The Delonghi Dedica vs ECP3420 are highly popular choices among budget-conscious coffee enthusiasts and serve as excellent starter options before considering an upgrade. Both machines boast an appealing design, a compact size for easy kitchen integration, and quick heating times.
The Delonghi Dedica is the better one, with faster heating time (thanks to thermoblock technology) and a pre-infusion function. The Delonghi ECP3420, on the other hand, distinguishes itself with its compatibility with ESE (Easy Serving Espresso) pods, which is a significant feature for those who prefer the convenience of using pods.
Delonghi Dedica Vs ECP3420: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi Dedica Vs ECP3420: Differences
The Dedica beat the ECP3420 with a score of 4-1. Here’s a comparison of their important characteristics so you can decide if one of them suits your needs.
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System
Winner: Delonghi Dedica
Built-in Grinder
The Dedica and ECP3420 do not literally have a built-in grinder, so you need to use pre-ground coffee or ground coffee via a separate coffee grinder. A little nugget of wisdom from my countless caffeine adventures: invest in a quality grinder, like the Breville Smart Grinder Pro, which can be more expensive than the espresso machine itself.
Now, I know what you’re thinking, “A grinder that costs more than my coffee machine? Is this some kind of joke?”
But hear me out! When you start with a quality grinder, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success. Even when you eventually graduate to a more powerful espresso machine that has an in-built grinder, it is still your powerful assistant. So there isn’t any stupid waste here.
The ECP3420 is also compatible with ESE pods. ESE pods are basically the espresso equivalent of a tea bag – just pop one in, and voilà, espresso is served! Whether you’re in a rush or just not in the mood to play barista, these pods can be a real lifesaver, although they don’t quite capture that rich, aromatic magic you get from fresh ground beans.
Dosing & Tamping
Both use a 51mm portafilter. It’s smaller, so it overflows easier, turning your kitchen counter into a coffee crime scene. But hey, it’s not all doom and gloom! The good news is, you’re not just stuck making single espresso shots. These machines are versatile enough to handle double shots, and you can even use ESE pods with the ECP3420, as mentioned before.
Both machines come with a plastic tamper, which does the job, but, let’s be honest, it lacks that ‘wow’ factor since it struggles to create that perfect, flat puck of coffee grounds in the portafilter. The silver lining is that DeLonghi sells separately a swanky stainless steel tamper to upgrade your game.
Heating System
The DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe features a thermoblock heating system, allowing it to reach brewing temperature more rapidly than the ECP3420’s stainless steel boiler. To compare, the Dedica can heat up in under 1 minute, while the ECP3420 needs about 15 minutes to be ready to go.
Let’s be real – not everyone wants to play the waiting game, and this is where the Dedica Deluxe really shines. For those who value speed and efficiency in their morning routine (or any espresso routine, really), the speedy thermoblock is a game-changer.
Both boast a passive cup warming tray. This feature is designed to preheat your cups before brewing, which helps maintain the temperature of the espresso once it’s poured.
Brewing System
The DeLonghi Dedica includes a pre-infusion feature, which is sure to help to some degree with the taste of coffee, whereas the ECP3420 lacks this. So after all, what is pre-infusion?
Pre-infusion involves initially introducing a small amount of water to the coffee puck in the basket under low pressure before applying higher pressure. This process ensures that the puck is already moistened when the pressurized water is applied, helping to prevent channeling.
Both have a 15-bar pressure pump. The golden rule is that you need at least 9 bars of pressure to make a proper espresso. So this 15-bar pressure pump ensures that the extraction process goes smoothly, resulting in a cup that sings with flavor and dances with a rich, dreamy crema on top.
Design & Convenience
Winner: Tie
Dimensions & User Interface
| Delonghi Dedica | Delonghi ECP3420 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13 x 5.8 x 12 inches | 9.6 x 7.3 x 11.9 inches |
| Weight | 9.2 lbs | 10.8 lbs |
These machines feature compact dimensions, so whether you’ve got a tiny apartment or a spacious kitchen, these machines will fit right in without demanding a kitchen remodel.
While I would have preferred more stainless steel in their construction, the predominance of plastic components is understandable, given their price tags. I’m actually quite satisfied with the materials and build of these machines. They feel robust and well-constructed.
Speaking of the control panel, things couldn’t be easier. The Dedica has three buttons: one for one shot, one for dual shots, and one for switching to steaming. Meanwhile, the ECP3420 features a single knob that takes on all tasks.
Spout Type & Cup Clearance
| Delonghi Dedica | Delonghi ECP3420 | |
|---|---|---|
| Spout Type | Dual | Dual |
| Cup Clearance | 4.8 inches | 5 inches |
These machines provide enough space for most espresso cups that may be in your cupboard. Although extremely large glasses technically might not fit under the spout, removing their drip trays will do the trick.
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
| Delonghi Dedica | Delonghi ECP3420 | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 1 liter | 1 liter |
| Bean Hopper | None | None |
Before brewing espresso, it’s essential to fill the water tank. Their removable water tanks might seem like a small detail, but they greatly add to the machine’s convenience. If your espresso machine isn’t located near the sink, having a non-removable tank can quickly become a hassle. With these machines, you simply remove the tank, fill or clean it, and then reinsert it.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Delonghi Dedica
There is a Pannarello steam wand on both the Dedica and ECP3420, which is a godsend for all the froth freshmen out there. It’s here to make your frothing journey a breeze. Plus, the wand can double as a hot water tap, but we’ll circle back to that feature later.
If you’ve ever tried using a traditional steam wand, you know it’s a bit of an art form – you need the right depth, the perfect angle, and a steady hand. With the Pannarello wand, you don’t need those hard-to-obtain skills to get the job done. The thing is that the Pannarello wand can make a big foam for a good cappuccino, but certainly is not a worthy milk texture for latte art. After all, nothing can beat the skills of a barista.
Now is the time for differences. The Dedica’s wand features a unique ring that allows you to choose between the Cappuccino setting for frothy milk and the Hot Milk setting for steamed milk without froth.
This versatile option of the Dedica’s wand is quite handy since it caters to different preferences. You’re not always in the mood for the pillowy foam of a cappuccino. Sometimes, a comforting mug of warm, steamed milk is exactly what’s needed. What’s more, the ECP3420’s wand is a bit weaker, I think.
Drink Options & Programmability
Winner: Delonghi Dedica
Drink Options
| Delonghi Dedica | Delonghi ECP3420 |
|---|---|
| Espresso Hot water | Espresso Hot water |
Back to the fact that their wands can function as a tap for hot water. Craving a quick Americano? Need hot water for a soothing cup of tea? Or maybe you’re in the mood for hot chocolate? No problem! Your espresso machine has got you covered. It’s like having a mini kettle integrated right into your coffee setup.
Programmability
| Adjustable Settings | Delonghi Dedica | Delonghi ECP3420 |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Strength | No | No |
| Coffee Temperature | Yes | No |
| Milk Foam Temperature | No | No |
| Milk Foam Texture | Yes | No |
Both allow the adjustment of the shot volume, but only the Dedica has three brewing temperature options. But let me tell you, only set the maximum temperature of the Dedica to work, while the other two are useless since they are hot enough. The temperature setting is crucial not only for the quality of the espresso but also as an indicator of the boiler’s performance and the efficiency of the machine’s internal components.
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Dedica
- Design: Less than 6-inch in width, super-slim design, fully metal body, 15-bar pump and incorporated cup warmer
- Use: Brews a variety of of espresso-based drinks
- Practical: Heats in 40 seconds and keeps perfect temperature
- Customizable: Adjustable coffee length, foam and steam levels
- Double Drip Tray: The removable drip tray allows you to use mugs and glasses up to 12 cm tall
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API