If you’re considering investing in an espresso machine, you’ve likely come across the De’Longhi Magnifica Start, a more budget-friendly yet powerful entry-level model in the realm of automatic coffee makers. It promises a lot—customizable brewing, user-friendly design, and solid build quality—all wrapped into a relatively compact form. But does it live up to the expectations?
After using the Magnifica Start for several months, I can say that it has its share of strengths and weaknesses. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this machine, from its design and features to its performance and overall value.
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Table of Contents
Unboxing and First Impressions
When I first received the De’Longhi Magnifica Start, I was pleasantly surprised by how compact and sleek the box was. The packaging was minimalist but sturdy, ensuring the machine arrived without any damage. De’Longhi has clearly thought through the unboxing experience: everything was well organized, and the machine came with a detailed manual that made setup simple, even for a first-time user.
Inside the box, you’ll find:
- The espresso machine itself
- A milk frothing wand
- A removable drip tray
- A descaling solution and test strip
- Instructions and warranty information
The first impression is that this machine is much more compact than many automatic espresso machines on the market. For those with limited kitchen counter space, this is definitely a plus. Its modern, black finish is aesthetically pleasing, especially for those who prefer their kitchen gadgets to look understated rather than flashy.
De’Longhi Magnifica Start Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | De’Longhi Magnifica Start |
| Type | Fully Automatic Espresso Machine |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 35 x 24 x 44 cm (13.8 x 9.4 x 17.3 in) |
| Weight | 9 kg (19.8 lbs) |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Plastic with silver accents |
| Water Tank Capacity | 1.8 liters (60.9 oz) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 250 grams (8.8 oz) |
| Grinder Type | Conical Burr Grinder |
| Grind Settings | 13 adjustable grind levels |
| Coffee Grounds Container | Holds up to 14 servings |
| Pump Pressure | 15 bars |
| Power | 1450 watts |
| Milk Frothing System | Manual steam wand |
| Coffee Strength Levels | Adjustable (Dial) |
| Cup Size Settings | Adjustable (Single or Double Shots) |
| Pre-Ground Coffee Option | Yes |
| Energy Saving Mode | Yes (Automatic Shutoff) |
| Drip Tray | Removable and dishwasher-safe |
| Heating Time | Approx. 30-45 seconds |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic Appeal
The Magnifica Start opts for a minimalist look with smooth curves, a glossy black exterior, and silver accents that give it a sleek appearance without being overly eye-catching. This fits well in any modern kitchen, though it may not stand out as a design centerpiece. If you’re a fan of an ultra-modern aesthetic or prefer appliances that blend into the background, this machine will be right up your alley.
Compactness and Footprint
One of the most appealing aspects of the Magnifica Start is its compact size. With dimensions of around 35 x 24 x 44 cm, this espresso machine is much smaller than many fully automatic machines, making it ideal for smaller kitchens. Its compact footprint means you can easily fit it between other kitchen appliances, and it won’t dominate your counter space. It also has a relatively lightweight build (around 9kg), so moving it around isn’t too cumbersome.
Material Durability
Though the design is elegant, it’s worth noting that the De’Longhi Magnifica Start is constructed largely from plastic. This makes the machine lighter, but it also gives it a somewhat less premium feel compared to more expensive models that use stainless steel. That said, the plastic feels durable, and after several months of use, I didn’t notice any significant wear and tear. The buttons and dials also seem robust, with no signs of malfunctioning.
The water reservoir and drip tray are made of BPA-free plastic, and both feel solid and easy to remove for cleaning. The steam wand is the only part that feels a bit flimsy, but it has held up well over time. Overall, while the materials may not scream luxury, they’re functional and seem built to last.
Ease of Use
Setup and Installation
Setting up the Magnifica Start was quite straightforward. The manual provided clear instructions on how to assemble the machine, fill the water tank, and load the coffee beans. Unlike some more advanced models, there’s no overwhelming number of parts or confusing procedures.
After assembling, the machine requires a simple rinse cycle before it’s ready for brewing. This process took about 5 minutes, and the intuitive control panel made it easy to follow along. The instruction manual also provides guidelines for adjusting water hardness using the included test strip, ensuring you can optimize the machine’s descaling schedule from the start.
User Interface and Control Panel
The Magnifica Start’s user interface is basic but effective. There are five buttons on the front panel, each clearly labeled for different functions like brewing espresso, frothing milk, or adjusting coffee strength. There’s no LCD display—just basic indicator lights that show when the machine is ready to brew or needs attention (like when the water tank is empty or the grounds container is full).
While some coffee aficionados might miss the granular control provided by more advanced touchscreens or app-connected machines, the simplicity here is refreshing. It’s particularly good for those who just want their coffee fast, with minimal fuss. The machine lets you control essential settings—such as coffee strength, water temperature, and cup size—without overwhelming you with options.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning the Magnifica Start is a mixed bag. On the plus side, several parts of the machine, such as the water reservoir, drip tray, and brew group, are removable and dishwasher-safe, making the process relatively hassle-free. The machine also has an automatic rinse cycle that runs before and after brewing, helping keep internal parts clean.
However, descaling (which is recommended every few months depending on your water hardness) is a bit more time-consuming. The machine will alert you when it’s time to descale, and the manual provides clear instructions on how to run the cycle. While it’s not a difficult process, it can take up to 30 minutes, which might feel like a chore for some users.
Additionally, the drip tray fills up fairly quickly, so if you’re making multiple drinks in a row, you may need to empty it often. The used coffee grounds container also needs regular attention, as it can only hold about 14 servings of coffee before needing to be emptied.
Key Features
Grinder and Bean-to-Cup Performance
One of the standout features of the Magnifica Start is its built-in grinder. The machine is equipped with a conical burr grinder, which is a major advantage for those looking for fresh coffee. The grinder has 13 settings, allowing you to adjust the grind size based on your preference for stronger or milder coffee.
I found the grinder to be relatively quiet compared to other machines in this price range, and it consistently produced a fine grind that contributed to good-quality espresso. There’s also an option to use pre-ground coffee if you prefer, though the real beauty of this machine is in its bean-to-cup capability.
Customization: Strength and Size of Coffee
Despite its simplicity, the Magnifica Start offers a reasonable degree of customization for your coffee. You can adjust the strength of your coffee using a dial on the front, which controls how much coffee is ground for each shot. You can also select different cup sizes, ranging from a single espresso to a larger, lungo-style coffee.
I appreciated this flexibility, as it allows you to fine-tune your coffee to suit your taste, without the need for complicated menus or settings. However, one downside is that the machine doesn’t remember your last settings, so you’ll need to manually adjust it each time if you prefer a stronger or weaker coffee.
Milk Frothing System
The Magnifica Start comes with a manual milk frother, which is fairly standard for machines in this price range. While it’s not as convenient as automatic frothers found on higher-end models, it gets the job done. The steam wand is relatively powerful, producing enough steam to froth milk for lattes or cappuccinos in about 30-40 seconds.
The milk frother is easy to use, though mastering the technique of frothing milk to get the right texture and microfoam may take a bit of practice for beginners. I found that it worked best for making cappuccinos, but getting the ultra-smooth microfoam necessary for lattes or flat whites required some finesse.
Additional Features
- Adjustable Coffee Spout: The spout height is adjustable, allowing you to fit larger cups or travel mugs, which is great if you enjoy bigger coffee servings.
- Energy-Saving Mode: The machine automatically enters energy-saving mode after a period of inactivity, which is a nice touch for those conscious of energy use.
- Hot Water Function: You can use the machine to dispense hot water for tea or other beverages, adding a bit more versatility to its feature set.
Brewing Performance
Espresso Quality
Now for the most important part: how good is the coffee? After months of daily use, I can confidently say that the espresso quality from the De’Longhi Magnifica Start is quite good, especially for an entry-level machine. The shots are generally well-extracted, with a decent crema and rich flavor. The machine brews at a consistent temperature, which is key to getting a balanced shot of espresso.
The flavor profiles are fairly customizable thanks to the grinder settings and the strength selector, though it may not deliver
the complexity or nuance that a high-end machine would. But for the average home user, the espresso is more than satisfying, especially considering the price point.
Milk-Based Drinks
The milk frother, while manual, works quite well once you get the hang of it. I was able to make excellent cappuccinos and lattes after a bit of practice, though the texture of the foam was sometimes inconsistent. For everyday use, the frother is perfectly adequate, but those looking for the silky-smooth microfoam of café-quality lattes might find it lacking.
Temperature and Speed
The machine heats up quickly, typically taking about 30-45 seconds from standby to being ready to brew. This is a nice feature for those who are impatient in the morning (like me). The temperature of the coffee can be adjusted in the settings, and I found it stayed consistent with each brew.
Noise Levels
In terms of noise, the Magnifica Start is relatively quiet. The grinder makes some noise, as expected, but it’s not overly disruptive. The brewing process itself is also quieter than many other espresso machines I’ve used, making it more suitable for early-morning use without disturbing the household.
Comparing to Competitors
De’Longhi Magnifica Start vs. De’Longhi Magnifica Evo
The De’Longhi Magnifica Start and Magnifica Evo are both solid options for those looking to bring café-quality espresso into their homes, but they cater to slightly different audiences.
The Magnifica Start is the more budget-friendly of the two, offering a streamlined interface and basic features. It includes a built-in grinder, customizable coffee strength, and a manual milk frother. While it’s perfect for beginners, it lacks the convenience of automatic milk frothing and a more intuitive display, making it ideal for those who prefer a simpler, hands-on coffee-making experience.
On the other hand, the Magnifica Evo elevates the experience with more automation and a sleeker user interface. It features one-touch drink options for espresso, cappuccino, and more, alongside an automatic milk frothing system. The Evo also includes a color display, which makes selecting and customizing drinks easier and more intuitive. This makes it a better choice for those seeking convenience and a variety of drinks at the push of a button.
In terms of build quality, both machines are compact, but the Evo has a slightly more premium feel with its modern design and added functionality. However, the Evo is more expensive, making the Magnifica Start the better option for budget-conscious buyers who don’t mind manual milk frothing.
Overall, choose the Magnifica Start for simplicity and affordability, and the Magnifica Evo if you prioritize convenience and drink variety.
De’Longhi Magnifica Start vs. Gaggia Brera
The De’Longhi Magnifica Start and Gaggia Brera are both entry-level super-automatic espresso machines, but they cater to slightly different preferences.
The Magnifica Start is a budget-friendly option with a built-in grinder, customizable coffee strength, and a manual milk frother, making it ideal for those who prefer a hands-on experience. Its compact design and simple interface make it user-friendly, though it lacks more advanced features like an automatic milk frothing system.
The Gaggia Brera, on the other hand, offers a more robust brewing experience. It also includes a built-in grinder and a manual milk frother, but where it stands out is its sleek stainless-steel exterior and more professional-grade components. The Brera’s Pannarello steam wand is widely regarded for better milk frothing control, which might appeal to those seeking higher-quality milk-based drinks.
In terms of price, the Brera tends to be slightly more expensive but offers more in terms of durability and espresso quality. However, the Magnifica Start remains a solid choice for users who want an easy-to-use machine at a lower cost, especially if they prioritize convenience over premium materials.
De’Longhi Magnifica Start vs. Breville Bambino Plus
The De’Longhi Magnifica Start and Breville Bambino Plus offer contrasting espresso experiences.
The Magnifica Start is a fully automatic machine with a built-in grinder, making it perfect for users who prefer a bean-to-cup process with minimal effort. Its manual frothing system is effective but requires practice, and the machine provides adjustable coffee strength for customization. It’s ideal for beginners or casual coffee drinkers.
On the other hand, the Breville Bambino Plus is a semi-automatic machine designed for those who want more control over the brewing process. Unlike the Magnifica Start, the Bambino Plus doesn’t have a built-in grinder, so you’ll need a separate one. However, it excels in milk frothing, offering an automatic steam wand that creates microfoam with precision, making it perfect for those who enjoy high-quality milk-based drinks.
While the Bambino Plus delivers more professional-grade results, the Magnifica Start is better suited for convenience, thanks to its integrated features. In terms of price, the Bambino Plus is often slightly more expensive, but the trade-off is superior milk frothing and control. Choose the Magnifica Start for simplicity and affordability, or the Bambino Plus if you’re more hands-on with espresso crafting.
De’Longhi Magnifica Start vs. Philips 3200 Series
The De’Longhi Magnifica Start and Philips 3200 Series are both designed for ease of use but offer different levels of convenience.
The Magnifica Start is a solid entry-level machine with a manual milk frother and adjustable coffee strength. It’s great for those who want a simple, affordable bean-to-cup machine without too many bells and whistles. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller kitchens or users who don’t need a lot of pre-programmed options.
The Philips 3200 Series, however, is more advanced. It features a fully automatic milk frothing system with the LatteGo attachment, making it easier to prepare milk-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes. The touch control panel is more intuitive, with one-touch options for espresso, Americano, and more. This machine also offers better customizability, allowing users to adjust grind settings and beverage strength.
In terms of price, the Philips 3200 is more expensive, but it offers greater convenience and a more modern interface. The Magnifica Start is a better option if you’re on a budget and don’t mind manual frothing, while the Philips 3200 is ideal for those who prioritize ease of use and drink variety.
Price and Value for Money
At the time of writing, the De’Longhi Magnifica Start retails for around $500-$700, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. This places it firmly in the mid-range for automatic espresso machines, offering good value for money given its performance and features.
For those on a tighter budget, this machine offers a great entry point into the world of automatic espresso makers without compromising too much on quality. While there are cheaper models available, they often lack the built-in grinder or the same level of durability. On the other hand, higher-end models like the Magnifica Evo or machines from brands like Gaggia and Breville offer more advanced features, but at a significantly higher price.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact design: Takes up minimal counter space.
- Integrated grinder: Fresh coffee at the push of a button.
- Customizable settings: Adjustable coffee strength, temperature, and cup size.
- Good espresso quality: Consistent shots with a rich crema.
- Easy to use: Straightforward interface, perfect for beginners.
- Affordable: Great value for the features it offers.
Cons:
- Plastic construction: Lacks the premium feel of stainless steel models.
- Manual milk frother: Requires practice and effort to get perfect milk foam.
- Basic control panel: Lacks advanced settings or an LCD display.
- Limited memory: Does not retain custom settings for future brews.
Weaknesses
While the De’Longhi Magnifica Start offers many appealing features for its price, it does come with a few weaknesses that potential buyers should consider.
One of the primary drawbacks is the manual milk frother. Unlike machines with automatic frothing systems, the Magnifica Start requires users to manually steam milk, which can be challenging for beginners and time-consuming. Achieving the perfect texture for cappuccinos or lattes requires practice, and those looking for convenience in their milk-based drinks may find this feature lacking.
Another limitation is its plastic construction. While the machine is lightweight and compact, the predominance of plastic materials gives it a less premium feel compared to models with stainless steel finishes. Over time, the plastic may show signs of wear, especially in high-use areas like the drip tray and water tank.
The lack of an advanced user interface is another downside. The machine uses basic buttons and indicator lights, offering less intuitive control than other models with digital displays or touchscreens. This simplicity can also be a drawback for users seeking more advanced customizations like drink memory settings or multiple drink options.
Finally, the machine’s maintenance can be a bit cumbersome. The drip tray fills up quickly, and the used grounds container needs frequent emptying. Descaling, while essential, is time-consuming, adding to the overall maintenance burden.
Overall, while the Magnifica Start excels in some areas, its manual frothing, basic construction, and limited user interface are notable weaknesses.
Who Should Buy the De’Longhi Magnifica Start?
The De’Longhi Magnifica Start is ideal for:
- First-time espresso machine owners: If you’re new to automatic espresso machines, the Magnifica Start offers a perfect balance of simplicity and performance.
- Budget-conscious buyers: Those looking for a machine under $700 that still delivers great coffee and convenient features.
- Casual coffee drinkers: If you enjoy good coffee but don’t need the advanced customization of higher-end machines, this model will more than satisfy your daily caffeine needs.
- Small kitchen owners: Its compact footprint makes it a great choice for those with limited counter space.
Final Verdict
Overall, the De’Longhi Magnifica Start offers an excellent blend of performance, ease of use, and affordability. While it lacks some of the premium features found in more expensive models, it excels where it counts: delivering consistently good coffee with minimal effort. The built-in grinder is a major plus, as is the customizable brewing strength and size.
If you’re looking for a user-friendly automatic espresso machine that doesn’t break the bank but still offers solid espresso quality, the Magnifica Start is a fantastic choice. While there are a few compromises, particularly in terms of material quality and milk frothing, these are minor issues for most users. For its price point, it’s one of the best machines in its class.
Rating: 4.5/5