In today’s market, brimming with super-automatic bean-to-cup machines, there’s still significant interest in entry-level semi-automatic machines like the Delonghi EC702 vs EC680. The reasons vary – perhaps it’s budget considerations or limited kitchen space that drive this preference.
When we put these two machines side by side, they share many similarities, but the Delonghi EC680 edges out the Delonghi EC702 for some reasons. It heats up faster with its thermoblock system, is lighter in weight, and offers up to three temperature settings.
Delonghi EC702 Vs EC680: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi EC702 Vs EC680: Differences
The EC680 triumphed over the EC702 with a score of 4-2, and that is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s a lot more to uncover about these machines, so keep reading!
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System
Winner: Delonghi EC680
Built-in Grinder
These machines don’t come with a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to scout for one separately. My recommendation is to invest in a quality grinder right off the bat, and it’ll stick with you for the rest of your life, even as you upgrade to more advanced espresso machines. It’s a smart move with zero waste involved!
You might be taken aback to learn that a top-notch electric grinder, like the Baratza Sette 270Wi, can sometimes be as pricey as, or even pricier than, the espresso machine itself! But, my readers, a grinder is also a key player in your coffee game, on par with the espresso machine itself.
Now, if you are a budget-oriented user, consider going for a hand grinder. So, no worries – you don’t have to spend a fortune to get into the home barista game.
Dosing & Tamping
Right out of the box, both models come equipped with a 51mm portafilter, dual-wall baskets, a 2-in-1 tamper, and a few other accessories. Now, if you’re just dipping your toes into the world of espresso, you’re going to appreciate those double-wall baskets. They’re more forgiving and can pull a decent shot even if your technique isn’t quite barista-level yet.
But at the end of the day, as you get more comfortable and your skills improve, you’ll likely find yourself wanting to switch to single-wall baskets. You’re in full control, fine-tuning every aspect of the espresso brewing process – this is a bit more challenging, sure, but your espresso shots can reach a quality that might just give your favorite coffee shop a run for its money.
If you’re prioritizing convenience, both have a basket for ESE pods. They are super convenient, absolutely, but I’m not a big fan of them. The thing is that coffee begins to deteriorate very quickly after grinding. So the packet of pre-ground beans can’t compete with the freshness of grinding your own beans.
By the way, these machines include plastic tampers, which, honestly, are terrible, so I highly recommend picking up a tamper made of stainless steel. And if you are really serious about perfecting your espresso shots, consider investing in a coffee scale as well.
Heating System
The EC702 sports a stainless steel boiler that’s truly stood the test of time, which is all about durability! But it takes around fifteen minutes for the boiler to fully heat up.
But once you get past those initial minutes, there’s no more waiting around for the next shot. Thanks to its Rapid Cappuccino System, the machine keeps the water at just the right temperature, ready to brew cup after cup.
The EC680 can heat up significantly faster than the EC702 with its thermoblock heating system. As a dedicated espresso purist, I don’t mind waiting for a traditional boiler machine to heat up, but things that heat up quickly, like the EC702, really make sense in our fast-paced world!
Brewing System
If you’ve browsed my comparison table, you might have noticed the “pre-infusion” function is available for both machines. Well, let’s dive into what that’s all about, shall we?
Pre-infusion is where the coffee grounds get moistened under low pressure, giving them a moment to swell up and release their carbon dioxide. This step is crucial because it sets the stage for those intricate flavors and aromas to start blossoming.
After a few seconds of this gentle start, the machines’ 15-bar pumps ramp up the pressure to the max for the perfect extraction.
These machines come with an automatic pre-infusion function, meaning the duration of this step isn’t adjustable. This is no big deal for the everyday coffee lover. But if you’re a seasoned barista with a taste for customization, you might find this a tad limiting.
Design & Convenience
Winner: Tie
Dimensions & User Interface
| Delonghi EC702 | Delonghi EC680 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 12 x 11.6 x 9.3 inches | 6.1 x 13.2 X 12.1 inches |
| Weight | 13 lbs | 9.2 lbs |
Whether you’re an espresso aficionado or new to the world of home brewing, finding a machine that fits snugly into your limited kitchen space can be a challenge. But here’s where these machines truly shine. They’re compact and light enough that you won’t need to break a sweat when you need to shuffle them around.
When it comes to their user interfaces, there are no complicated menus or overwhelming options here. Take the EC680, for instance. It’s all about no-fuss operation with just three buttons – one for pulling a single shot, another for a double espresso, and a third for switching to the steam function.
Similarly, the EC702 features an on/off indicator light conveniently placed on the side of the machine. You’ll also find a light that signals when it’s fully preheated and another for the steam wand, and there’s a handy knob on the opposite side.
Spout Type & Cup Clearance
| Delonghi EC702 | Delonghi EC680 | |
|---|---|---|
| Spout Type | Dual | Dual |
| Cup Clearance | 4.5 inches | 4.5 inches |
If your heart is set on whipping up espresso drinks in tall glasses, you might find these machines a bit limiting in terms of cup height. They can comfortably house espresso cups, but when it comes to travel mugs, prepare for a bit of a tight squeeze.
Before I go, I’d say that while not everyone might see the built-in cup warmer on these machines as a must-have, I’m a total fan. There’s something about sipping espresso from a pre-warmed cup that just elevates the whole experience.
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
| Delonghi EC702 | Delonghi EC680 | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 1.3 liters | 1.1 liters |
| Bean Hopper | N/A | N/A |
Given their compact footprint, their water tanks are a bit on the small side. Their tanks are also removable, meaning when it’s time to clean the tank or refill it away from a sink, you won’t have to lug the entire machine around.
In relation to the water tank, these machines are compatible with water softener filters. The filter not only helps in reducing the frequency of descaling the machine but also, and here’s the best part, it makes your coffee taste even better.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Tie
These espresso machines are equipped with what I like to call “froth beginner-friendly” Pannarello steam wands, as they are a godsend for those new to the frothing game. No need to sweat over the wand’s position in the milk jug – it’s pretty forgiving.
However, there’s a trade-off. Achieving true microfoam, that silky-smooth froth you get in cafes, is almost impossible with these wands. If you are anticipating froth akin to that found in cafes, prepare yourself for a bit of disappointment.
Oh, you’ll need to prepare or buy a milk jug separately since these machines don’t include one. Just a little something to keep in mind!
Drink Options & Programmability
Winner: Delonghi EC680
Drink Options
| Delonghi EC702 | Delonghi EC680 |
|---|---|
| Espresso Hot water | Espresso Hot water |
The EC702 and EC680 are espresso machines but they’ve got a hot water function. Want to whip up an Americano? It’s a breeze. Just pull a lovely shot of espresso, then top it off with hot water.
Programmability
| Adjustable Settings | Delonghi EC702 | Delonghi EC680 |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Strength | No | No |
| Coffee Temperature | No | Yes |
| Milk Foam Temperature | No | No |
| Milk Foam Texture | No | No |
Like many espresso machines, the Delonghi EC702 and EC680 allow for easy adjustment of the amount of coffee dispensed into your cup. The EC680 even boasts three levels of brewing temperature, which seems ideal for customizing your brew to match the coffee beans or brewing method. However, in practice, you might find that only the highest temperature setting really works.
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 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi EC702
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Product Videos
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References
- Delonghi EC680: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/dedica-manual-espresso-machine-stainless-steel-ec680m/p/EC680M
- Delonghi EC702: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/manual-espresso-machine-ec702/p/EC-702
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.