De’Longhi Rivelia vs De’Longhi Dinamica Plus

De'Longhi Rivelia vs De'Longhi Dinamica Plus

Choosing the right super-automatic espresso machine can feel overwhelming—especially when two of the most popular models on the market come from the same brand. The De’Longhi Rivelia and the De’Longhi Dinamica Plus both promise café-quality espresso drinks at home, with touchscreens, integrated grinders, milk frothing systems, and automated cleaning routines. But they approach these features in very different ways.

The Rivelia is De’Longhi’s newest flagship, loaded with smart UI, a dual-bean hopper system, and user-friendly prompts that make it ideal for beginners or busy households. The Dinamica Plus, while a bit older, remains a fan favorite thanks to its fine-tuned control, app integration, broader drink selection, and stronger espresso performance.

In this in-depth comparison, we’ll break down every feature that matters—design, usability, coffee taste, grinder performance, milk frothing, maintenance, energy use, and overall value. If you’re stuck between these two machines, this review is built to help you choose confidently.

Table of Contents

De’Longhi Rivelia vs De’Longhi Dinamica Plus

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SpecificationDe’Longhi RiveliaDe’Longhi Dinamica Plus
De'Longhi RiveliaDe'Longhi Dinamica Plus
Check the best price on AmazonCheck the best price on Amazon
Machine TypeSuper-automatic espresso machineSuper-automatic espresso machine
Grinder TypeStainless steel conical burrStainless steel conical burr
Grind Settings7 levels13 levels
Bean Hopper CapacityDual 250g removable hoppers (swap-enabled)Single 250g hopper
Pre-Ground Coffee BypassNoYes
User Profiles4 personalized profiles4 personalized profiles + Guest mode
Touchscreen Display3.5-inch full-color touchscreen3.5-inch full-color touchscreen
Drink Recipes~16 drinks (including iced drinks & cold foam)20+ drinks (including iced coffee, cortado, long black)
Milk Frothing SystemLatteCrema (automatic frothing only)LatteCrema with manual foam density dial
Cold Milk Foam / Iced DrinksYesYes (with TrueBrew Over Ice feature)
Water Tank Capacity1.4 liters (front-access)1.8 liters (front-access)
Used Grounds Container Capacity~10 servings~14 servings
Removable Brew GroupYesYes
Water Filter CompatibilityYes (De’Longhi filters)Yes (De’Longhi filters)
Descaling AlertsYes (on-screen prompts based on water hardness)Yes (on-screen + app reminders)
Smart ConnectivityNoYes (De’Longhi Coffee Link App via Wi-Fi/Bluetooth)
Auto-Off / Eco ModeYesYes (with app control)
Noise LevelModerate (higher-pitched grinder)Slightly quieter (lower hum)
Machine Dimensions (WxDxH)9.7” x 14.6” x 17” (approx. 24.6 x 37 x 43.2 cm)9.3” x 16.9” x 19.2” (approx. 23.6 x 43 x 48.7 cm)
Weight~9.5 kg (21 lbs)~11.3 kg (25 lbs)
Power Rating1250W1250W
Auto Rinse & CleaningYes (guided milk and brew rinses)Yes (with extra “Clean” button on milk carafe)
Included AccessoriesExtra hopper, cleaning brush, test stripCleaning kit, measuring scoop, test strip
Target UserBeginner-friendly, multi-bean householdsAdvanced users, drink customizers, app-savvy owners
My individual reviewsDe’Longhi Rivelia reviewDe’Longhi Dinamica Plus review

Design & Build Quality

When it comes to investing in a super-automatic espresso machine, design and build quality matter for more than just aesthetics. The look of the machine sets the tone in your kitchen, but how it’s built affects everything from longevity and ease of use to day-to-day ergonomics. In this section, we’ll dig into how the De’Longhi Rivelia and the Dinamica Plus stack up in terms of materials, size, finish, design philosophy, and long-term durability.

De’Longhi Rivelia: Compact Sophistication With Modern Innovation

The Rivelia stands out immediately for its compact, minimal design and soft, curved aesthetic. Measuring approximately 17 inches high, 14.6 inches deep, and just 9.7 inches wide, it’s notably slimmer than most bean-to-cup machines, making it easier to fit under cabinets or on narrow countertops. The machine’s footprint is one of its greatest assets—it packs a full espresso setup into a tight space without looking cluttered or over-engineered.

In terms of design philosophy, Rivelia leans heavily on lifestyle. Available in a variety of colorways—Sage, Sand Beige, Onyx Black, Arctic White, and more depending on region—it’s clearly made to blend into contemporary kitchens without screaming “appliance.” These color options may seem like a small detail, but they matter to buyers who care about harmonizing with interior design themes. Unlike many other machines that only come in black or stainless steel, Rivelia embraces a more curated, Scandinavian-style aesthetic.

The materials used in the Rivelia skew toward high-end plastics and subtle metal touches. While it doesn’t carry the cold, industrial feel of brushed stainless steel, it avoids feeling cheap. The machine has a surprisingly solid heft when you interact with its components—like the drip tray, water tank, and bean hoppers. Speaking of hoppers, the standout feature here is undoubtedly the dual removable bean containers.

This is a design innovation that sets the Rivelia apart in the super-automatic category. Instead of making you scoop out or purge beans to switch roasts or swap to decaf, the Rivelia allows you to pull off one container and swap in another. Each hopper can be capped and stored separately, like a coffee cartridge. That alone makes the design feel miles ahead in day-to-day usability. The smart part? The machine offers a “bean purge” function that uses up the leftover grounds before switching fully to the new beans, minimizing waste and flavor contamination.

You also get intelligent prompts about grind settings and brew strength based on the specific beans you’re using, thanks to De’Longhi’s Bean Adapt technology. From a design perspective, this is a synergy of hardware and software—a concept that’s increasingly rare in home coffee appliances. The clean lines of the touchscreen UI blend well with the machine’s overall vibe, making it feel like a lifestyle gadget rather than a fussy appliance.

Ergonomically, everything is well placed. The water tank slides easily out from the side, rather than the rear—a common annoyance with many espresso machines. The milk carafe also clicks into place securely, and the cup clearance is generous enough to fit most mug sizes, including taller glasses for lattes or iced drinks.

If there’s a trade-off in the Rivelia’s design, it’s that some components are plastic where you might expect metal—like the internal drip tray grid or the bean hopper locking mechanisms. Still, for a machine in its class, it balances visual elegance with solid construction very effectively.

De’Longhi Dinamica Plus: Professional Polish With a Classic Edge

While the Rivelia is a compact, design-forward appliance, the Dinamica Plus comes across more like a classic prosumer workhorse. It’s taller, wider, and bulkier—but there’s a reason for that. This machine was built to deliver espresso variety and high-capacity use, and its form follows function.

Physically, the Dinamica Plus measures about 19.2 inches high, 16.9 inches deep, and 9.3 inches wide. It takes up a bit more room on the counter, and the extra height might be a consideration for users with low-hanging cabinets. However, many owners report the trade-off is worth it for the larger water reservoir and waste bin, which mean fewer refills and cleanouts.

The styling of the Dinamica Plus is more in line with traditional European espresso machines. You’ll find models in stainless steel, titanium, or matte silver finishes, all of which carry a professional-grade look. The materials are more of a mixed bag—front panels and user-touch points often have a metal-like feel, but the housing and some interior components are still made from durable plastics. That said, the overall appearance is high-end, and the machine feels substantial.

One of the best design features of the Dinamica Plus is its front-loading water tank. Like the Rivelia, it can be pulled out from the front, which is essential for fitting it under cabinets. The bean hopper is also front-accessible, and the grounds bin pulls out easily from the side. Everything is modular and serviceable—an often overlooked trait that makes a big difference in long-term usability.

The milk frothing system—the LatteCrema system—is integrated in a detachable carafe, similar to Rivelia, but the Dinamica Plus gives you more manual control. From a design standpoint, this means a few more components to interact with, including knobs and settings on the milk frother. The good news is that they’re intuitive and easy to understand.

Compared to the Rivelia’s more minimal look, the Dinamica Plus’s design has a busier control panel and a more robust form factor. Its 3.5-inch color touchscreen is functional and clear, though not as “animated” or user-personalized as Rivelia’s interface. Still, it delivers quick access to over 20 drink options, settings, and user profiles, with minimal tapping.

Aesthetically, the Dinamica Plus is more serious and less playful. This is a machine that looks at home in a dedicated coffee corner or a semi-professional kitchen. It signals power and capability more than warmth or lifestyle appeal.

In terms of physical durability, long-term users have reported some wear-and-tear in components like the milk carafe latching mechanisms or the grinder’s bean chute. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re worth noting if you’re planning to keep the machine for five years or longer. Still, most users agree that the build is above average for its price category and comparable to other mid-tier Jura or Saeco models.

Head-to-Head Ergonomics and Practical Design

Here’s how the two machines break down on specific design and build metrics:

  • Size & Footprint: Rivelia is more compact, with a narrower profile that fits better in tight kitchens. Dinamica Plus is bigger and bulkier, though offers higher capacities.
  • Material Quality: Dinamica Plus edges ahead with more stainless steel panels and polished finishes. Rivelia relies more on high-end plastics but avoids looking cheap.
  • User Interaction Points: Rivelia’s design is more playful, conversational, and touchscreen-forward. Dinamica Plus feels more traditional and function-driven.
  • Component Access: Both offer front-access water tanks and modular drip trays. Rivelia’s dual-hopper system gives it a major edge in convenience.
  • Aesthetic Options: Rivelia gives more color customization for those who care about kitchen aesthetics. Dinamica Plus keeps to neutral, metallic finishes.

Final Thoughts on Design

Both machines are clearly well-built, but they serve different types of users. If your kitchen values design cohesion, compactness, and smart usability, the Rivelia is a clear winner. Its ability to change beans effortlessly, offer a user-guided experience, and disappear into a modern countertop makes it feel new and forward-thinking.

On the other hand, the Dinamica Plus wears its functionality proudly. It’s a machine for users who want something with heft, capacity, and a more traditional espresso presence. Its interface and finishes are tailored to people who value control and performance over minimalism.

In short: Rivelia is the espresso machine you’d show off in a design magazine spread. Dinamica Plus is the one you rely on every morning to deliver bold shots with no fuss. Both are beautifully designed—just for different priorities.

User Interface & Ease of Use

When it comes to super-automatic espresso machines, the user interface is more than a screen—it’s the nerve center that guides every step of the coffee-making process. Whether you’re dialing in your favorite flat white or just want your morning espresso with one tap, the quality of the UI determines how easy (or frustrating) that journey will be.

The De’Longhi Rivelia and Dinamica Plus both come equipped with 3.5-inch full-color touchscreens, and on the surface, they might seem similar. But once you start using them, the differences become clear. Each machine has its own design philosophy around usability. The Rivelia emphasizes simplicity, friendliness, and guided steps, while the Dinamica Plus leans into customization, depth of control, and integration with smart features like app connectivity.

Let’s look closely at how each machine handles user interaction—screen layout, responsiveness, customization options, profiles, app support, and general day-to-day operation.

De’Longhi Rivelia: Friendly, Guided, and Effortless

One of the first things you notice when using the Rivelia is how friendly and interactive the interface feels. It doesn’t just show buttons—it speaks to you. Not with sound, but through phrasing and prompts that make the machine feel almost like a helpful assistant.

The 3.5-inch touchscreen is bright, responsive, and well-organized. Each drink option is displayed with an icon and short description. You can swipe through categories or select favorites quickly. But what really sets the Rivelia apart is how it talks to you like a person.

For example, when switching bean hoppers, the Rivelia says: “Would you like me to purge the old beans first?” or “I’ll remember this setting for next time.” This first-person language adds an unexpected layer of warmth. You’re not navigating a cold digital menu—you’re being helped through a decision-making process. That tone is consistent whether you’re adjusting the grind, saving a profile, or running a cleaning cycle.

And while it may sound gimmicky on paper, in use it works beautifully. Especially for beginners, this style of interaction lowers the intimidation factor. You don’t have to guess whether you’ve adjusted something correctly—the machine tells you what it’s doing and why. This is a huge win for people who just want good coffee without needing to become a barista.

Another standout feature is how the Rivelia guides you when adapting to different beans. The Bean Adapt system prompts you to input roast level, origin, and type. It then suggests ideal grind settings, brew temperature, and coffee quantity for that specific bean. You can override these suggestions, but for many users—especially those who switch beans frequently—it removes a lot of guesswork.

Navigation is intuitive. Tap a drink, and you’re offered strength, size, and temperature adjustments. Each profile saves these preferences, so you don’t have to reconfigure every time. The Rivelia supports up to four user profiles, each with its own drink preferences and bean settings. It even remembers which bean container was last used with which profile, and prompts accordingly when you change hoppers.

As far as physical interaction, the touchscreen is snappy and responsive. Buttons are large and clearly labeled. Even older users or those unfamiliar with tech won’t have much trouble. It’s as close to a plug-and-play espresso experience as you’ll find in a machine with this much power.

However, one notable omission is smart connectivity. There’s no app support with the Rivelia. Everything is done directly through the touchscreen. For users who like to queue drinks remotely or get maintenance alerts via phone, this could be a downside. That said, many buyers appreciate the fact that they don’t need to download or sync anything—the experience is fully self-contained.

In daily use, the Rivelia is designed to minimize thinking. The touchscreen shows you only the options relevant to the moment. If milk isn’t inserted, it won’t display milk-based drinks. If the water tank is low, you’ll see a polite message telling you to refill it. It’s less about overwhelming you with options and more about streamlining the moment.

The learning curve is almost nonexistent. Most users can go from unboxing to drinking a cappuccino in 10 minutes. Even more impressive, that cappuccino will taste pretty good—even if you didn’t tweak anything.

In short, the Rivelia interface is ideal for:

  • First-time super-automatic users
  • Families or households with multiple coffee preferences
  • People who value ease, clarity, and friendly design over deep customization

De’Longhi Dinamica Plus: Deep Customization, App Control, and Power User Options

In contrast to the Rivelia’s guided, minimalist interface, the Dinamica Plus gives you a deeper level of control—especially if you’re the kind of person who wants to fine-tune every aspect of your coffee.

The Dinamica Plus also features a 3.5-inch full-color touchscreen. At first glance, it looks more traditional—organized into clean menus, with drink options divided into espresso-based, milk-based, and specialty recipes. Tap any option, and you’re taken into a submenu where you can adjust strength, temperature, volume, and milk amount (if applicable). It’s fast, responsive, and less animated than the Rivelia, but that makes it feel more efficient for some users.

The key strength of the Dinamica Plus lies in its depth of customization. You get five strength levels, three temperature settings, volume control for coffee and milk separately, and foam level settings for certain milk drinks. Each drink can be saved to a user profile (up to four profiles plus a guest mode). Once you’ve tuned your favorite cappuccino or flat white, it’s just one tap away every morning.

Where the Dinamica Plus really pulls ahead is app integration. Through De’Longhi’s Coffee Link app, you can connect the machine via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and control most functions remotely. This includes:

  • Starting drinks from your phone
  • Customizing recipes on a larger screen
  • Getting maintenance alerts and tutorials
  • Saving and syncing user profiles
  • Checking usage stats and history

The app isn’t required, but it adds a serious layer of convenience. If you’re lying in bed and want your espresso ready when you hit the kitchen, this is your dream machine. If you have guests and want to set up temporary profiles without crowding the screen, the app makes that easy.

Another advantage of the Dinamica Plus is its ability to create more complex drinks. It supports over 20 drink recipes—including rarer options like over-ice espresso, long black, macchiato, and cortado. Each can be accessed from the screen or customized in the app. This level of variety is rare in super-automatics at this price point.

Navigating the touchscreen is fairly straightforward. While the interface isn’t quite as warm or guided as the Rivelia, it’s logical and efficient. Experienced users might even prefer the cleaner design. There’s less animation and fewer conversational prompts, which could speed things up for those who already know what they want.

The physical controls and screen are also responsive, and the menu flow makes sense. One touch on the main screen shows you your saved drinks. Swiping brings up other recipes. Tapping into a drink brings up customization. You don’t get lost, and the layout is well-thought-out.

For day-to-day use, the Dinamica Plus feels like it was designed by people who drink coffee all day, every day. It’s not trying to entertain you—it’s trying to deliver exactly what you want, consistently. And it does.

The trade-off is that it’s a little less friendly to beginners. There’s no Bean Adapt mode to walk you through grind and strength settings based on bean type. There’s no guidance on what roast you’re using or how to switch beans. If you don’t know much about coffee, the Dinamica Plus will make great drinks—but it won’t help you understand the “why” behind the settings.

In that sense, the Dinamica Plus rewards users who are already at least somewhat coffee-literate—or those who enjoy trial and error. Once you get the hang of the machine, it gives you an incredible amount of control. But you’ll need to invest a bit of time learning what each variable does.

It’s also worth noting that the Dinamica Plus handles multi-profile households well, but not quite as seamlessly as the Rivelia. It doesn’t associate bean hoppers with specific users. If you swap beans, you’ll need to adjust the grind and strength settings yourself.

To summarize, the Dinamica Plus interface is ideal for:

  • Intermediate or advanced users who want control over every cup
  • Tech-savvy people who like the idea of remote brewing and customization
  • Anyone who values drink variety and recipe precision

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureRiveliaDinamica Plus
Touchscreen size3.5-inch full-color3.5-inch full-color
Navigation styleGuided, conversationalEfficient, control-focused
App connectivityNoYes (De’Longhi Coffee Link)
Customization depthModerateExtensive
User profiles4 profiles + bean-linked settings4 profiles + guest mode
Drink variety~16 drinks20+ drinks
Ideal forBeginners, families, design loversTinkerers, advanced users

Final Thoughts on UI and Usability

The Rivelia wins for ease of use and user-friendliness. It removes intimidation and walks you through each step. You don’t need to know a thing about espresso to make great drinks. The screen is clear, animated, and welcoming.

The Dinamica Plus, on the other hand, is built for control. It’s not trying to make coffee “fun”—it’s trying to make it excellent. The learning curve is a little steeper, but the reward is greater drink precision, more variety, and app-based convenience.

Ultimately, both machines deliver excellent usability—but through very different approaches. Your ideal experience depends on whether you prefer smart, friendly automation or deep customization with total control.

Coffee Quality & Brewing Performance

Coffee quality is the heart of any espresso machine—and when you’re spending over $1,000 on a super-automatic unit, your expectations should be high. The promise of café-level espresso at the touch of a button is what draws many people to machines like the De’Longhi Rivelia and the Dinamica Plus. But the way each machine approaches brewing, extraction, and flavor balance is noticeably different.

This section will break down how each machine handles core brewing mechanics, shot consistency, temperature stability, crema production, and how well they handle different coffee styles and roast types. We’ll also compare their internal brewing systems, pressure levels, pre-infusion capabilities, and how much control the user has over the taste.

Brewing System Overview

Both the Rivelia and Dinamica Plus are bean-to-cup espresso machines, meaning they grind, dose, tamp, and extract your shot automatically. Neither offers manual espresso capabilities like lever control or manual tamping, but both provide customizable settings for strength, volume, temperature, and grind size (to a degree). However, the internal brewing mechanisms differ slightly in sophistication and execution.

The De’Longhi Rivelia uses a conical burr grinder, a single thermoblock heating system, and a 19-bar pump for pressure. It incorporates De’Longhi’s proprietary Bean Adapt Technology, which uses user-inputted bean data to recommend optimal brewing settings for different roast levels. This is especially helpful for beginners, and makes it easier to get a good shot without extensive knowledge of espresso variables.

The Dinamica Plus also uses a 19-bar pump and a conical burr grinder, but it features finer grind controls (13 settings versus 7 on the Rivelia) and more advanced temperature and pressure tuning options. It doesn’t have Bean Adapt, but it offers manual overrides and more in-depth programming options—ideal for users who want to dial in specific profiles for their beans.

Espresso Extraction and Flavor

Let’s start with the espresso.

The Rivelia tends to produce smoother, more forgiving espresso with relatively low bitterness. It emphasizes balance and drinkability rather than intensity. With medium and dark roasts, the crema is consistent and golden, though a little light in body. Lighter roasts fare okay, though the Rivelia does better with beans that don’t require ultra-fine grinds or ultra-high temperature to extract properly.

The Bean Adapt system is surprisingly effective in helping the machine “get close” to the ideal shot. If you input the correct roast type and bean origin, the machine will adjust temperature, pre-infusion time, and strength accordingly. For most users, this is more than enough to achieve café-quality coffee at home. It takes out the guesswork and speeds up the learning curve.

That said, the Rivelia has limitations when it comes to depth and complexity of flavor. For espresso purists who want syrupy body, dense crema, and nuanced acidity, it won’t go as far as a manual or higher-end semi-automatic machine. This is partly due to the grinder’s coarser range and the limited dose size (typically around 8–12 grams). The result is a slightly milder shot that’s better suited for milk drinks or casual espresso drinkers.

The Dinamica Plus, by contrast, pulls stronger, more robust espresso with richer crema and deeper body. Thanks to its 13-position grinder and more granular control over water volume and brew temperature, it can be tuned more precisely for each type of bean. Users consistently report fuller flavor extraction, especially with medium to dark roasts.

The Dinamica Plus also allows for true “ristretto” and “long espresso” styles without compromising pressure or taste. This makes it more flexible for users who want different styles throughout the day. In head-to-head blind tests, espresso from the Dinamica Plus often wins for strength, mouthfeel, and aftertaste—particularly if you’ve taken the time to fine-tune the settings.

One caveat: achieving peak performance with the Dinamica Plus takes a little effort. It doesn’t guide you through the process like Rivelia does. You’ll need to experiment with grind size, strength levels, and coffee weight to get the perfect shot. But once dialed in, the results are excellent and rival semi-automatic machines in taste.

Coffee Styles and Custom Recipes

Espresso is only part of the story. Super-automatic machines are also judged by how well they handle different coffee drink styles—lungo, Americano, macchiato, iced coffee, and more.

The Rivelia offers a solid range of about 16 one-touch drinks, including espresso, doppio+, cappuccino, flat white, long coffee, latte, latte macchiato, and even cold foam options. It’s strong when it comes to milk-based drinks and does a decent job with iced coffee. The long coffee feature is smooth but leans toward a milder profile—more like a strong drip than a true Americano. There’s no separate hot water outlet for manually crafting Americanos, so if that’s your go-to drink, the Rivelia is a little less flexible.

The Dinamica Plus offers more drink options—over 20 by default—including specialty drinks like espresso macchiato, cortado, long black, and over-ice espresso. It even has a “Coffee Pot” function that brews a larger batch of filter-style coffee. For households with multiple preferences or for users who like variety, the Dinamica Plus clearly wins here.

It also handles iced drinks better. The TrueBrew Over Ice feature uses a specific brew cycle that compensates for dilution when coffee hits ice, giving you a stronger, more balanced cold drink. Rivelia can brew iced drinks as well, but the output isn’t as well-tuned or intense.

Temperature and Pressure Consistency

Both machines use thermoblock heating systems rather than dual boilers. That means they heat water on demand, which speeds up brew time but limits simultaneous brewing and steaming. However, both machines handle single tasks quickly and efficiently.

The Rivelia’s temperature range is automated through Bean Adapt, with no manual control. For most beans, the machine selects a middle-of-the-road brewing temp that avoids over-extraction. This is perfect for casual users but might frustrate those who want to manually push hotter temps for light roasts.

The Dinamica Plus offers manual control over brew temperature (three levels), giving users the ability to customize based on roast level or personal preference. This makes a noticeable difference in taste. Higher temps bring out more oils and complexity in darker beans, while cooler temps preserve brightness in lighter roasts.

In terms of pressure, both machines use the standard 19-bar pump, though real-world brewing happens closer to 9 bars—ideal for espresso. Both machines produce consistent pressure, though the Dinamica Plus seems to deliver more stability during longer drinks or back-to-back shots, likely due to better internal flow management.

Shot-to-Shot Consistency

For single users making 1–2 drinks a day, both machines are consistent. But under repeated use—like when making 3–4 drinks in a row—the Dinamica Plus shows slightly better thermal recovery and grind consistency. It doesn’t require as many pauses between drinks to reset temp or grind.

The Rivelia is no slouch, but it’s clearly optimized for moderate usage rather than rapid-fire espresso service. It needs a few seconds longer between drinks, and its smaller brew group and drip tray mean more frequent emptying.

One note on grind retention: Rivelia has a small advantage here. Because of the dual hopper system and its purge function, it allows for cleaner bean transitions and less stale grounds between cups. If you swap beans often, this is a big plus. Dinamica Plus users have to purge manually if they want to fully switch out a bean type.

Taste Preferences and Target Audience

Rivelia is clearly engineered for smooth, approachable coffee. It’s the machine you buy if you like balanced flavor, milk drinks, and low-effort quality. It shines when used with medium to dark roasts and performs well with plant-based milks or flavored blends. It’s not going to blow away espresso aficionados, but for most people, it’s more than good enough—and very consistent.

Dinamica Plus is the machine for people who want to chase that “third wave” espresso flavor: syrupy, bold, with clear notes and complexity. It does require some setup and learning, but it rewards that effort with superior shots and flexibility across bean types. If you’re interested in tasting origin notes, pulling ristrettos, or getting deep into brewing variables, this is the better pick.

Final Verdict on Coffee Quality

Here’s a side-by-side summary of how the two machines stack up in key areas of coffee quality:

CategoryDe’Longhi RiveliaDe’Longhi Dinamica Plus
Espresso strengthSmooth, mild, low bitternessBold, rich, full-bodied
Crema qualityGood but lightDense and creamy
Flavor complexityBalanced, not very nuancedHigh complexity, great bean clarity
Drink variety~16 drinks20+ drinks
Bean supportGood for medium/dark roastsExcellent across all roast levels
Temperature controlAutomated via Bean AdaptManual (3 levels)
Brew customizationModerateExtensive
Iced coffee performanceDecentExcellent (TrueBrew Over Ice)
Best for…Casual drinkers, beginnersCoffee lovers, tinkerers, espresso fans

Both machines make excellent coffee—but in very different ways. The Rivelia focuses on ease and smoothness, perfect for everyday users who want café-style drinks without complications. The Dinamica Plus, on the other hand, is built for performance. It’s more powerful, more adjustable, and ultimately more satisfying for those who want their machine to grow with them.

Grinder Features & Performance

The grinder inside a super-automatic espresso machine isn’t just a convenience—it’s a critical component that directly influences flavor, texture, aroma, and shot consistency. A poorly tuned or limited grinder will flatten the complexity of your beans, no matter how advanced the brewing system is. With high-end machines like the De’Longhi Rivelia and Dinamica Plus, you’re not only paying for a built-in grinder, but also for the control, precision, and consistency it offers.

This section takes a deep look at how the grinders in each machine perform in real-world use, including grind range, consistency, retention, adjustability, user experience, and how they affect shot quality. We’ll also explore how each machine handles bean variety (oily, light roast, dark roast), how accessible the grinder controls are, and whether these systems are designed for long-term reliability and easy maintenance.

Grinder Design and Build

Both the Rivelia and Dinamica Plus use conical burr grinders, which is the gold standard in home espresso equipment. Unlike blade grinders that “chop” beans unevenly, burr grinders crush beans between two surfaces, producing a consistent grind that’s essential for espresso.

  • Rivelia: Comes with a built-in conical steel burr grinder featuring 7 grind size settings. The grinder is integrated beneath the dual bean hoppers, and adjustment is made via a dial inside the hopper area. The Rivelia’s grinder is relatively quiet and calibrated for smooth extraction rather than maximum boldness.
  • Dinamica Plus: Also features a steel conical burr grinder, but with 13 grind settings, giving it a finer and more adjustable grind range. This extra precision allows users to better tailor their coffee’s flavor, body, and crema across a wider variety of bean types.

While both grinders are made from stainless steel, which is durable and less prone to rust, they are not infinitely adjustable. Neither grinder will satisfy ultra-precise needs like Turkish coffee or pour-over, but for espresso and milk-based drinks, both are more than sufficient.

Grind Size Adjustment and Range

The number of grind settings is one of the most important differences between the Rivelia and the Dinamica Plus.

  • The Rivelia’s 7 settings offer a modest range, from fine to coarse, but with relatively large gaps between settings. This makes it easy for beginners to use—the settings are less overwhelming—but it limits the ability to fine-tune shots. If you’re chasing subtle flavor changes or need a very fine grind for a particular light roast, the Rivelia may not go far enough.
  • The Dinamica Plus’s 13 settings provide more granular control. This is especially important if you like to explore different roast levels or origins. For example, light roasts usually require a finer grind and higher temperature for proper extraction, and the Dinamica’s extra settings make that easier to achieve. The adjustment dial is also accessible from the bean hopper, though like the Rivelia, it must be turned only while the grinder is running to avoid damaging the burrs.

In short, Rivelia prioritizes simplicity, while Dinamica Plus gives more room for precision. If you’re the kind of user who wants to tweak your grind size to match bean freshness, roast level, or dose, the Dinamica Plus offers far more flexibility.

Bean Hopper Design and Capacity

One of the most innovative and unique features of the Rivelia is its dual bean hopper system. This sets it apart from not just the Dinamica Plus, but from virtually every other consumer-grade super-automatic machine on the market.

Each hopper holds around 250 grams of beans, and they can be removed and swapped in seconds. This makes it incredibly easy to switch between two different bean types—say, a bold morning roast and a decaf evening option—without having to empty or clean the grinder. Each hopper is also sealed to maintain freshness and comes with a rubber gasket lid to reduce oxidation.

This design is perfect for households where more than one person drinks coffee or for users who like to alternate between different bean profiles throughout the day. The Rivelia even allows you to associate a user profile with a specific hopper, which adds a level of personalization that’s rare in home espresso machines.

In contrast, the Dinamica Plus uses a single bean hopper, also with a 250-gram capacity. There’s no easy way to switch beans quickly. If you want to change beans, you have to run the remaining coffee through the grinder, vacuum or scoop out what’s left, and refill with the new selection. It’s doable, but it’s a hassle compared to the Rivelia’s swap-and-go system.

However, where the Dinamica Plus regains some ground is in its pre-ground coffee bypass chute. This feature allows you to manually load a single shot of pre-ground coffee (including decaf) without disturbing the beans in the main hopper. The Rivelia lacks this feature, so if you want to use pre-ground coffee, you’re out of luck.

Grind Retention and Cross-Contamination

A common concern with built-in grinders is grind retention—the leftover grinds that remain in the system after a shot is brewed. Retained grounds can cause stale flavors when switching between beans or making back-to-back drinks. It also becomes a problem when switching from regular to decaf or from dark to light roasts.

The Rivelia handles this challenge with surprising intelligence. When you change hoppers, the system activates a “bean purge” function that uses up the remaining ~5 grams of beans before switching over. This isn’t a full self-clean, but it minimizes cross-contamination and ensures the next shot uses your selected beans. It also gives you the option to discard the purged shot or brew a mini espresso with it—a neat solution.

The Dinamica Plus doesn’t have this feature. If you switch beans, you need to manually purge by running a few shots or grinding waste into the grounds container. For users who only use one type of bean, this won’t matter. But for those who rotate roasts, it’s an extra step and potential flavor-mixing issue.

Grinder Noise and Speed

Grinder noise is often overlooked in reviews but can make a difference if you’re brewing early in the morning or in a shared household. Both machines have grinders that fall within the expected decibel range for home appliances, but they have subtle differences in tone and volume.

  • The Rivelia’s grinder has a slightly higher-pitched whir and is moderately loud but quick. The grind cycle is about 8–10 seconds per shot and isn’t jarring, but you’ll notice it in a quiet kitchen. It’s quieter than many entry-level machines, thanks to good insulation, but louder than ultra-premium models.
  • The Dinamica Plus’s grinder is a touch quieter, with a lower-pitched hum that feels a bit more refined. It also completes the grinding cycle swiftly and with minimal vibration. For users who prioritize quiet operation—especially in the early morning—the Dinamica Plus has a slight edge.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance

Long-term grinder performance depends on both design and upkeep. Luckily, both the Rivelia and Dinamica Plus offer built-in alerts for grinder issues and maintenance.

  • Rivelia benefits from fewer moving parts in its hopper and grinding system, and its sealed bean hoppers reduce exposure to humidity and air, helping preserve grinder sharpness. The hopper design also makes it easy to clean out residual grounds between uses. However, grind adjustment is somewhat limited, which may affect longevity for users demanding high grind precision over time.
  • Dinamica Plus has a more traditional grinder assembly and no purge system, which means it may retain more grounds over time. However, its broader adjustment range and proven burr design make it more robust for power users who want a grinder that keeps up with varied usage.

Both machines recommend occasional cleaning cycles and come with guides for accessing the grinder for deeper maintenance. While neither machine allows users to fully disassemble the grinder without voiding the warranty, they’re both designed to be serviceable by De’Longhi technicians if needed.

Grinder Performance Summary

FeatureRiveliaDinamica Plus
Burr typeConical steelConical steel
Grind settings713
Hopper capacityDual 250g removable hoppersSingle 250g hopper
Bean switchingOne-touch swap with purgeManual purge required
Pre-ground bypassNoYes
Noise levelModerate (whine-like hum)Slightly quieter (low-pitch hum)
Cross-contamination handlingPurge function after bean swapManual grind-through only
Grind consistencyGood for medium-dark beansExcellent across full roast range
Best suited forCasual drinkers, multiple bean usersEnthusiasts, precision-focused users

Final Thoughts on Grinder Performance

The Rivelia’s grinder is built for convenience and consistency. Its dual-hopper system is a standout innovation, especially for households that use different beans regularly. While it lacks deep granularity in grind settings, it compensates with ease of use and minimal mess. It’s ideal for users who want coffee with zero fuss and quick swaps between roast types.

The Dinamica Plus, meanwhile, shines in precision and control. Its wider range of grind settings, lower noise, and pre-ground bypass make it a better fit for users who want to experiment, dial in flavor, and push the limits of their beans. It’s more hands-on, but the payoff is greater versatility and more robust shot quality—especially for those who understand grind-to-taste ratios.

Ultimately, the best grinder depends on how you use your machine. If simplicity and bean-swapping are your top concerns, Rivelia wins. If control and extraction precision matter more, Dinamica Plus is the clear choice.

Milk Frothing & Specialty Drinks

Milk frothing is where super-automatic espresso machines either make or break their value. Espresso alone can be judged by crema and flavor, but milk drinks—like cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, and flat whites—reveal a machine’s true range and refinement. Most people who buy machines like the De’Longhi Rivelia or Dinamica Plus aren’t just chasing a perfect ristretto; they want café-style milk drinks without the mess and skill required by manual steam wands.

In this section, we’ll explore how both machines handle milk frothing in terms of foam texture, consistency, temperature control, plant-based milk compatibility, and customization. We’ll also dive into their drink variety—how many recipes they offer, how flexible they are in adjusting milk-to-espresso ratios, and what makes each machine more (or less) suited to specific user types.

Shared Technology: LatteCrema System

Both the Rivelia and Dinamica Plus use De’Longhi’s proprietary LatteCrema system—a fully automatic milk frothing mechanism that doesn’t require a steam wand or manual texturing. Instead of manually frothing milk in a pitcher, users attach a milk carafe that fits directly onto the front of the machine. Once a drink is selected, the machine draws milk, froths it internally to the desired texture, and dispenses it into your cup—no effort required.

The LatteCrema system automatically separates milk foam from liquid milk, creating multi-layered drinks with good visual contrast and consistent mouthfeel. It’s designed to handle both dairy and plant-based milks (like soy, oat, and almond), although performance varies slightly depending on the brand and milk fat content.

Both machines also feature a detachable milk carafe, which you can store in the fridge when not in use. This is especially handy for households where not everyone drinks milk-based beverages every day, or if you like to switch between regular and non-dairy options.

De’Longhi Rivelia: Simplicity, Smooth Texture, and One-Touch Ease

The Rivelia focuses on ease of use and automation. Every milk drink is built around one-touch operation, making it easy for anyone to produce consistent results without fiddling with knobs or settings. You simply select a drink like cappuccino, flat white, or latte, and the machine handles everything—from grinding to milk dispensing—in one flow.

The milk foam it produces is smooth and well-aerated. It’s not café-level microfoam that would pass muster with a professional barista, but for home use, it’s more than adequate. The texture is great for lattes and flat whites, and it holds up reasonably well in cappuccinos. Foam thickness isn’t adjustable manually, but the Rivelia does a decent job of tailoring foam level to the drink you select.

One important thing to note: the Rivelia does not include a manual frothing wand, nor does it offer user-controlled froth density settings. If you want thicker or drier foam, or if you’re interested in pouring latte art, this machine won’t get you there. It’s very much an automated system built around convenience, not customization.

What it does offer, however, is a great experience for beginners or households with multiple milk drinkers. Each user profile can store preferences like milk volume, temperature, and drink strength. Once saved, your favorite cappuccino is just a tap away.

Rivelia also supports cold milk frothing for iced drinks. This is especially nice in warmer months or if you enjoy iced lattes and macchiatos. The machine adjusts frothing parameters to avoid heating the milk, producing a stable, chilled foam that blends well over ice.

As far as drink variety, the Rivelia includes:

  • Cappuccino
  • Latte macchiato
  • Flat white
  • Espresso macchiato
  • Iced latte
  • Iced cappuccino
  • Cold foam drinks
  • Latte

Each of these is customizable in terms of coffee strength, quantity, and temperature, but milk foam level is preset per drink.

De’Longhi Dinamica Plus: Customization, Rich Foam, and Drink Versatility

The Dinamica Plus also uses the LatteCrema system, but its implementation is more advanced than in the Rivelia. Where the Rivelia leans into simplicity, the Dinamica Plus embraces adjustability and variety.

For starters, the Dinamica Plus lets users manually control the milk froth density using a dial on the carafe. You can choose between minimal foam (for a flat white or café au lait), medium foam (for a latte), or thick foam (for a cappuccino). This gives the machine an edge for users who want more precision over their drink texture.

It also produces slightly richer, denser foam than the Rivelia, especially when using full-fat dairy milk. For cappuccinos, the Dinamica Plus nails the airy, dry foam texture that sits atop a strong espresso shot with impressive definition. For lattes, it delivers smooth, silky milk that blends seamlessly with the coffee.

Another big advantage of the Dinamica Plus is milk customization via the touchscreen or app. Users can set the exact volume of milk for each drink, adjust the coffee-to-milk ratio, and even tweak drink temperature. This allows for detailed recipe creation and repeatability—perfect for users who want consistent drinks every time without compromise.

In terms of drink library, the Dinamica Plus offers an impressive range:

  • Cappuccino
  • Cappuccino Mix (a larger cappuccino)
  • Espresso Macchiato
  • Latte Macchiato
  • Flat White
  • Caffelatte
  • Hot Milk
  • Iced Cappuccino
  • Cortado
  • Long Black (with optional milk add-on)
  • Custom drinks with adjustable milk/coffee ratio

These are all accessible from the touchscreen and can be saved under different user profiles. Even better, with the De’Longhi Coffee Link app, you can create and save entirely new drinks, down to the milk level and order of ingredient dispensing. This kind of customization is rare in home machines and gives the Dinamica Plus a real edge for enthusiasts.

Like the Rivelia, the Dinamica Plus includes a cold milk frothing feature, though it’s more powerful and better optimized. The iced cappuccino mode, paired with its TrueBrew Over Ice espresso recipe, makes for one of the better iced drinks you can get from a super-automatic machine. The milk holds its foam well even when chilled, and the result rivals some café iced lattes.

Compatibility with Plant-Based Milks

Both machines advertise support for non-dairy milk, and in practice, they perform similarly. The LatteCrema system works best with barista-style alternatives (like oat milk with added emulsifiers) and full-fat plant-based options. Skim almond or thin soy milks tend to produce weak or unstable foam.

  • Rivelia: Handles oat and soy milk well. Foam tends to be light and airy, with a slightly bubbly texture. Still suitable for lattes and iced drinks.
  • Dinamica Plus: Produces thicker foam from the same non-dairy milk, especially when using the milk density dial. The ability to fine-tune the texture means you can better adapt to the quirks of different milk types.

If you regularly use non-dairy milk, the Dinamica Plus provides more control and consistently better results.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Milk Systems

Milk systems are notoriously finicky when it comes to cleaning. Milk residue can build up quickly, leading to hygiene issues and performance drops. Both machines aim to simplify this process.

  • Rivelia: Automatically runs a milk circuit rinse after each use. The milk carafe disassembles easily and is dishwasher safe. The only real maintenance task is remembering to rinse and sanitize the tubing periodically.
  • Dinamica Plus: Also runs an auto-rinse on the milk system. However, it goes further by offering deep cleaning reminders and a “Clean” button on the carafe itself, which lets you run a targeted rinse without brewing a drink. The milk container and components are dishwasher safe as well, and the carafe has clear indicators showing which parts to clean.

Both machines include prompts for milk system cleaning and reminders when descaling is needed. In terms of hygiene and maintenance, they’re about equal—but the Dinamica’s dedicated cleaning button is a nice touch for heavy users.

Summary Table: Milk Frothing & Specialty Drinks

FeatureDe’Longhi RiveliaDe’Longhi Dinamica Plus
Milk systemLatteCrema (automatic)LatteCrema with manual froth dial
Foam controlPreset per drinkAdjustable (low, medium, high)
Milk drink variety~8 options12+ options
Cold foam supportYesYes (more optimized)
Plant-based milk performanceGoodExcellent (with tuning)
Milk customizationLimited to drink presetsFull control via screen & app
Latte art capabilityNoLimited (still auto frother)
App integration for recipesNoYes
Cleaning routineAuto-rinse, easy carafe disassemblyAuto-rinse + dedicated “Clean” button
Best forBeginners, milk drink loversCustomizers, milk texture enthusiasts

Final Thoughts on Milk Performance

The De’Longhi Rivelia is designed for effortless milk drinks. If your goal is to make a cappuccino or iced latte in under a minute with no fuss and no cleanup anxiety, it’s nearly perfect. It simplifies everything and delivers consistent results—ideal for beginners or busy households. The downside is its lack of control over foam texture and volume.

The De’Longhi Dinamica Plus is a better fit for those who want options. It allows you to dial in the texture of your milk, adjust ratios, create your own recipes, and experiment with plant-based milks. Whether you’re a flat white purist or a fan of iced macchiatos, the Dinamica Plus gives you more ways to perfect your drink.

In the end, both machines succeed in turning milk into café-quality froth—but the Dinamica Plus gives you more room to grow, while the Rivelia makes it easy to enjoy from day one. Your choice depends on whether you want simplicity or full creative control in your cup.

Maintenance & Cleaning

If you want your super-automatic espresso machine to last—and consistently produce great-tasting drinks—maintenance isn’t optional. No matter how advanced or expensive a machine is, coffee oils, milk residue, and mineral scale build up over time. That buildup not only affects flavor and hygiene, but can cause mechanical issues or breakdowns if ignored.

The De’Longhi Rivelia and Dinamica Plus are both built with automated cleaning systems, but they differ in how much daily effort they require from the user. In this section, we’ll break down how each machine handles maintenance tasks, including cleaning cycles, descaling, milk system hygiene, brew group care, and long-term reliability. We’ll also look at how user-friendly each machine is when it comes to keeping it running smoothly and safely over months and years.

Overview: Maintenance Expectations for Super-Automatics

Before diving into each machine, it’s important to understand what regular maintenance looks like for a super-automatic espresso machine. Typical tasks include:

  • Emptying and rinsing the drip tray and grounds bin daily
  • Rinsing the milk carafe and milk circuit after each use
  • Running a descaling cycle every few months
  • Replacing water filters periodically (if your machine supports them)
  • Cleaning or rinsing the brewing unit weekly
  • Wiping down external surfaces and refilling the bean hopper and water tank as needed

The goal of a good maintenance system is to automate or simplify as many of these steps as possible—especially for users who aren’t coffee nerds but still want consistent, hygienic drinks.

De’Longhi Rivelia: Simplicity and Clarity

The Rivelia is designed with everyday usability and simplicity in mind, and that carries over into its cleaning and maintenance features. From the first setup, the machine prompts you through water hardness testing and sets up an automatic descaling schedule based on your results. This is especially helpful in regions with hard tap water, where calcium buildup can cause serious damage over time.

Cleaning the Brew Group

The Rivelia has a removable brew group, which is a major advantage over machines with a sealed system. Every few days or after 10–15 drinks, you can open the side panel and pull out the brew unit for rinsing. This takes less than 30 seconds and ensures that coffee oils and residue don’t build up inside the brewing chamber.

De’Longhi recommends rinsing the brew group under warm water, letting it air-dry, and reinserting it. There’s no need for scrubbing or chemicals. Compared to brands like Jura (which seal the brew group inside the machine), this design gives you direct control over cleanliness and makes long-term upkeep easier.

The Rivelia also prompts you automatically when it’s time to clean the group or run a rinse cycle. It doesn’t require memorization or guesswork—it tells you what to do and when.

Drip Tray and Grounds Bin

Because the Rivelia is so compact, its drip tray and grounds container are also relatively small. This means you’ll need to empty them more frequently—usually every 4 to 6 drinks. Fortunately, the machine alerts you with an on-screen message when it’s time. Removing both components is easy; they slide out from the front, and their rounded edges make them easy to wash.

The drip tray has a built-in float that rises when the tray is full, giving a visual reminder to empty it before any overflow. The grounds container is also dishwasher safe, though most users simply rinse it out daily.

Milk System Hygiene

The Rivelia uses De’Longhi’s LatteCrema system, and the milk carafe is fully detachable. After each milk-based drink, the machine prompts you to run a quick rinse through the milk circuit. This only takes a few seconds and helps prevent milk buildup in the tubes.

The carafe itself can be fully disassembled—tube, lid, and internal frothing components all come apart easily and are top-rack dishwasher safe. If you’re storing the carafe in the fridge (as recommended), it’s good practice to clean it thoroughly every couple of days to prevent souring or bacterial growth.

While the Rivelia doesn’t include a dedicated “deep clean” button on the milk carafe like the Dinamica Plus, it makes up for it with clear, frequent prompts and easy disassembly.

Descaling Process

Descaling is a key maintenance task that removes mineral deposits from the internal pipes and heating elements. If ignored, scale buildup can affect brewing temperature, flavor, and eventually clog the machine.

The Rivelia’s setup includes a water hardness test strip to determine how often descaling is needed. Once set, the machine will alert you when it’s time, and guide you through the process step by step. The cycle typically takes about 30–40 minutes and requires De’Longhi descaling solution, which you mix with water in the reservoir.

You’ll need a container under the spouts to catch the descaling fluid and rinse water. The screen prompts you at each step, making it virtually impossible to mess up.

There’s no Wi-Fi or app to track maintenance schedules, so it’s all handled through on-screen messages. For most users, this approach is sufficient and keeps things simple.

De’Longhi Dinamica Plus: Advanced Features and More Control

The Dinamica Plus takes a more advanced approach to maintenance. It offers many of the same features as the Rivelia—automatic rinses, removable brew group, alerts, and a milk cleaning system—but adds more automation, customization, and app-based tracking.

Brew Group Cleaning

Like the Rivelia, the Dinamica Plus has a removable brewing unit, which is a big win for long-term reliability. The unit pops out from the side panel and should be rinsed weekly under warm water. You’ll also get occasional on-screen prompts when it’s time to clean the brew group or run a rinse cycle.

Some users have noted that the brew group in the Dinamica Plus feels slightly more robust than the one in Rivelia, and it may perform better under high volume use. But both follow the same basic maintenance protocol.

Drip Tray and Grounds Bin

The drip tray on the Dinamica Plus is a bit larger than the Rivelia’s, which means fewer emptying cycles. The grounds bin also has a slightly higher capacity—ideal for larger households or frequent drinkers. Like the Rivelia, it includes a float indicator for water overflow and can be removed and cleaned easily.

Both the tray and bin are top-rack dishwasher safe, though hand rinsing is usually enough for daily upkeep.

Milk Circuit Cleaning

The milk carafe on the Dinamica Plus includes a “Clean” button directly on the handle. After making a milk drink, pressing this button runs a short rinse through the milk tubes without needing to interact with the main menu. This is incredibly convenient and encourages users to clean more frequently.

Additionally, the app-connected interface sends reminders to your phone when the carafe hasn’t been cleaned in a while. You can also schedule deep cleans from the app or access cleaning guides and videos.

The carafe itself is fully dishwasher safe and just as easy to disassemble as the Rivelia’s. In daily use, the Dinamica Plus makes milk maintenance slightly easier, especially for households making 3–4 lattes per day.

Descaling and Filter Management

Descaling on the Dinamica Plus is nearly identical to the Rivelia, but it goes a step further by integrating smart notifications via the De’Longhi Coffee Link app. Once you input your water hardness during setup, the machine and app track usage and remind you when descaling is due.

The Dinamica Plus is also compatible with De’Longhi’s water filtration system, which helps reduce mineral buildup and can extend the time between descaling cycles. While the Rivelia can also use water filters, the Dinamica’s app integration makes filter reminders and replacement tracking easier to manage.

Long-Term Maintenance and Reliability

Over time, every espresso machine requires attention beyond daily cleanups. Both the Rivelia and Dinamica Plus are designed for long-term use and include features that help prevent breakdowns:

  • Rivelia benefits from a newer design, dual bean hoppers with sealed storage (which protect beans and the grinder), and a streamlined milk system. However, it lacks app integration and advanced maintenance tracking.
  • Dinamica Plus wins on versatility and connectivity. Its app interface makes it easier to stay on top of maintenance, and its cleaning prompts are more detailed. Some users report more consistent long-term performance, especially in high-use scenarios.

Both machines are backed by De’Longhi’s customer support and service network, and spare parts like milk carafes, water filters, and cleaning kits are easy to find.

Maintenance Summary Table

Maintenance FeatureRiveliaDinamica Plus
Removable brew groupYesYes
Descaling alert systemOn-screen promptsOn-screen + app reminders
Milk carafe cleaningAuto-rinse + manual disassemblyAuto-rinse + “Clean” button
Grounds/drip bin sizeSmall (more frequent emptying)Medium (holds more between cleanings)
App connectivity for cleaningNoYes (Coffee Link app)
Water filter compatibilityYesYes
Ease of deep cleaningStraightforwardAdvanced but intuitive
Best forSimple routine maintenanceHands-free alerts and higher volume use

Final Thoughts on Cleaning & Maintenance

The Rivelia keeps things clean and simple. It’s built for users who want daily maintenance to be quick and painless. With clear on-screen prompts, a removable brew group, and a milk system that rinses itself, it’s a solid machine for people who don’t want to overthink it.

The Dinamica Plus adds more intelligence, convenience, and control to the equation. The app-connected features help automate cleaning schedules, and the larger capacity components reduce how often you need to empty trays or bins. Its milk system is slightly more advanced, especially with the “Clean” button and more detailed alerts.

Ultimately, both machines are easy to live with—but the Dinamica Plus is better for high-volume households or users who want smart notifications, while the Rivelia excels for those who want low-effort, well-designed daily maintenance without relying on an app.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

While performance and drink quality often take center stage, energy efficiency and noise levels are key practical considerations—especially for users who brew multiple cups a day or live in shared spaces. Both the De’Longhi Rivelia and Dinamica Plus aim to be kitchen-friendly, offering smart energy management and relatively quiet operation for super-automatic machines. Still, there are differences in how each model handles power usage, noise during operation, and user control over these aspects.

Energy Efficiency

Both machines feature standard 1250-watt thermoblock heating systems, which heat water quickly on demand rather than keeping it hot continuously. This makes them more energy-efficient than dual-boiler systems, especially for occasional use.

The Rivelia includes an automatic shut-off feature that powers the machine down after a preset period of inactivity, which can be adjusted in the settings. It also enters a low-power standby mode quickly, helping to minimize electricity draw between uses.

The Dinamica Plus offers similar power management tools, with user-programmable auto-off settings and eco mode. Where it pulls ahead is in smart connectivity—its app allows users to remotely control on/off times and get energy consumption tips, making it a better fit for those actively managing their energy footprint.

Noise Levels

Both machines are quieter than older super-automatic models, but not silent. The grinder is the loudest component, followed by milk frothing. The Rivelia’s grinder has a sharper, high-pitched whirr, while the Dinamica Plus emits a lower, slightly quieter hum.

During brewing, both machines operate at moderate noise levels—roughly equivalent to a standard drip coffee maker. Neither machine is disruptive, but if you’re making early-morning coffee in a quiet household, the Dinamica Plus has a slight edge in acoustic comfort.

Overall, both machines are efficient and reasonably quiet, but the Dinamica Plus wins for smart energy controls and slightly reduced operating noise.

Conclusion

Choosing between the De’Longhi Rivelia and the Dinamica Plus ultimately comes down to what you value most in a super-automatic espresso machine: convenience and style, or control and customization.

The Rivelia is built for ease. Its friendly interface, dual-bean hopper system, and guided Bean Adapt feature make it ideal for beginners or households with multiple coffee drinkers who want simplicity, speed, and flexibility in bean choice. It excels at delivering consistently smooth coffee and milk-based drinks with minimal input or learning curve. If you want a machine that feels intuitive, helps you avoid mistakes, and fits into a modern kitchen with a smaller footprint, the Rivelia is a standout. It’s about lifestyle and convenience wrapped in sleek, contemporary design.

The Dinamica Plus, on the other hand, is a powerhouse of customization. With 13 grind settings, deep drink personalization, a wider drink library, and app connectivity, it’s the better choice for users who like to tweak, explore, and perfect their brew. It also delivers stronger espresso, richer crema, and more control over milk texture—key advantages for coffee enthusiasts who want more than just push-button performance. It’s slightly larger, but with that size comes higher capacity and better long-term versatility.

Both machines offer excellent cleaning systems, durable construction, and enough automation to make quality espresso at home easy. But they cater to different users: the Rivelia is best for those who want premium simplicity, while the Dinamica Plus is for those who want to take their coffee further.

If you’re all about intuitive use, bean-swapping convenience, and stylish design, go with the Rivelia. If you want a smart, highly customizable coffee companion with a bigger brain and bolder output, the Dinamica Plus is worth the investment. Either way, you’ll be making excellent coffee with minimal effort.

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