DeLonghi vs Breville Espresso Machines

Quick Answer

Breville usually wins on ease of use, steady temp control, and high-end dual-boiler choices. De'Longhi pushes strong value and tight, space-saving designs. For starters under $800, both brands work. Breville’s Barista Express and Bambino Plus feel more natural to learn. In the $1,000 to $1,500 range, Breville’s Barista Pro and Barista Touch stand out for speed and steady results. De'Longhi’s La Specialista adds handy presets and cold brew modes. Pick by budget, boiler type—go dual boiler if you steam and pull at the same time—and the frothing power you want.

Key Takeaways

• Breville: simple workflow, solid temp control, dual-boiler options.
  
• De'Longhi: strong value, small footprints, wide preset range.
  
• A dual boiler lets you steam milk and extract espresso together.
  
• Thermoblock heats fast; temp steadiness changes by model.
  
• Milk frothing depends on wand power and fine control.
  
• Under $800: both brands compete; Breville often feels simpler.

Every morning told the same story. Sarah ground her beans, tamped the puck, and waited for a rich, caramel shot. She got thin espresso instead. The milk would not foam right. The counter turned messy, and her “calm” ritual felt like work.

Months of café drinks hit her budget hard. So, she looked into Breville and De'Longhi. Her doctor also urged fewer shop drinks—too much sugar and unknown add-ins. Brewing at home gave her full control over what went into the cup.

She picked a machine that fit her needs. Mornings got smoother. The coffee tasted better. And that proud moment after a clean pull? It felt great.

How to Use This Guide (What You'll Learn)

This guide compares two big names for home espresso: Breville and De'Longhi. If you want a manual or semi-automatic machine—grind, tamp, control the shot—you’re in the right spot.

We compare the brands on:

• Usability and learning curve
  
• Temperature stability and consistency
  
• Milk frothing capabilities
  
• Footprint and counter space needs
  
• Maintenance requirements
  
• Price tiers and value

This guide does not go deep on full auto bean-to-cup or pod systems. Those need their own review. Here we stay with machines that help you grow real barista skills at home.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Who They Fit

Breville at a Glance

Breville is known for friendly controls and steady results. The company began in 1932 with Bill O'Brien and Harry Norville—their names formed “Breville.” It moved into kitchen gear in the 1960s.

Core traits: clear interfaces, fast heat-up tech like ThermoJet, and a deep add-on ecosystem. Many new home baristas get good shots fast because the steps make sense and the feedback is clear.

Notable product lines include:

• Bambino series (compact entry points)
  
• Barista series (Express, Pro, Touch)
  
• Oracle/Dual Boiler (premium dual-boiler options)

Breville fits people who want speed and steady results with low fuss. The machines feel easy on day one but still have headroom for deeper dialing.

De'Longhi at a Glance

De'Longhi comes from Treviso, Italy. It started in 1902 as a small parts shop and incorporated in 1950. It later grew into home appliances and became known for espresso gear and heaters.

Core traits: compact builds, feature-rich presets—see the La Specialista line—and sharp value. De'Longhi often packs many features into small cases that fit tight counters.

Notable product lines include:

• La Specialista series (Arte, Maestro)
  
• Dedica Maestro Plus (slim design)
  
• Stilosa (budget-friendly option)

De'Longhi fits people who prize space, enjoy clean Italian styling, and like pre-programmed recipes and cold brew modes. The machines bring strong value, and some models may ask for a bit more practice than a close Breville match.

Dual Boiler vs Thermoblock vs Single Boiler

Why Boiler Type Matters for Taste and Workflow

The heating system in your espresso machine shapes taste and speed. It guides how your coffee feels and how fast you can serve the next cup. 

Stable temperature gives a steady flavor from shot to shot. Fast recovery cuts the wait between drinks. And if you love milk drinks, brewing and steaming at the same time can save real minutes every morning.

Dual Boiler (e.g., Breville Oracle/DB)

Dual boiler systems are the gold standard for serious home espresso. Double boiler espresso machines have two separate heating units: one for steam and one for coffee, so you can make coffee and froth milk at the same time. This is handy if you're churning out multiple coffees at once – or if you're just impatient and want your coffee fixed quicker!

The benefits include:

• Brew and steam simultaneously
  
• Superior temperature stability
  
• Consistent results shot after shot
  
• Faster workflow for multiple drinks

The tradeoffs? Higher cost and larger machine footprints. These systems typically appear in machines starting around $1,500 and up.

Thermoblock (common in both brands)

Most mid-range Breville and De'Longhi machines use Thermoblock heating systems. These heat water on demand as it passes through a solid metal block.

Benefits include:

• Fast initial warm-up
  
• Compact size
  
• More affordable than dual boilers

The downside is that you typically can't brew and steam simultaneously, and temperature stability can vary between models. You'll generally get less consistent temperatures with Thermoblock systems compared to boilers.

Single Boiler Notes

Entry-level machines often use single boilers that serve double duty for both brewing and steaming. These require switching modes between brewing and steaming. It adds time to your coffee routine.

Benefits include lower cost and simpler mechanics, but if you make milk drinks regularly, the workflow can feel clunky.

Call-out box: "If you make milk drinks daily, a dual boiler is worth every penny. The time saved and consistency gained add up quickly."

Espresso Fundamentals — Pressure, Temperature, and Pre-Infusion

9-bar Extraction vs Advertised Pump Pressures

Many machines shout about 15-bar or 19-bar pumps. Here is the simple truth. Great espresso extracts near 9 bars. Higher pump ratings help the machine hold that brew pressure. More bars on the box do not mean better coffee in the cup.

We found that De’Longhi’s Dedica Maestro Plus uses a 15-bar system yet pulls shots on par with Breville’s 9-bar Bambino Plus. Both end up extracting in the range that makes a good espresso. That is what matters.

Temperature Stability

Consistent brewing temperature dramatically affects flavor. Just 1-2°F variance can turn a sweet, balanced shot into something sour or bitter.

Great espresso depends on stable temperature and consistent brew pressure; without both, flavor suffers no matter how many extra features a machine offers.

Breville's PID temperature control technology (found in their Barista and Oracle lines) maintains precise temperatures. De'Longhi achieves similar results in their higher-end La Specialista machines with advanced thermal systems.

Pre-Infusion and Grind Consistency

Pre-infusion wets the coffee gently before full pressure hits. This helps water spread through the puck in an even way. It lowers “channeling,” where water rushes through weak paths and leaves other spots under-worked. Better flow brings a more balanced shot.

Both brands implement pre-infusion differently:

• Breville uses a programmable low-pressure pre-infusion phase
  
• De'Longhi incorporates pre-infusion in many models, including their "Blooming" function in higher-end La Specialista machines

The quality of the grind matters tremendously here. Consistent, appropriate grind size works with pre-infusion to ensure even extraction.

Usability & Learning Curve

Interface & Workflow

Breville has built a reputation for intuitive interfaces that help users achieve good results quickly. Breville machines are often easier to use – their controls are more intuitive, and it takes less time to make a good espresso.

De'Longhi machines can produce equally good coffee but may require more learning time. In our testing, De’Longhi machines could absolutely produce excellent espresso, but they usually required a bit more practice to dial in compared with similar Breville models.

Our testing echoes this finding. According to us the Breville Bambino Plus was practically foolproof. No matter how hard you try, you can't pull a bad shot with this machine.

Footprint & Water Tank

Counter space matters in most kitchens. De'Longhi typically offers more compact designs, but there's a tradeoff with water tank capacity.

For example, we also noted sizes that matter on a small counter. The Breville Bambino Plus is more compact than De’Longhi’s Dedica Maestro Plus (7.6" x 12.5" x 12.2" vs. 8.15" x 13.62" x 12.9"). Yet the Bambino Plus carries a larger tank at 64 oz, while the De’Longhi holds less.

Consider both the machine's dimensions and how easily you can access the water tank and drip tray when measuring your available space.

Milk Frothing Experience

Milk frothing capability varies significantly between models. Breville's steam wands generally provide powerful, consistent steam. The Bambino Plus even offers automatic milk frothing with temperature and texture controls.

De'Longhi's milk systems vary by model. The Dedica line uses Panarello-style wands that create froth easily but offer less control for latte art. Higher-end La Specialista machines include more professional steam wands with greater control.

Our testing found the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus offered ultimate versatility. It allows you to toggle between manual and automatic modes to froth your milk to your preferred consistency and temperature.

Price Tiers & Standout Models

Under $800 (Entry Level)

Breville Barista Express ($699.95) / Bambino Plus ($499.95)

The Barista Express includes a built-in grinder and so it makes it an all-in-one solution. Our testing found it easier to use than comparable De'Longhi models, with better temperature consistency. It comes with both single and double-wall filter baskets for different skill levels.

The compact Bambino Plus lacks a grinder but offers automatic milk texturing. As a result we declared it the Best Overall small espresso machine. Especially because of its intuitive operation and consistent results.

De'Longhi La Specialista Arte ($699.95) / Dedica Maesro Plus (499.95)

The La Specialista Arte offers good value with a built-in grinder and tamping station. We noted it ranks similarly to the Barista Express in ease of use but scored lower in other areas.

The ultra-slim Dedica Maestro Plus suits tight spaces and careful budgets. We are very impressed with its 15-bar system that extracts maximum flavor from your chosen grinds.

Who should choose which?

Choose Breville if: You want faster learning and more steady day-to-day shots.
Choose De’Longhi if: Counter space is tight or you want the strongest price-to-feature mix.

$1,000–$1,500 (Enthusiast Level)

Breville Barista Pro ($1,049) / Touch ($1000)

The Barista Pro steps up from the Express with ThermoJet heating for a near 3-second start. You also get an LCD interface and 30 grind settings. That means less waiting, clearer controls, and finer dial-in. The Touch adds a touchscreen with pre-programmed drinks and automatic milk texturing.

Our testing found these machines produced excellent espresso with great temperature stability. The Touch scored particularly well on milk frothing.

De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro with Cold Brew ($1,199.95)

This machine includes smart tamping, 8 pre-programmed coffee recipes, and the ability to make cold brew in just 5 minutes (vs. traditional 24–48-hour methods). 

Our testing showed it competently handles various coffee styles, though it has fewer grind settings (15) than comparable Brevilles (30).

Spec snapshot: similarly priced models ($1,000–$1,500)

High-End Note: Dual-Boiler Flagships & Who Needs Them

Breville’s Oracle Touch ($2,799.95) and Oracle Dual Boiler ($2,999.95) sit at the top of home espresso. They use dual boilers to brew and steam at once. They also automate grinding and tamping for speed and repeatable prep. This tier fits the home barista who wants café-style pace and control at home.

Our testing shows the Oracle Touch consistently makes café-quality espresso. When comparing machines, check the heating setup—thermoblock, single boiler, or dual boiler. You can get solid results from a thermoblock, but dual-boiler designs usually deliver steadier temperatures and more consistent shots, closer to commercial-machine performance.

Who should invest in these premium machines? Daily milk-drink devotees who:

• Make multiple coffees in succession
  
• Value perfect temperature consistency
  
• Want to eliminate the wait between brewing and steaming
  
• Expect their machine to last many years

De'Longhi doesn't currently offer direct competitors at this tier. It focuses instead on their fully-automatic bean-to-cup machines in this price range.

Cold Brew & "Cold Espresso" Presets

Several newer machines from both brands now include fast "cold brew" options. However, there is a word of caution as these coffee machines make cold brew differently to what you're likely buying from a cafe.

Traditional cold brew steeps grounds in room-temperature water for 24-48 hours. Machine-based cold brew uses different methods:

• De'Longhi's La Specialista machines use lower-pressure extraction at cold temperatures
  
• Breville's newer models like the Oracle Jet use specialized cold extraction settings

These methods make a cold coffee beverage in minutes rather than days but expect a different flavor profile from traditional cold brew. The taste tends to be brighter and less mellow than long-steeped cold brew.

They're convenient for quick cold coffee cravings, but don't expect them to replace traditional cold brew methods entirely.

Maintenance, Accessories & Long-Term Costs

Cleaning Cycles, Descaling & Water Care

Both brands require regular cleaning and descaling to maintain performance. Neglect these tasks and you'll face reduced coffee quality, potential machine damage, and shortened lifespan.

De'Longhi's Dedica Maestro Plus earns points for ease of cleaning. We noted that it was also easy to clean. It also has a removable drip tray and many parts that can be machine-washed in the dishwasher.

Water quality dramatically impacts machine longevity. Hard water creates scale buildup that clogs tubes and valves. Most experts recommend:

• Using filtered water
  
• Installing the manufacturer's water filter if available
  
• Descaling every 2-3 months (more often in hard water areas)
  

Parts & Accessories

• Both brands offer necessary accessories like:
• Cleaning tablets and descaling solutions
  
• Replacement filter baskets
  
• Water filters
  
• Tampers and milk pitchers

De'Longhi scores points for including everything needed right in the box. If you are starting your espresso journey from scratch, De'Longhi's Dedica machine has everything you'll need, from a portafilter and filter baskets to a tamp and perfectly portioned scoop.

Breville often includes premium accessories like stainless steel milk pitchers with their mid-range and above machines.

Grinder Considerations

The grinder question matters significantly. Built-in grinders offer convenience but have limitations:

• Fewer adjustment steps than standalone grinders
  
• Can't easily be upgraded separately from the machine
  
• May not handle all coffee styles equally well

If your machine doesn't include a grinder, budget for a quality burr grinder ($100-300). It's impossible to overstate how crucial proper grinding is to espresso quality.

How to Descale a Home Espresso Machine (General Workflow)

1. Empty and clean the water tank
2. Mix descaling solution according to manufacturer instructions
3. Run solution through the machine per user manual
4. Flush with clean water (usually 2-3 full tank cycles)
5. Replace water filter if applicable
6. Dispose of used solution safely

Which Brand Is "Best" for You? (Decision Framework)

Finding your ideal machine comes down to priorities:

If ease and consistency matter most:

Breville usually wins here. Their intuitive interfaces and consistent performance mean less frustration and faster learning. The Bambino Plus and Barista Express are standouts for beginners.

If you need compact value and presets:

De'Longhi shines with space-efficient designs and good feature-to-price ratios. The Dedica line and La Specialista Arte deliver solid performance in tight spaces.

If you make milk drinks daily:

Consider a dual boiler system (like Breville's Oracle line) or at minimum, a machine with powerful steam capability. The time savings add up dramatically.

If counter space is limited:

De'Longhi's Dedica series or Breville's Bambino offer the smallest footprints without significant performance compromises.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a dual-boiler machine worth it for lattes every day?

Yes! If you make milk-based drinks daily, a dual boiler saves substantial time and frustration. You can brew and steam simultaneously. And so it cuts drink preparation time nearly in half compared to single-boiler or thermoblock systems.

Do 15-bar machines make stronger espresso than 9-bar?

No. Proper espresso extraction happens around 9 bars regardless of pump rating. The 15-bar specification simply means the pump has overhead capacity to maintain proper brewing pressure. More bars don't create stronger coffee.

Which brand is easier for beginners?

Breville generally offers a gentler learning curve. Breville machines are often easier to use – their controls are more intuitive and it takes less time to make a good espresso.

Which models fit small kitchens best?

De'Longhi's Dedica line and Breville's Bambino series offer the most compact footprints. The Dedica Maestro Plus measures just 8.15" wide and so it makes it an ideal for tight spaces.

Can I make true cold brew on these machines?

Not traditional cold brew. The machine-made "cold brew" uses fast extraction methods (5-15 minutes) rather than the 24–48-hour steeping of traditional cold brew. Expect a different flavor profile.

What grinder should I pair if it's not built in?

Plan a budget of $150–300 for a solid burr grinder. Aim for at least twenty grind settings so you can dial in espresso and pour-over. Pick conical burrs for steady, even grounds. Good entry picks come from Baratza, Eureka, and 1Zpresso.

How often should I descale and replace water filters?

Descale every two to three months. Do it more often in hard-water areas. Swap water filters every two months or after about sixty tanks. Using filtered water slows scale, so these gaps can stretch a bit.

What's the difference between 54mm and 58mm portafilters?

A 58mm portafilter is the common commercial size. The wider coffee bed spreads water more evenly, which can help extraction. It also works with more aftermarket tools and baskets. The 54mm size shows up on many home machines and can pull great shots with sound technique.

About the Author

This article was prepared by the Lifeboost writing team. We reviewed current medical research from the International Neurourology Journal and BMC Urology. We also used trusted guidance from Mayo Clinic, the NHS, and WebMD.

Disclaimer: This guide is for education. Brand and model details can change over time. Check the maker’s documents for the latest specs before you buy.

Check out Lifeboost Coffee Grata Medium Roast.