DeLonghi ECP3630 Review: Should You Buy One Today

In this article, we're reviewing the DeLonghi ECP3630 manual espresso and cappuccino machine. We'll discuss the machine's features and why this espresso maker is an excellent device to consider if you're looking to buy one.

You'll find a review of the pros and cons of the DeLonghi ECP3630 espresso machine as well as how this machine measures up overall. We'll rate this manual espresso and cappuccino maker on the following: design/build quality, ease of use, features, and value for money to help you decide whether this is the suitable model for you.

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Company Overview

Before we talk about the product, we think that it's worthwhile to talk about the company that manufactures it.

DeLonghi has been making espresso machines since they launched their first product in 1990. With its origins in Italy, it's no surprise that this company takes its espresso beverages seriously. 

On their website, DeLonghi states that they are "driven to create quality coffee espresso machines, small cooking appliances, and home comfort appliances, so you always live well at home."

In June 2016, DeLonghi announced a partnership with Nespresso, making them a third-party manufacturer for Nespresso coffee machines. DeLonghi products are compatible with the brand's pods allowing for future brand crossover.

DeLonghi offers three different types of espresso machines, each serving different needs. The three categories of espresso machines that DeLonghi creates are automatic coffee and espresso/cappuccino machines, manual espresso/cappuccino machines, and all-in-one coffee and espresso/cappuccino machines.

Delonghi ECP3630 Review

Pros

✅Removable tray to accommodate larger cups

✅Accommodates easy-use coffee pods

✅15-bar pump pressure frothing wand

✅Easy to clean

Cons

❌Not programmable

❌Grinder and frothing container not included

Design/build quality 4/5★

We rate the design and build quality of the DeLonghi ECP3630 4/5 stars. This appliance is made from stainless steel and has a silver color that goes well with the popular stainless steel color scheme common in many kitchens. It also has a stainless steel boiler, which makes it durable and corrosion-resistant.

Performance 3/5★

According to some of the reviews we've read, if your coffee grounds are too fine, you won't enjoy a good shot of espresso. Since this model doesn't come with a grinder, you'll have to find one that grinds your coffee grounds the perfect coarseness for the machine.

There are also reports that when you do espresso for two cups simultaneously, the shots can be weak. It's a good thing that this machine can do back-to-back cups without a wait time in between. You may have to do the shots individually for taste, but at least you'll be able to do many quickly.

Ease of use 4.5/5★

The DeLonghi ECP3630 is a manual device, so there aren't too many buttons to figure out. Because manual machines are best for experienced baristas, it can be challenging to figure out how to get your froth the way you want it. Like any new appliance, once you figure out its quirks, you'll be able to make lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos like a professional.

Features 4/5★

This machine comes with almost everything you need to make an excellent cup of espresso. As we mentioned before, one of the perks of owning a manual machine is the control it gives you to customize your drinks just the way that you like them. The downside to this is that it takes time. This device isn't programmable, so every step in the process is manual.

The double wall water filter in this espresso maker provides rich crema on your espressos. You also have the option of saving time by using an easy-serve pod when you're in a hurry.

The 15-bar pump pressure steamer, along with the DeLonghi ECP3630 cappuccino system, gives you the ability to create quality, thick, creamy froth for your cappuccinos and lattes, so that you don't miss trips to your local coffee shop.

The dimensions of this unit make it an appliance that doesn't take up too much space, and you have a built-in space to store your filters too.

Value for money 4/5★

In the features, we mention that the DeLonghi ECP3630 has almost everything you need to make a great cup of espresso. There are two things that are lacking in this espresso machine. The first thing missing from this machine is a container to froth your milk. You'll have to buy one separately when you purchase this unit.

The other thing that's missing in this machine is a coffee grinder. Since we've already mentioned that the coffee grounds matter when it comes to the quality of your espresso, you won't want to buy coffee grounds. In order to have coffee grounds that give you a quality cup of espresso, you'll have to buy a coffee grinder that gives you grounds that are the right coarseness.

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Features of the DeLonghi ECP3630

The DeLonghi ECP3630 espresso machine has a cappuccino system with a premium adjustable frother that allows you to choose between cappuccino and hot milk mix settings. The frother has 15-bar pressure, which guarantees quality results with every use.

When you steam milk with this espresso machine's cappuccino system, it will mix and steam your milk to create a creamy, full froth with an even consistency, just like your favorite coffee shop.

If you want an espresso machine to make your morning shot before you head to work, you'll appreciate the ECP3630's self-priming operation, which means it doesn't take long to get started up. The DeLonghi ECP3630 is a great espresso maker when you're hosting guests. 

This device maintains optimal temperature so you can brew cup after cup without waiting for the machine to get ready.

With a 3-in-1 filter, this espresso maker can make a single shot or two shots simultaneously. You also have the option of using an easy-serve pod on the days where you need your caffeine boost in a hurry.

The serious espresso drinkers will appreciate the double-wall filters in this espresso maker. This feature provides high-quality crema for your espresso, which will give you a smooth, great-tasting drink at any time of day.

Cleaning this machine is easy, thanks to its removable water tank that has a 37-ounce capacity. The drip tray is also removable, whether to clean it or to accommodate a larger-sized cup. It also helps with counter clutter since it has storage space for filters built-in.

This machine promises you won't miss your favorite coffee house because it allows you to brew authentic, barista-quality beverages from the convenience of your own home!

How Does the DeLonghi ECP3630 Measure Up?

Ease of use

One of the biggest things that differentiate espresso machines is how easy it is to use. Depending on how often you use your device and use it, you may want a simple machine to use. The DeLonghi ECP3630 is easy to use, with minimal settings to figure out since there aren't many features.

Cleaning

If your espresso machine is easy to use and hard to clean, it's not very convenient, is it? When your espresso machine has a lot of bells and whistles, cleaning can become tedious. With the DeLonghi ECP3630, you don't have to worry since the water tank, and the drip tray is removable and dishwasher safe.

Cost

If you've already started your homework on espresso machines, you may have noticed that prices range from really affordable to quite expensive very quickly. The more costly devices are priced that way because of the features they have. Those who are picky about flavor or processing speed should prepare to spend more money on their espresso maker.

The cost of a DeLonghi ECP3630 is reasonable for a machine that is suitable for people who are relatively new to using an espresso machine.

Drink Preferences

If you're a newbie to espresso machines, you probably want to start with a less complicated machine. Buying a device with many features when you're just starting will overwhelm you. You don't want to waste your coffee experimenting with bells and whistles you have no idea about.

You want an espresso machine that gives you an espresso that suits your tastes. If you're new to making espressos at home, you may want to start with a reasonably priced machine and upgrade from there if it's not the taste you're looking for.

Since the DeLonghi ECP3630 is manual, you're in total control of the process and can make your espressos and cappuccinos just the way you want them. You also get a cup warmer that maintains the temperature while the machine is on.

Customer Service

It's important to know that the manufacturer of your appliance will support you if anything goes wrong. DeLonghi customers have multiple ways of contacting the manufacturer if something goes wrong with their product. Customers can call, submit an online inquiry, do a live chat online, or contact them by regular mail.

Durability

When you buy a small appliance, you expect it to last more than a few weeks or months. You're hoping to enjoy espresso shots and cappuccinos for years to come! The DeLonghi ECP3630 comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty. Its stainless steel body and boiler heating element give you confidence that DeLonghi built this espresso maker to last.

Size

Buying a small appliance that is going to take up counter space can be a daunting task. You want a machine that does what you want it to, without taking up too much space. The DeLonghi ECP3630 is a compact espresso machine that measures 24.4 x 18.4 x 30.2 centimeters. In addition to its compact size, it has space-saving storage for your filters too.

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Extra features to consider

Coffee grinder

When it comes to espresso machines, the coffee grind can make or break the quality of your drink. Some machines come with a built-in coffee grinder to ensure the grind is coarse enough for a tasty shot of espresso. Unfortunately, the DeLonghi ECP3630 doesn't come equipped with a coffee grinder.

Water filter

The quality of your water can affect the taste and quality of your espresso. The DeLonghi ECP3630 does have a water filter, so you don't have any flavors in your espresso that you don't want to taste.

Cup warmer

Having a cup warmer is a nice feature because you don't have to rush to drink your espresso. The DeLonghi ECP3630 does have a cup warmer to keep your java warm after it finishes brewing while you're getting ready for work.

Programmable settings

If you have a programmable machine, once you figure out what you like, you set your program, and the device will make your espresso just the way you want. Some machines allow different programs for each member of the family. Unfortunately, the DeLonghi ECP3630 isn't programmable. The beauty of a manual espresso machine is the idea that you can control and customize the process.

Frothing wand

For most espresso machines, it's not whether or not they have a frothing wand; it's a matter of what type of frothing wand it has. The best frothing rod has a 15-bar pressure that creates the rich, creamy froth you want for your cappuccino or latte. The DeLonghi ECP3630 has a 15-bar pump pressure frothing wand that is a part of its cappuccino system.

Things to Consider

If you've ever worked at a coffee shop, or have dreamed about being a barista, then a manual espresso and cappuccino machine is just what you've been looking for. With a manual machine, you can make authentic espresso beverages exactly how you want them. 

Using a manual espresso and cappuccino machine provides you with complete control over the process.

Because you have total control of the process when you're using a manual machine, you're able to make high-quality, great-tasting espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes.

Using a manual appliance means you grind your beans the way you want them, tamp your coffee grinds, and steam your milk just how you like it. If you don't want to grind coffee beans or want to save time on the run, you can use espresso coffee pods to make your morning beverage.

When you buy a manual machine, they tend to be less complicated, which helps make it more durable. If you don't have experience using a manual machine, it can be challenging to use at first, so be prepared for wasted coffee until you master your new appliance.

Conclusion

The DeLonghi ECP3630 is a great first espresso machine for people who are just starting to try their hand at making espressos, lattes, or espressos at home. There may be a steep learning curve at the start if you haven't attempted frothing milk before, or if you don't have the right coffee grounds.

Once you figure out how to make your espresso just the way you want it, you'll be able to make customized espresso drinks, just the way you want it.

This is a great introductory unit to help you master using a manual espresso machine. If you master this unit and want some more bells and whistles, like a programmable machine, you can always upgrade. The DeLonghi ECP3630 will give you a great cup of espresso. Once you master it, you'll be able to impress friends and family with your barista skills.

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