beverages. The display is responsive, and the vibrant visuals make selection straightforward.

• Stainless Steel Conical Burr Grinder: Equipped with 13 adjustable settings, the grinder ensures precise control over the grind size, catering to various coffee preferences. However, during my testing, I noticed that the grinder operates with a noticeable noise level, which might be a consideration for early morning use.

• Bean Adapt Technology: This feature adjusts brewing parameters based on the specific coffee beans used, optimizing flavor extraction. It's particularly useful for those who like to experiment with different bean varieties.

• LatteCrema System: DeLonghi's proprietary milk frothing system delivers creamy and consistent foam for both hot and cold beverages. The ability to produce cold foam is a standout feature, perfect for iced lattes and other chilled drinks.

• Dual Heating Systems: Separate thermoblocks for coffee and milk ensure that there's no waiting time between brewing and frothing, streamlining the beverage preparation process.

• User Profiles: The machine allows for the creation of multiple user profiles, enabling personalized drink settings for different family members or guests.

Brewing Performance

The true test of any espresso machine lies in its brewing performance, and the DeLonghi Eletta Explore doesn't disappoint.

Espresso Quality

The machine consistently delivers rich and aromatic espresso shots with a thick crema. The adjustable grinder settings and Bean Adapt Technology work in tandem to ensure optimal extraction, regardless of the bean type. I experimented with various grind sizes and found that the machine adapts well, though it's essential to adjust the grinder while it's running to prevent any potential issues.

Cold Brew Functionality

One of the standout features of the Eletta Explore is its cold brew capability. Unlike traditional cold brew methods that require hours of steeping, this machine delivers a cold brew in minutes. The result is a smooth and flavorful cold coffee, though it doesn't entirely replicate the depth of flavor achieved through the traditional 12-hour steeping process. Nevertheless, for those seeking a quick cold brew fix, this feature is impressive.

Milk-Based Beverages

The LatteCrema System excels in producing both hot and cold milk foam. Cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites come out with a velvety texture, enhancing the overall drinking experience. The cold foam function is particularly noteworthy, allowing for the creation of iced beverages with a creamy finish.

User Experience

Operating the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a user-friendly experience. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, and the machine provides step-by-step prompts, making it accessible even for beginners. The ability to customize and save drink preferences in user profiles adds a layer of convenience, especially in households with multiple coffee drinkers.

However, I did find that the extensive menu of beverage options can be overwhelming at first. It takes some time to familiarize oneself with all the available drinks and settings. Additionally, while the machine offers a plethora of options, some users might find certain features redundant, depending on their personal preferences.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintenance is straightforward, with the machine providing automatic cleaning cycles for the milk system and descaling alerts when necessary. The removable brew group and drip tray make manual cleaning hassle-free. It's advisable to regularly clean the grinder and bean hopper to maintain optimal performance, especially if switching between different bean types.

Comparisons with Other Models

In the realm of super-automatic espresso machines, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore stands out for its cold brew functionality. While other machines, like the Jura Z10, offer similar features, the Eletta Explore provides a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. However, it's worth noting that the Jura Z10 utilizes a different cold extraction process, which some purists might prefer.

Compared to the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus, the Eletta Explore offers a broader range of beverage options, particularly with its cold brew and cold foam capabilities. The Dinamica Plus, while excellent in its own right, lacks these specific features, making the Eletta Explore a more versatile choice for those interested in a wider variety of drinks.

Customization and Versatility

One of the aspects I particularly enjoyed about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is the level of customization it offers. You can tweak everything from coffee strength and temperature to milk froth levels, making it easy to dial in the perfect cup to suit your preferences. This is especially beneficial if you enjoy experimenting or if you share the machine with others who have different tastes.

I also found the option to create iced beverages extremely convenient. Instead of brewing hot coffee and then chilling it, the machine's cold brew feature offers a way to prepare iced lattes or iced coffees directly. This not only saves time but also preserves the freshness and intended flavors of the beans, resulting in a more vibrant iced drink.

Daily Use and Practicality

On a day-to-day basis, the Eletta Explore proved itself to be a reliable companion in my kitchen. In the mornings, I would typically go for a cappuccino, and the LatteCrema system delivered consistently creamy froth, comparable to what I'd expect from a café. The touchscreen allowed me to choose my preferred drink in just a few taps, and before I knew it, the rich aroma of espresso was filling my kitchen.

Later in the day, I'd often switch to something cold, especially during the warmer months. The cold foam for an iced macchiato was impressively thick and smooth, a feature that’s not often found in other home espresso machines. The convenience of having both hot and cold options, accessible without needing to switch out components or deal with manual adjustments, really elevated my experience.

Limitations and Considerations

While I found a lot to love about the Eletta Explore, it’s also worth mentioning a few limitations. The grinder, as I mentioned earlier, is on the noisier side, which might be a slight drawback if you're trying not to wake others in the house during an early-morning coffee session. Additionally, while the cold brew feature is handy, it doesn't completely mimic the depth of a traditional cold brew made over several hours. It’s definitely convenient, but it may not fully satisfy those who are used to the nuanced complexity of a long-brewed cold coffee.

Another consideration is the maintenance required for any machine of this complexity. While the self-cleaning features are helpful, the machine does prompt you quite frequently to clean or descale. I didn’t mind this, as it’s essential to keeping the machine in good condition, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re hoping for a more hands-off experience.

Who Is This Machine For?

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is well-suited for someone who wants a comprehensive coffee experience at home without sacrificing versatility. If you appreciate the art of both hot espresso and chilled beverages, this machine strikes an excellent balance. It’s also ideal for households where different people have varying drink preferences, given the number of customizable options available. If you’re someone who likes having café-quality beverages at your fingertips—ranging from bold espresso shots to creamy iced lattes—the Eletta Explore offers a solid mix of performance, convenience, and customization.

Product Review Conclusion

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is a versatile and user-friendly appliance that caters to both hot and cold beverage enthusiasts. Its sleek design, intuitive interface, and innovative features like the cold brew function and LatteCrema System make it a standout in its category. While the grinder noise and maintenance frequency may be minor drawbacks, the overall convenience and quality of beverages make it a worthy addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.

If you're looking for a machine that effortlessly handles everything from hot espresso shots to iced coffee creations, the Eletta Explore could be just what you need. It’s not perfect, but it provides a delightful at-home café experience with enough variety to keep things exciting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to make a cold brew with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?

A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore can prepare a cold brew in just a few minutes, compared to the traditional 12-hour steeping process. While it may not have the same depth as a traditionally brewed cold brew, it provides a smooth and refreshing alternative for those in need of a quick fix.

Q: Is the grinder noisy?

A: Yes, the stainless steel conical burr grinder does produce a noticeable noise during operation. If you’re sensitive to noise or often make coffee early in the morning, this could be a slight drawback.

Q: Can I customize the strength and temperature of my coffee?

A: Absolutely! The Eletta Explore offers extensive customization options, allowing you to adjust coffee strength, temperature, and even milk froth levels. This feature makes it easy to tailor each beverage to your preferences.

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

A: The machine is designed with ease of maintenance in mind. It includes automatic cleaning cycles for the milk system and descaling alerts. Additionally, the removable brew group and drip tray make manual cleaning straightforward.

Q: Can the machine prepare both hot and cold foam?

A: Yes, the LatteCrema System allows the machine to create both hot and cold milk foam. This feature is great for those who enjoy a variety of beverages, from hot cappuccinos to iced lattes.

Q: Is the cold brew feature the same as a traditional cold brew?

A: Not exactly. While the cold brew feature is convenient and produces a smooth coffee in minutes, it doesn’t completely replicate the depth of flavor found in a traditional cold brew that’s steeped for hours. However, it is a great option for those looking for a quicker cold coffee solution.

Q: How many user profiles can be created?

A: The Eletta Explore allows you to create multiple user profiles, making it easy for each person in your household to save their preferred beverage settings.