Check out my review of the debate of Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120! These devices almost seem identical, but there are certain differences in their color and operational aspect regarding milk frothing and espresso extraction.
After testing these devices, I have determined that the Delonghi ECP3420 is the clear winner. This coffee machine is inexpensive, simple to operate, and rapidly produces rich coffee with creamy froth. If you lead a hectic lifestyle and need an effective coffee maker, the ECP3420 should be noticed.
ECP3120, the runner-up, is a good opponent. This semi-automatic machine froths milk beautifully, especially for its modest price. Its steaming wand will create the most creamy and fluffy froth on top of your cup of cappuccino.
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120: Comparision Chart
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120: Differences
Delonghi ECP3420 wins 2-0 and ties 2 times against ECP3120. Its steam wand is much more stable and can deliver hot milk in a standard duration (under 1 minute).
Color finish
Winner: Delonghi ECP3420
In fact, this is the biggest difference between ECP3420 and ECP3120. The other differences that I list underneath are all related to operational aspects, not technological or visual. While ECP3420 comes in a mixture of matte black and silver finish, ECP3120 is a purely glossy black device.
Of course, how you choose the color of your espresso machine depends entirely on preference. But you may want to consider the matte finish of ECP3420 more because the scratch marks won’t be as visible with this kind of finish as they are with glossy paint. Also, a glossy finish tends to show fingerprints more, making your device look slightly dirtier unless you wipe it after each use.
Taste
Tie
The Delonghi ECP3420 and ECP3120 are semi-automatic with no built-in grinder. They consistently produced wonderful espresso without any tweaking on my part. The operation is so quick and reliable. The pair produces great-tasting coffee with a rich crema on top. Additionally, the self-priming function that only takes under 1 minute is a good plus point.
On the other hand, since the dosing and tamping steps are manual, users have to sharpen their skills to get the best flavor out of their coffee beans. The tamping step requires the most attention. I must tamp it evenly to ensure that it is neither too loose nor too heavily pressurized. The espresso won’t be overly watery or scorched as a result.
As for grind size, opt for medium-coarse ground coffee for the best results because these machines’ 15 bars pump needs to work better with the finer ground. Every time, the self-pressurizing espresso makers provide a smooth and robust espresso.
Steaming Milk
Winner: Delonghi ECP3420
The nicest part about utilizing a steam wand is that it can be used with any milk. Coconut milk, soy, almond, and oat milk are options. I crank the dial knob to the steam setting, wait 30-45 seconds, then place the milk jug beneath the steam wand. I recommend tilting the jug slightly to create a balanced and well-textured cup of latte or cappuccino. It complements the crema and espresso produced by the machine.
The ECP3420 is excellent at foaming milk for lattes and cappuccinos. On its own, it is efficient and handy for heating milk on a regular basis. However, as compared to the ECP3120, it lacks the accuracy and latte art quality texture.
The ECP3120, on the other hand, takes a little longer to froth milk. This is not a disadvantage, but it takes longer to brew espresso and steam milk than the ECP3420. On the good side, it can deliver creamy to airy milk foam that will pair well with a good variety of drinks, from flat white to latte. But, sometimes, the frother malfunctions, and I need to get the milk hot after over 1 minute 30s standing by the steam wand.
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 ECP3120
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Product Videos
Related Articles to Delonghi Ecp3420
- Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3630: Should You Purchase Such Cut-price Espresso Machine?
- My Honest Review Of Delonghi EC155 vs ECP3420 Espresso: The True Winner Is?
- Delonghi EC155M vs ECP3420: Espresso Flavor, Steam Wand, Noise Level, And More!
- Delonghi Dedica vs ECP3420 Comparison Review: What Should You Buy?
- Delonghi ECP3620 vs ECP3420: Which Of These Identical Models Brews Better Espresso?
References:
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.