Last updated: October 2, 2026
Quick answer: Our top pick in 2026 is the DeLonghi all-in-one — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.
What “DeLonghi all-in-one” means
DeLonghi’s all-in-one coffee makers combine a drip coffee brewer and an espresso machine in one countertop appliance. The best-known example is the La Specialista? No: DeLonghi’s combination line is generally sold under the “All-in-One” name, including models such as the COM532M. Check the exact model number before buying, since features and included accessories vary.
The appeal is simple: brew a pot of regular coffee and pull espresso without keeping two machines on the counter. The trade-off is that a combination machine has to serve two different brewing methods. It takes more space than a compact espresso maker, and neither side is as flexible as a dedicated machine built for that job.
Who should buy one
See also: Breville Bench Saver • Rocket Espresso Coffee Machine
A DeLonghi combination coffee maker is a sensible fit if your household drinks both drip coffee and espresso, you want a single appliance, and you have room for a fairly substantial machine. It can also work well for people who want to make a cappuccino or latte occasionally without investing in a separate espresso setup.
It is less suited to someone who mainly wants espresso-shop drinks and plans to refine grind size, dose, and extraction. The espresso side is designed for convenience, not deep control. It also won’t make a traditional full pot of drip coffee and espresso at the same time on every model; check the manual for the specific unit’s brewing limitations.
How it compares with other options
| Option | Best for | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| DeLonghi all-in-one | Households that want drip coffee and basic espresso from one appliance | More counter space, with less specialization on each side |
| Dedicated drip coffee maker | Several cups of straightforward coffee with minimal fuss | No espresso or espresso-style milk drinks |
| Dedicated espresso machine | People who prioritize espresso and milk drinks | Usually requires a separate grinder and more practice |
| Single-serve coffee maker | One quick cup with little cleanup | Pods can cost more per drink and limit coffee choice |
If you mostly drink filter coffee, a dedicated drip coffee maker is usually cheaper and simpler. If espresso is the priority, consider a dedicated home espresso machine instead. The combination unit earns its keep when both brewing styles get regular use.
What to expect from the espresso side
Expect an approachable espresso experience rather than the consistency and control of a higher-end setup. The portafilter and included accessories are intended to make basic preparation manageable. You still need to use suitable coffee, measure the grounds, tamp evenly, and clean the basket after brewing. Freshly ground coffee generally gives you more control, but pre-ground espresso coffee can be the easier starting point.
Milk frothing is another practical consideration. A built-in steam wand can make foam for cappuccinos and lattes, but it takes practice to get smooth, fine-textured milk. If you expect café-style microfoam with no learning curve, this may disappoint. If milk drinks are occasional, the convenience may be worth it.
A common failure mode with entry-level espresso machines is blaming the appliance for a poor shot when the coffee grind is too coarse, the dose is inconsistent, or the coffee is stale. Conversely, if you want to adjust extraction precisely, the limited controls of a convenience-focused combination machine may be the actual constraint.
What to expect from the drip side
The drip brewer is useful for serving more than one person or keeping a pot of familiar coffee available. It avoids the repeated, single-shot workflow of making several espresso drinks. Check the carafe capacity and whether the machine uses a warming plate or another holding method; those details affect how well it fits your morning routine.
Don’t assume the “all-in-one” label means every function can run at once. Some combination machines let the coffee and espresso sides operate independently, while others impose limits. If you want to brew a pot while pulling shots for guests, verify simultaneous-use capability in the current product manual rather than relying on the name or a retailer’s brief listing.
Counter space, cleaning, and likely annoyances
Measure the machine’s footprint and height before ordering, including clearance under cabinets for filling the water reservoir. A combination model can be wide and busy on the counter, with separate areas for the drip carafe, espresso portafilter, and milk accessories. It saves the space of two complete appliances, but it is not a compact solution.
Cleaning is manageable if you keep up with it. The espresso basket and portafilter need rinsing after use; the steam wand should be wiped and purged promptly; and the drip carafe and filter basket need regular washing. Neglecting the steam wand can leave milk residue that is unpleasant and harder to remove. Mineral buildup can also affect brewing, so follow the manufacturer’s descaling schedule and water guidance.
What to check before buying
Compare the exact model’s espresso controls, carafe size, water-reservoir access, included filters, and warranty. Read owner feedback for recurring issues such as leaks, difficult-to-clean parts, or inconsistent heating, while separating isolated complaints from patterns. Also consider the cost of coffee: the machine itself may be a reasonable compromise, but buying espresso-ground coffee or fresh beans regularly is part of the ongoing expense.
If your budget is tight and you only want coffee by the pot, don’t pay extra for an espresso function you won’t use. A basic programmable drip coffee maker will do that job well. If you do want both styles but prefer less hands-on espresso preparation, a coffee-and-espresso combination machine is worth comparing against DeLonghi’s current options.
FAQ
Can the DeLonghi all-in-one make regular coffee and espresso?
Yes. It combines a drip coffee brewer with an espresso-brewing side. The exact functions and whether both sides can run together depend on the model.
Is it a good first espresso machine?
It can be, if convenience matters more than fine control and you’re willing to learn basic dosing, tamping, and milk frothing. It is not the best fit for someone who wants to experiment extensively with espresso variables.
Do I need a separate grinder?
No, but a grinder gives you more control over freshness and grind size. Pre-ground coffee is easier; just make sure its grind is suitable for the machine’s espresso basket.
Is an all-in-one cheaper than buying two machines?
Often, but prices vary. It can be good value if you regularly use both functions; if you mainly make one type of coffee, a dedicated machine for that job is usually the better buy.
Ready to decide? Our #1 pick for 2026 is the DeLonghi all-in-one.
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