Delonghi Magnifica vs Magnifica S ECAM23120SB, which one should we choose? It’s not easy to choose an intermediate espresso machine that boasts both high automation and manual features. But after many considerations, I choose Delonghi Magnifica as the true winner.
The winner is the Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 because it has many great features, like a one-touch lungo, a cup warming tray, reliable brewing, foaming, cleaning, and an auto shut-off option. In addition, its dual boiler is phenomenal in temperature performance, and the lack of waiting time between brewing sessions is to die for. I suggest this highly automated machine to any newbie out there.
The Delonghi Magnifica S espresso machine has a lot of features that make it a great piece of equipment for the house. For creating foamy cappuccinos and lattes, it boasts a powerful steam wand. Thanks to the machine’s huge water tank, you can create several beverages at once. However, it’s not the most technologically advanced piece out there.
Delonghi Magnifica vs Magnifica S ECAM23120SB: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi Magnifica vs Magnifica S ECAM23120SB: Differences
Delonghi Magnifica wins 2-0 and ties twice against Delonghi Magnifica S ECAM23120SB. It boasts better brewing technologies and no leaking issue like Magnifica S does. Check out my full review below!
Espresso extraction
Winner: Delonghi Magnifica
Both versions’ 15-bar pump pressure guarantees that the espresso has the proper crema and a consistent flavor. It makes it possible for the drink to be extracted with a rich, smooth flavor that you may savor every day. Simply push a button, and the devices will complete your task. I don’t find any machine weaker than the other in the flavor aspect.
But, in the technological regard, Delonghi Magnifica has the higher ground. Since it’s designed with a dual boiler and the Rapid Cappuccino System, there is no waiting between cups. Users can extract espressos and cappuccinos after cappuccinos without experiencing a huge temperature loss or too lengthy waiting time. It’s more convenient with this device, especially when you need to entertain a larger crowd.
Regarding the quick recipes, these models are very classic. They focus on basic espresso drinks. There is no special one-touch like Americano or flat white, given that the steam wands are manual.
Milk frother
Winner: Delonghi Magnifica
Dual boilers work great with Delonghi ESAM3300, and this characteristic has an impact on how the espresso machine handles different milk textures. Of course, it can’t simultaneously brew and foam, but the steam pressure is astounding. After extensive testing, this is among the greatest automated milk systems I have ever used, if not the best, in the price range.
My experience has shown that Magnifica’s milk foam can get from thick and creamy to airy and dry. So if you prefer drinking macchiato, latte, flat white, or cappuccino, this device can get the recipes right with its varying milk texture with very good consistency.
As for Magnifica S ECAM23120SB, its milk foam textures are also quite good. They can vary from creamy to dry, like the Magnifica line. However, since the wand shares the same single boiler system with the extracting process, the milk comes out not very hot when I froth after extracting (with 30-40s waiting time between sessions).
The catch is Magnifica is equipped with a plastic steam wand only, while Magnifica S ECAM23120SB has a stainless steel one. So there is a trade-off here!
Cleaning and maintenance
Tie
Cleaning these machines is pretty much the same. It’s important to do weekly and monthly cleaning. Remember that hot water can’t remove all the leftover oils and gunks inside the brewing system, so it’s important to use special cleaning solutions, at least monthly, to get rid of the possible biohazards in your own espresso machine.
Even more, I like these devices because they have a good set of alerts. The alerts include empty tank notices, descaling alerts, or error alerts. The error alert is generic and may reflect a badly placed brew unit, drip tray, or any possible error. So when you see the symbol flashing, check the entire machine to ensure everything is in its right place.
By pressing the dedicated descale button for 5s, you can trigger the machine into automatic descaling mode. Even if you have to stay beside the devices during the 20 minutes process, it’s still quite a light cleaning job.
Utilities
Tie
The DeLonghi Magnifica and S versions are exceptional among kitchen appliances since they let you program an auto-shutoff timer. You may use this function to configure the device to turn off after a predetermined amount of time, eliminating the risk that you’ll forget to turn it off. It’s a lifesaver for those times when you’re distracted and forget to turn the machine off.
Also, these machines have a cup warming tray that is very hot. So, if you want a hot cup of coffee every morning and want it to last longer, give them a blast of hot water, or turn on the machines and leave the cups on top of the cup warmer.
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Magnifica
- 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
- FRESH ESPRESSO FOR EVERY CUP: The professional burr grinder with 13 adjustable settings grinds fresh beans every time to ensure maximum freshness. You can also use pre-ground in the second chamber. Your choice of regular, specialty or decaf.
- 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.
- CONSISTENT BREWING EVERY TIME: Each cup is automatically brewed to the perfect temperature, richness and density. And you can customize the settings to ensure its always just the way you like it.
- EASY TO CLEAN AND HANDLE: The compact, extractable brew unit is not only easy to clean, it self-adjusts for one or two shots of espresso.
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Magnifica S ECAM23120SB
- 15 bar pressure for brewing excellence and consistent results, with integrated silent burr grinder
- Select steam milk or froth milk with the hot milk/cappuccino selector
- Saves up to 77-percent energy with energy-saving switch and single boiler system
- Removable 1.8 litre (60 oz) water tank with water level indicator
- Long coffee function allows you to enjoy drip style coffee, plus a hot water spout for tea or hot chocolate
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Product Video
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References:
- Delonghi Magnifica: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/magnifica-automatic-espresso-machine-cappuccino-maker-esam-esam3300/p/ESAM-3300
- Delonghi Magnifica S ECAM23120SB: https://www.ebay.com/p/663380631
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.