Are you a beginner in the world of espresso machines? Check out my review for the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe vs Delonghi Dedica! After careful consideration, my vote goes to Gaggia Carezza Deluxe as the superior choice.
Geared towards beginners, the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe features unique pressurized baskets coupled with a reliable 15 bar pump pressure, it brews an excellent espresso with a rich crema. What truly stands out to me is the steam wand. What I like the most is its steam wand, which effortlessly produces dry foam and can be detached for manual steaming. The added convenience of the auto-rinsing function is another notable highlight of this machine.
Delonghi Dedica is a truly compact machine with a very modern and simple design. It heats up very quickly thanks to its Thermoblock. This machine is ideal for those with limited countertop space or beginners seeking a straightforward coffee experience.
Gaggia Carezza Deluxe vs Delonghi Dedica: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gaggia Carezza Deluxe vs Delonghi Dedica: Differences
Gaggia Carezza Deluxe emerged as the winner with a score of 2-0 and 1 draw in the face-off against DeLonghi Dedica. Keep reading for a deeper dive into the specifics.
Flavor & Brewing System
The Winner: Gaggia Carezza Deluxe
Both the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe and DeLonghi Dedica are semi-automatic espresso machines, which means we need to be somewhat hands-on. This includes manually tamping the ground coffee. Additionally, these machines lack a built-in coffee grinder, so we have to grind our own coffee beans.
For those looking to choose a grinder, I’d like to present two exceptional options: the budget-friendly Breville Smart Grinder Pro and the more professional Baratza Sette 270.
However, if you’re not keen on buying a separate grinder or if you’re in a rush for your morning cup of coffee, both machines have you covered with alternatives. You can use pre-ground coffee or ESE pods.
Temperature & Heating System
The DeLonghi Dedica features a single Thermoblock heating system that gets the machine ready to brew within just 40 seconds. This quick heat-up time is really convenient, especially for those busy mornings when I need my coffee fix fast.
Even though the Thermoblock heats water rapidly, it falls short of achieving the desired brewing temperature. We can choose between three temperature levels: Low, Medium, High. Yet, it doesn’t disclose the specific temperatures associated with these settings.
From my experience, the highest temperature setting is the only way to go. This setting doesn’t provide piping-hot brewing. However, at least, it is better than the other two settings that result in insufficiently warm shots.
The Gaggia Carezza Deluxe also employs a single Thermoblock heating system, which, like the Dedica, heats up and becomes ready for brewing within about 40 seconds to 1 minute after turning on. However, when it comes to temperature control, the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe surpasses its competitor. I can get a really hot coffee when using this machine.
Filter Basket & Portafilter
| Gaggia Carezza Deluxe | De’Longhi Dedica | |
|---|---|---|
| Portafilter Diameter | 53 mm | 51 mm |
| Filter Basket Type | Pressurized | Pressurized |
Both the DeLonghi Dedica and Gaggia Carezza Deluxe are supplied with a double-shot pressurized, a single-shot pressurized, and a ESE pod pressurized basket.
Pressurized baskets are designed with beginners in mind. These baskets employ a double-walled system to generate pressure. No need to fuss around to nail a perfect coffee puck anymore!
By using this basket, you don’t even need a grinder as you can totally use pre-ground coffee and still rock a nice layer of crema on your espresso. However, the espresso quality won’t be as top-notch as when you’re using freshly ground beans in a non-pressurized basket.
Having the flexibility to use ESE coffee pods is a real bonus, especially if you’re new to this coffee game. There are those days when we’re all about hassle-free coffee, no fuss required. Just pop, brew, and enjoy!
The pressurized filter basket in the DeLonghi Dedica is equipped with a single small hole at the bottom, similar to many other machines. On the other hand, the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe‘s baskets are different. Its baskets resemble the traditional ones with a single layer and numerous holes. But I confirm again that it is still pressurized baskets. In this unique design, its bottom section of the portafilter is a second wall that has a small hole to create the restriction.
In practice, I’m not a fan of using pressurized baskets as they tend to yield espresso shots not as good as using non-pressurized ones. I don’t mean the difference is night and day, but for someone with a refined taste, it’s discernible.
15 Bar Pump Pressure
Both the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe and DeLonghi Dedica are advertised to have a 15-bar pressure.
However, in the case of the DeLonghi Dedica, it might just be a marketing ploy to display “15 bar” on the box. Its actual system doesn’t reach the 15-bar mark. When I use a fine coffee grind, it struggles to push water through the grounds. Even with a coarser grind, if I tamp the grounds with a bit more pressure, it still has difficulty pushing water through. It seems to work better with a normal grind.
On the flip side, the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe exhibits much more consistent pressure. It can easily handle even the finest grind without any issues.
Milk System
The Winner: Tie
Both machines use the Panarello wand for their milk systems. This wand proves quite useful for beginners, as it automatically introduces air into the milk to create milk froth. While its user-friendly nature is a plus, it isn’t designed for crafting intricate latte art. Its strength lies in generating the perfect foam for delightful cappuccinos.
With the Carezza, you have the flexibility to utilize the steam wand for either automatic frothing or manual frothing by removing the Panarello attachment. This is a nifty trick as you progress in your barista skills or want to enhance your milk frothing experience. While the steam power isn’t exceptional, it’s certainly workable, albeit requiring a bit more time compared to some “real” steam wands.
Design & Usability
The Winner: Tie
Dimensions, Weight & Appearance
| Gaggia Carezza Deluxe | De’Longhi Dedica | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 11 x 12.75 x 12.5 in | 6.8 x 13.0 x 13.0 in |
| Weight | 13.2 lbs | 9.3 lbs |
Both the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe and DeLonghi Dedica boast a compact design. The Carezza Deluxe is a tad wider due to its side-placed water tank. Regardless, these machines are far from space-hungry and won’t clutter your countertop.
My only minor gripe and it’s really just my preference, is that I wish these machines had a bit more weight. While I understand their compact design, I feel espresso machines should have a certain heft to keep them stable when locking in or removing the portafilter.
Water Tank
The Gaggia Carezza Deluxe boasts a larger water tank capacity of 1.4 liters, which is understandable considering its bigger size. On the other hand, the DeLonghi Dedica offers 1-liter capacity. Their water tank capacities are adequate for typical daily use. Nevertheless, in a household with two avid coffee enthusiasts, each drinking two cups per day, I have to refill the tank constantly.
Moreover, the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe uses more water for rinsing and a blank shot to heat the portafilter. So, when it comes to the actual brewing process, the usable water between the two machines isn’t significantly different.
Thankfully, their water tank can be removed for filling. The Gaggia model’s tank can be slid out from the front.
Meanwhile, to remove the tank of the DeLonghi Dedica, you simply lift it up from the rear of the machine. While this approach is convenient, make sure there’s enough space between your kitchen counter and the overhead cabinets. Alternatively, you can completely pull the machine out to easily remove and attach the tank. Moving it around a bit won’t strain your muscles as it is lightweight.
Utilities
The Winner: Gaggia Carezza Deluxe
User Interface
Both machines feature a button-based user interface. The Gaggia Carezza Deluxe has four buttons with accompanying indicator lights for power, brewing, water, and steam functions. It also includes a knob for switching between steam or hot water. Moreover, a temperature gauge on the left allows you to monitor the water temperature closely and ensure your coffee is always brewed at the optimal temperature.
The DeLonghi Dedica features a more simplified interface with three buttons: one for a single shot, one for a double espresso shot, and another for activating the steam function. Additionally, there’s a convenient dial on the side of the machine for engaging the frothing wand.
Auto Rinsing
The Gaggia Carezza Deluxe offers a convenient automatic rinsing feature that activates each time you turn on the machine. Some folks disable it to save water, but I personally suggest keeping it on. The automatic rinsing cycle plays a crucial role in maintaining the machine’s cleanliness and ensuring it’s ready for brewing.
Unlike the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe, the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe lacks this feature.
Quick Rundown Of Gaggia Carezza Deluxe
- 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
- FROTHING FOR MILK BEVERAGES: Pannarello wand frothing for cappuccinos & lattes. Wand doubles as a hot water dispenser for Americanos & tea
- Brewing features: pressurized porta filter brews both ground Coffee and ESE pods. Pre-infusion function pre-wets grounds before brewing for rich, even extraction
- AUTOMATIC POWER DOWN: The Carezze will power down after 9 minutes of inactivity to save energy
- FRONT LOADED WATER RESERVOIR: Features a 47oz capacity and pulls out from the front of the machine, water level is visible, and the reservoir is compatible with the Mavea Inteza water filter system
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Dedica
- 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
- Sleek design takes up only 6 inches of counter space, while still having a 35oz water tank
- The Cappuccino frothing system provides Barista quality foam; Cup warmer: Passive
- Thermos block technology allows the machine to heat up to the ideal temperature in a quick 40 seconds
- Automatic flow stop
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Product Video
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References:
- Gaggia Carezza Deluxe: https://www.gaggia.com/manual-machines/carezza-deluxe/
- Delonghi Dedica: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/dedica-manual-espresso-machine-stainless-steel-ec680m/p/EC680M
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.