DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew Review

When I first heard about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, I was immediately intrigued. As someone who loves both a piping hot cup of espresso to kick-start the morning and a refreshing cold brew in the afternoon, the idea of one machine that could do it all was too good to pass up. The dual capability of brewing hot espresso and cold brew was the ultimate convenience that my coffee-loving heart desired. After a few days of debating, I decided to make the leap and purchase it. From the moment I unboxed it, I knew that this was not just another coffee maker—it was a game-changer for my daily coffee routine.

Unboxing and First Impressions of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

The unboxing experience itself was quite exciting. Right from the start, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore exuded quality. Its sleek, modern design and premium black and stainless-steel finish immediately stood out. Despite being a highly capable machine, its compact size was a welcome surprise. It fit perfectly into my kitchen without dominating the space, unlike some bulkier espresso machines I've seen. Holding it in my hands, I could tell it was well-made, and I couldn't wait to see how it performed.

Setting Up the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine

Setting up the DeLonghi Eletta Explore was refreshingly simple. I often dread setting up new gadgets, especially those with advanced features, but the intuitive touchscreen interface made it incredibly easy. The machine guides you step by step, and I had everything ready to go in just a few minutes. No complicated assembly, no confusing instructions—just a few steps and I was ready to brew my first espresso. Even if you're not a tech-savvy person, you won't have any trouble getting started with this machine.

Brewing My First Espresso: A Rich and Aromatic Experience

Brewing my first espresso was an experience worth savoring. I opted for a classic double shot to see what this machine could do. The aroma that filled my kitchen was incredible, and I was genuinely impressed by the rich crema that formed on top of my espresso. It had a bold flavor yet was smooth enough to enjoy without any sugar or milk. One of my favorite things about the machine was the ease with which I could customize my brew—adjusting the strength and size to my preference was simple and intuitive. It was clear to me that this machine could cater to coffee lovers of all kinds.

Cold Brew Convenience: A Game-Changer for Summer Days

The cold brew feature is the real standout aspect of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore. Typically, making cold brew is a slow process that requires planning ahead, usually the night before. But with this machine, I was able to make a delicious cold brew in under five minutes. The flavor was crisp, smooth, and never watery or bitter, which is a common issue when I use other methods. This was a total game-changer for me, especially on hot summer afternoons when a quick, refreshing pick-me-up is exactly what I need. The machine manages to extract all the rich flavors of a long-brewed cold coffee, but in a fraction of the time.

How the DeLonghi Eletta Fits into My Daily Routine

One of the things I love most about the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is how well it fits into my daily routine. My mornings are often hectic, and I need a quick, reliable espresso to kick off the day. This machine delivers a hot espresso in under a minute, which is ideal for my busy schedule. But by midday, I usually find myself craving something cool. Switching to cold brew is effortless, and it’s as if the machine understands my changing coffee needs throughout the day. The versatility it provides means I no longer have to rely on separate gadgets for hot and cold drinks—one machine does it all, making it an irreplaceable part of my daily coffee ritual.

Customizing Drinks: Tailored to My Preferences

The customization options on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore are another standout feature. I can choose the drink strength, temperature, and milk frothiness—ensuring that every cup is exactly to my liking. The machine remembers my preferences, so I don’t have to fiddle with settings every time. On days when I need something strong and bold, I can amp up the strength, and on lazy weekends, I can make a light and smooth latte. It’s the kind of flexibility that makes me feel like I’m my own barista, capable of making coffee-shop-quality drinks at home.

Convenience and Ease of Use: A Time-Saving Wonder

From the moment you press the power button to the first sip of your coffee, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore screams convenience. The touchscreen display is incredibly intuitive, and the options are easy to navigate. I can have my coffee—whether it’s a hot espresso or a cold brew—in hand in under a minute. This is especially important for me because I often find myself juggling multiple things in the morning. The fact that the machine is so quick and easy to use has made my coffee routine stress-free and efficient.

Maintenance: Keeping the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Clean

One of the biggest concerns I had before purchasing a high-end espresso machine was the upkeep. I didn’t want to add a lot of maintenance tasks to my already busy schedule. Thankfully, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore takes care of most of the cleaning for me. The automatic cleaning feature works efficiently, and when I do need to clean the removable parts, it’s easy and straightforward. I’ve owned machines in the past that felt like a chore to maintain, but this one has been a breeze. It’s nice to have a high-quality machine that doesn’t require constant care and attention.

Comparing the DeLonghi Eletta Explore to Other Machines

Before making my decision, I considered a few other machines, like the Jura E8 and the Breville Barista Express. Both are high-quality machines that have great features, but neither offers the cold brew function that I’ve come to love. I also found that the DeLonghi Eletta Explore had more customization options, allowing me to tweak every aspect of my coffee experience. The Jura E8 and Breville machines were impressive, but the flexibility and cold brew feature of the Eletta Explore made it the clear winner for me. It offers something truly unique—the best of both hot and cold coffee worlds.

Why I Recommend the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine

In my opinion, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is the perfect espresso machine for anyone who values versatility, quality, and ease of use. It’s great for people like me who enjoy both hot and cold coffee and want the flexibility to switch between the two effortlessly. The sleek design, quick brewing time, and ability to customize drinks make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their coffee game. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot cappuccino or a cold, refreshing brew, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has you covered.

Product Review Conclusion

The DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew is a unique coffee maker that offers the best of both worlds—hot espresso and cold brew in one sleek package. It stands out with its user-friendly touchscreen, customization options, and impressive brewing speed. For coffee lovers who want versatility and high-quality drinks at their fingertips, this machine is a fantastic choice. The cold brew function is especially noteworthy, allowing you to prepare a refreshing beverage in just a few minutes without compromising on taste. While there are many espresso machines available on the market, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore’s innovative features and ease of use make it a standout option.

FAQ about DeLonghi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew

Q1: Can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make both hot and cold coffee?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has the capability to brew both hot espresso and cold brew coffee, making it versatile for any season or coffee preference.

Q2: How long does it take to make a cold brew with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The cold brew function is fast and efficient, producing a cold brew coffee in under 5 minutes, which is much quicker than traditional methods.

Q3: What types of milk can be frothed with this machine?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is compatible with various milk types including cow’s milk, almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk. The machine provides high-quality frothing for all these options.

Q4: How customizable are the coffee settings?
A: You can customize drink strength, temperature, and milk froth levels. This allows you to personalize each coffee to your taste, whether you prefer a strong espresso or a lighter cold brew.

Q5: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore easy to clean?
A: Yes, it features automatic cleaning cycles for the milk system and a removable brew unit for easy manual cleaning. This makes maintenance simple and straightforward.

Q6: Does the machine have a built-in grinder?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore comes with a high-quality integrated grinder that allows you to use fresh beans for every cup, enhancing the flavor of your coffee.

Q7: Can you use pre-ground coffee with this machine?
A: Yes, the machine allows for both whole beans and pre-ground coffee, providing flexibility depending on your preference or convenience.

Q8: How does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore compare to other machines like the Jura E8?
A: While both machines are high quality, the Eletta Explore stands out with its cold brew feature, which is not available in the Jura E8. If you enjoy a variety of coffee styles, the Eletta Explore offers more versatility.

Q9: What’s the capacity of the water tank and bean container?
A: The machine has a water tank with a capacity of 1.8 liters and a bean container that holds about 400 grams of coffee beans, making it suitable for frequent use without constant refilling.

Q10: Is the machine compatible with hard water areas?
A: Yes, the machine includes a water filtration system and can be used with hard water. However, regular descaling is recommended to ensure optimal performance.