Cheaper Plastic Build Compared to Older Models
This model was a step up from my trusty 3 year old Delonghi EC860.M Espresso machine. And I have to say I was very disappointed with this espresso machine. The ETAM29.620SB being a Bean to Cup Espresso machine was a considerable improvement over my older model. It does make great tasting coffee. However, there's far too many cons for a premium £360 espresso machine.
As a loyal Delonghi consumer I was disappointed with the QC of this product. My first one arrived dead with a faulty pump and wouldn't prime the water system. Apparently a regular issue when I googled it.
The next replacement then had a damaged infuser due to an incorrectly sized screw protruding in to the rail mechanism (I found the correct sized screw rattling around at the bottom of the machine.) Quality control and production... well below average.
Next, the build quality.
Compared to older models this machine feels and looks very very cheap. Almost entirely plastic compared to the older brushed metal machines. It easily leaves tiny scratches on the 'soft' plastic sides after wiping down with a clean none detergent damp dish cloth. For future reference, I would suggest cleaning the sides with a microfiber cloth and a suitable cleaning solution.
The cup stand on top feels thin and cheap and looks like a few uses will leave dents and scratches once cups are placed on it. Note: the cup stand doesn't include a heating element as in previous models.
The coffee mill is situated to the rear on top with a stainless steel adjustable burr grinder. It grinds the beans quickly and efficiently. The default settings leave a solid puck in the waste box. No complaints so far.
You can also use pre-ground in a small separate compartment, but only one small level measure at a time.
The water tank on the rear is solid. However, I would suggest filling the tank with a jug, rather than the risk of breaking the lid when trying to remove the tank. To remove the tank you have to open the hinged lid before a couple of plastic claws release and allow the tank to slide upwards. It's very easy to forget to lift the lid and try to slide the tank upwards, risking damage to the two claws. Very poorly designed.
The drip tray and grounds collection box seem to be the best built parts of the machine. Much more solid plastic and an attractive and solid metal drip/cup tray. A thin brushed metal front plate would have been nice, as in their older models. But Delonghi seem to have gone with a cheap silver painted plastic, as with most of the machine front. All in all the build of this machine is very disappointing, compared to older and similar priced models.
And now the controls, usability and how easy is it to brew a drink?
I have to say it's very easy to make a drink... Once you get accustomed to the flat touch buttons. The problem is your supposed to lightly touch a finger on the touch icons. The upper flat, none outlined buttons which allow you to change settings, select the strength and quantity don't often respond on first touch. Unlike the one touch bottom row despenser icons, which have a raised feel and bezel outline. Once you get used to touching them 'above' the arrows it becomes second nature. Although, I would have preferred the flat button micro switches the older models had.
Another minor problem with the button panel is the LCD display. It has no option to adjust the display contrast. For this reason you may find yourself crouching, bending down or stepping backwards to read it clearly, depending on how far forward it's placed and the height of the kitchen surface or table. It is bright and readable in strong sunlight, no issues there.
As for how well does it brew a drink??
It still makes the great wide selection of drinks! With a wide variety of settings to brew that perfect coffee. You can customise just about every drink. From the strength to how much is delivered to a cup or even two cups at once. Cappuccino's, Long (drip), Doppio (double espresso) and even a cup of tea using the milk frother/hot water despenser. The milk frother creates rich hot frothed milk or hot none frothed milk depending on your preference. 10/10 for the end result of your favourite drink!
Final verdict: This machine makes great coffee without a doubt. However, this machine looks and feels very cheaply made, with it's poor build, cheaper materials and design niggles. Again, it makes a great cup of coffee. But I have my doubts on how reliable it will become during the warranty period, compared to my older similar priced more robust model. This model is certainly not worth the asking price of £350, more of a £250 price tag.
For now I'm hoping this espresso machine will continue to pump out the great tasting coffee that Delonghi have always delivered. However, based on my experience and impression of this machine I'll be giving a similar priced Krups, Gaggia, Sage or Melitta a go in the future.
Verified purchase: YesCondition: New