Between the Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120, which one would you choose? After putting these espresso machines to the test, we have concluded that Delonghi ECP3420 is the final winner. This coffee maker is affordable, easy to use, and can quickly deliver rich coffee with creamy foam. If you have a busy lifestyle and are desperately in need of an efficient coffee machine, you shouldn´t miss out on ECP3420.
The runner-up ECP3120 is a worthy opponent. This semi-automatic machine pays special attention to the milk foam. Its steaming wand will give your cup of cappuccino the most creamy and fluffy foam on top. ECP3120 will satisfy users with a strict palette.
Don´t miss our brief yet detailed evaluation of these two products.
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120: Comparision Chart
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120: Differences
There are 3 major differences: taste, performance, and steaming milk. ECP3420 wins by 2 to 1 against ECP3120. ECP3420 has proved itself to be better at efficiency and coffee taste. With a quick priming start-up and consistent brewing process, this machine guarantees to bring you rich coffee cups after cups. Find out more below.
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120 – Taste
Ask yourself – what is the most important function of an espresso maker?
To create rich, creamy, and flavorful espresso that you can drink with hot water or steamed milk.
I don’t know about you but I have never liked the idea of combining instant coffee with frothed milk. The consistency and texture of the coffee is never right.
But with espresso, it just fits, you know?
The Delonghi ECP3420 is a wholesome and user-friendly pick. I didn’t have to tweak anything for it to deliver delicious espresso cup after cup. It works so fast producing great-tasting coffee consistently with a thick crema on top. The self-priming feature on start-up surely makes things easier.
For the best results go for medium-coarse ground coffee. The self-pressurizing espresso maker does a great job of extracting a smooth and full-bodied espresso each time.
The Delonghi ECP3120 requires you to prep more before but that isn’t so bad once you know what you’re doing. The one thing that really stands out is the tamping. I need to tamp just enough so that it isn’t too hard nor is it too light. So the espresso doesn’t come out too watery or burnt.
Like I said, I control the quality of espresso by making micro-adjustments with how I use the machine.
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120 – Performance
The Delonghi espresso maker allows you to adjust the time and pressure while brewing espresso. To get more control out of your compact machine, consider investing in a grinder. There is a dial that controls the step-by-step process of the whole brewing experience.
Dial it in and wait for the machine to heat up – there’s a green light that indicates the machine is ready to brew. The machine dispenses hot water that you can use to rinse and heat up the portafilter/cup.
This is where it gets interesting because in the ECP3420, the double-shot size is 13.5 grams which is good and ideal. In the ECP3120, the double shot filter basket is slightly smaller.
The rest of the performance, which includes dialing in again once the espresso is done extracting to steam the milk. Once the indicator light turns on after 30 seconds, the wand is effective and user-friendly to use.
That’s the extent of both espresso maker’s adjustable controls. You can brew two shots side-by-side. The machines feature a 3-in-1 filter holder for single, double, and coffee pods. And the steam wand is strong enough to heat up and texturize non-dairy milk as well as dairy milk.
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120 – Steaming Milk
The best thing about using a steam wand is that you can use it for any type of milk. Coconut milk, soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk.
The ECP3420 does an outstanding job of frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos. On its own, it’s effective and useful for steaming milk daily. But when you compare, it does not match the precision and latte art quality texture of the ECP3120.
On the flip side, the ECP3120 takes a bit longer to froth milk. This is not a drawback but it is relatively slower than the ECP3420 to brew espresso and steam milk.
I simply have to turn the dial knob to the steam option, wait for 30-45 seconds, and place the milk jug underneath the steam wand. For best results, I recommend tilting the jug a bit to get a balanced and well-textured cup of latte or cappuccino. It sits well with the crema and espresso that the machine makes.
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120: Similarities
The water tank, as well as the drip tray, can be removed for cleaning, and they are dishwasher-safe. Both have 15 pressure bars that ensure the highest quality output each time you brew your favorite drink.
The machine comes with double-wall filters that provide the highest quality crema each time. No matter what you prefer, whether it’s a double or single cappuccino, espresso or latte, this machine can make authentic barista-quality drinks just like your favorite coffee shop.
Quick Rundown of Delonghi ECP3420
- EVERY CUP TO YOUR LIKING 15-bar professional pressure assures quality results every time, and adjustable controls allow you to make modifications for your personal taste preferences.
- BREW LIKE A PRO Whatever your preference – single or double espresso, cappuccino or latte – the machine brews authentic barista-quality beverages just like you enjoy at your favorite coffeehouse
- YOUR FOAM, YOUR WAY The Advanced Cappuccino System with manual frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks – just the way you like them.
- ONE ESPRESSO SHOT OR TWO? The three-in-one filter holder, included with the unit, has a holder for one espresso shot, a holder for two shots, and one for an easy-serve espresso pod – whatever your preference.
- SLEEK SPACE-SAVING DESIGN With a sleek profile, compact design and narrow footprint, each model fits beautifully on a kitchen countertop – without taking up too much space.
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of Delonghi ECP3120
- EVERY CUP TO YOUR LIKING 15-bar professional pressure assures quality results every time, and adjustable controls allow you to make modifications for your personal taste preferences
- BREW LIKE A PRO Whatever your preference - single or double espresso, cappuccino or latte - the machine brews authentic barista-quality beverages just like you enjoy at your favorite coffeehouse
- YOUR FOAM, YOUR WAY A manual frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks - just the way you like them
- ONE ESPRESSO SHOT OR TWO? The three-in-one filter holder, included with the unit, has a holder for one espresso shot, a holder for two shots, and one for an easy-serve espresso pod - whatever your preference
- NO WAITING BETWEEN CUPS The Advanced Cappuccino System maintains the optimal temperature so you can brew cup after cup instantly
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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Final Thoughts
The Delonghi ECP3420 and ECP3120 are automatic espresso makers with great benefits for new and experienced users. Both offer a simple yet functional dial for espresso and steaming functions. And extra features like a warming tray, self-primer, adjustable drip tray, and a few others.
So you can really make the most of your espresso maker without burning too deep a hole in your pocket. And brews delicious espresso and steam all types of milk, consistently, with just a touch of a button.
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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.