The De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM3300 – Can It Make A Good Espresso For You? Or Latte?

The De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM 3300 Super Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine is a compact espresso machine that allows you to brew professional, barista-level espresso and coffee beverages with a Starbucks-like experience in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Credit: De’Longhi

So, is the Magnifica ESAM3300 espresso machine truly worth it?

We’ll review the Magnifica Coffee Machine in detail, examining its features, reviews, pros, cons, so you can decide if it’s a good fit for you.

If you’re in a hurry and just want to see it on Amazon now, you can see it here with current pricing, discounts, and extended warranty options.

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Use the table of contents below to go to any part of this review or just read through all of it.

Quick Summary of the De’Longhi Magnifica Espresso Machine Review

From brewing espresso to latte drinks, the De’Longhi ESAM 3300 allows you to craft anything and everything you’d like! De’Longhi’s direct-to-brew system and Thermo block technology have an excellent heat distribution system that helps you prepare exceptionally aromatic espresso with simply a touch of a button.

Credit: De’Longhi

Before we take a deep dive, we can skim quickly through the pros and cons for anyone who is looking to make a quick and urgent decision about the ESAM 3300.

Pros

What are some of the features that give the De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM 3300 an edge? Let’s explore them together

• Compact Size

A super compact machine that measures only 11.o inches x 15.3 inches 14.4 inches. Not just that, but it’s a machine with a simple and modern look. In fact, if you just took a cursory look at the machine, you wouldn’t expect it to do as much as it does.

• Easy to Make Multiple Types of Drinks

You can make milk-based drinks, cappuccino, espresso, and Americano thanks to the programmable menu settings. You can select the cup sizes, the strength of your coffee, and the auto on/off system settings.

• Dual Boiler

With two boilers, you can make two different types of espresso or coffee drinks, that require different temperatures, at the same time, rather than having to do one at a time as you do with a single boiler.

• Descaling

Descaling is made easier because of the removable, dishwasher-safe parts.

Cons

Despite being a machine with outstanding features, there are a few aspects that could use some improvements. Does it mean you shouldn’t purchase the Magnifica? Not necessarily, it depends on what is most important to you.

• Cup Warmer

The cup pre-warmer tray on the top of the machine doesn’t warm cups enough for some.

• No Water Filter

The water tank is not equipped to attach a water filter. This means you will have to set the correct water hardness yourself by using distilled water.

• Machine Build

Because of its relatively compact size, the Magnifica 3300 is made of plastic, including the drip tray and the bar hopper and it doesn’t have an LCD display.

• Loud Grinder

Don’t get us wrong, the conical burr grinder is good and provides precise grinds for each setting, but it is loud. It is definitely not a quiet burr grinder, but loud like a lot of other professional espresso makers are.

• Short Warranty

The De’Longhi warranty only lasts for 2 years, not long enough for a complex espresso-cappuccino machine. We recommend buying an extended warranty (see Amazon links below or above) as long as you can get.

See the Magnifica again on Amazon here with the current extended warranty options.

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Detailed Review Of The De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM3300

Now we cover the Magnifica ESAM3300 in more detail.

Features

There are certain features of the Magnifica ESAM3300 that deserve to be discussed in detail. Whether it’s to maintain them or relish in their ease of use.

Grinder

The ESAM3300 has a professional burr grinder with 13 adjustable grind settings.

You can grind fresh beans or use pre-ground coffee in the second chamber from the coffee grounds container.

Credit: De’Longhi

The machine also allows a pre-ground coffee bypass where you can choose to not use the beans from the burr grinder. Use the lift-up hatch near the warming tray to add in your own ground beans, no more than 1 scoop in the provided De’Longhi coffee scoop.

Control Panel

Instead of the regular LED display that most espresso machines offer, this “super automatic” espresso machine has a digital control panel that lets you adjust the menu settings for a wide range of options: temperature, coffee strength, and cup size.

Credit: De’Longhi

The programmable menu settings also allow you to change the shot system features. Basically, you can select between one or two shots and the machine will automatically adjust.

Patented Cappuccino System and Steam Wand

The Magnifica ESAM3300 is equipped with a cappuccino system using a steam wand to create foam for your cup of cappuccino.

The steam wand has a plastic sheath over the steel pipe, so you can clean it easily.

The machine manual instructs warns not to use fresh whole milk with the wand, so make sure to consider that.

Double Boiler System

The ESAM3300 features two stainless steel boilers through which you can make espresso and cappuccino at the same time because you can brew and steam milk simultaneously.

You can’t do this with a single boiler machine. You would have to wait between the two processes for the temperature to adjust.

Hot Water Spout

Not everyone is a hardcore coffee and espresso lover. Sometimes you may prefer a hot chocolate or tea and this water spout lets you do that.

Water Tank

The espresso machine has a water tank capacity of 60 oz or 1.8 L.

However, it is not equipped with a built-in water filter so keep in mind that you will have to descale regularly or use purified water.

Milk Frother

Frothing milk is made easy through the manual milk frother that mixes the steam and milk for you through the wand.

What We Love

Direct-to-Brew System

The ESAM3300 is equipped with a conical burr that grinds coffee beans and uses the brewing system to directly brew it. The ThermoBlock technology further enhances the coffee quality by distributing heat.

Using the pre-ground coffee bypass, you can get use your favorite ground coffee alternatively.

Removable Parts

Almost every part of the ESAM3300 is removable. This makes cleaning and maintenance extremely easy.

For instance, you can change the beans by removing the bean containers. In other machines, you’d have to go through all coffee beans before changing anything.

You can also easily remove and easily clean the drip tray, brew unit, and water tank.

The best part is that you can access all these parts from the front of the machine for easier access, and with ease of access you should be able to keep your Magnifica ESAM3300 clean and less likely to malfunction.

Quick Heating

Don’t fall for its small size, this machine heats quickly, even the milk frother.

You can also adjust the temperature settings.

Moreover, the Magnifica ESAM3300 is equipped with an instant reheat function to ensure your coffee stays warm as the brewing and the steaming cycle finish.

Adjustable Spigot

You can easily adjust the spigot height according to your cup size to prevent overpour spills and other espresso mishaps.

Cleaning & Maintenance

We’ve already discussed how the removable brewing unit, drip trays, and other parts allow you to clean the Delonghi Magnifica easily.

But we’ll tell you exactly how beneficial it is.

You can simply remove the brew group from the front to rinse it.

You can also remove the drip tray. What’s more, you can remove the used coffee puck drawer with the tray and empty it. A warning light will alert you after 14 brew cycles that it needs to be emptied.

Moreover, since the De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM3300 espresso machines aren’t fitted with a water filter, De’Longhi instead provides a water hardness test strip. a “Total Hardness Test”. You then set the machine to match the hardness level (4 levels) indicated on the strip. The ESAM3300 will then alert you when you should descale your machine based on the level of hardness – and make sure that you do, it will prolong the life of your machine.

Customer Reviews

Customers review the De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM3300 very highly overall. With that said there are some recurring themes in customer reviews that we’ve noted below.

Design

Some reviewers say that the stainless steel elegance of a barista grade machine is missed, but it makes up for it with its top-notch features in a compact design for the price.

Credit: De’Longhi

Coffee Quality

Many customers believe that the Magnifica ESAM3300 is best at making espresso.

It’s true that you can’t compare it to a barista preparing a coffee from the manual coffee machine, but you also can’t compare the convenience and the coffee quality you get in with the ESAM 3300.

Miscellaneous

Some customer reviews mentioned that they ran into problems with the machine producing crema because of water pressure pump issues.

Also, some consumers faced problems with the milk frother. The Panarello steam wand was found to pull in too much air but could be fixed by blocking the small air inlet hole.

Additionally, since the De’Longhi Magnifica doesn’t use a water filter, some reviewers worry that calcification can build up. For this reason, you will need to use the included water hardness testing strip to set the machine to alert you for descaling based on your water’s hardness. Alternatively, you can use purified water to avoid sediments in unfiltered water.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced automated espresso machine that can make the full range of espresso and coffee drinks, then the De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM3300 may be your best option.

Credit: De’Longhi

The integrated burr grinder, a bean hopper, and automated settings allow you to quickly go from whole beans to simultaneous pours of espresso and frothy lattes from your kitchen with few buttons and some limited steam wand handling.

However, as discussed above, the De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM 3300 has a warranty that’s only 2 years long, so make sure that you buy an extended warranty if you can for a long as you can.

See the De’Longhi ESAM 3300 on Amazon here with the current price, and discounts, and (important) extended warranty options.

New Kitchen Life is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

FAQs

How long does De’Longhi Magnifica last?

The De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM3300 is known to last from 3 to 5 years. These machines have to withstand the taxing process of brewing. However, you may extend its life even beyond this range with regular cleaning and descaling.

Also, make sure you cover yourself by buying an extended warranty beyond the 2 year warranty provided by De’Longhi.

Is De’Longhi Magnifica a good brand?

De’longhi machines are well-known for building solid espresso machines, including the Magnifica ESAM3300, with its high brew quality, features, and programmable settings is part of that De’Longhi heritage

It’s definitely a good brand, especially for the price.

How to Clean the De’Longhi Magnifica?

You can clean all of the removable parts of the Delonghi Magnifica easily.

Once the descaling light flashes, you know it’s time to run the program. Fill the water tank with the recommended solution till it reaches 34 oz. and dispenses. Rinse, refill, and repeat once the descaling warning light is lit again.

If you want to go for a thorough clean, you can do so by removing the screws.

The best thing is that the Magnifica coffee machine is reliable and you could make quick repairs on the off chance that anything goes wrong.

What is the Difference between De’Longhi ESAM and ECAM and ETAM?

The Delonghi ECAM series uses a single boiler system to heat the water and is equipped with Rapid Steam Technology so that can get your boiler steamed up within 10 seconds. They also weigh slightly less than the ESAM and ETAM series.

Also, the ETAM is also the most expensive model of these 3 series with Doppio technology, stylish buttons and display panels while the ESAM is the least expensive, high-value series.

For the most important parts, such as the brewing system and milk frothers, all the series allow you to make two cups of coffee at the same time with their dual spouts. Similarly, you could also use ground coffee, roasted beans, and access to the 13-system grinder and 15-bar pressure pump all the same.

Comparing Delonghi Magnifica to Other Products

Magnifica is a brilliant machine for whoever needs a straightforward machine. It’s definitely the only superautomatic machine on the market at this price point, but there are other machines you could take a look at if you want more customization with your coffee.

Phillips 3200 Fully Automated Machine with Milk Frother

The Phillips is a fully automated machine that features a ceramic burr grinder – for those who prefer one (see our review of the Phillips 3200 here where we review the best automatic espresso machines). It has single and double shot settings and also features a 15 bar pump pressure with a 12-setting grinder.

Unlike the Magnifica, it has a touch screen display.

The Phillips allows you to make espresso, hot water, Americano, and the Espresso Lungo coffees with their machine.

Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine

The Breville Barista is a stainless steel super automatic machine and includes other features such as a milk frother, a ThermoCoil Heating system (see our detailed review of the Breville Barista Express here).

Its manual microform milk texturing ability features a powerful steam wand.

Moreover, it has a dose-control grinding feature to grind directly into the portafilter. The grinder also has 12 adjustable settings.

However, compared to Magnifica, only the water tank is removable.

The Breville Barista Touch

The Breville Barista Touch is also another option to consider in this general price range but is a semi-automatic espresso machine. See our review of the Breville Barista Touch in our review of the Best Breville Espresso Machines here.

Its parts are high quality, and it allows you detailed settings that a creative coffee lover would be excited about.

It also has an LCD display, steam wand and many other features.

Though, it is definitely more expensive than the Magnifica.

Buying Guide

The Magnifica isn’t a machine that anyone can or should buy. There are specific features that would attract certain people and we’ll list them down for you so you can decide which category you fall in.

Who Should Buy the De’Longhi Magnifica

You should definitely go for this espresso machine if …

• If You Are Price Sensitive

You’d never expect this kind of espresso machine to be relatively low priced.

This coffee maker, though, offers you great value for money. Its price is similar to a semi-automatic espresso machine but gives you super automatic machine features! If you’re a coffee lover on a budget, this is heaven for you!

• If You’re A Coffee Lover

If you’ve caught yourself fantasizing about your own barista-style, Starbucks machine at the comfort of your own house, you don’t have to daydream further!

Grab yourself this Delonghi machine and live out all your dreams.

• If You Like Convenience

Prepare an espresso with creamy froth, a delicious cappuccino, or a hot chocolate with the touch of a single button!

This machine also makes descaling a breeze with dishwasher-safe, removable parts.

Who Shouldn’t Buy the Delonghi Magnifica

You shouldn’t opt for this espresso machine if …

• If You’re Not a Coffee Enthusiast

If you’re not someone who would want this wide range of features, you should perhaps opt for a semi-automatic machine with an even lesser sticker price.

• If You Prefer A Specific Grinder

This espresso machine has a conical burr grinder. In commercial settings, a ceramic burr grinder is usually preferred and if you’d prefer that, then you should opt for another machine.

• If You Like More Control in Brewing Process

If you want to channel your inner artist and control the shots yourself, then you should not opt for this machine. some other machines, such as a Breville machine would allow you to customize your espresso shots to your taste.

Tips to Use the De’Longhi Magnifica Espresso Machine

People purchase their espresso machines but end up not using them to their full potential. Follow these tips to ensure that you use the De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM3300 to its full potential and use all the features it offers.

• Read the user manual of the ESAM3300, it’s not long. It outlines the possible difficulties you might run into and the best practices to use the coffee maker.
• Make sure to clean the Delonghi Magnifica regularly. Let’s admit it, we’re all a tad bit lazy when it comes to cleaning these machines. Luckily for you, they’re easy to clean. Use the descaling program to clean the machine carefully. If the machine is not cleaned properly, it will definitely effect that cappuccino system you’ve paid the price for.
• Make sure to use good-quality coffee grounds for the best flavor. And if you’re someone who prefers oily beans – you should clean more frequently, since oily beans basically clog your grinder and other parts of your machine. Moreover, the grinder is made of plastic which would be difficult to clean if oily beans are used. You can mix them with dry beans, though, and opt for a medium roast instead.

De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM3300 Fact Sheet and Specs

• Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 14 inches
• Warranty: 2 years
• Watts: 1350 W
• Weight: 27.7 lbs
• Type: Super-Automatic Espresso Machine
• Removable Brew Group: Yes
• Casing Material: Plastic Black
• Milk Frothing System: Manual
• Display: No
• Water Tank Capacity: 60 oz
• Grinder: Cone Grinder
• Bean Container Capacity: 0.4 lb
• Grinding: 13 levels
• Hot Water function
• Hot Milk Function
• Water Filter: No
• Obtain milk foam only
• Dose Size Selector: 8 sizes
• No temperature control
• Bypass Doser