There have been many discussions on Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3630 since they are nearly too similar to compare. But I can tell you from experience that ECP3630 comes out on top.
Espresso made with the ECP3630 has a full-bodied texture and complex taste from the very first cup. This machine comes with two thermostats, which allow you to control the brewing and steaming process separately. As a result, the espresso always comes out with crema and tastes delicious.
The coffee flavor is strong, and the crema is outstanding with the runner-up, ECP3420. This type is also simple to clean. This one is designed with a compact size in mind, making it the perfect choice for households. With it, you may anticipate getting creamy milk foam as well. Learn more below.
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3630: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3630: Differences
Delonghi ECP3630 wins 2-0 and ties twice against ECP3420. Both can brew delicious cups, but ECP3630 has additional features that offer more convenience than its opponent. Read the breakdown below to learn more details.
Coffee flavor and brewing system
The winner: Delonghi ECP3630
Heating system
The Delonghi ECP3420 and ECP3630 both use stainless steel boilers for their heating systems. In general, they all heat up fairly quickly. Not only are their boilers and water heated, but so are the baskets and portafilters. Each machine is also equipped with thermostats, which play a crucial role in regulating temperature and ensuring that the machine reaches and maintains the optimal temperature for brewing espresso and steaming milk.
The Delonghi ECP3420 has only a single thermostat for the brewing and steaming processes. You may already be aware that brewing espresso and steaming milk require different temperature ranges. Specifically, the brewing temperature typically falls within the range of 90–96 °C, while the temperature for steaming is often 100°C. Thus, you may need to wait for the machine to get the right temperature to steam milk after brewing coffee.
Meanwhile, the Delonghi ECP3630 includes two thermostats, allowing you to control the right temperature for each process. Although it cannot brew and steam simultaneously, the machine can maintain or quickly switch between the two required temperatures. This design ensures both functions operate at optimal temperatures. In this way, you can steam milk and brew espresso right away.
Espresso flavor
In my personal experience, the espresso flavor produced by these two machines is not much different. The coffee comes out with a relatively full and tasty taste. However, if you want an espresso with a thick and creamy crema, these machines are unlikely to meet your requirements. They still make some crema, but it is quite thin.
It is worth mentioning here that the espresso quality of the Delonghi ECP3630 is more uniform and stable than that of the Delonghi ECP3420. Two separate thermostats help you regulate and maintain the temperature for each process so that the water is not overheated for brewing.
Each machine comes with a single-shot basket and a double-shot basket. If you want a weaker espresso, use the single-shot basket. If you want a stronger espresso, use the double-shot basket instead. Of course, the espresso flavor still depends on the type of coffee ground you use and other minor factors.
Milk system
The winner: Delonghi ECP3630
When it comes to their milk frothing system, the Delonghi ECP3630 has the upper hand. At first glance, people might think that the milk systems of the two machines are the same, but there is a difference.
First of all, both machines employ steam wands for their frothing systems, which means you can freely alter the amount of milk, foam, and milk temperature. No preprogrammed features will be available to help you adjust these factors. Therefore, this type of milk-frothing system may be a bit difficult for beginners.
However, compared to traditional manual steam wands, their wands are still easier to use and don’t require many skills. According to my experience, when you feel the milk jug is too hot to hold, then the frothing process is done. Make sure that the milk used for steaming is cold.
You can use any type of milk jug with a manual milk frothing system. In addition, their steam wand works wonderfully with any type of milk, including almond, oat, and soy milk. As far as I know, it’s really hard to get a nice velvety foam from some types of milk, so it’s not surprising if the milk foam coming out isn’t perfect. At least, it’s pretty close to latte art quality.
Okay, now let me show you the difference between these two machines’ milk systems. With the Delonghi ECP3420, you can only use the steam wand to make cappuccinos or lattes. Meanwhile, the Delonghi ECP3630 offers hot milk without frothing. The ECP3630 has a ring on the steam wand. If you put it up, the machine will make hot milk. If you press it down, the wand will create foam for your cappuccino. Hence, ensure you put that ring in the right place, or your milk will just be heated without foaming.
Design and convenience
Tie
Build quality
Basically, the appearance of these two machines is designed very similarly. Both are all about the same dimensions. They have a compact design and take up little space on the kitchen counter. You can also freely change the position of the machine when you want since they both weigh just about 9 pounds.
However, they have different housing materials. The Delonghi ECP3630’s exterior is made of stainless steel, while the ECP3430’s is plastic, except for the front panel and the drip tray.
The drip trays are actually removable. This design is not only for cleaning. It is also so that you can simply pull the tray out when you want to use a taller cup.
Water tank
These machines have the same water tank capacity, about 1 liter. Because the machine is quite compact, this capacity is reasonably decent. It is enough for about 250 mL of espresso shots.
Their water tanks are made of clear plastic and can be removed. Users can access these tanks from the top of the machine. You can refill the water container by taking it out or by leaving it in place and pouring water directly into it.
Cleaning and maintenance
Tie
Cleaning and maintaining espresso machines are essential to guarantee the machine’s lifespan and coffee quality. With these semi-automatic machines, the cleaning process requires some user involvement. You need to clean the drip tray, filter baskets, boiler outlet, water tank, and cappuccino maker. You may think you need to clean a lot of things, but in reality, not every part needs to be cleaned as frequently.
For the drip tray, there is a red level indicator showing the level of water it contains. To prevent water from overflowing the edge and damaging the appliance, the surface it rests on, or the surrounding area, the drip tray must be emptied and cleaned before the indicator protrudes from it.
I recommend rinsing your coffee filters after each brew. Make sure the holes are not blocked since it will ruin your coffee flavor next time. As for their water tanks, the manufacturer recommends cleaning them once a month.
Besides you also need to descale the machine. Delonghi recommends you use their descaler, which can be purchased separately. Fill the water tank with the descaler solution obtained by diluting the descaler with water, following the instructions on the pack. To operate the descale process, you need to perform a few operations; the machine will take care of the rest. The detailed steps are already in the user manual, so you should follow them. Rest assured- nothing is too complicated here.
Delonghi ECP3420 vs ECP3630: Similarities
There are two points that I want to highlight: the ideal consumers that these models will serve and their price and value.
Target consumers
Judging from their price and 1-liter water tank, these machines are best for users or couples who have just started learning to use espresso machines and are looking for a cut-price yet decent start. I don’t recommend purchasing the devices to entertain a larger group of over 3–4 users because it will wear out the machine fairly quickly, and the water tank will require more frequent refilling.
Price and value
For their prices, Delonghi ECP3420 and ECP3630 are a great deal. They can extract delicious espresso with a notable layer of crema and even froth, very impressive dry foam. I will gladly recommend this machine to anyone who doesn’t mind a semi-automatic espresso maker, wants to play around with extraction, and has a tight budget.
Quick Rundown of Delonghi ECP3630
- Item Package Dimension: 14.2L x 12.4W x 9.9H inches
- Item Package Weight - 11 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - COFFEE MAKER
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of Delonghi ECP3420
- 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
- YOUR FOAM, YOUR WAY The Advanced Cappuccino System with 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 a holder for one espresso shot, a holder for two shots, and one for an easy-serve espresso pod – whatever your preference.
- SLEEK SPACE-SAVING DESIGN With a sleek profile, compact design and narrow footprint, each model fits beautifully on a kitchen countertop – without taking up too much space.
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/manual-espresso-machine-cappuccino-maker-ecp3630/p/ECP3630
- https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/manual-espresso-machine-ecp3420/p/ECP3420
I’m Floyd J. Alcock, an experienced barista with a deep love for coffee. I curate personalized coffee experiences, guiding customers through diverse flavor profiles and suggesting ideal brewing methods. My extensive knowledge of espresso machines enables me to recommend the best equipment to match specific needs and budgets. Sharing my expertise and passion with coffee enthusiasts brings immense satisfaction. I look forward to continuing my journey of coffee discovery with every customer I serve, fostering connections over a shared love for this magical beverage.