If you spend too much of your time figuring out the best ways to make espresso at home, you need an automatic espresso maker like the Delonghi EC702 vs Dedica EC680. Both are great options for getting your espresso needs met, at home, without spending a fortune.
The Delonghi EC702 is an automatic espresso machine. While the Delonghi EC680 is a semi-automatic espresso maker. In terms of cost, both espresso machines are on the same playing field. So what you do need to consider is the functionality and ease of use of both machines to make the right decision.
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi EC702 vs Delonghi EC680: Main Differences
Automatic flow stop: The Delonghi EC680 boasts of this feature which makes it unique and powerful. It’s faster to use and makes an espresso maker a bit more intuitive.
Removable water tank: The EC702 has the upper hand here. The removable water tank is easier to refill and clean. The EC680 has a bulky water tank that sits at the back of the machine.
Also, the EC702’s water tank is bigger by 9 ounces than the EC680.
Water filter: There is an option to install a water filter on the EC680 to prevent limescale buildup. If you get hard water in your tap, I would recommend going for a water filter to lessen descaling and clean-up time.
Silent operation: The EC680 is quieter than any espresso maker I’ve formerly used. Even during start-up, when it takes about 40 seconds to heat up, it’s anti-vibrate and noiseless. The EC702 does make a bit of noise during operation. But it’s nothing that any other kitchen appliance wouldn’t do.
Temperature settings: The EC680 has temperature adjustments that are not available in EC702. The default Advanced Cappuccino System is quite intuitive in that it maintains the optimal brewing temperature for both espresso and milk.
Heating element: The EC680 uses Thermoblock as its heating element which may not be as fast as stainless steel but it’s quieter. The EC702 uses stainless steel boiler and produces espresso in 15-20 seconds. The Thermoblock of the EC680 takes about 35-40 seconds per shot.
Delonghi EC680 Overview
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- Sleek design takes up only 6 inches of counter space, while still having a 35oz water tank
- The Cappuccino frothing system provides Barista quality foam; Cup warmer: Passive
- Thermos block technology allows the machine to heat up to the ideal temperature in a quick 40 seconds
- Automatic flow stop
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Delonghi EC680 brings a lot to the table for new and experienced espresso drinkers. For starters, it has a beautiful design that would look good on any kitchen counter. Not a broad and bulky coffee machine so leaving you more room for other accessories like a coffee grinder.
It features a strong 15-bar pump system with a manual frother.
Unlike the EC702, you can make adjustments on the EC680. These adjustments tweak how strong or mild you like your espresso. Producing the smoothest and creamiest cappuccinos, lattes, single/double shot espressos quickly.
The best feature is the automatic flow stop. It literally takes away the guesswork when you personally don’t know how much espresso goes into a single shot. And with it, you can also avoid extracting watery espresso. It’s crema-infused all the way through so it has plenty of body and a strong, rich aroma.
The manual frother is simple to operate. It doesn’t feel too bulky or slow or even plastic-y. What’s bulky, however, is the water tank since it hogs most of the design of the EC680. So it’s noticeable wherever you place it. This also makes refilling the machine a bit more time-consuming.
Delonghi EC702 Overview
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Many think of the Delonghi EC702 as a beginner-friendly pick. It is but it can also be much more than that. It’s a sleek and potent espresso machine with lots of exciting features to offer.
Sturdy and professional pressurized portafilter. High-quality stainless steel parts that look shiny and feel solid. A 3-in-1 filter holder for fine, loose grounds plus ESE espresso pods. And a smooth and barista-style milk frother for specialty drinks.
You can buy the EC702 for its build quality, super easy maintenance, and user-friendly and intuitive performance. It may lag a bit behind on the milk steaming functionality but I don’t see any major handicap that could ruin the charm of the Delonghi EC702.
One good thing about the milk frother, however, is the 180-degrees swivel design. Just like in a barista, you can move the pitcher while frothing the milk up and down to smoothen and flatten the foam. It may not be perfect but it’s ideal for amazing latte art.
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Final Verdict
Both Delonghi espresso machines have their pros and cons. No matter which espresso maker you do end up buying, rest assured, they will last for a very long time. They’re surprisingly efficient even though they don’t cost a fortune.
When you’re picking your next espresso machine, don’t just look at the crema quality of an espresso maker. There’s more to an espresso machine than that.
With machines like the Delonghi EC702 vs EC680, there’s proof that you can brew as many cups as you’d like without paying what you pay (per cup) in a café.
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I am a passionate coffee drinker. Since I left my job as a barista a few years back in 2012, I’ve been sharing my expertise on coffee and buying the best coffee equipment online. That’s how Wild Boar Coffee came to life.
I write about everything coffee-related under the sun. Where to buy the freshest coffee beans from? How to test coffee beans based on texture, aroma, and acidity?
I know all this from scratch – all thanks to my years and years of experience as a barista. So I’ve gotten real up-close-and-personal with coffee beans and different brewing techniques.