There’s little doubt that both the Delonghi Eletta vs Saeco Xels are fantastic automatic espresso machines and there are many reasons to love them. But after all, I had to choose a better one, and it should be the Saeco Xelsis.
The Saeco Xelsis features two thermoblocks for multi-tasking, provides a higher level of customization, and has up to six user profiles. Meanwhile, the Delonghi Eletta has both an automatic milk frothing system and a manual steam wand, and an actively-heated cup warmer.
Delonghi Eletta Vs Saeco Xelsis: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi Eletta Vs Saeco Xelsis: Differences
The Saeco Xelsis won 5-3 against the Delonghi Eletta, but that is just the tip of the iceberg. Keep scrolling down and reading for more details!
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System
Winner: Saeco Xelsis
Built-in Grinder
The Saeco Xelsis features a ceramic flat burr grinder with 12 adjustment settings. In case you don’t know, ceramic grinders tend to be quieter and less heat-conductive than their stainless steel counterparts, meaning your beans are less likely to be affected by heat during grinding – a big plus for flavor preservation.
On the other side, we have the Delonghi Eletta, armed with a stainless steel conical burr grinder. This grinder comes with 13 settings, giving you just a smidge more control over your grind size – perfect for those who love to fine-tune their espresso to perfection.
Changing grinding settings is essential, especially when switching between different types of coffee beans, but only do so when the grinder is running. And here’s a real pro tip – steer clear of oily coffee beans. Those oily beans can be quite the troublemaker, potentially gumming up the works of your grinder.
Heating System
The Saeco Xelsis is equipped with dual thermoblocks. Yes, not one, but two! That means you can get your espresso and frothy milk done at the same time with this one. So, if you’re someone who values quick, simultaneous coffee and milk preparation (and, honestly, who wants to wait for their latte in the morning?), the Saeco Xelsis might just be your new best friend.
The Delonghi Eletta only has a single thermoblock, but that isn’t much of an issue. The thermoblock ensures the coffee is brewed at the right temperature quickly, and then the machine rapidly switches to steaming milk, so you’re not left twiddling your thumbs for too long.
A thermoblock is essentially a modern marvel in the espresso machine world. It’s a type of heating system that’s designed to rapidly heat water as it passes through a block of metal. Simply put, it only heats water on demand, unlike traditional heating methods that keep a reservoir of water at a constant temperature.
Brewing System
Regarding espresso extraction, the Delonghi Eletta and Saeco Xelsis share a process: pre-infusion and extraction at a maximum pressure of 15 bar. This two-step process, increasingly common in modern espresso machines, ensures that every shot of espresso is not just good, but great.
Pre-infusion is where a small amount of water is gently applied to the coffee grounds before the main extraction begins. This initial wetting is meant to help the coffee grounds swell and degas, leading to a more even and full extraction of flavors when the full 15-bar pressure is applied.
The thing is that the Saeco Xelsis allows you to control the length of the pre-infusion process. Why is this awesome? Because coffee is a personal thing. Some like it bold and strong, while others prefer a more subtle nuance. Being able to tweak the pre-infusion time lets you play with these nuances.
Design & Convenience
Winner: Tie
Dimensions & User Interface
| Delonghi Eletta | Saeco Xelsis | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 14.2 x 10.2 x 18.4 inches | 15.5 x 11.1 x 19.3 inches |
| Weight | 24.2 lbs | 25.8 lbs |
When it comes to fitting a new espresso machine into your kitchen, size and weight are definitely key considerations. You don’t want a coffee giant taking over your entire counter, right? Well, here’s the good news: they both feel sturdy and well-built but not so bulky that they’d dominate your kitchen space.
I’ll be honest, touchscreen displays on espresso machines haven’t always been my cup of tea. But the Saeco Xelsis has a user interface that could make even a skeptic like me take a second look. It’s intuitive and easy to navigate, making the coffee-making process feel like a breeze. If you’ve ever swiped and tapped on a smartphone (and let’s face it, who hasn’t these days?) you’ll feel right at home with the Xelsis.
As for the Delonghi Eletta, it gets a more classic look with its small LCD text window and some physical buttons. It might not have the flashy touchscreen of the Xelsis, but it’s incredibly intuitive. You don’t need to be a tech whiz to get your perfect cup of coffee. At the end of the day, what really matters is the quality of the espresso and the creaminess of the milk foam, and the Eletta delivers on both fronts.
Spout & Cup Clearance
| Delonghi Eletta | Saeco Xelsis | |
|---|---|---|
| Spigot Type | Dual | Dual |
| Cup Clearance | 3.6-5.6 inches | 3-6 inches |
The dispensing spouts on both are designed to be versatile, easily adjusting to fit a variety of cups and glasses you might choose to use. Whether you’re in the mood for a demure espresso cup or a tall, elegant latte glass, these machines have got you covered, like they’re saying, “Bring any cup you like and I can handle it!”
The Delonghi Eletta can prepare two cups of espresso at the same time, which is great for when you have a coffee companion. The Saeco Xelsis can also brew two drinks simultaneously, and I’m not just talking about espresso here – whether you’re craving a double cup of espresso or two different milk-based drinks, this one is up for the challenge.
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
| Delonghi Eletta | Saeco Xelsis | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 2 liter | 1.7 liter |
| Bean Hopper | 0.3 kilogram | 0.34 kilogram |
Their roomy water tanks easily slide out from the front for refilling or periodic deep cleaning. Both also feature an airtight lid, locking their bean hoppers quite tight – This is crucial because, as any coffee aficionado knows, exposure to air is one of the main culprits in stealing away the freshness and aroma of coffee beans.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Delonghi Eletta
Both have a fully automatic milk system. A big shoutout to Delonghi and Saeco for including a milk jug with these machines. You see, in the espresso machine world, not everyone is as generous. Some manufacturers, like Jura (yes, I’m gently nudging you, Jura), have machines that are more on the pricey side, yet they still don’t include a milk container.
You can store their jugs in the refrigerator, keeping your milk fresh and ready for your next coffee adventure. Then, when you’re in the mood for a milky drink, just connect the jug to the machine, and voilà!
At this point, I would like to say that I like the milk system of the Delonghi Eletta better. The jug is neatly attached to the machine when you’re ready to use it, meaning no extra counter space is taken up by a standalone milk container. I also love the froth knob that allows you to tweak the milk foam consistency to your heart’s content. Honestly, who wouldn’t prefer that?
The Delonghi Eletta also has a steam wand, a secret weapon for those who love to take a hands-on approach to their milk frothing. With a bit of practice, you can whip up finely textured foam that’s ideal for latte art. Imagine pouring silky, smooth milk into your espresso and watching as it turns into a masterpiece worthy of a spot in a coffee art gallery.
Pre-programmed Coffee Options & Programmability
Winner: Saeco Xelsis
| Delonghi Eletta | Saeco Xelsis |
|---|---|
| Coffee Espresso Caffe Latte Macchiato Cappuccino Flat White Hot Milk Hot water | Coffee Espresso Ristretto Espresso Lungo Americano Flat White Latte Macchiato Cappuccino Caffe Latte Cafe AU Lait Cortado Milk Froth Warm Milk Hot Water |
The Saeco Xelsis not only has a longer list of coffee specialties but it also offers a higher level of customization. Both allow for adjustments in coffee strength, length of every single shot, and amount of milk used. The Saeco adds another layer of customization by allowing you to adjust the milk foam temperature and choose the order of espresso and milk foam dispensing.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Winner: Tie
Taking care of your coffee maker is a bit like nurturing a garden: the more love and attention you give it, the better it blooms, or in this case, brews! Luckily, these espresso machines are super easy to clean and maintain
Their milk systems are rinsed after every use, ensuring that your milk-frothing adventures don’t leave behind any unwanted residue. At the end of the day, it’s a good idea to remove the whole milk system and give it a thorough rinse. The same goes for the drip tray and the ground container.
Even with the best preventive measures, like using a water filter, descaling is an inevitable part of the life of any espresso machine. Both the Delonghi Eletta and the Saeco Xelsis are no exceptions to this rule. But here’s the good news: these machines are smart enough to give you a heads-up when it’s time to descale. Just use the manufacturer’s recommended descaler and follow the instructions to activate the automatic descaling program.
Let’s talk about their brew groups, a crucial component in these machines. They are designed for easy access and removal, meaning you can effortlessly take them out for a regular cleaning routine.
Let’s not forget about the exterior of the machine. Coffee splatters and fingerprints can make even the most sophisticated espresso machine look a little less charming. Taking a soft cloth and gently wiping down the machine can make a world of difference.
Other Features
Winner: Saeco Xelsis
Built-in Cup Warmer
Both have a metal cup warmer. It’s one of those things that you don’t realize you need until you have it, and then you wonder how you ever lived without it. Having a pre-warmed cup is crucial for a perfect espresso experience. It keeps your coffee at the ideal temperature for longer, ensuring every sip is as good as the first.
The warmer plate on the Delonghi Eletta is actively heated, so you can program it to turn on before you even wake up. Picture this: you’re groggily making your way to the kitchen, and there they are, your espresso cups are already warm and ready for your morning brew. Yes, this is a welcome feature!
User Profile
Here’s where the Xelsis stands out – it offers up to six user profiles, so you simply select your profile, press a button, and your perfect coffee is on its way. This is a game-changer for households with multiple coffee drinkers. No more fiddling with settings or grumbling about someone messing with your carefully calibrated espresso macchiato.
Delonghi Eletta Vs Saeco Xelsis: Similarities
Water Filter
A water filter is found in both the Delonghi Eletta and the Saeco Xelsis. The primary reason to use a water filter is the improvement it brings to your coffee’s taste. Water filters remove impurities and chlorine from tap water, which can significantly affect the flavor of your espresso. The filter also reduces scale buildup inside the machine.
But the filter needs to be replaced periodically, adding to the cost and maintenance of the machine. So when is using a filter unnecessary? You ask. If you live in an area with naturally soft water or if you’re using pre-filtered water, the benefits of a filter diminish. Using a filter in this case could be like wearing a raincoat in the desert – not really necessary.
Bypass Doser
Both have a bypass doser. For those times when you’re in a hurry or don’t want to go through the process of grinding beans, the bypass doser allows the use of pre-ground coffee, which can be faster and more convenient.
Quick Rundown Of Saeco Xelsis
- With Philips Saeco Xelsis easily make up to 15 coffee varieties from common Espresso and Capuccino to specialty coffees like Flat White or Americano. Simply swipe the touchscreen to select the drink and customize it with our intuitive Coffee Equalizer.Filter type:Reusable.Power consumption stand-by : 0.5W, Drip tray capacity : 500 ml
- 15 Coffee Varieties at Your Fingertips: Explore the world of coffee - Espresso, cappuccino, macchiato, and a range of specialty drinks
- Personalized Preferences: Everyone’s custom coffee favorites can be saved in up to 6 user profiles for instant selection. Personalize each profile down to the finest detail
- LatteDuo Milk System: Prepare and enjoy single or double serving of any coffee recipe with one touch, including Cappuccino or Latte Macchiato
- Double Thermo Blocks: Dedicated for both brewing and steaming offer accurate temperature controls for every drink in your recipe book
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Eletta
- Fresh Espresso for every cup the integrated burr grinder with adjustable settings grinds fresh beans every time to ensure maximum freshness. You can also use pre-ground in the second chamber – your choice of regular, specialty or decaf.
- The de’longhi lattecrema system creates perfectly layered Espresso beverages, with dense, rich, long-lasting foam in every cup from start to finish.
- Consistent brewing every time Each cup is automatically brewed to the perfect temperature, richness and density. And, you can customize the settings to ensure it’s always just the way you like it.
- Maintenance: de’longhi machines require half the cleaning time of other brands, unlike competitor machines, which require chemical cleaning tablets monthly.
- Warranties may not apply to purchases from an unauthorized retailer.
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References
- Saeco Xelsis: https://saeco.com/xelsis/
- Delonghi Eletta: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/eletta-automatic-espresso-machine-cappuccino-maker-white-ecam44660w/p/ECAM44660W
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.