Delonghi Dinamica automatic coffee maker: full review
Delonghi returned to the forefront last October with its brand new series of automatic machines with grinders. The latter ensures “performance, commitment and simplicity” according to the manufacturer.
Presentation of the Dinamica automatic coffee maker range from Delonghi
The Dinamica range from Delonghi offers an excellent compromise between the technological monster of the PrimaDonna Elite and the smallest model that represents the Autentica Cappucino. The Dinamica family offers 9 models with a price starting at 599€ for the automatic machine FEB 3535.SB. All the automatic machines in the range are equipped with a grinder. Moreover, from the entry-level model, the customer will be able to enjoy a fairly complete machine, with an easy-to-use control panel and access to the My Menu option to customize drinks. As they move up the range, customers will also be able to enjoy an LCD screen.
The rest of the features will depend on the model. For example, the pressure will vary between 15 bars for the most accessible models and 19 bars for the models costing 1000€ and more.
On the other hand, all the robots in the range weigh 9.5 kilos. Consequently, the water tank is also identical to all the products with a 1.8 liter tank. The same goes for the bean container, which has a capacity of 300 grams regardless of the automatic machine. We would have liked to have two bean containers rather than one to increase the variety of tastes, especially on the more expensive models. To choose the degree of fineness of the grind, it is possible to change it on several levels. What was a defect on the Saeco GranBaristo Avanti has since been corrected. Indeed, the adjustment wheel is easy to access because it is no longer necessary to remove the beans from the container to turn it.
Finally, all models offer two dispensing nozzles to prepare two coffees simultaneously. The water tank is located on the right side of the machine. It is removed from the machine by sliding it gently towards you. It comes with a filter cartridge, which purists will appreciate since limescale can negatively influence the taste of coffee.
A similar design with an emphasis on simplicity
In terms of design, the 9 models are almost identical with similar material choices. The matte plastic finish is really attractive and robust, especially since the materials are not subject to fingerprints. The least we can say is that it gives a feeling of robustness and quality through time.
The ergonomics of the range are perfectly well thought out. Unlike some machines that require space to access the different sections of the machine, here it will be much easier. For example, by moving the cup holder to the front, you can quickly remove the coffee grounds collection tray and the drip tray. The on/off button is also positioned on the face of the top of the machine, rather than the back, which is more convenient and a positive.
The front panel is relatively uncluttered, highlighting the touch control panel and touch screen if the machine has one. Moreover, the icons of the keys are immediately recognizable, as on all automatic machines.
Rich programs
The buttons on the front panel allow the user to choose from several coffee varieties including espresso, traditional coffee, long coffee and doppio+. It is also worth noting that the coffee temperature can be set to different levels directly in the machine’s settings. Coffee purists, on the other hand, will have to settle for a single temperature for all procedures. The customization options of this machine are therefore quite rich but still seem a bit more limited than those of the Delonghi PrimaDonna Elite, which allows you to customize recipes according to distinct profiles.
Milk lovers may be disappointed by the entry-level model because it lacks an insulated milk carafe and a cup-warmer tray. On the other hand, it does have a steam nozzle that can be dipped into a container of milk to boil it and create foam.
This approach is much less practical than a specific carafe-type milk container. In fact, it only allows you to prepare milk drinks on rare occasions. Therefore, we do not recommend Dinamica’s entry-level machines to milk drink enthusiasts.
Very simple maintenance
The maintenance of the different models of the range are automated and the user is guided through each step. The LCD panel is useful for the maintenance of the machine because it alerts the user when it is time to descale the machine, change the filter cartridge or empty the coffee grounds container, among others. In addition, the nozzles are rinsed as soon as the machine is turned on, which is more than convenient.
The removable parts (cup tray, water tank and coffee grounds container) are easy to disassemble and reassemble. While all of these components are dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended to prolong their life.
Overall, the Delonghi Dinamica range does not disappoint and is recommended, with a very good quality of service and better preparation times than most of the competitors’ products. Starting the machine, preheating, rinsing the nozzles and pouring the coffee take a little less than 1 minute and 30 seconds. Removing the steps specific to the first cup, it takes just 30 seconds to prepare the second coffee.
Moreover, the models in the range are very quiet, with one of the quietest coffee machines never exceeding 70 db.
However, we do not recommend the entry-level model to milk lovers, for whom the machine will not be fully adapted to the needs of customers.