Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3120: Is There Even Any Difference Between These Espresso Machines – Real Winner!

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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

Image
THE WINNER (#1)
De'Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, 15", Black
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
De'Longhi ECP3120 15 Bar Espresso Machine with Advanced Cappuccino System, 9.6 x 7.2 x 11.9 inches, Black/Stainless Steel
Model
Delonghi ECP3420
Delonghi ECP3120
Dimensions
9.4 x 7.2 x 12 inches
9.4 x 7.2 x 12 inches
Color / Material
Black and silver / Plastic, Stainless steel
Black / Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Plastic
Water Tank Capacity
33.8 oz
33.8 oz
Power / Voltage
1100W / 120V
1100W / 120V
Heating system
Single boiler
Single boiler
Weight
8.99 Pounds
8.99 Pounds
Cup warmer
Water level indicator
Removable drip tray
Removable water tank
Milk frother
Steam wand
Steam wand
Heat-up time
Under 1 minute
Under 1 minute
Bar pump
15 bars
15 bars
Interface
Selector knob
Selector knob
Integrated grinder
None
None
What I Like
Price
$139.95
$149.95
THE WINNER (#1)
Image
De'Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, 15", Black
Model
Delonghi ECP3420
Dimensions
9.4 x 7.2 x 12 inches
Color / Material
Black and silver / Plastic, Stainless steel
Water Tank Capacity
33.8 oz
Power / Voltage
1100W / 120V
Heating system
Single boiler
Weight
8.99 Pounds
Cup warmer
Water level indicator
Removable drip tray
Removable water tank
Milk frother
Steam wand
Heat-up time
Under 1 minute
Bar pump
15 bars
Interface
Selector knob
Integrated grinder
None
What I Like
Price
$139.95
More Info
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Image
De'Longhi ECP3120 15 Bar Espresso Machine with Advanced Cappuccino System, 9.6 x 7.2 x 11.9 inches, Black/Stainless Steel
Model
Delonghi ECP3120
Dimensions
9.4 x 7.2 x 12 inches
Color / Material
Black / Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Plastic
Water Tank Capacity
33.8 oz
Power / Voltage
1100W / 120V
Heating system
Single boiler
Weight
8.99 Pounds
Cup warmer
Water level indicator
Removable drip tray
Removable water tank
Milk frother
Steam wand
Heat-up time
Under 1 minute
Bar pump
15 bars
Interface
Selector knob
Integrated grinder
None
What I Like
Price
$149.95
More Info

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.

Delonghi ECP3420 boasts a matte finish
Delonghi ECP3420 boasts a matte finish

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.

Delonghi ECP3120 can froth creamy foam but it's not very stable
Delonghi ECP3120 can froth creamy foam but it’s not very stable

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

Sale
De'Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, 15", Black
  • 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

Pros
  • Adjustable height with a two-tier drip tray
  • For quicker performance, use the quick self-priming feature
  • The warming plate is strong and keeps its heat
  • Advanced manual frother that is quick and efficient
  • Entry-level machine that is beginner-friendly
Cons
  • The frother may create quite thick foam at times

Quick Rundown of Delonghi ECP3120

De'Longhi ECP3120 15 Bar Espresso Machine with Advanced Cappuccino System, 9.6 x 7.2 x 11.9 inches, Black/Stainless Steel
  • 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

Pros
  • Pump performance is adjustable and powerful at 15 bar
  • Cappuccino System provides optimal temperature management
  • With a retractable drip tray, it can fit taller cups
  • Excellent crema and a full-bodied espresso flavor
  • Beginner-friendly
Cons
  • The frother sometimes fails to heat milk

Product Videos

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5/5 - (3 votes)