Like many, my mornings used to be a struggle against mediocre coffee. The tired ritual of instant granules or the expense of daily café visits left me yearning for that perfect, freshly brewed cup at home. It was a problem that needed solving, not just for the sake of taste, but for the impact on my entire day – a good coffee kickstarts productivity and mood, while a poor one can cast a shadow. Discovering the convenience and quality offered by an automatic coffee machine, specifically the De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B, would have been a game-changer much earlier.
Navigating the World of Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machines: What to Look For
A bean-to-cup coffee machine promises to transform your daily ritual, offering café-quality beverages with minimal effort. People typically seek these machines to escape the blandness of instant coffee, reduce the cost and time spent at coffee shops, and enjoy the unparalleled freshness of beans ground just moments before brewing. The ideal customer for such a device is someone who drinks coffee regularly, appreciates the nuanced flavours of fresh beans, and desires variety in their coffee choices, from a strong espresso to a milky cappuccino. They are often willing to make an initial investment for long-term convenience and quality.
Conversely, a bean-to-cup machine might not be for everyone. If you’re an occasional coffee drinker, or if your preference leans strictly towards simple filter coffee, the complexity and cost might be overkill. Those on a very tight budget might find the initial outlay prohibitive, and perhaps a simpler pod machine or a traditional espresso maker would be a more suitable alternative. Before diving in, it’s crucial to consider several factors: your budget, the available counter space, the specific features you value (e.g., automatic milk frothing, programmability, grinder settings), and the ease of cleaning and maintenance. Understanding these aspects will guide you to a machine that truly fits your lifestyle.
Unveiling the De’Longhi Magnifica S ECAM 21.117 B
The De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B, Black, often referred to as the Magnifica S ECAM 21.117.B, is a fully automatic espresso machine designed to bring the barista experience into your home. Its core promise is simple: deliver perfectly tailored coffee shop beverages at the touch of a button, all from freshly ground beans. When you purchase this model, you typically receive the machine itself, a power adapter, a removable brewing unit with variable capacity, a generous 1.8-litre removable water reservoir, a water filter, and a removable drip tray with a water level indicator.
Compared to more advanced models or market leaders, the De’Longhi Magnifica S range strikes a balance between features and affordability, often seen as a reliable entry point into the world of bean-to-cup machines without the premium price tag of a top-tier fully automatic latte/cappuccino system. This specific model is ideal for daily coffee drinkers who appreciate a good espresso or americano, and who don’t mind manually frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos. It’s not for someone looking for a fully automated, one-touch milk-based drink solution, nor for those who prefer complex digital displays and smart app connectivity.
Here’s a quick rundown of its advantages and considerations:
Pros:
* Excellent coffee quality from fresh beans.
* User-friendly interface and customisable settings.
* Compact footprint for a bean-to-cup machine.
* Easy to clean with removable components and auto-cleaning programs.
* Reliable 15-bar pump pressure for rich espresso.
Cons:
* Manual milk frothing system (not one-touch automatic).
* Setup instructions can be vague for first-time users.
* No advanced features like multiple user profiles or smart app control.
* Some users have reported initial issues with plugs or infusers (though not universal).
Deep Dive into Performance: Key Features and Their Advantages
Having used the De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B for an extended period, I can confidently share my insights into its various features and how they translate into a superior coffee experience. This machine truly stands out in several key areas, making it a valuable addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.
Integrated Grinder with 13-Step Adjustment
One of the most crucial elements of any bean-to-cup machine is its grinder, and the De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B features a quiet, integrated grinder with an impressive 13-step grinding adjustment. This level of control allows you to fine-tune the grind size to perfection, which is paramount for extracting the optimal flavour from your coffee beans. Whether you’re using a lighter roast that benefits from a finer grind to bring out delicate notes, or a darker roast that requires a slightly coarser grind to avoid bitterness, this machine handles it with ease. The “quiet grinder” aspect is also a huge plus, especially for those early mornings when you don’t want to wake the entire household. The aroma saving cover on the 250g bean tank ensures that your precious fresh beans retain their full fragrance until they’re ready to be ground, contributing significantly to that fresh coffee smell that fills the kitchen. This feature directly solves the problem of stale, pre-ground coffee, delivering a more aromatic and flavourful cup every time.
15-Bar Pump Pressure and Thermoblock System
At the heart of any great espresso is consistent pressure and temperature, and the De’Longhi Magnifica S excels here with its 15-bar pump pressure and advanced Thermoblock system. The 15-bar pressure is the industry standard for optimal espresso extraction, ensuring a rich, golden crema that is the hallmark of a perfectly pulled shot. The new Thermoblock heating system is remarkably efficient, heating water quickly and maintaining an ideal, constant temperature throughout the brewing process. This consistency is vital, as fluctuations can lead to under- or over-extracted coffee. The benefit here is a consistently excellent espresso, shot after shot, allowing you to enjoy true coffee shop quality without leaving your home. The instant steam readiness also means there’s no long wait when you want to switch from brewing coffee to frothing milk.
Cappuccino System (Manual Milk Frother)
For those who enjoy milky coffees, the integrated Cappuccino System is a fantastic addition. While it’s a manual frother – meaning you control the milk texturing with a steam wand rather than a one-touch button – this actually gives you more control over the froth’s quality and consistency. With a bit of practice, you can achieve beautiful, velvety microfoam perfect for lattes, or a rich, creamy froth for classic cappuccinos. This manual approach is a joy for those who like to feel more involved in the coffee-making process and offers a level of customisation that automated systems often lack. The ability to create a variety of milk-based drinks significantly expands your coffee menu at home, moving beyond just black coffee and directly addressing the desire for versatility.
Customisable Coffee Settings and Adjustable Dispenser
The De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B, Black, provides excellent customisation options to suit individual preferences. You can adjust the coffee strength, choosing from strong or extra mild aroma, and the length of your coffee (short, medium, or long) simply by pressing a button or rotating a dial on the intuitive control panel. Furthermore, you can select your preferred temperature – piping hot, medium, or low. This level of control ensures that your coffee is always made exactly how you like it. The adjustable height of the coffee adapter (from 86mm to 142mm) is a thoughtful touch, accommodating a wide range of cup sizes, from small espresso cups to tall latte glasses, preventing splashes and ensuring a clean pour every time. This attention to personal preference transforms a simple coffee machine into a bespoke beverage creator.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Despite its advanced capabilities, the De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B is designed for user convenience, especially when it comes to cleaning. The removable brewing system is a standout feature, allowing for thorough rinsing under the tap, which is crucial for preventing mould build-up and ensuring hygienic operation. The removable water tank (1.8 litres) and drain tray with a water level indicator also simplify daily maintenance. The machine also boasts an automatic descaling, cleaning, and rinsing program, which takes much of the guesswork out of regular upkeep. A programmable water hardness setting further optimises the descaling cycle for your local water supply, extending the machine’s lifespan and maintaining peak performance. These features collectively minimise the hassle of ownership, ensuring that the joy of fresh coffee isn’t overshadowed by tedious cleaning routines.
Compact Design and Energy Efficiency
Measuring approximately 43 x 23.8 x 35.1 cm (D x W x H), this automatic coffee maker is relatively compact for a bean-to-cup machine, making it a good fit for most kitchen countertops without dominating the space. The sleek black finish adds a touch of modern elegance. Beyond its aesthetic and size, the machine is also designed with energy efficiency in mind. It features an auto power-off function and an energy-saving function, which allows for maximum energy conservation. These features not only help reduce your electricity bill but also align with a more environmentally conscious approach to home appliances. The standby mode is another thoughtful addition, keeping the machine ready to go without constantly consuming full power.
What Others Are Saying: Real-World Experiences
I’ve scoured the internet and found some user reviews that echo many of my own experiences, both positive and a few points to be aware of. Many users praise the machine for its ease of use and the excellent quality of the coffee it produces, often highlighting its elegant appearance as a bonus. The ability to switch from beans to ground coffee is also frequently mentioned as a versatile option.
However, some users have encountered initial hurdles. There have been reports of machines arriving with minor manufacturing defects, such as misaligned plugs, or, in a few cases, immediate error notifications regarding the infuser. One user noted that the electrical plug provided was a European 2-pin type, necessitating an adapter for US sockets, and found the supplied adapter to be too small, requiring them to purchase another. The setup guide has also been described by some as vague, leading them to seek out YouTube videos for clearer instructions. Despite these initial snags, the general sentiment is that once these issues are resolved, the machine performs admirably, delivering consistently good coffee.
My Verdict: Is the De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B Right for You?
If you’re still wrestling with the daily dilemma of lacklustre coffee or the ever-increasing cost of café visits, it’s a problem that genuinely affects your daily routine and enjoyment. Investing in a quality bean-to-cup coffee machine like the De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B can profoundly improve your mornings and overall coffee experience.
This De’Longhi automatic espresso machine is an excellent fit for solving that problem for several key reasons. Firstly, its integrated grinder and 15-bar pump ensure a consistently fresh and robust espresso base. Secondly, the customisable settings allow you to tailor every cup to your exact preferences, from strength to temperature. Finally, while it requires manual milk frothing, this feature provides creative control for those who appreciate crafting their milky beverages. It’s a reliable, user-friendly, and capable machine that brings true coffee pleasure home.
To learn more about the De’Longhi ECAM 21.117 B and see if it’s the right choice for your kitchen, Click here to check the product out.