As a kitchen appliance editor, I prefer the De'Longhi or Phillips bean-to-cup coffee machines over others in the market. My choice lies with these brands for brewing a perfect cup of coffee.
In the world of premium coffee, two brands stand out for their quality bean-to-cup coffee machines - Philips and De'Longhi. Both offer a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences, but how do they compare in terms of variety, features, and price?
## Variety and Features
De'Longhi takes the lead in terms of variety, boasting an impressive 41 different models. These range from budget-friendly options like the Magnifica Start to high-end machines like the Maestosa, which can produce two coffees at once with independent grinders and frothers. Models such as the Rivelia and Dinamica Plus offer multiple drink options and innovative features like bean switch systems and built-in burr grinders.
Philips, on the other hand, offers fewer options, with six bean-to-cup machines available. However, they are known for their affordability and still offer standard features like manual milk frothers.
## Price
When it comes to price, Philips is generally more affordable. Their cheapest model, the Series 2200 Fully Automatic, starts at £269.99, making it a great entry-level choice. De'Longhi, while offering a more extensive range, has a broader price range as well. Their cheapest bean-to-cup machine, the Magnifica Start, starts around £300. However, their high-end models can be quite expensive, reaching up to £2,299.99 for the Maestosa.
## Conclusion
If you prioritize a wider variety of options and are willing to invest in premium features, De'Longhi is the better choice. However, if affordability is your main concern, Philips offers more budget-friendly options with standard features. For those seeking a balance between variety, features, and price, De'Longhi might still be preferable due to its extensive range of models catering to different budgets and preferences.
It's worth noting that both brands offer manual and automatic options. De'Longhi's machines can be manually tweaked or feature automatic options for assistance, while Philips' LatteGo 5500, their most expensive model, offers customization, including drink temperature options and milk volumes, but it may take some time to perfect the brew.
Molly Cleary, our platform's Kitchen Appliances Editor, has been reviewing hundreds of small appliances and conducting tests at home or in the platform test kitchen for the last 4 years. With expertise in kitchen appliances, Molly has visited the testing and development spaces of multiple kitchen brands, including Ninja Kitchen and Le Creuset, and attended consumer shows such as IFA.
Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or a beginner, Philips and De'Longhi have a bean-to-cup machine to suit your needs. For first-time buyers looking to save, consider the Philips LatteGo automatic range. For those seeking a wider range of options and willing to invest in premium features, De'Longhi might be the brand for you.
Food-and-drink enthusiasts seeking a wide range of options in their coffee appliances will be drawn to the 'De'Longhi' brand, with its impressive 41 diverse models catering to various budgets and preferences, offering features such as independent grinders and frothers, multiple drink options, and innovative features like bean switch systems and built-in burr grinders.
Home-and-garden lovers on a budget will find Philips' bean-to-cup machines an attractive choice, as they offer affordability along with standard features like manual milk frothers and entry-level pricing, with their cheapest model starting at £269.99.
