For coffee enthusiasts, the allure of brewing the perfect espresso at home is undeniable. The aroma, the rich crema, and the satisfaction of crafting your own cup make it a worthwhile pursuit. However, diving into the world of espresso machines can be daunting, especially when budget constraints are a major consideration. Enter the De’Longhi Stilosa, an entry-level espresso machine that promises to bring the espresso experience to your kitchen without breaking the bank. But does it deliver on that promise? Let’s dive into a comprehensive review of the De’Longhi Stilosa to see if it truly meets the expectations of budding baristas on a budget.
- Affordable: Budget-friendly price, great for beginners.
- Compact: Small footprint, perfect for tight spaces.
- User-Friendly: Simple controls, easy to operate.
- Steam Wand: Allows for basic milk frothing.
- Removable Tank: Easy-to-fill, 34-ounce water tank.
- Weak Espresso: Limited flavor and strength.
- Inconsistent Frothing: Subpar milk froth quality.
- Small Baskets: Restricts coffee quantity, affecting taste.
- Slow Heating: Longer heat-up time than other models.
- No Grinder: Requires separate purchase for fresh grounds.
Design and Build Quality: Compact and User-Friendly
One of the most appealing aspects of the De’Longhi Stilosa is its compact design. Weighing under ten pounds and with dimensions that make it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or even RVs, the Stilosa is built for convenience. Its black plastic exterior, while not as sleek as stainless steel, is timeless and blends well with most kitchen decor. Despite its lightweight build, the machine feels sturdy and well-constructed, not like a flimsy, cheap appliance.
The user interface of the Stilosa is straightforward, featuring a large knob on the front that controls power, coffee, and steam delivery. This simplicity makes it an attractive option for beginners who may be intimidated by more complex machines with digital displays and multiple settings. The removable 34-ounce water tank is another thoughtful feature, making refills and cleaning a breeze. However, the smaller capacity might require more frequent refills if you’re making multiple drinks in one sitting.
Espresso Quality: A Mixed Bag
When it comes to espresso quality, the De’Longhi Stilosa offers a mixed performance. On one hand, it boasts a 15-bar pump, which is more than adequate for pulling a decent shot of espresso. However, the machine’s limitations become apparent when considering its filter baskets and lack of customization options. The pressurized filter baskets, which are designed for use with pre-ground coffee, tend to produce a crema that looks good but lacks the complexity and depth of flavor that coffee aficionados crave. The result is an espresso shot that is often thin, slightly bitter, and lacks the robust flavor profile of a well-extracted shot.
In comparison tests, the Stilosa’s espresso was found to have a lower extraction yield, with refractometer readings showing a yield of just 11.8%, significantly below the industry standard of 18-22%. This lower yield translates to a weaker, less flavorful espresso. The small size of the filter baskets also limits the amount of coffee that can be used, further contributing to the underwhelming performance.
For those willing to invest a bit more, upgrading to a single-wall filter basket and a better tamper could potentially improve the results. However, this requires additional expense and effort, which might deter some users who are looking for a simple, all-in-one solution.
Milk Steaming: Adequate but Not Exceptional
The Stilosa is equipped with a manual steam wand, which is a crucial feature for those who enjoy milk-based espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. The wand offers a full range of motion, which is a pleasant surprise for a machine in this price range. However, the quality of the milk froth it produces is somewhat lacking. The steam wand’s large diameter and inconsistent pressure result in microfoam that is often less silky and more bubbly than desired. While it can adequately heat milk for a latte, it struggles to produce the rich, velvety foam needed for a proper cappuccino.
Moreover, the machine’s design requires users to pull all espresso shots before steaming milk, as switching back and forth between the two functions is not recommended by the manufacturer. This can be inconvenient for those making multiple milk-based drinks in one session. Additionally, the steam wand’s performance is hindered by the need to allow the machine to cool down after steaming milk, or risk burning the coffee.
Ease of Use: Beginner-Friendly with a Few Hiccups
For a budget espresso machine, the De’Longhi Stilosa is surprisingly easy to use, though not without its quirks. The setup process is straightforward, but the instruction manual could be clearer, leaving users to figure out some aspects on their own. The simplicity of the controls, with just a few knobs and buttons, makes it accessible even to those new to espresso machines.
One of the standout features is the adjustable tray height, which allows for varying cup sizes. However, the clearance is still somewhat limited, often requiring the removal of the drip tray to accommodate larger cups or mugs. The machine’s relatively slow heat-up time, taking about seven minutes for a full tank, is another minor inconvenience, especially for those in a rush.
Cleaning the Stilosa is relatively easy, though it does require regular maintenance to keep it in good working order. The steam wand’s outer part is removable, which simplifies cleaning, and the portafilter and baskets can be easily rinsed. However, the descaling process, recommended every 200 shots, is somewhat lengthy and requires attention throughout, which might be a drawback for some users.
Value for Money: A Budget Option with Trade-offs
The De’Longhi Stilosa is undeniably a budget-friendly option, priced significantly lower than many of its competitors. For those just starting their espresso journey, it offers a way to explore the world of home espresso without a hefty upfront investment. However, the lower price comes with trade-offs, particularly in the quality of the espresso and milk froth it produces.
While it may not satisfy seasoned baristas or those seeking cafe-quality drinks, it serves as a decent introduction to espresso making. The machine’s limitations, particularly in terms of customization and espresso quality, mean that users will need to manage their expectations. It’s a machine that “gets the job done,” but doesn’t necessarily do it exceptionally well.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the De’Longhi Stilosa?
The De’Longhi Stilosa is best suited for beginners who are curious about espresso but not ready to commit to a more expensive, high-end machine. It offers a way to dip a toe into the world of espresso making without a significant financial outlay. For those who prioritize convenience and are willing to accept a few compromises in performance, the Stilosa is a viable option.
However, if you’re someone who values high-quality espresso and creamy, well-textured milk froth, you might find the Stilosa lacking. In such cases, it may be worth considering a higher-end model like the Breville Bambino or the Rancilio Silvia, which offer better performance and more customization options.
In conclusion, the De’Longhi Stilosa is a commendable effort to bring espresso to the masses at an affordable price. It has its flaws, but for the right user—namely, a beginner on a budget—it could be the perfect entry point into the world of home espresso.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the De’Longhi Stilosa suitable for beginners?
Yes, the De’Longhi Stilosa is designed with simplicity in mind, making it an excellent choice for beginners who want to start making espresso at home without a complex setup.
Can the De’Longhi Stilosa make lattes and cappuccinos?
Yes, the Stilosa comes with a manual steam wand that allows you to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos. However, the quality of the milk froth may not be as rich or velvety as that produced by higher-end machines.
How long does the De’Longhi Stilosa take to heat up?
The De’Longhi Stilosa takes about seven minutes to heat up when the water tank is fully filled. This time may vary depending on the amount of water in the tank.
Does the De’Longhi Stilosa come with a built-in grinder?
No, the De’Longhi Stilosa does not include a built-in grinder. You’ll need to use pre-ground coffee or purchase a separate grinder for fresh grounds.
How often does the De’Longhi Stilosa need to be descaled?
De’Longhi recommends descaling the Stilosa after every 200 shots. However, if you use hard water, more frequent descaling may be necessary to prevent mineral buildup.
Is the De’Longhi Stilosa compatible with ESE pods?
No, the De’Longhi Stilosa is designed for use with ground coffee and does not support ESE pods.
Can the De’Longhi Stilosa accommodate larger cups or travel mugs?
Yes, the Stilosa has an adjustable tray height. By removing the drip tray, you can fit larger cups or travel mugs under the spouts.
What is the warranty on the De’Longhi Stilosa?
The De’Longhi Stilosa comes with a one-year limited warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
How does the De’Longhi Stilosa compare to other budget espresso machines?
The De’Longhi Stilosa is one of the more affordable options in its category, but it has limitations in espresso quality and milk frothing compared to other machines. It’s ideal for those on a budget who prioritize cost over advanced features.
What type of coffee grounds work best with the De’Longhi Stilosa?
The Stilosa works best with a fine grind size, which is typical for espresso. Using freshly ground coffee from a burr grinder will generally yield the best results.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: De’Longhi
- Model Number: EC260BK
- Product Category: Manual Espresso Machine
- Housing Material: Plastic with stainless steel parts
- Color Options: Black
- Milk Frother: Manual Steam Wand
- User Interface: Buttons and Dials
- Portafilter Size: 51 mm
- Tamping: Manual
- Removable Water Reservoir: Yes
- Water Reservoir Capacity: 33.8 fl oz (1.0 liter)
- Number of Boilers: 1
- Pump Pressure: 15 bar
- Maximum Cup Height: 4.4 inches (11.2 cm)
- Grinder: Not included
- Pre-Infusion: Not available
- Adjustable Coffee Temperature: Not available
- Adjustable Milk Foam Temperature: Not available
- 2-Cup Function: No
- Hot Water Function: Yes (Milk foam only option)
- Power Consumption: 1100 W
- Weight: 9.5 lbs (4.3 kg)
- Dimensions: 11.2 x 8.0 x 13.5 inches (28.4 x 20.3 x 34.3 cm)
- Warranty: 1-year limited
- Included Accessories: Tamper, Single and double espresso filters, Measuring spoon, Instruction manual & Quick Start Guide
