Diletta Mio Espresso Machine Review - Should You Buy It?
Hunting down the perfect espresso machine can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack, but it doesn’t have to.
I’ve tested a lot of espresso machines over the years, so this definitely piqued my interest.
I’ve had the pleasure of trying out this espresso machine to see if it lives up to its promises. This is what I found.
Diletta Mio Review – My Ratings & Top Features
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Key Features
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Things I Like
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Things I Don’t Like
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Why Should You Buy The Diletta Mio?
Overall, I would rate the Diletta Mio a solid 4.7 out of 5.
Its precise temperature regulation, energy-efficient design, and the ability to brew and steam simultaneously really stand out.
- PID brew boiler
- Built-in shot timer
- Pressure gauge
- Adjustable OPV (Over Pressure Valve)
- Thermoblock steam
Who Should Buy The Diletta Mio?
The Diletta Mio Espresso Machine is a superior choice for intermediate home baristas seeking a high-performing machine that's energy efficient.
It's also perfect for small coffee shop owners who can't invest in two initial machines. It offers simultaneous brewing and steaming, PID-controlled temperature, adjustable pressure, and precise control without a hefty price.
Why I Decided To Review The Diletta Mio Espresso Machine
I've been spoiled with all the super-automatic espresso machines I've been trying recently.
Because of them, my barista skills are starting to get rusty.
So, I decided to shake things up with the Diletta Mio espresso machine, an excellent semi-automatic machine exclusively distributed by Seattle Coffee Gear.
Testing Conditions
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Days Tested |
30 |
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Cups Brewed Per Day |
6 |
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Level Of Experience Needed |
Intermediate |
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Reviewer Background |
Home brewing hobbyist who started with a basic drip coffee machine and gradually upgraded to espresso machines. My current machine is a Breville Barista Pro. |
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Environment Tested |
Home |
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Money Saved Per Year |
Around $400 in the first year and approximately $1400 in the following years once the machine is paid for |
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Favorite Drink To Brew |
Latte and latte art |
What's It Like To Live With The Diletta Mio Coffee Maker
What's In The Box?
If you're thinking of buying your machine online, you'll be happy to know that Seattle Coffee Gear put a lot of thought into the packaging of Diletta Mio. T
he package arrived in pristine condition.
Apart from the espresso machine, you'll also find the following in the box:
- 58mm portafilter and tamper
- Double basket
- Group brush
- Single basket
- Blind basket
- 2-Hole steam tip
- Scoop
If you've been using super-automatic espresso machines, it can be quite surprising that the Diletta Mio comes with only the essentials.
However, you don't really need other accessories to operate this brewer apart from what you can find in the box.
Related Article - Best Espresso Machines Under $1500
Pulling My First Espresso Shot
Let's get one thing straight: the Diletta Mio espresso machine doesn't come with a grinder. However, this doesn't make this machine lesser than other machines.
In fact, I find it liberating as I can choose what grinder to use to ensure I get the best grind for my brew.
Preparation
The Diletta Mio has a PID-controlled boiler that provides precise temperature control, a crucial feature for pulling a perfect shot. (PID stands for Proportional-Integral-Derivative.)
This technology allows you to see the water temperature as the boiler heats up through Diletta Mio's PID display.
So, no more guessing when you're ready to start the brew.
Since I can control the temperature using the PID temperature control, I can experiment with the process and see which can yield the best espresso quality.
According to studies, the best temperature to brew your espresso is between 92°C and 96°C (197°F and 205°F).[1]
However, the "best" temperature can depend on various factors, including the type of coffee bean, the roast level, the grind size, and personal taste preferences.
Pulling the Actual Shot
The Diletta Mio uses a commercial 58mm portafilter, which is a standard size and gives a good extraction surface area. I filled the portafilter with freshly ground coffee and tamped it down evenly.
I then locked the portafilter into the brew group head and pressed the brew button. As soon as I started pulling the shot, the PID display automatically switched to a shot timer.
This is a handy feature as it eliminates the need for a separate timer.
Apart from the PID temperature control and shot time, the pressure gauge is another feature that helps with espresso extraction.
This allows me to monitor the extraction pressure, ensuring I get the right one to produce that rich crema every barista is raving about - and yes, I am one of them.
On top of that, the Diletta Mio comes with an adjustable OPV (Over Pressure Valve), so you can easily adjust the pressure if needed.
Barista HQ Tip:
Want to take the quality of your espresso shots to the next level? I recommend you get a puck screen. This espresso machine accessory ensures an even extraction by improving water distribution in the coffee puck whenever you pull a shot. Trust me; this will improve your shots significantly.
First Time Frothing Milk
I’ve tried many milk frothers, but the Mio's steam arm impressed me. It’s smooth to maneuver and larger than most in its price range, making frothing and steaming easy.
The adjustable arm and two powerful steam tips make it simple to achieve velvety, creamy milk perfect for latte art.
The no-burn steam wand is a great safety feature, especially for beginners, and it simplifies clean-up.
Plus, the separate power switch for the steam circuit allows for simultaneous steaming and brewing - a bonus typically found in dual-boiler machines.
While the steam speed isn’t the fastest, the high-quality steam arm more than compensates, making the Diletta Mio a quiet, well-rounded machine that delivers excellent results.
How Much Control Do You Have Over The Coffee Experience?
With the Diletta Mio, you have complete control over every aspect of the brewing process, even though it's not completely manual.
One of the standout features is the easily accessible Over Pressure Valve (OPV) at the front.
The PID controller is another delightful addition. This feature doesn't just let me set my desired brewing temperature; it shows me real-time readings.
Moving on, the machine's capability for steaming and brewing simultaneously has been a real game-changer.
While the Diletta Mio may require a bit of learning and fine-tuning, the degree of control and quality it offers makes it a machine I've thoroughly enjoyed using.
How Does It Handle Different Roasts?
The Diletta Mio is pretty good at handling all types of roasts, giving you the freedom to choose whatever coffee beans you would like to use.
With light roasts, I usually increase the pressure. These denser beans benefit from the extra force, which helps unlock their intricate, acidic, and floral flavors.
When using darker roasts, I drop the pressure a notch.
The PID comes in handy here, too, enabling precise temperature adjustments to prevent over-extraction.
For medium roasts, factory settings generally work well, yielding balanced, rich espressos.
However, the beauty of the Diletta Mio is in its flexibility and ease of adjustability, allowing me to continue fine-tuning until I achieve the perfect cup every time, regardless of the roast I'm working with.
Look, Feel, and Size Of The Machine
When I first saw the Diletta Mio Espresso Machine, I was immediately drawn to its sleek, robust aesthetic.
I've worked with a variety of machines, but the Diletta Mio and its stainless steel boiler material have a unique charm that sets it apart.
It reminds me of the elegant form of the Gaggia Classic Pro, but the Diletta Mio certainly has its own distinctive appeal.
One feature I love is the metal cup rail, a detail that helps secure cups and adds a chic touch. However, the cup clearance is a bit small, which I find limiting.
Now, in terms of size, the Diletta Mio fits comfortably into the mid-sized category for home espresso machines, measuring around 15 x 11 inches and weighing approximately 30 pounds.
It should slot into most kitchen counter spaces quite nicely.
What Drinks Can It Make?
The Diletta Mio can make a lot of different espresso-based drinks, especially if you can properly steam milk.
You can make a latte, cappuccino, macchiato, latte art, mocha, and more - your imagination is the limit!
I've personally enjoyed crafting lattes with this versatile machine.
How Easy Is It To Use?
If you're new to this kind of machine, there's a learning curve, but with a little patience, you can master it.
For me, using the Mio was easy. Its separate buttons for power, brew, and steam are remarkably intuitive.
As someone who values environmental sustainability, the energy-saving modes were a real plus point. Its energy-efficient feature reduces the machine's electrical footprint—one of the trends Seattle Coffee Gear is leaning towards.
I found the separate power switch for the steam circuit to be a practical addition; it allowed me to conserve energy whenever I didn't need to steam.
On top of that, it has a nice energy-saving feature built into the machine, such as the PID energy-saving mode.
Overall, even if the Mio requires a little manual control, it's a noticeably lower-effort machine compared to other semi-automatic brewers in the market.
How Long Does It Take? (From Heat Up To First Sip)
The Diletta Mio doesn't take long to heat up, thanks to its single brew boiler and Thermoblock steam circuit.
It takes about 5 minutes for the machine to heat fully, which is quite impressive compared to other machines I've used. Once warmed up, the actual shot pulling takes seconds—around 20 to 30, based on your chosen grind and dose.
If you're in the mood for a milk-based drink, the steam wand is quick, frothing your milk to perfection in just a minute.
Therefore, from switching on the Diletta Mio to savoring that first sip of your perfectly brewed coffee, you're looking at approximately 6 to 7 minutes.
This is a total win for someone who values both quality and speed.
Does It Have A Water Filtration System?
The Diletta Mio doesn't have a built-in water filtration system, one of its few shortcomings.
However, as a seasoned barista, I can't stress enough the difference filtered water makes in your coffee game.[2]
So, if you're planning to use this machine, invest in a separate water filter or pre-filtered water. It's a little extra work, but your taste buds will thank you.
How Hard Is It To Clean and Descale?
Cleaning the Diletta Mio espresso machine is super convenient and not the worst system I've encountered in my years of using various espresso brewers.
Apart from rinsing and cleaning the removable parts, you also need to wipe down the whole machine, including the cup warmer, every week to maintain its beauty.
You also need to backflush the portafilter and group head once a week.
Descaling is crucial for ensuring the machine's brew pressure stays consistent, and the steam circuits ensure modular heating configurations.
One thing that might be considered an additional cost is the descaling solution, which doesn't come with the machine.
My Favorite Parts About The Diletta Mio
- Exceptional Heat Retention: The Diletta Mio impresses with its minimal heat loss, ensuring the temperature remains consistent throughout the brewing process.
- Energy Efficiency: Not only does this benefit our environment, but it also makes a noticeable difference to its electrical footprint over time.
- Premium Build Quality: The build quality of the Diletta Mio is impressive. The sturdy yet sleek design showcases the machine's durability and adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen setup.
- Brew Pressure Control: This gives me the power to tweak the extraction process, allowing me to experiment and find that perfect balance for my taste buds.
- Accessibility and convenience: I immediately noticed how user-friendly the Diletta Mio is. Its easily adjustable setting is super convenient, especially in the early morning rush.
My Least Favorite Parts
- Additional Cost for Grinder: This machine doesn't have a built-in grinder, so you must invest in one.
- Lack of a Water Filtration System: The lack of a built-in water filtration system is a small inconvenience, meaning you'll need to ensure you're using filtered water for the best taste and longevity of the machine.
Despite these points, the Diletta Mio remains perfectly suitable for coffee lovers who value convenience and excellent espresso quality. It's worth bearing these factors in mind when making your choice.
Diletta Mio Vs Similar Coffee Machines
Diletta Mio Vs Rancilio Silvia
The Diletta Mio and Rancilio Silvia are both premium espresso machines. Still, their appeal lies in different areas. The Diletta Mio boasts energy efficiency and minimal heat loss thanks to its well-regulated heating configurations.
This makes it a compelling package for eco-conscious coffee lovers.
On the other hand, the Silvia is compact and made with high-quality materials, making it an excellent fit for those with limited space who still want a sturdy, reliable machine.
On top of that, Silvia's simple metal box design might appeal to those who favor a minimalist aesthetic.
Related Article - Rancilio Silvia Pro X Review
Diletta Mio Vs Bello
When comparing the Diletta Mio to the Diletta Bello, both machines are crafted to deliver a top-tier espresso experience.
The Diletta Mio stands out with its unique energy-saving feature and the ability to handle a range of coffee roasts with precision.
In contrast, the Bello leans more toward barista-style manual control. With its all-manual brew and steam controls, it truly puts you in the driver's seat of your coffee experience, making it perfect for honing those barista skills.
On top of that, it has a limited edition Mazarine variant that brings a vibrant and playful aesthetic, injecting an element of fun into any kitchen setup.
Despite the differences, the Diletta Mio and Bello are solid choices, offering unique strengths to elevate your espresso game.
Diletta Mio Vs Profitec Go
The Diletta Mio and Profitec Go are both semi-automatic machines that come with similar features. Both have energy-saving modes and come with a manual frother and PID controller. They also come with a brass cup clearance.
However, the Diletta espresso width is a bit bigger (10.7 inches) compared to the Profitec Go (8.3 inches).
When it comes to design, Profitect Go comes in 4 colors (black, sky, coral, and mustard), while the Mio only has 3 colors (black, white, and stainless steel).
FAQs
Where is the Diletta espresso machine made?
Diletta espresso machines are handcrafted in Milan, Italy.
What is an E61 group head?
An E61 group head is a widely used, commercial-grade component in espresso machines known for consistent temperature stability.
Is The Diletta Mio Worth Your Money?
The Diletta Mio’s premium features, like the temperature regulation system and the heat exchanger, allow superb espresso extraction, making it a dream for those chasing the perfect cup.
It's also a great choice for small coffee shops that can only invest in one machine. The simultaneous brewing and steaming allow you to serve customers in a short amount of time.
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Diletta Mio
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Resources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7022572/
- https://pages.uoregon.edu/chendon/coffee_literature/1955%20J.%20Food%20Sci.,%20Water%20impurities%20effect%20on%20coffee%20flavor.pdf
Parker Russell is a coffee professional and the founder of Black Ink Coffee. As an expert in the field of coffee roasting, cupping (professional Q-Grader) and brewing, Parker has established Black Ink as brand that fuels the grind of dreamers.