De'Longhi EC685M Dedica DeLuxe Automatic Espresso Machine - A Compact and Powerful Espresso Machine for Your Home

Published on July 31, 2023, 10:50 p.m.

Making delicious espresso-based drinks at home can seem daunting for beginners. But the De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe aims to make it easy with its compact design and user-friendly features. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at this popular semi-automatic espresso machine to see if it truly delivers cafe-quality results for home use.

 De'Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine

Overview

The De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine is a sleek, yet powerful stainless steel semi-automatic espresso machine. It features a 15-bar professional pressure pump, rapid cappuccino system, adjustable manual frother, cup warmer, and other convenient functions, all packed into a space-saving 6-inch width design. The ThermoBlock heating system only needs 40 seconds of warm-up time.

Key Features

  • 15 Bar Professional Pressure Pump: Ensures high-quality espresso extraction every time, with adjustable controls to cater to personal taste preferences.
  • Thermoblock Fast Heating System: 40-second heat-up time for instant enjoyment of delicious coffee.
  • Adjustable Manual Steam Wand: Easily froth milk to create a variety of specialty coffees.
  • Rapid Cappuccino System: Maintains optimal temperature for continuous brewing of multiple cups.
  • Cup Warming Function: Features a cup warming zone on top to keep your coffee warm.
  • 35oz Removable Water Tank: Convenient for refilling and cleaning.
  • Double Espresso Button: One-touch brewing of double espresso.
  • Descaling Reminder: Timely reminder for descaling to prolong the machine’s lifespan.
  • Energy Saving Mode: Automatically enters energy-saving mode for eco-friendliness.

 De'Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine

Design and Build Quality

The De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine features a stylish matte stainless steel body, simple yet elegant. The compact design, with a width of only 6 inches, allows it to fit on any kitchen countertop. Despite its small size, the sturdy stainless steel construction and exquisite craftsmanship ensure exceptional durability. In addition to stainless steel, some parts of the machine are made of durable plastic to reduce overall weight and provide a comfortable operating experience. The portafilter locks securely into place, and all buttons have a satisfying click when pressed, offering excellent operational feel.

Ease of Use

De’Longhi designed this model to be very beginner friendly. The user manual provides clear directions on setup. Once ready, customizing your drink is simple with the manually controlled frothing wand and easy to access settings like the double shot button. The automatic flow stop and removable drip tray let you brew singles or doubles for a variety of cup sizes with less guesswork.

 De'Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine

Performance and Espresso Quality

The De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine is equipped with a 15 bar professional pressure pump, capable of extracting rich and full-bodied espresso with a generous crema. Whether using finely ground or medium ground coffee, it can produce well-balanced coffee flavors. In addition, the machine has single and double espresso extraction functions, allowing users to choose according to their needs. The steam wand can create delicate milk foam for lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees.

Brew Like A Pro

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe empowers you to brew authentic barista-quality beverages just like your favorite coffeehouse. Whether you prefer single or double espresso, cappuccino or latte, the machine brews authentic barista-quality beverages just like you enjoy at your favorite coffeehouse. You can choose different types of coffee and brewing methods according to your preferences and needs, enjoying a personalized coffee experience.

15-Bar Professional Pressure

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe is equipped with a 15-bar professional pressure pump, which is essential for making high-quality espresso. High-pressure extraction can fully release the flavor and aroma of the coffee, forming a dense and delicate crema, which is one of the hallmarks of Italian espresso. In addition, the machine also has adjustable control functions, allowing users to adjust the concentration and taste of the coffee according to personal preferences.

Thermoblock Heating System

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe utilizes a Thermoblock heating system, which can heat water to the ideal brewing temperature in just 40 seconds. This rapid heating technology ensures you don’t have to wait long to enjoy your fresh espresso. Additionally, the Thermoblock system maintains a consistent temperature between brews, ensuring each cup of coffee has the optimal taste and flavor.

Rapid Cappuccino System

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe’s Rapid Cappuccino System ensures that the machine maintains the ideal temperature when making multiple cups of coffee. This means you can make multiple cappuccinos or lattes for family or friends in a short amount of time without worrying about the coffee temperature dropping and affecting the taste.

Cup Warmer

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe features a cup warming zone on top, allowing you to preheat your coffee cups. Using warm cups to hold coffee helps maintain the coffee’s temperature, allowing you to enjoy hot coffee for a longer time.

Double Shot Button

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe has a double espresso button that allows you to make a double espresso with just one press. This is very convenient for those who prefer stronger coffee and is also suitable for making drinks that require double espresso, such as lattes or cappuccinos.

 De'Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine

Adjustable Milk Frothing

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe is equipped with a premium adjustable frothing wand that allows you to easily customize foam and steam levels. You can create dry foam (ideal for cappuccinos) or microfoam (perfect for lattes) as needed. This flexibility enables users to effortlessly craft a variety of delicious espresso-based drinks, such as macchiatos, lattes, cappuccinos, and more.

Water Reservoir

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe is equipped with a 35oz removable water tank, making it easy for users to refill and clean. The transparent design of the water tank allows you to easily check the water level and refill it in time. The removable feature makes cleaning the water tank very simple, just remove it from the machine and rinse it with clean water.

Accommodate Taller Cups

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe’s double drip tray design can accommodate taller cups, such as latte glasses. You can easily adjust or remove the drip tray to fit cups of

Energy Saving Mode

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe features an energy-saving mode that automatically activates after a period of inactivity. This helps to reduce energy consumption and is in line with environmental protection concepts. When you need to use the coffee machine again, simply press any button to wake it up.

Noise

The main complaint focuses on loud noise when brewing and steaming. The pump and vibration create noticeable noise some owners find disruptive for small spaces. However, many note the machine quiets down after the first few weeks of use.

 De'Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine

Descaling Alarm

The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe has a built-in descaling reminder function that reminds the user when descaling is needed. Regular descaling can prevent scale buildup, which can affect the machine’s performance and the taste of the coffee. This feature helps to extend the life of the machine and ensures that you can always enjoy high-quality coffee.

Cleaning

Many reviewers describe the De’Longhi as easy to clean. The removable water tank, drip tray, and portafilter come out for quick rinsing after use. An automatic rinse cycle plus descaling alerts help maintain the machine. Users note occasional sticky portafilters when new but the problem resolves with use.

Recommendations and Maintenance Tips

To ensure the long-term use and performance of the De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine, here are some recommendations and maintenance tips:
- Clean the water tank, drip tray, and filter regularly to ensure the taste and hygiene of the coffee.
- Perform descaling treatments regularly according to the instructions in the manual to prevent limescale from affecting the machine’s performance.
- If you encounter any problems or need assistance, contact De’Longhi’s customer service team promptly, they will be happy to assist you.

Ideal Uses

The De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine allows you to brew single and double shot espressos and texturize milk at home for drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. It’s compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens, apartments, offices and RVs.

User Feedback Analysis

The De’Longhi Dedica DeLuxe espresso machine has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from customers. Out of over 1,800 global ratings, 63% awarded 5 stars while only 17% gave 1 star. When analyzing key feedback points, ease of use, flavor, and beginner-friendliness emerge as standout strengths.

Many reviewers highlight the machine’s simplicity and ease of operation even for total beginners. The automatic flow stop and self-priming system make it “idiot proof” according to one user. Several mention how the adjustable knobs allow customization of espresso strength and volume to suit personal taste. Satisfied customers describe the De’Longhi as “easy to use” and “quick and simple”.

In terms of performance, customers consistently praise the “authentic barista-quality” espresso produced by the 15-bar pump. One reviewer accustomed to commercial machines was impressed that the De’Longhi “works better than some commercial machines”. The adjustable frother earns acclaim for its ability to create silky foamed milk for cappuccinos and lattes. Many users find the flavor on par with their favorite coffee shops with rich, intense espresso topped with smooth, creamy crema.

The most common complaints focus on the loud noise during brewing and steam wand use. Some note the machine is slightly noisy when new but quiets down over time. A few mechanical issues like sticky portafilters and faulty electrical connectors are reported but De’Longhi’s customer service earns praise for swiftly replacing affected units.

Overall, feedback reveals satisfied customers who enjoy cafe-quality espresso drinks from the convenience of home. Ease of use makes it accessible for beginners yet advanced users still appreciate the customized controls and authentic flavor. For those seeking a compact espresso maker that punches above its weight, the De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine consistently delights owners with its performance and reliability.

Pros

  • Quick heat up time
  • Compact size
  • User-friendly controls
  • Delicious espresso shots
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Small water reservoir
  • Noise and vibration
  • Plastic accents less durable
  • No custom programming

Value

Given its compact size, pressure pump, frothing abilities, and quality espresso, most agree the De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine provides excellent value. The durability satisfies owners who highlight its 3-5 year lifespan with daily use. For the price, reviewers feel it outperforms expectations.

Conclusion

For its affordable price, the De’Longhi EC685M Dedica Deluxe Espresso Machine punches above its weight in performance and quality. While it lacks some customization of pricier models, it excels at ease of use and consistency. I would recommend this machine for beginners looking for delicious espresso without a big learning curve or kitchen footprint.

Specifications

  • Brand: De’Longhi
  • Model: EC685M
  • Product Dimensions: 5.9 x 13 x 12 inches
  • Weight: 8.8 lbs
  • Capacity: 35 oz water tank
  • Color: Metallic
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Power: 1300 watts
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Pressure: 15 bar
  • Frother: Premium adjustable frother
  • Heat Up Time: 40 seconds
  • Flow Stop: Automatic
  • Grinder: None
  • Beans Hopper Size: None
  • Removable Parts: Water tank, drip tray
  • Special Features: Rapid cappuccino system, cup warmer, energy saving mode

What’s Included

The box contains the espresso machine, tamper, measuring scoop, and water filtration bottle.

English User Manual

Basic Operation

  1. Turn on the power of the coffee machine.
  2. Fill the water tank and make sure the water filter is installed (if available).
  3. Grind coffee beans into fine espresso powder.
  4. Place the espresso powder into the filter basket and tamp it down with your hand.
  5. Insert the filter basket into the coffee machine and lock it in place.
  6. Place a cup under the spout of the coffee machine.
  7. Press the espresso button to start brewing espresso.
  8. Use the manual frother to froth milk if desired.
  9. Pour the frothed milk into the espresso to create your favorite coffee beverage.

Maintenance

  1. Clean the water tank, filter basket, and drip tray after each use to maintain hygiene.
  2. Perform descaling treatments regularly according to the instructions in the manual to prevent limescale from affecting machine performance.
  3. Regularly check if all parts of the coffee machine are operating normally. If any abnormality is found, please contact customer service promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Issue: The coffee produced by the machine is not hot enough.
Solution: Ensure the water tank is filled with water and the coffee machine is preheated to the appropriate temperature. If the problem persists, please contact customer service.
Issue: The output of the coffee machine is too small or too large.
Solution: Check if the amount of coffee powder and the tamping level are moderate, and ensure the cleanliness of the filter basket and spout.