Overview
The DeLonghi EC155 was one of the most popular entry-level espresso machines ever produced, serving as the gateway into home espresso for millions of beginners worldwide. Its appeal was simple: genuine espresso brewing at an astonishingly low price, with a dual-function filter holder that accepted both ground coffee and ESE pods for maximum convenience. The 15-bar Italian-made pump generated more than enough pressure for extraction, while the thermoblock heating system reached brewing temperature quickly without the long warm-up times of traditional boiler machines. The pressurized portafilter with a self-tamping mechanism was forgiving of grind inconsistencies, producing passable espresso even with pre-ground supermarket coffee — heresy to purists but perfect for beginners discovering their preferences. A Panarello-style frothing wand made cappuccinos and lattes achievable with minimal milk-steaming skill. The compact footprint fit easily on crowded countertops. While discontinued in its original form, the EC155 legacy lives on in its successors, and used units remain highly sought after for their reliability and simplicity. For the absolute beginner who just wants to make espresso drinks at home without investment or complexity, the EC155 proved that the barrier to entry could be remarkably low.
It features a thermoblock boiler system. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction. It uses a Proprietary group head.
Priced at $100, the DeLonghi EC155 is designed for budget-conscious beginners and casual coffee drinkers. As a semi-automatic machine, it gives you control over the brewing process while handling pressure and temperature automatically.
In terms of build quality, the DeLonghi EC155 is a substantial machine, weighing in at 4.2 kg, manufactured in Italy, drawing 1100W of power. With dimensions of 190 x 240 x 300 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 1000 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Manufactured in Italy, known for quality espresso machine engineering
- Well-regarded in the home espresso community for its reliability in its price bracket
Cons
- No PID temperature control — requires temperature surfing for consistent results
- Thermoblock heating may not match the temperature stability of traditional boiler designs
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
- Non-standard 51mm portafilter limits third-party basket and accessory options
- Panarello steam wand limits microfoam quality compared to a traditional commercial wand
Full Specifications
| Brand | De'Longhi |
|---|---|
| Model | DeLonghi EC155 |
| Category | Semi-Auto |
| Status | Discontinued |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Year Introduced | 2010 |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | No |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Proprietary |
| Portafilter Diameter | 51 mm |
| Steam Wand | Panarello |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 1000 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 190 x 240 x 300 mm |
| Weight | 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1100 W |
| Voltage | 120V |
| MSRP | $100 |
Our Verdict
The DeLonghi EC155 from De'Longhi is a capable machine in its category. At this entry-level price point, it offers a solid introduction to home espresso. Remember that the grinder matters at least as much as the machine — budget accordingly. Consider your workflow needs (straight espresso vs. milk drinks), counter space, and grinder pairing when making your final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DeLonghi EC155 good for beginners?
The DeLonghi EC155 is a solid entry point for beginners at $100. It's affordable enough to learn on without a major financial commitment. Pair it with a capable grinder and you'll be making genuine espresso quickly.
How often does the DeLonghi EC155 need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder should I pair with the DeLonghi EC155?
At this price point, budget at least as much for a grinder as the machine itself. Popular choices include the Eureka Mignon series ($200-$400), Baratza Sette 270 ($300-$400), or a hand grinder like the 1Zpresso JX Pro ($160) for excellent grind quality on a budget.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the DeLonghi EC155
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level: