Are you interested in buying a cut-price espresso machine? If you are a newbie, check out my verdict for the debate of Delonghi EC155 vs ECP3420, 2 budget espresso makers for beginners. Both devices are portable, reliable, and ergonomic. But if you ask me, the ECP3420 is slightly superior.
Both are unquestionably good choices for inexpensive machines, but the ECP3420 is a better all-around selection. You can rely on this model’s ergonomic steam wand design and good espresso extraction.
The EC155, on the other hand, is a little cheaper, thus having a less durable plastic frame. However, this machine consistently produces high-quality espresso. And it’s a decent entry-level device if you have yet to experience devices of this category.
Delonghi EC155 vs ECP3420: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi EC155 vs ECP3420: Differences
Delonghi ECP3420 wins 4-0 and ties once against EC155. It boasts a better steam wand design, low noise level, and better value for price. I will give a more detailed explanation below about what I like and don´t like about both devices.
Noise level
Winner: Delonghi ECP3420
I have brewed with the pair many times, and I can conclude swiftly that EC155 tends to make more noise when it extracts espresso. Maybe it´s due to unsecured mounting, EC155 vibrates a lot that it makes my cup move around violently when empty, and it also produces a rumbling sound in the process.
As for Delonghi ECP3420, I won´t say it boasts a secure mounting because my cup also moves around a bit with this one. But the vibration is much less severe, and the noise is moderated like any normal espresso machine would make.
Brewing technique and espresso flavor
Winner: Delonghi ECP3420
A 15-bar pump system is available with the Delonghi EC155 and ECP3420. This is a brewing standard fit for professional machines, but the technology can now be found in most modern-day espresso makers. It is potent, reliable, and performance-based.
Rich espresso coffee is produced using the Delonghi EC3420’s pump technology. As a result, it has a strong scent that permeates the entire kitchen. And for how reasonably priced it is, it makes single and double shots of espresso in the most genuine way possible at home.
When compared to the ECP3420, the EC155 is better for beginners. It does have a pump system that is a little bit noisier than the ECP3420, but flavor-wise, it does a good job. I can get tasty espresso with this machine. But, as I said, it’s a bit noisier. So if you are sensitive to loud sounds, you may want to consider more about this situation.
Steam Wand and milk texture
Winner: Delonghi ECP3420
Budget-friendly, entry-level espresso machines like the EC155 and ECP3420 never had as good of foaming as those high-end barista-grade machines do. However, it doesn’t imply that you can´t get good-quality foam out of them.
From my experience with the pair, Delonghi ECP3420 has the higher ground regarding milk frothing. Its Panarello wand has a good length, allowing me to maneuver the milk pitcher freely and comfortably. In addition, to my surprise, this machine can handle microfoam like a champ. But be careful, though, because I have made some spongy foam with this system, which is not what we are looking for.
I recommend frothing in under 40s with Delonghi ECP3420 if you want creamy milk with a good airy layer of foam on top instead of too-dry foam.
On the EC155, the frothing device is situated to the left of the portafilter. It is simple and straightforward to use. However, the steam wand’s mouth is large, filling most of the space in a typical espresso cup. And it´s very short. So it´s really hard to froth a larger volume of milk without tilting the pitcher too much and spilling a bit over the kitchen counter.
This is the biggest minus point that I give Delonghi EC155, despite its ability to froth airy foam that accompanies cappuccinos and lattes well.
Indicator light
Tie
Delonghi ECP3420 and EC155 do a good job with this small feature.
On the control panel of Delonghi ECP3420, users can find 2 indicator lights: ready and on. After switching up the device, you will find the light shines with the on mode. This means that the machine isn´t ready to brew yet. But when both the “on” and “ready” lights shine, users can start extracting espresso. This is a great feature to notify users whether the boiler is ready, so we don´t have to play the guessing game.
As for EC155, the mechanism is pretty much the same. But the modes are named differently. You can find the zig-zag sign and the “ok” on the control panel. If both the lights of the zig-zag and the ok signs shine, it´s time to brew.
Price and value
Winner: Delonghi ECP3420
It´s surprising to me that Delonghi ECP3420 is cheaper than EC155, but it sure makes deciding the ultimate winner of this debate easier. With such stable operation and affordable price, ECP3420 has a higher value for cost than EC155. I recommend it to any single user or couples looking for an entry-level machine with semi-automatic features. It may not have advanced features like one-touch recipes or automatic dosing, but it does its job well.
With that said, EC155 isn´t exactly a lousy model. I think it´s a fairly good pick for the price range. But compared to ECP3420, EC155 can´t come close to its stability.
Quick Rundown of DeLonghi ECP3420
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of Delonghi EC155
- 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
- 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.Input power (W): 1050
- 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 filters for one espresso shot, two shots, and one for an easy-serve espresso pod – whatever your preference.
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/manual-espresso-machine-ecp3420/p/ECP3420
- https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/manual-espresso-machine-ec155/p/EC-155
I am Ralph Mason and I am a passionate coffee drinker. I worked as a barista for a few years and since 2012 I have been trying to convince as many people as possible of good coffee.
I started writing on the barista blog on RepublikCoffeeBar in 2018. It was a pure hobby site and I tested coffee products like coffee machines, beans, mug, and other accessories. After the first year, my blog is becoming a well-known coffee site with about 100 thousand visits per month.
In 2019 I decided to focus on RepublikCoffeeBar only. I became a full-time coffee blogger and was declared crazy by many.