De'Longhi15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine with Manual Milk Frother for Latte, Cappuccino, Black, ECP3420

**** UPDATE AFTER 4 YEARS OF USE****Well it's May 2020 now, and I purchased this machine back in 2016. It has now been through 2 apartment moves, and STILL works like a dream... but recently it developed an inconsistent leak. I've woken up twice now to it having leaked on the countertop overnight. Not too much, and it hasn't done it every night. But still enough to be worried I'll someday have to replace it. For $100 or so dollars though, and especially after being used almost every single day for 4 years, this machine has STILL been one of the best and most reliable things I have ever purchased in my life.I still have to get my coffee beans ground at 1 notch more corse than espresso, however I've had a trusty coffee/spice grinder that gets a perfect grind every time (and its also cheap and over 8 years old).I'm pretty sure my last move (across 3 states) was the reason it has now started to leak, and I'm sad that I will one day have to part with it... but I'm writing this review because I truly just can't recommend this product enough. I have not been paid or given anything to write this or any reviews, I just want the amazon world to know it's a great machine for the price.Happy coffee making, espresso drinkers out there!______________________________________________________________I never write reviews for anything I purchase on Amazon (yet I read reviews for everything I purchase), and I'm so glad I chose this machine when looking for a new espresso maker. Personally, I am really hands on with my coffee in the mornings. I am not a "push a button and go" kinda girl, so if you are looking for that, maybe look elsewhere? This machine can be a bit finicky at times.It's so easy to use, and relatively mess free. It is a bit loud, but that doesn't bother me. It works like a breeze, and produces consistently great pours with beautiful crema markings. The milk frother works wonderfully with any type of milk (I only use almond or coconut milk). Being a barista years back I learned some milks are really hard to get a nice velvety foam, and this machine does just that with almond milk! It's not latte art quality, but juuuuust close enough that it could be.Here's my advice after owning this machine for a few months now...1. Start off with some Illy ground espresso in the can (like a previous reviewer had mentioned) so that you can have good tasting espresso while you get used to how your machine works. Tamp your espresso lightly!! Don't cram it in there or it will ruin the flow!2. Once you get used to how the Illy grounds work with your machine, then you can move on to local coffee shop beans. The reason being that the coffee grounds have more oils in them and are ground a bit more fine so it doesn't come out in a flow, but more of a drip. I typically put my cup right where the drip comes out, and it flows evenly for a perfect crema. Ask your barista for their particular choice in espresso beans when you go to your local roaster. I prefer Peet's Coffee or Philz Coffee's Aromatic Arabic, but make sure you ask them to grind 1 step more coarse then the typical espresso grind to make it a little easier on yourself..3. Always wipe your machine after use. I know I can be busy at times and forget to take out the tamp and empty the used espresso out, but try to always wipe the milk frother after use, and wipe down your machine. It comes apart easily so you can really get in there. At least 3 days I do a full rinse of the machine. I know I should do it after every single use, but I have had no problems thus far.4. Last but not least, make sure you get a ***small*** milk pitcher and tamp (I bought mine from the seller New Star Foodservice since it was priced right and well made). I know you get a 2 in 1 scoop and tamp with this machine, but look for something slightly heavy and stainless steel.

I am a newbie to espresso so don't let me pretend like I know anything but the first cup I had from this machine, I was hooked and I will never go back. It is simple to use. I'm not even using "espresso roasted"coffee so I will probably upgrade my coffee game again when I start experimenting with that. Good quality local air roasted coffee taste and feels AMAZING from this machine. The milk frother is amazing. It makes such a perfect little cappuccino. My whole family loves it and my kids are drinking decaf cappuccinos during this cold January and loving it. I don't know why other machines are so much more expensive, but this little machine is wonderful and the price is awesome. I can't see myself wanting anything bigger or with more bells and whistles because this makes the perfect cup. If your on the fence, it's absolutely worth the money. The taste and the way is "feels" in your mouth. That first sip is heavenly.

I recently purchased the De'Longhi Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, and overall, I am delighted with its performance. This machine consistently produces great-tasting espresso, and its unique coffee holder design caught my attention.The coffee holder mechanism on this model works differently from other machines I've used in the past. Instead of relying on a thumb-activated device to hold the filters, this De'Longhi machine utilizes friction and a robust spring. I found this method to be reliable and efficient, providing a secure grip on the filters during the brewing process. Personally, I prefer this design over the thumb-activated ones, as it feels more intuitive and sturdy.One important consideration is that, based on my experience, these machines tend to have a lifespan of around two years with heavy usage. In my household, where we make 8 or 9 double espressos a day, our previous DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine failed after two years. Although this model is a bit slower in brewing compared to our previous machine, I have been generally satisfied with its performance.The espresso produced by the De'Longhi Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is consistently of high quality, delivering a rich and flavorful taste. The machine's bar pump system ensures the proper pressure for extracting the full aroma and intensity from the coffee grounds. The resulting espresso is smooth and well-balanced, perfect for enjoying on its own or as the base for cappuccinos and other specialty drinks.One recommendation I would make is to consider purchasing the extended warranty. With heavy daily use, it is important to have additional coverage in case of any unexpected malfunctions. While this may not be unique to this particular machine, it is a good precaution to ensure peace of mind and protect your investment.In conclusion, the De'Longhi Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is an excellent choice for espresso lovers who appreciate a reliable and flavorful brew. The unique coffee holder design offers secure and efficient operation. However, it is worth noting that with heavy usage, these machines tend to have a limited lifespan. Despite this consideration, I am very satisfied with this machine's performance, and I would recommend it to anyone seeking a quality espresso maker. Just remember to consider purchasing the extended warranty for added protection.