Delonghi EC685 vs EC680: What are the differences? Are you on the fence about this? Well, the Delonghi EC685 is the newer model of the Dedica semi-automatic lineup, and yes, it introduces several new features to improve your coffee-making experience further.
The biggest upgrade on it over the Delonghi EC680 is its upgraded Pannarello wand with duo milk frothing settings. What’s more, it boasts the new double drip tray, allowing it to house taller mugs and glasses.
Delonghi EC685 Vs EC680: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi EC685 Vs EC680: Differences
The EC685 version beat the older version EC680, with a score of 4-2. Keep reading to see more!
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System
Winner: Tie
Built-in Grinder
Both versions have no built-in grinder, but they don’t actually need one, as they come with three dual-wall filter baskets. That means you can use pre-ground coffee since dual-wall baskets don’t require the perfect grind size to pull a shot with a rich crema.
One of these three dual-wall baskets is for ESE (easy-serving espresso) pods. They are pre-packaged, single-serving portions of espresso grounds encased in a paper filter, meant to simplify the process of making espresso.
Certainly, using pre-ground coffee or ESE pods results in espresso shots that are seen as inferior compared to those made with non-pressurized portafilters and freshly ground coffee. I understand it may seem unfair to compare them in this way, but you can improve your brew by separately purchasing non-pressurized baskets and a good burr grinder.
Dosing & Tamping
In addition to the three double-wall filter baskets, both models also feature a 51mm portafilter and come with a plastic tamper. The tamper includes a convenient scoop on the other end, which is a thoughtful addition if I don’t typically weigh my beans, but it is too lightweight and flimsy for proper tamping. So, I highly recommend buying a 51mm stainless steel tamper for more consistent and effective tamping.
Heating System
Both the Delonghi EC685 and EC680 are equipped with a Thermoblock fast-heating system. And by “fast,” I mean it truly lives up to the description, heating up and reaching the optimum brewing temperature in roughly 30 seconds. It would be great if they had two boilers, but demanding something like that for these entry-level machines is a myth.
Brewing System
Both have a 15-bar pump pressure – this feature is pretty standard for espresso machines, so it doesn’t really blow my mind. But I’m really pleased that both include pre-infusion, an essential step for optimal extraction that not all machines offer, even among the pricier options.
Design & Convenience
Winner: Delonghi EC685
Dimensions & User Interface
| Delonghi EC685 | Delonghi EC680 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 12 x 13 x 5.9 inches | 12 x 13 x 5.9 inches |
| Weight | 9.3 lbs | 9.2 lbs |
My overall impression of these Delonghi machines is quite positive. They are well-constructed and remarkably compact. With a width of merely six inches, they stand as some of the slimmest DeLonghi espresso machines available, marginally bigger than the Nespresso Inissia models. Sure, their compactness makes them particularly appealing to anyone dealing with limited countertop space.
Both models feature a shiny stainless steel finish, which adds an attractive and robust feel to the machines. But don’t be misled by their appearance since these machines weigh less than 10 lbs. By the way, they also come with other color options.
Both have only three buttons: one for a single shot, one for a double shot, and one for steaming. This is great because you can almost immediately start pulling shots.
Spout Type & Cup Clearance
| Delonghi EC685 | Delonghi EC680 | |
|---|---|---|
| Spout Type | Dual | Dual |
| Cup Clearance | 4.8 inches | 4.8 inches |
Both have a 4.8-inch cup clearance, which is enough to fit any espresso cup. As I said before, the EC685 version boasts a double drip tray, which is actually one of my favorite features. Upon removing the drip tray, you’ll discover a flat surface underneath – that way, you can create additional room to brew coffee directly into a taller travel mug.
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
| Delonghi EC685 | Delonghi EC680 | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 1.1 liters | 1.1 liters |
| Bean Hopper | None | None |
The water tanks on these machines are relatively small and positioned at the back. I strongly recommend rinsing the tank daily under running water and then leaving it to dry. After all, preventing algae growth in the water tank is a priority, as no one wants to encounter that in their coffee machine.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Delonghi EC685
The EC680 is equipped with a standard Pannarello steam wand, whereas the EC685 comes with an enhanced version that includes an auto frother. With just a single click, I can choose between the Cappuccino setting for creating milk froth or the Hot Milk setting for steaming milk without creating bubbles. This flexibility is quite useful, as you might not always be in the mood for the cappuccino foam.
These Panarello wands are notably user-friendly. All you need to do is submerge the frother in your milk without worrying about the angle or depth needed to create a proper vortex. Still, they do have their limitations, such as the difficulty in creating microfoam with the velvety texture necessary for latte art.
So if your main interest lies in crafting cappuccinos or you simply enjoy your coffee with some frothed milk, these Panarello wands should suffice. But if you’re aiming for a machine that can produce latte art, the Delonghi EC685 and EC680 might not live up to your expectations. Finally, these machines do not come with a milk pitcher, so you would need to purchase one separately.
Drink Options & Programmability
Winner: Tie
Drink Options
| Delonghi EC685 | Delonghi EC680 |
|---|---|
| Espresso Hot Water | Espresso Hot Water |
Of course, these semi-auto coffee don’t have the innate ability to brew one-touch coffee specialties. That said, you will need to do the job yourself, which might interest you or serve as a compelling reason to consider upgrading to a super-automatic machine.
Programmability
| Adjustable Settings | Delonghi EC685 | Delonghi EC680 |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Strength | No | No |
| Coffee Temperature | Yes | Yes |
| Milk Foam Temperature | No | No |
| Milk Foam Texture | Yes | No |
These machines are intuitively designed to ensure that even a beginner can use them straight out of the box, yet they still offer some degree of control over the brewing process. There are only three buttons, but you can still change the water temperature, shot volume, and water hardness.
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi EC685
- Item Weight:5 Kg
- Product Dimensions:33 x 14.9 x 30.3 cm
- Volume Capacity:1 litres
- Power / Wattage:1350 watts
- Voltage:220 volts
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi EC680
- A SIP OF ITALIAN DESIGN:At only 6inch wide, the uniquely designed Dedica is our slimmest espresso machine yet, effortlessly adding a touch of minimalist chic to your kitchen with its elegant dimensions. Its sleek, compact design is complemented by an easy-to-use control panel with illuminated buttons.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE THERMOBLOCK: 15-bar professional pressure assures quality results every time, and adjustable controls allow you to make modifications for your personal taste preferences.
- MILK FROTHER: A manual frother with powerful steam to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks – just the way you like them.
- BREW LIKE A PRO: authentic barista experience at home, you can control the whole process from tamping your ground coffee to the final quantity; you can brew up to 5in high into cups or mugs
- EASY TO CLEAN: Removable water tank and drip tray make for easy cleanup, and the parts are dishwasher safe.
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Product Videos
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References:
- Delonghi EC685: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/dedica-deluxe-espresso-machine/p/EC685M
- Delonghi EC680: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/dedica-manual-espresso-machine-stainless-steel-ec680m/p/EC680M
Felix Hendricks is a skilled barista with over 12 years of experience. He excels in crafting coffee and has a strong foundation in coffee machine mechanics. Felix holds a Coffee Machine Maintenance Certification from the Coffee Equipment Technical Institute, showcasing his ability to diagnose and repair coffee machines. He’s also worked as a quality control specialist, selecting premium coffee beans for optimal flavor. Felix has a diverse work history, including stints at renowned coffee spots like Café Euphoria & Starbucks. His expertise in both brewing and machine maintenance makes him a respected figure in the coffee industry.