Delonghi Single Espresso Machine

Last updated: October 2, 2026

“DeLonghi single espresso machine” usually means a compact De’Longhi machine that makes one or two shots at a time, rather than a bean-to-cup appliance or a pod system. These machines are popular because they are relatively affordable, small enough for a kitchen counter, and capable of making espresso-based drinks with ground coffee.

The catch is that a low-priced manual espresso machine does not remove the work of espresso. You still need to measure coffee, tamp the grounds, lock in the portafilter, steam or froth milk, and clean the machine afterward. For occasional cappuccinos, that trade-off is reasonable. For completely effortless coffee, another type of machine may suit you better.

What a DeLonghi single espresso machine does

Most De’Longhi single espresso machines in this category use a pressurized basket. This design is forgiving of pre-ground supermarket coffee and inconsistent grinding, making it easier for beginners to produce a drink with crema-like foam. The machine typically has a small water tank, a portafilter for one or two shots, and a steam wand or hot-water outlet.

It is best thought of as a compact semi-automatic machine, not a fully automatic coffee maker. You control the coffee dose and tamping, while the machine supplies the pump pressure and heats the water. Results can be quite good, but they depend heavily on the coffee and your preparation.

If you want to compare available sizes and features before choosing, browse DeLonghi single espresso machines by current price and customer feedback. Retail listings and bundles can change, so check the included baskets and warranty rather than relying only on the product photograph.

Who should buy one?

See also: Breville Bench Saver • Rocket Espresso Coffee Machine

A De’Longhi single espresso machine makes sense for someone who drinks one or two espresso-based beverages per day and wants more control than a capsule machine provides. It is also a useful entry point for a new espresso hobby. The machines are generally compact, and replacement accessories such as baskets and tampers are easy to find.

It suits:

• Small households that make one or two drinks at a time.
• People who mostly drink lattes, cappuccinos, Americanos, or iced coffee.
• Beginners willing to learn basic grinding and tamping.
• Shoppers who want a modest machine without paying for an integrated grinder.

It is less suitable if several people want drinks back to back. Small single-boiler machines usually need a pause between brewing and steaming, and the steam wand may take time to build enough pressure for a large milk drink. If speed matters more than hands-on control, consider DeLonghi automatic espresso machines instead.

The main trade-offs

The least expensive machine is often fine if you use pre-ground coffee, add milk, and make espresso only occasionally. Spending more becomes worthwhile when you want quieter operation, a sturdier portafilter, better steam performance, or more repeatable brewing.

Do you need a grinder?

Freshly ground coffee usually gives you more aroma and a better chance of adjusting the shot to taste. However, buying an expensive grinder immediately is not essential for everyone. A pressurized basket can make a drinkable shot from pre-ground coffee, particularly when the coffee is fresh and stored in an airtight container.

If you want to use fresh beans, budget for a dedicated espresso coffee grinder. A blade grinder is a poor match because it produces a mixture of very fine and very coarse particles. That can cause bitter, weak, or uneven shots. A basic burr grinder with suitable espresso adjustments is the more practical starting point.

Do not assume that a machine with a grinder is automatically better. Integrated grinders save space, but a failure in the grinder can affect the entire appliance. A separate grinder is easier to upgrade or replace, while a machine-only setup is simpler and often cheaper at the beginning.

Common failure modes

Weak or watery espresso: The coffee may be under-dosed, tamped unevenly, ground too coarsely, or brewed with stale grounds. If you use a pressurized basket, start by checking the dose and coffee freshness before changing several variables at once.

Bitter espresso: The grind may be too fine, the shot may be running too slowly, or the machine and basket may need cleaning. Running water through the group head and washing the basket after use prevents old coffee oils from affecting the flavor.

Little or no steam: The machine may still be in brew mode, the steam tip may be blocked with dried milk, or the water tank may be low. Purge the wand immediately after steaming and wipe it while the residue is still wet.

Leaks around the portafilter: Grounds on the basket rim, an overfilled basket, or a worn group gasket can stop the portafilter from sealing. Avoid forcing it tighter than necessary; clean the rim first and replace the gasket if the problem persists.

Inconsistent drinks: A small machine can change temperature between brewing and steaming, especially during repeated use. Allow a short recovery period and use the same dose, cup, and timing each time.

What to check before buying

• Counter space: Measure the width and height, including room to remove the water tank and lift the portafilter.
• Basket type: Pressurized baskets are easier for beginners; non-pressurized baskets offer more control but demand a better grinder.
• Milk setup: A real steam wand offers better texture than a simple frothing attachment, but it requires practice.
• Cleaning access: Look for a removable water tank, removable drip tray, and accessible basket.
• Included accessories: Check whether the package includes a usable tamper, measuring scoop, and the basket sizes you need.
• Electrical requirements: Confirm the machine is intended for your household voltage and outlet.

For a first machine, do not overpay for buttons you will not use. A basic De’Longhi model, a decent burr grinder, fresh coffee, and a few minutes of practice can outperform a more expensive machine paired with poor coffee and an unsuitable grinder.

FAQ

Can a DeLonghi single espresso machine make regular coffee?

It can make an Americano by combining espresso with hot water, but it does not brew regular filter coffee in the same way as a drip coffee maker. If you mainly want a large mug, a drip machine may be the better purchase.

Is a DeLonghi espresso machine good for beginners?

Yes, particularly one using pressurized baskets. It is more forgiving than a traditional commercial-style setup, although grinding, tamping, and milk steaming still require some practice.

Can it make two shots at once?

Most machines in this category have a double-shot basket and can brew two espresso portions together. Check the basket and portafilter included with the exact model before buying.

How often should it be cleaned?

Rinse the portafilter and basket after every use, purge and wipe the steam wand immediately after steaming, and empty the drip tray regularly. Descale according to the manual and your water hardness.