You may find your perfect selection here if you’re all looking for a small, portable, and reasonably-priced espresso machine. Check out the debate of Delonghi ECP3620 vs ECP3420, 2 of the most potent affordable espresso machines I have tested.
ECP3420 is the winner for me. The machine operates quickly and has a more robust construction than the ECP3620. The self-priming mechanism makes operating a coffee maker simpler than ever. This also explains why it costs a little extra.
The ECP3620 has characteristics in common with the previous model but appears less durable and consistent, especially in the milk frothing step. And judging from its similar price to ECP3420, I think this one is as good of an investment as the one above.
Delonghi ECP3620 vs ECP3420: Comparision Chart
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi ECP3620 vs ECP3420: Differences
Delonghi ECP3420 wins 2-0 and ties 3 times against the ECP3620. Despite sharing the same design, ECP3420 can froth with better consistency and is less noisy when extracting espresso.
Milk frother
Winner: Delonghi ECP3420
Delonghi ECP3420 and ECP3620 have a standard and classic Panarello steam wand that can froth from creamy to dry milk foam in under 1 minute.
Some steam wands of other models on the market are very short and bulky, which makes frothing milk a hectic task, but that’s not the case with these ones. The overall maneuver is very comfortable and can achieve the ideal microfoam texture in about 40-45s. Longer than that, I don’t recommend it.
This is because these machines’ steam wands are quite strong, and when I froth longer than 45s, it gets very spongy, dry, and airy. The texture is much drier than what cappuccinos even require. So make sure that you stay under 45s with the wands.
Of course, you might wonder why ECP3420 wins the round if both of them do a good job of delivering good milk texture. The major reason is that ECP3620’s milk system lacks consistency. After steaming, I will turn the knob to cut off the steam flow. However, the 3620 takes quite a while to cut the steam. So if I remove the milk pitcher too quickly after dialing the knob, this can result in hot water splashing on my hand. It would be best if you kept this in mind.
Espresso extraction
Tie
This pair employs a 15-bar pump pressure to extract espresso and does a phenomenal job at delivering delicious cups that aren’t bitter or watered-down. The crema layer also is very inviting. For the price, I’m impressed by what they have to offer.
But, I have some advice for future users: These machines’ pump pressure may come from the same technology as other mid-range or high-end machines, but it isn’t up to par with the more expensive ones. You can brew around 8 cups per day with more expensive devices, but with this pair, I don’t recommend brewing more than 4 cups per day every day.
I have tested the theory with the pair, and with ECP3620, the electric pump wears off significantly after over a month of constantly brewing 4-5 cups daily. As for ECP3420, the 15 bars also drop their potency but are slightly less severe compared to ECP3620. The change in espresso flavor reflects this outcome. The drinks taste much weaker with less complicated notes of flavor. So, avoid excessive brewing at all costs, and the machines shall work fine.
Interface
Tie
The minimalist display of the 2 machines is quite pleasant for me. All we have to know is how to dial the knobs, which is fairly straightforward, with clear signs for each selection.
What I want to comment on are the indicator lights. The “on light” will shine when you turn the machines on. But the devices still need to be ready to brew. Wait for the “ready” light to shine simultaneously with the “on,” and you will know it’s time to extract some delicious espressos.
Noise level and related design aspects
Winner: Delonghi ECP3420
Delonghi ECP3420 is slightly quieter than ECP3620, even though these machines have an identical design with the same idea of mounting. Both machines produce noise while brewing, like any normal espresso machine, but ECP3620 is slightly noisier and tends to vibrate stronger, moving the espresso cup around before it dispenses coffee, increasing the weight of the cup.
Cleaning
Tie
Cleaning these machines is quite standard. However, they don’t come with any quick cleaning cycles, so everything depends on users’ attention, from purging to descaling. You can use a descaling solution or simply water and vinegar to descale these machines. I don’t heavily suggest using a professional solution with the pair, but if you can, you should.
Also, after steaming milk, make sure that you switch the steam back on so it blasts some water through the milk path. This will help clean any milk that got sucked up inside during the frothing process, thus keeping the system from bacteria and old milk odor.
Delonghi ECP3620 vs ECP3420: Similarities
There are 2 similarities that I want to share with you, and they are:
Target consumers – Who would love these machines?
From their level of automation and price range, these machines are well-received mostly by novice users who don’t have much experience with espresso machines. They are great for introducing yourself to the field with a manual brewing process involving personal maneuvering with an external grinder and the detachable portafilter. Users must get their hands on the progress from grinding beans to flow-stopping.
So, if you are a beginner in the world of espresso machines, have a smaller budget, and are looking for a model to brew for a maximum of 2 users, Delonghi ECP3620 and ECP3420 are good choices. But, according to my experience and the review above, I highly suggest ECP3420 over 3620.
Water Tank Capacity
Both use a detachable 37-ounce water tank. Additionally, the material is durable. Both machines are better suited for persons who don’t consume more than four cups per day or who live in an apartment with others because, in my opinion, the capacity is fairly modest. Any more than that, these little models will have a hard time managing large crowds, and the pump pressure will wear off very quickly.
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 ECP3620
- 15-Bar professional pressure assures quality results every time, and adjustable controls allow you to make modifications for your personal taste preferences.
- 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.
- A manual frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks - just the way you like them.
- 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.
- The advanced cappuccino system maintains the optimal temperature so you can brew cup after cup instantly.
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-cappuccino-maker-ecp3620/p/ECP3620
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.