De’Longhi and Breville are absolute giants in the espresso manufacturing industry. Both of them earned popularity for offering quality home espresso machines for many decades. So, choosing between them, luckily for all of us is a win-win situation. Both companies have brought high-quality, reliable, and innovative espresso machines to the table. However, the difference-making variations depend on your drinking preference, brewing style, and of course comfortability.
In our De’Longhi Vs. Breville Espresso Machines comparison, we’ve put them head-to-head to dispel your confusion so that you can pick the best one for you all by yourself.
De’Longhi – The Italian Stallion
The iconic Italian company was founded by the De’Longhi family back in 1902. It was set up as a small industrial part of a manufacturing workshop. From 1950, it was a major producer of portable heaters and air conditioners in Italy. The company slowly expanded to include nearly every type of small household appliance involving food preparation, cooking, and cleaning.
The company to this day is run by the billionaire De’Longhi family. They lead an extremely private life, so not much information is available on the internet. The entire De’Longhi operation was controlled from the Vancian city of Treviso in Italy.
De’Longhi products are especially famous for the espresso machines, gelato makers, and the Pinguino portable air conditioners. In 2001, it acquired the British appliance maker Kenwood which gave access to Kenwood’s Chinese factory. Consequently, many of De’Longhi’s products are now imported from its Chinese factory. But its design and engineering works have remained in Italy.
De’Longhi creates unique coffee experiences through its automatic and manual espresso machines. Its machines meet the diverse qualities of coffee lovers around the world thanks to its technology, trademark Italian ergonomics, and the option to customize.
De’Longhi espresso machines are a diverse and long list of releases. It’s hard to understand when put in words. Thus we’ve created a mini chart for you to quickly glance at and grasp.
*Has many releases. But we’ve picked the ones that are the most successful.
**ECAM series accommodates 4.25 inches of coffee cups (max), whereas the ESAM series accommodates 5.5 inches. The ESAM series also comes with dual boilers (for espresso and for steam).
Breville – Pride Of The Down Under
Since its start in Sydney back in 1932, Breville has become an iconic worldwide name. As their kitchen appliances have been impacting modern hectic lifestyles around the world for the better. Always coming up with ergonomic designs and brilliant bonding of innovation and convenience through their products.
Breville’s kitchenware categories include espresso machines, Nespresso machines, ovens, coffee machines, coffee grinders, kettles, tea makers, cookers, food processors, bluicers (blender+juicer), juicers, sous vide, and blenders. Through their semi and full-automatic espresso machines, they’re poised to empower people’s potential to do espresso more impressively and easily in their home comfort.
Breville also has had some extensive releases over the years. For the best understanding, we’ve put another chart below to paint the whole picture.
Key Differences – De’Longhi VS. Breville
Machine Design
Between the 2 brands, Breville over the years is more popular for its ergonomic designs among critics and consumers. The engineers at Breville pay a lot of attention to aesthetic construction as much as performance. Looking in-depth, espresso machines do not about the look only. It’s also important to balance comfortability through design and performance features. When it comes to Delonghi vs Breville espresso machines, Breville has triumphed on this front.
Performance
At similar price points, both brands make delicious espresso-producing machines. Breville compared to De’Longhi, offers more performance features.
De’Longhi unlike Breville machines, usually have double boilers. So frothing and brewing can be done simultaneously with most of the De’Longhi machines. But, Breville machines compensate for this with drink customizations, temperature options, and frothing modes. Meaning, you can fine-tune your drink like never before. They both offer entry-level machines capable of making respectable espresso also.
The bottom line is if you like customization Breville is your choice. If you like fast-quality coffee go for De’Longhi.
Reservoir Capacity
Most consumers like machines with big reservoirs. Because it reduces overall maintenance hassle for the machine.
The reservoir size varies for both Breville and De’Longhi machines depending on the particular model. If you look at the most successful models within the same price range, you’ll notice that Breville machines have larger water tanks. At most, Breville can offer up to 84 oz. water capacity for its machines. So, Delonghi vs Breville espresso machines’ reservoir capacity – Breville offers the most.
Brewing Length
All De’Longhi coffee machines have a strong capacity as well as a quick heating system for quick brewing. On average, a DeLonghi machine needs 20 seconds to make a shot of espresso. For cappuccino, it’s 40 seconds.
Breville machines have the same brewing length. For a single shot of espresso, it’d take only 20 seconds, and around 25 seconds for a double shot.
It’s an amazingly short time, but these lengths do not take in the machine’s heat-up time. All coffee machines need a heat-up time after getting powered on. Heat-up time is an important factor for any espresso machine.
Breville machines have an average heat-up time of 30 seconds whereas De’Longhi machines need 45 seconds. But regardless of the brand, it’s advisable to give an espresso machine 10 – 15 minutes of heat-up time for best results.
Considering the whole brewing length with the quality outcome, between the De’Longhi vs. Breville espresso machines, De’Longhi does better.
Trademark Features
- De’Longhi LatteCrema – This is a unique feature that DeLonghi offers with their machines. It’s a specialized milk jug system that automatically steams milk with perfect temperature and consistency. Also, the jug is detachable, so if you have leftover milk in it, you can put it inside your refrigerator for later use. The steam wand of LatteCrema enables you to perfect texture to create the best possible espresso-based drinks
- Breville PID Technology – Most Breville machines come with their unique PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control feature. Because of PID, a user can digitally control the temperature to deliver water at the precise temperature, ensuring optimal extraction. The water comes up to temperature in just 3 seconds, making it a relatively quick, practical style to use
Required Skills
Part of the reason that both DeLonghi and Breville are popular among users is that both of their machines are very user-friendly. Both of their super-automatic machines come with intuitive touch displays.
On the whole, De’Longhi requires fewer skills. Anyone can pretty much use its programmable system for brewing. Best suited for people who don’t care about barista skills.
Breville machines are loved by coffee enthusiasts who like to do a lot of experiments. Their button interfaces and customizations offer more permutations to the users. So everyone fancies finding his/her niche recipe with Breville.
Space Suitability
Usually, this shouldn’t be a major issue when you think about getting an espresso machine. But, it’s one of those non-vital issues that has popularity behind it. The difference in size and shape are quite notable between these 2 brands.
Breville’s espresso makers are known for their bulky size. So naturally, you’d have to offer more kitchen space to a Breville machine. But thanks to their aesthetics, they’ll look pretty wherever you put them.
On the other hand, De’Longhi machines are known for designing slimmer and lighter espresso machines. So, Delonghi wins on space suitability in the Delonghi vs Breville espresso machine debate.
Daily Maintenance
Taking good care of any espresso machine is absolutely essential to maintain the best drink quality for the longest time. Luckily for us, both De’Longhi and Breville models offer self-cleaning options; especially the full and super-automatic models. At the same time, both brands have removable components, which make it easy for the users to repair and replace if necessary.
Both DeLonghi and Breville machines have an auto-rinse function. Both brands offer separate alert signals that act like a descaling reminder to the user. Additionally, De’Longhi machines also come with an auto-cleaning system for the milk carafe.
Other than a brand-recommended descaling solution, you can also safely use a water and vinegar solution for both DeLonghi and Breville machines.
When it comes to cleaning the exterior, Breville machines are harder to clean. Because of their complex design and brushed stainless steel material. But that extra effort will be rewarding when you’ll see that Breville models are pre-equipped with a water filter. This means that the descaling is a rare occurrence with them.
Price
In general, a De’Longhi compared to a Breville machine with similar features will cost less. Regardless of series and type, this will be the case. So, if you’re shopping on a tight budget, we recommend looking at a De’Longhi first.
Summarizing The Breville VS. De’Longhi Debate
Breville machines are best suitable for:
- Who prefers a larger water reservoir
- Someone who drinks espresso-based drinks only
- More control over the outcome of your espresso
- Who values design and ergonomic aspects for his/her coffee machine
De’Longhi machines are best suitable for:
- Prioritizes kitchen space
- Someone who prefers preset recipe-based espresso
- Wanting barista-grade milk texture for his/her espresso
- Those who’re looking for “best value for the money”- type espresso machine
Comparing Nespresso Machines By De’Longhi And Breville
When it comes to Nespresso machines made by Breville and DeLonghi, both are overall easy to use and produce quality espressos. Since both follow a common Nespresso blueprint on these machines, it’s very difficult to compare on a larger scale.
Before diving into differences, let’s clear out the similarities between their Nespresso machines.
- Both brands use the same “Centrifusion” technology to puncture and brew the capsules
- Thanks to barcode-enabled Nespresso capsules, machines can auto-adjust the settings before extraction for the perfect brew
- Moreover, both brands offer removable water tanks, meaning they’re easy to clean and maintain
Away from the similarities, there are a few differences that may sway you to choose the best one.
The insides of the machines are all the same, but the 1st difference is the exterior body works between them.
Nespresso machines manufactured by Breville, tend to be more square-like designs. On the other hand, the Delonghi applies a more rounded top with a more extensive range of colors. If you notice closely, the De’Longhi models take up more counter space than the Breville models.
Both brands produce the same tasting Nespresso coffee. But, from time to time, some models do slightly bigger or smaller water reservoirs. Also, they also can offer different drink sizes. But none of these differences are deal-breakers.
Some De’Longhi machines offer a bigger 60 oz. water tank compared to a standard 40 oz. option. The Breville Bundle series comes with the Aeroccino 3 milk frother. Some Breville Nespresso models also offer bigger used capsule containers.
Comparing The Popular De’Longhi And Breville Models
De’Longhi La Specialista VS. Breville Barista Pro: Comparison Chart
The build quality of La Specialist is lower when compared to that of Breville. Far harder, brittle, cheaper plastic is used on the tamper, portafilter handle, and bean hopper. The Barista Pro, on the other hand, is well-built and makes a great addition to any kitchen counter.
The Barista Pro’s LCD screen display is easy for all. It also serves as a guide during customizations and brewing. The user interface on the La Specialista isn’t as intuitive but has clear instructional dials and buttons. It’s a traditional design that needs a bit of getting used to.
Breville’s unique ThermoJet heating system is highly effective. Water only takes 3 seconds to heat up. But Breville Pro is a single heater, used both for extracting and steaming. The De’Longhi machine offers dual boiler heating systems. So, overall brewing and steaming are simultaneous and require less time.
Barista Pro espresso machines feature a conical burr grinder with 30 settings. La Specialista has only 5 grind steps. So, with Barista Pro, you can have more accurate and efficient grinds.
The La Specialista has self-contained grinding and auto-tamping with a press of the lever. The Barista is more traditional in this aspect and works with a basic manual tamper.
This De’Longhi machine allows 2 adjustable water temperature modes. Compared to Breville’s PID technology, it falls short. The Barista Pro PID technology regulates extraction temperature like a high-end commercial machine and it’s consistent too!
De’Longhi Magnifica VS. Breville Barista Express: Comparison Chart
Both are great espresso machines that have their own great features. Breville vs Delonghi comparisons surrounding these two are the most because both of them are mid-range champions.
The most noticeable difference between them is the technology. De’Longhi Magnifica is a full-automatic machine. Allowing bean grinding, froth control, and drink strength – all with a push of a button. You can adjust spout height with it, unlike Barista Express. It’s an inexpensive dual boiler machine; it’s fast, convenient, easy to use, and master for all.
Barista Express, on the other hand, is a semi-automatic machine. You can customize it according to your preferences. The Barista Express has an advantage when it comes to temp control with its trademark PID technology. This function automatically adjusts the water temperature. Another advantage is the overall capacity as Barista Express has a bigger reservoir and bean hopper than the Magnifica. This Breville is lighter and aesthetically more pleasing.
It’s ultimately your choice here. All we can say is that Magnifica is a popular full-automatic choice whereas Barista Express is a popular semi-automatic choice.
You May Be Interested In: Delonghi La Specialista Vs. Breville Barista Express.
De’Longhi Lattissima VS. Breville Creatista Plus: Comparison Chart
Although these machines fall in a Nespresso category, it’s more like a collaboration between Breville (with Creatista Plus) and De’Longhi (with Lattissima Pro). Meaning, these machines had freedom from the engineers and falls into a unique category.
These machines have different milk systems. The Creatista uses a smart steam wand with a temperature sensor. You can choose from 11 milk temperatures for the frothing. The machine steams and pours automatically and the foam quality is worthy of latte art.
In contrast, the Lattissima Pro uses a fully automatic milk frother that needs no intervention from the user. The frother works to your selected volume and density inputs.
Lattissima Pro can’t produce true barista-quality microfoam. But the Creatista Plus can make really good barista-quality microfoam.
Creatista Plus is very good for you if, you prefer good frothing over your coffee. On the other hand, the Lattissima Pro is good for plug-and-play style milk drinks every day. Also, it does quality drinks with foam adjustability.
Nespresso Essenza Mini By De’Longhi And Breville: Comparison Chart
| Features | Essenza Mini By De’Longhi | Essenza Mini By Breville |
|---|---|---|
| Dimension (W x D x H inches) | 11 x 20.5 x 32.5 | 3.3 x 12.9 x 8 |
| Water Tank (oz.) | 0.6 | 20.3 |
| Weight (lbs.) | 2.3 | 5.1 |
| Heat-up Time (seconds) | 25 | 25 |
| Power (Watts) | 1150 | 1255 |
| Capsule Capacity | 6 | 6 |
The Nespresso Essenza Mini model is manufactured by both De’Longhi and Breville (in the US). In the UK, they are manufactured by Krups and Magimix. Like most Nespresso machines manufactured by them, the specifications do remain the same. The key contrast lies in the design.
Essenza Mini’s design by Delonghi is more traditional. It’s a boxy body shape and is only available in 2 colors – pure white and piano black.
On the other hand, Essenza Mini made by Breville has a curvy exterior with rounded edges. Available in bold colors – black, lime, and red.
A key comparison between these two is the water capacity. Breville offers a bigger tank compared to the De’Longhi model. It’s not much but saves you the refilling hassle. Thus, the Breville model overall weighs 2 times more than De’Longhi’s too.
FAQs
Which one between Breville and De’Longhi is better?
DeLonghi machines are cheaper but Breville machines have more features for a great cup of espresso. De’Longhi is perfect for those who want a trouble-free good quality coffee. For the best of the best with their espresso machines, Breville is one of the leading choices.
Are Breville machines made in China?
Yes, they are. But they’re designed and engineered in Australia.
Who owns De’Longhi?
De’Longhi Industrial S.A. It’s based in Treviso, Italy.
Is Breville worth your money?
Yes, it’s worth it to anyone who is ready to take their espresso-making skills to the next level.
Does De’Longhi own Nespresso?
No. De’Longhi is a 3rd party manufacturer of Nespresso capsule machines. Just like Breville, Krups, and Magimix.
Wrapping Up
Ultimately, we believe in consumer independence. The point of this article is to bring all the necessary information to you. So that at any given moment you’d be able to make an informed choice between these two powerhouse brands. Regarding Breville vs. De’longhi, it’s completely up to you to come to a decisive conclusion. After all, it’s your coffee, your machine, and so be it your likeness.
Please note though, if you have a larger budget and less time in hand at home, you’ll be better off with a Breville machine. On the other hand, if you’re new, or you’re passionate about barista skills, De’Longhi is the choice for you. On average, De’Longhi machines are less costly too!
Regardless of your choice, you’ll be getting a high-quality, reliable espresso machine between these two.
