When comparing the Delonghi Magnifica S Smart vs Dinamica, I’ve got to hand it to the Dinamica for its extra features.
The Delonghi Dinamica is the first Delonghi machine with its patented TrueBrew Over Ice technology, but this one isn’t only good for brewing iced coffees. It also brews high-quality espresso as well as milky drinks, and there’s a whole lot to love about it.
With a very affordable price, the Magnifica S Smart still delivers consistently tasty coffee without any hassle. It also comes with an upgraded Pannarello wand, making it super easy for even a beginner to whip up a decent latte or cappuccino. Still, it doesn’t have as many bells and whistles.
Delonghi Magnifica S Smart Vs Dinamica: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi Magnifica S Smart Vs Dinamica: Differences
The Dinamica defeated the Magnifica S Smart, clinching a 4-1 victory. So let’s compare them to see how these two differ from each other.
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System
Winner: Delonghi Dinamica
Built-in Grinder
Both the Magnifica S Smart and Dinamica boast a built-in grinder with 13 grind adjustment levels, giving you some room to experiment and fine-tune your espresso to perfection.
I am very familiar with stainless steel conical burr grinders on DeLonghi machines. They’re not the quietest grinders you’ll ever experience, but, like I said, I am familiar with them.
A key tip to remember is to make grinder adjustments while the grinder is running. Also, steer clear of oily beans. Trust me, they tend to leave a residue in the grinder, potentially leading to clogs over time.
Another feature both machines share is the bypass grind chute, which allows you to opt for pre-ground coffee. It’s a handy option, especially when you’re craving a cup of decaf. That way, it offers the best of both worlds – freshly ground or pre-ground,
Heating System
The Dinamica sets itself apart with its dual thermoblock system, a feature that’s not even present in the Dinamica Plus. This double-heating system allows you to brew espresso and foam milk at the same time and maintain a consistent temperature throughout.
On the other hand, the Magnifica S Smart comes with a single thermoblock system. This means you will need to wait a bit as the machine switches from brewing to steaming. But don’t worry! It’s just a matter of seconds.
I also like the idea of the thermoblock only heating water on demand. This not only means the machine heats up quickly but also cuts down on your electricity bills. What a real game-changer!
Brewing System
Before extracting the espresso at the optimal pressure, which is created by a 15-bar pump, gently pre-soak the coffee grounds with a bit of hot water at low pressure. This is called pre-infusion and is an automatic feature on both of these machines.
Pre-infusion is as crucial in espresso making as it is in pour-over and Chemex methods. It allows the coffee’s aromas and flavors to fully develop, creating a more nuanced and rich espresso.
Not every super-automatic espresso machine includes this feature, so I’m glad to know that the S Smart and Dinamica deliver.
Design & Convenience
Winner: Tie
Dimensions & User Interface
| Delonghi Magnifica S Smart | Delonghi Dinamica | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 9.4 x 17.3 x 14.1 inches | 9.3 x 14 x 17 inches |
| Weight | 20.3 lbs | 20.8 lbs |
These machines are moderately stylish and don’t eat up too much space on the kitchen counter. As always, too much plastic is used in these machines. Plastic isn’t the most ideal material for a premium feel, but it’s a trade-off that helps keep the cost more accessible. Also, these machines don’t feel flimsy at all.
For my taste, the Dinamica has a more eye-catching and modern appeal, probably thanks to its front-facing control panel. All the essential buttons are right there and the text display is clear and easy to read, which definitely simplifies the operation of the machine.
The Magnifica S Smart, on the other hand, features a button-operated panel, which certainly delivers in terms of functionality and straightforward operation. It includes a large knob for dose control and a couple of buttons dedicated to one-touch drinks and steaming milk. Additionally, you will find some indicator lights.
Spout Type & Cup Clearance
| Delonghi Magnifica S Smart | Delonghi Dinamica | |
|---|---|---|
| Spout Type | Dual | Dual |
| Cup Clearance | 3.2 – 5.5 inches | 3.5-5.5 inches |
These Delonghi machines come with fully adjustable coffee dispensers, each with a pair of spouts. This flexibility is great for when you’re brewing espresso and want to keep those dispensing spouts close to your cups. If you drink coffee long enough, you’ll know that this helps preserve that rich, dark crema on top of your espresso.
If you’re someone who’s always on the go and relies on a travel mug for your morning coffee, these adjustable spouts can accommodate decent-sized travel mugs too. What’s more, they can also prepare two cups of espresso at the same time.
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
| Delonghi Magnifica S Smart | Delonghi Dinamica | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 1.8 liter | 1.8 liter |
| Bean Hopper | 0.25 kilogram | 0.3 kilogram |
Their water tanks slide from the front for easy filling or cleaning. And when you pull out their water tanks, their brewing groups, where the real magic happens, are revealed. Their brewing groups are removable for deep cleaning, which is really a big bonus.
I should also mention that both come with a water filter. Using the water filter means less descaling since there will be less calcium deposit. Less calcium deposit also means better coffee.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Delonghi Dinamica
Now I think the Magnifica S Smart received its “Smart” moniker partly because it is equipped with an upgraded Pannarello wand with a “Cappuccino”/”Hot Milk” collar.
Slide it to “Cappuccino,” dip it into a jug of cold milk, and switch it on. The wand might not produce the exceptionally silky microfoam you’d get from a manual wand, but you can still create some pretty convincing results. Don’t forget that you need to buy the milk jug separately to go with it. The wand itself is also an outlet for hot water, so aside from steaming the milk for a cappuccino or a latte, you can brew tea or make hot chocolate with it.
As for the Dinamica, it uses DeLonghi’s LatteCrema milk system. I’m really into its integrated milk carafe since you don’t have to mess around with any fiddly tubes or external containers. You can also just remove the carafe and pop it into the fridge when you’re not using it.
When it comes to milk frothing, Dinamica offers a decent range of consistency options, including “thick,” “medium,” and “relatively thin.” Switching between these three settings is as easy as a simple turn of a knob on the carafe’s top.
In my experience, the Dinamica’s automatic system is great for creating milk foam that’s just right for a latte macchiato or cappuccino. However, if you’re after that super smooth, microfoam for a real flat white, the machine might fall a bit short.
Drink Options & Programmability
Winner: Delonghi Dinamica
Drink Options
| Delonghi Magnifica S Smart | Delonghi Dinamica |
|---|---|
| Espresso Coffee Long Coffee | Espresso Espresso Lungo Long Coffee Over Ice Cappuccino Latte Macchiato Cappuccino + Hot Milk Cortado Caffelatte Cappuccino Mix Flat White Espresso Macchiato Hot Water Steam |
The Dinamica really shines with its impressive array of one-touch drink options. Take the latte macchiato, for instance – it’s spot on. The layers are just as beautiful and distinct as you’d hope for, and the machine nails the preparation order: pour hot milk first, then foam, and finally, the espresso.
Now, let’s talk about something I absolutely adore, called the TrueBrew iced coffee function. It brews a higher dosage of coffee at a lower pressure and temperature. Then just place your cup with ice under the spout, and what you get is a perfect, full-bodied iced coffee.
Programmability
| Adjustable Settings | Delonghi Magnifica S Smart | Delonghi Dinamica |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Strength | Yes | Yes |
| Coffee Temperature | Yes | Yes |
| Milk Foam Temperature | No | No |
| Milk Foam Texture | No | Yes |
The Dinamica allows you to change the coffee strength via a five-bean scale, whereas the Magnifica S Smart provides a much broader range of strength options with its stepless knob.
Both also let you adjust the brewing temperature to a couple of levels, but that’s among the underneath-the-surface settings of the Magnifica S Smart, and you’ll need the user’s manual to make the adjustment.
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Dinamica
- 18 espresso and specialty coffee recipes, with a simple touch of a button, including latte, cappuccino, macchiato, espresso, iced coffee, ristretto, flat white and more.
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 13 settings for always freshly ground coffee, for any beans of your choice.
- Automatic and adjustable milk frothing from the proprietary LatteCrema System for perfectly textured lattes and cappuccinos; works with oat, soy and rice milk
- Personalize and save your favorite recipes with My Menu feature.
- Switch between recipes seamlessly with simultaneous frothing, grinding and brewing.
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Magnifica S Smart
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References
- Delonghi Dinamica: https://www.delonghi.com/en/products/coffee/automatic-coffee-makers/dinamica-family
- Delonghi Magnifica S Smart: https://www.delonghi.com/en/magnifica-s-smart-automatic-bean-to-cup-coffee-machine-ecam250-23-sb/p/ECAM250.23.SB
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.