De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK Review
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Quick Summary
- Brand: De'Longhi
- Product Type: Espresso Machine
- Price Range: Budget ($-$$)
- Verdict: The De'Longhi Stilosa offers impressive espresso-making capabilities at an entry-level price point, though it requires some patience and practice to master.
Scoring Breakdown
What’s in the Box
- Stilosa espresso machine
- Portafilter with single and double shot baskets
- Plastic tamper
- Instruction manual Note: Does not include milk frothing pitcher or espresso cups
In a market where premium espresso machines can cost thousands of dollars, the De’Longhi Stilosa emerges as an intriguing budget option. Our testing revealed that while this machine has its limitations, it delivers surprisingly good results for its price point, making it an attractive choice for home baristas just starting their espresso journey.
Key Features
Design and Build Quality
- Compact footprint (13.5″ x 8.07″ x 11.22″)
- Combination of stainless steel and plastic construction
- Removable water reservoir for easy filling
- Removable drip tray for accommodation of different cup sizes
- 1200ml water tank capacity
Performance Features
- 15-bar pump pressure system
- Manual milk frothing wand
- Stainless steel boiler
- 1100-watt heating element
- Compatible with both ground coffee and ESE pods
Usability
The machine features a straightforward interface with manual controls. The learning curve is moderate, requiring users to develop a feel for timing shots and steaming milk. The compact size makes it easy to fit in most kitchens, though the height clearance under the portafilter is limited.
Maintenance and Durability
Regular cleaning and descaling are essential for optimal performance. Many users report consistent performance over months of use, though some experienced issues after 6-12 months of heavy use.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Compact footprint
- Quick heating time
- Good crema production with proper technique
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Lightweight and portable
- Makes legitimate espresso with practice
Cons
- Significant noise during operation
- Manual shot timing required
- Limited clearance for taller cups
- Plastic tamper needs replacement
- Steam wand performance is inconsistent
- Learning curve for beginners
Detailed Analysis
What Our Testing Loved
The Stilosa shines in its ability to produce proper espresso with good crema when used correctly. The 15-bar pump pressure system proves capable of extracting rich flavors, especially with freshly ground beans. The machine heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperature throughout multiple shots.
Room for Improvement
The machine’s noise level during operation is notably loud. The included plastic tamper is inadequate for proper extraction, and the steam wand’s performance can be inconsistent, particularly for achieving microfoam texture. The manual nature of shot timing requires close attention and practice.
Ideal Use Cases
The Stilosa is best suited for:
- Budget-conscious espresso enthusiasts
- Home baristas just starting their journey
- Small kitchens with limited counter space
- Occasional use (1-3 drinks per day)
- Those willing to learn manual techniques
Competitive Analysis
Compared to other machines in its price range, the Stilosa offers better build quality and more consistent results than most. While it can’t match the automation and consistency of higher-end machines like Breville’s Barista series, it provides a legitimate pathway to learning espresso-making fundamentals at a fraction of the cost.
Bottom Line
The De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK represents excellent value for money in the entry-level espresso machine market. While it has its quirks and limitations, it’s capable of producing legitimate espresso drinks with proper technique and patience. It’s an ideal choice for beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of espresso-making without making a significant financial investment. However, serious enthusiasts or those seeking push-button convenience might want to consider higher-end alternatives.
For best results, we recommend purchasing a quality tamper and milk frothing pitcher separately, as well as investing in freshly roasted beans and a capable grinder. With these additions and some practice, the Stilosa can produce espresso drinks that rival those from much more expensive machines.