Italian De'Longhi EC155 Pump Espresso Machine Review

If your espresso tastes more like burnt rubber than chocolate and caramel, the problem might not be espresso itself — it’s likely the brew. Most bitterness comes from over-extraction or over-roasting, not the drink. Even Italy’s darkest roasts, which develop rich caramelisation, should finish with a touch of sweetness, not harshness. But when roasting goes too far or extraction runs too long, carbonisation and bitterness creep in.

The quick answer? The De’Longhi EC155 is a 15-bar pump espresso machine that makes decent home espressos and cappuccinos, thanks to its durable build, 1L removable water tank, and dual temperature controls. At 929 yuan (about $130), it’s a solid entry-level choice for making authentic-style espresso at home.

What Is the De’Longhi EC155?

The De’Longhi EC155 is a pump-driven semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home use. It’s made with a metal top panel, control interface, and stainless steel boiler, which contribute to its solid construction. The machine includes a commercial-style 15-bar pressure pump — a standard in espresso brewing — and is built to maintain consistent performance right out of the box.

Every unit is factory-tested for pump and water pressure reliability. That means you’re not just getting a budget machine; you’re getting one that’s been checked to work as intended. Its design prioritises durability and ease of use, especially for beginners exploring espresso at home.

Key Features of the EC155

The EC155 is built around making espresso and milk drinks conveniently and consistently. Here are its main functional features:

• 15-bar pump pressure: Industry-standard pressure for extracting espresso with a rich crema.
• 1-litre removable water tank: Large enough for multiple shots and easy to clean.
• Continuous heating system: Keeps the machine ready to brew without long warm-up waits.
• Dual thermostats: Separate controls for water and steam temperatures, aiding better shot and milk froth consistency.
• Adjustable steam wand: Lets you froth milk with varying levels of foam intensity.
• Integrated coffee tamper: A built-in, one-touch coffee press for compacting grounds in the portafilter.
• “Italian Espresso System”: A marketing term for its steam, air, and milk integration that aims to produce creamy foam for cappuccinos.

These features combine to deliver a user-friendly experience, particularly for those new to home espresso. The separate temperature regulators help manage both brew and steam temps — important factors in dialling in espresso and milk drinks.

Why Bitter Espresso Happens (And How to Avoid It)

Espresso gets a bad rap for being bitter, but that’s usually due to mistakes in brewing or roasting — not the drink style itself. Italy’s traditional dark roasts undergo heavy Maillard reactions, turning beans deep brown and caramelised. When done right, these roasts taste rich, sweet, and complex, often with a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness. But if the roast goes too far, the beans carbonise, leading to unpleasant, acrid flavours.

Similarly, extraction matters. A proper espresso shot should take around 25 seconds from start to finish, depending on dose, grind size, and tamp pressure. Over-extracting — pulling too long or grinding too fine — pulls out unwanted bitter compounds. The EC155 gives you control over these variables, though you’ll need to dial in grind size and dose yourself.

Keep in mind: bitterness isn’t inherent to espresso or dark roasts. With the right beans, grind, and technique, even a budget machine like the EC155 can produce balanced, enjoyable shots.

Using the De’Longhi EC155 at Home

To get the best results from the EC155, follow these basic steps:

• Use freshly roasted, medium to dark roast beans suited for espresso.
• Grind your beans to a fine consistency (similar to table salt), adjusting based on shot time.
• Dose around 18–20g of coffee into the portafilter and tamp evenly using the built-in tamper.
• Brew a shot aiming for a 25–30 second extraction, yielding roughly 30–40ml (1–1.5oz) of espresso.
• Steam milk using the adjustable steam wand to create microfoam for cappuccinos or lattes.

The 1L water tank is easy to refill and clean, which helps maintain brewing quality. Regular descaling and cleaning of the portafilter, group head, and steam wand will keep the machine performing well over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the De’Longhi EC155 good for beginners?

Yes, the EC155 is considered a good entry-level espresso machine. It includes essential features like a 15-bar pump, adjustable steam wand, and dual thermostats, plus a built-in coffee tamper. It’s straightforward enough for new users while offering enough control to improve with practice.

What kind of coffee beans work best in the EC155?

The EC155 performs best with freshly roasted medium to dark espresso beans. Medium-dark roasts often yield a balanced flavour, while darker roasts can produce richer, more intense cups. Avoid stale or pre-ground coffee for the best extraction and crema.

Does the EC155 make good crema?

With the correct grind size, fresh beans, and proper tamping, the EC155 can produce a decent crema. The 15-bar pump provides adequate pressure, though crema quality also depends on bean freshness and roast level.

How do I make a cappuccino with the EC155?

Brew a shot of espresso using the EC155, then use the steam wand to froth cold milk until it develops microfoam. Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon at first, then topping with a small amount of foam. The steam wand is adjustable for controlling foam texture.

Is the EC155 worth the price?

At around 929 yuan (approximately $130), the EC155 is an affordable option for home espresso. It’s not commercial-grade but offers solid features for the price, including a metal body, pump pressure, and steam capability. It’s a good value for beginners or casual home baristas.

Where can I buy the De’Longhi EC155?

The De’Longhi EC155 is available from major retailers including JD.com in China. International buyers may find it on global marketplaces or through authorised De’Longhi dealers.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee Blends for Espresso

For use with the De’Longhi EC155, FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend is an ideal starting point. Designed specifically for espresso and moka pots, it delivers rich crema and a smooth, well-balanced profile with outstanding body. For a more intense, budget-friendly option, the Black Cocoa Blend offers bold flavours with deep cocoa notes and a velvety mouthfeel, perfect for milk drinks. Both blends are optimised for home espresso machines and help you get the most from budget equipment. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.