De’Longhi Magnifica Start Coffee Machine Review

If you are looking for your first bean-to-cup machine and aren’t sure what you are looking for then this is a great place to start. Our De’Longhi Magnifica Start review takes a look at this gem of a machine, ideal for coffee enthusiasts seeking a seamless and authentic espresso experience at home. 

While there are more automatic bean-to-cup coffee machines in the De’Longhi Magnifica range, the De’Longhi Magnifica Start ECAM222.20.B is an entry-level coffee machine. The main differences between this and the more expensive versions are purely additional features – not the quality of the coffee. That’s why we chose this one. We are nothing other than Espresso or Americano drinkers so didn’t need the benefits of a machine that could make us a latte or a cappuccino for example. 

A Great First Bean to Cup Machine

This was our first bean-to-cup coffee machine after being massive fans of the French press for several years. I felt it was time to broaden my horizons and invest in a machine. Like many, I didn’t want to spend any more than I needed to, especially when I wasn’t sure what I was going to get. I read lots of reviews (comes with the job) and asked many friends. In the end, the Delonghi won the day. 

So, my first step was to go to Delonghi’s website and order it. I checked out 3 times only to get an error message every time. Undeterred I changed my browser, changed device, and used someone else’s phone too. The same error every time on the payment screen. Determined in my quest I went to Amazon. Here I found the machine for the same price with good old trusted next day delivery. 

It arrived in mid-December but I wasn’t allowed to touch it. We had bought it as a house present and so there it stayed in its box until Christmas morning. 

Enter the Novice…

Let’s start with where we went wrong (I must point out that my partner was in charge of setting up our new coffee machine while I prepared the turkey). First of all, we put the beans in the ground dispenser and then couldn’t understand why they kept falling straight through. Mistake rectified we then poured our beans into the hopper. It will only hold 250g – approximately half a normal-sized bag of beans. We filled up the water dispenser and then excitedly poured our first Espresso. We were like kids on Christmas morning and were very pleased with our first cup of coffee from our new automatic bean-to-cup machine. 

Design and Build: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

The Magnifica Start boasts a sleek and compact design that fits seamlessly into any kitchen space. Its stainless steel exterior not only exudes elegance but also ensures durability. The intuitive control panel is user-friendly, featuring clearly labeled buttons that make operating the machine a breeze. The colour and design fit beautifully onto our counter top in the kitchen and we immediately were asked where we got our new machine from friends and family that arrived for Christmas dinner. 

Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Once we had got past where the beans go vs grounds (shh don’t tell anyone), we discovered that one of the standout features of the Magnifica Start is its simplicity. The setup was straightforward, the buttons are very easy to understand and the removable water tank and drip tray make cleaning hassle-free, and the machine’s self-cleaning capabilities add a level of convenience that’s hard to beat

Performance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

The heart of any espresso machine lies in its brewing capabilities, and the Magnifica Start does not disappoint. The 15-bar pressure pump ensures a perfect extraction, resulting in rich, crema-topped espresso each time. The adjustable burr grinder allows you to tailor the grind size to your preference, ensuring a personalised and fresh cup of coffee with every use.

So why a 4? Well, it’s got to be for the noise – see our note further on in this article.

Customisation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Versatility is a key feature of the Magnifica Start. The machine offers customisable settings for coffee strength, water temperature, and cup size, allowing you to fine-tune your espresso to suit your taste. The dual spouts provide the option for a single or double shot, catering to the preferences of both solo coffee drinkers and those who enjoy sharing a cup.

The adjustable spout allows for a creamier coffee.

Choose your strength by selecting 1,2 or 3 beans and then choose your coffee – Espresso, standard coffee, or long. Easy to figure out on the dashboard. 

You can select your size of grind and therefore your strength of coffee too by turning the dial next to the bean hopper when you lift up the lid. 

Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Considering the features, build quality and performance, the Magnifica Start represents excellent value for money. It competes with higher-end espresso machines but comes at a more affordable price point, making it an ideal choice for those who want a premium coffee experience without breaking the bank.

What Could Be Better?

OK, I am that person who hates to find fault when I have taken so much time and pride in selecting something but in the interests of honesty and transparency, there is one thing about this machine that irritates me and that is the noise! Yep, it’s a little noisy. My teenage daughter sleeps above the kitchen and it does wake her (is that a bad thing?). But yes – this is a fairly noisy machine. 

Conclusion

In conclusion to our De’Longhi Magnifica Start review, we have to say it is a stellar choice for anyone looking to elevate their home coffee brewing experience. Its user-friendly design, customisable options, and exceptional performance make it a standout in the world of espresso machines. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or a casual drinker, the Magnifica Start is sure to delight with every cup.