Dreaming of barista-quality coffee at home? The DeLonghi Dedica range is a popular choice for many. If you’re eyeing a compact and stylish espresso machine, you’ve likely stumbled upon the DeLonghi EC680 and its successor, the EC685.
Both promise rich espresso and creamy cappuccinos with a minimal footprint. But what truly sets them apart? Are the upgrades in the EC685 significant enough to warrant the difference, or is the EC680 still a contender?
This comparison dives deep into the nuances of the DeLonghi EC680 vs EC685. We’ll help you navigate the subtle differences and make an informed decision to elevate your home coffee brewing experience.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | delonghi ec680 | ec685 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 150 x 330 x 300 mm | 150 x 330 x 300 mm |
| Weight | 4.2 kg | 4.2 kg |
| Water Tank Capacity | 1.0 L | 1.0 L |
| Pump Pressure | 15 bar | 15 bar |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock | Thermoblock |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Removable Drip Tray | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Drip Tray | Yes (2 levels) | Yes (2 levels) |
| Milk Frothing System | Adjustable Steam Wand | Adjustable Steam Wand |
| Filter Holder Type | Pressurized filter holder | Pressurized filter holder |
| Cup Warmer | Passive | Passive |
| Auto Shut-off | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build Quality
- Delonghi Ec680: Features a slim and compact design, measuring just 15cm wide, making it ideal for smaller kitchens. Its stainless steel finish offers a premium look and feel. The build quality is generally robust for its price point, though some users report the drip tray feeling a bit flimsy.
- Ec685: Shares the same ultra-slim profile and stainless steel aesthetic as the EC680. It often comes in a wider range of color options, allowing for more personalization. The build quality is largely identical, with the same minor criticisms regarding the drip tray.
- Winner: Tie
Brewing System and Performance
- Delonghi Ec680: Utilizes a 15-bar pump for optimal espresso extraction, delivering rich crema. It heats up quickly, ready to brew in about 40 seconds. Performance is consistent for a home machine, producing good quality espresso shots.
- Ec685: Also employs a 15-bar pump for excellent espresso extraction. It boasts a similar rapid heat-up time, ensuring you don’t have to wait long for your coffee. The brewing performance is virtually indistinguishable from the EC680, offering reliable results.
- Winner: Tie
Milk Frothing System
- Delonghi Ec680: Equipped with a manual “Cappuccino System” frother. This requires some practice to master but allows for excellent control over milk texture and temperature for lattes and cappuccinos. Some users find it less convenient than automatic systems.
- Ec685: Features the same manual “Cappuccino System” frother. This offers the same level of control and learning curve as the EC680. The versatility for creating different milk-based drinks is a strong point for those who enjoy the process.
- Winner: Tie
Water Tank Capacity and Accessibility
- Delonghi Ec680: Comes with a 1.1-liter removable water tank. The tank is easily accessible from the top, making refills straightforward. While adequate for a few drinks, frequent users might find themselves refilling it often.
- Ec685: Also has a 1.1-liter removable water tank, identical in capacity and ease of use to the EC680. The top-mounted design ensures simple refilling. Its capacity is a practical choice for households with moderate coffee consumption.
- Winner: Tie
Portafilter Options
- Delonghi Ec680: Includes three filter baskets: one for single shots, one for double shots, and one for E.S.E. pods. This versatility caters to different coffee preferences and brewing styles. The quality of the baskets is standard for this price range.
- Ec685: Also comes with the same set of three filter baskets: single shot, double shot, and E.S.E. pod compatible. This offers the same flexibility in brewing options as its predecessor. The inclusion of pod compatibility is a convenient feature for some.
- Winner: Tie
Cup Height Adjustment
- Delonghi Ec680: Features an adjustable drip tray that can be raised or lowered to accommodate different cup sizes, from small espresso cups to larger mugs. This prevents splashing and ensures a clean brewing process. The adjustment mechanism is simple and effective.
- Ec685: Offers the same adjustable drip tray functionality, allowing for accommodation of various cup heights. This practical feature is crucial for brewing directly into different vessels. The ease of adjustment is a user-friendly aspect.
- Winner: Tie
User Interface and Controls
- Delonghi Ec680: Boasts a simple and intuitive control panel with three illuminated buttons for single shot, double shot, and steam. This minimalist design makes it easy to operate even for beginners. The lack of complex menus is a major plus.
- Ec685: Retains the same straightforward three-button interface as the EC680. The illuminated buttons are clearly marked, providing a user-friendly experience. Its simplicity ensures that making espresso is an uncomplicated task.
- Winner: Tie
Additional Features and Enhancements
- Delonghi Ec680: Includes an automatic shut-off feature after a set period of inactivity, enhancing energy efficiency. It also has a descaling alarm to remind users when maintenance is due. These are practical additions for longevity and convenience.
- Ec685: Incorporates the same automatic shut-off and descaling alarm features as the EC680. These are standard but valuable additions for responsible appliance use and upkeep. The focus remains on core espresso-making functionality.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Design & Build | Tie |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
| Coffee Quality | Tie |
| Milk Frothing | Tie |
| Compactness | Tie |
| Value for Money | Depends on current pricing, often EC680 |
What They Have in Common
- Design and Build Quality: Both the De’Longhi EC680 and EC685 share the same sleek, compact, and premium stainless steel design, making them a stylish addition to any kitchen counter. Their robust construction ensures durability and longevity.
- Brewing Capabilities: Both machines are capable of brewing delicious espresso with rich crema, as well as making a variety of other coffee drinks using their steam wand for milk frothing. They are designed for ease of use for both beginners and experienced home baristas.
- Compact Footprint: Their remarkably slim design means they take up very little counter space, a significant advantage for smaller kitchens or for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. This makes them highly practical for everyday use.
- User-Friendly Operation: Both models feature intuitive controls and a simple brewing process. They are designed to get you from bean to cup quickly and efficiently, with minimal fuss.
- Adjustable Drip Tray: The removable and adjustable drip tray on both machines allows for the use of different cup sizes, from small espresso cups to taller latte glasses, providing flexibility in your coffee preparation.
- Thermoblock Heating System: Both utilize a thermoblock heating system, which ensures rapid heating and consistent brewing temperatures for optimal coffee extraction.
Delonghi Ec680 Vs Ec685 Buying Guide
Material and Build Quality
Both the Delonghi EC680 and EC685 are constructed with durable materials, typically featuring a stainless steel finish that lends a premium feel and ensures longevity. The robustness of the build is comparable across both models, designed to withstand daily use. Minor aesthetic differences might exist in the trim or specific component finishes, but the core structural integrity remains a strong point for both machines. Expect a solid, well-assembled appliance that feels built to last. (See Also: Chrysler 300 Vs Dodge Charger )
Ease of Use and Maintenance
When it comes to daily operation, both the EC680 and EC685 are designed with user-friendliness in mind. They feature intuitive controls and straightforward brewing processes, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced baristas. Maintenance is also simplified, with removable drip trays and water tanks for easy cleaning. Descaling reminders and readily available cleaning programs further contribute to a hassle-free ownership experience, ensuring your machine remains in optimal condition with minimal effort.
Brewing Performance and Customization
The core brewing performance of the EC680 and EC685 is largely identical, both utilizing Delonghi’s thermoblock technology for rapid heating and consistent temperature. They are capable of producing excellent espresso with rich crema and can also handle a variety of other coffee drinks. Customization options, such as adjustable cup height and the ability to set coffee volume, are present on both, allowing users to tailor their drinks to their preferences. The consistency of their espresso extraction is a highlight.
Unique Features and Aesthetics
While the fundamental brewing capabilities are shared, the EC685 often boasts slight aesthetic refinements and potentially a few minor feature enhancements over the EC680. This might include updated color options, a slightly different control panel layout, or subtle design tweaks that give it a more modern appearance. The EC680, while still stylish, represents an earlier iteration of this popular design. For those prioritizing the very latest in visual appeal, the EC685 might have a slight edge. (See Also: Brooklinen Sateen Vs Percale )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy delonghi ec680 If…
- You are looking for a stylish and compact espresso machine with a premium build.
- You prioritize simplicity and ease of use for your daily coffee routine.
- You want a versatile machine that can make both espresso and milk-based drinks.
- You are on a slightly tighter budget but still want a quality De’Longhi experience.
Buy ec685 If…
- You want a machine that offers a touch more functionality or perhaps slightly refined features over the EC680.
- You appreciate the De’Longhi brand and are looking for their popular Dedica range.
- You are looking for a reliable and consistent performer for home espresso and cappuccino making.
- You are seeking a machine that is a well-regarded step-up in the Dedica line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Delonghi EC680 and EC685?
The primary differences between the Delonghi EC680 and EC685 are largely aesthetic and minor feature updates. The EC685 is generally considered a slightly newer model with subtle design refinements, potentially including updated color options or control panel aesthetics. Functionally, their core espresso brewing capabilities, thermoblock technology, and ease of use remain very similar, making the choice often down to personal preference for design or slight generational updates.
Are both machines equally easy to clean?
Yes, both the Delonghi EC680 and EC685 are designed with user convenience in mind, making them equally easy to clean. They both feature removable drip trays and water tanks, which are simple to detach and wash. Additionally, both models are equipped with descaling indicators and straightforward descaling programs, ensuring that routine maintenance is a hassle-free process for keeping your machine in optimal working condition.
Can I make different types of coffee with both models?
Absolutely. Both the Delonghi EC680 and EC685 are versatile machines capable of producing not only excellent espresso but also a variety of other coffee beverages. With the addition of a milk frother (included or separate depending on the package), you can craft cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos. Their ability to consistently extract espresso forms the foundation for a wide range of popular coffee drinks. (See Also: Pink Moissanite Vs Morganite )
Which model offers better build quality?
Both the Delonghi EC680 and EC685 are built to a high standard, typically featuring durable stainless steel exteriors. This ensures a robust and long-lasting appliance for both models. While there might be subtle differences in the finishing touches or specific component designs between the two, their overall build quality is comparable and designed for reliable daily use. You can expect a well-constructed machine regardless of which you choose.
Is the EC685 worth the extra cost if the EC680 is available?
The decision of whether the EC685 is worth the extra cost over the EC680 depends on your priorities. If you are looking for the most current aesthetic or a very minor update in design, the EC685 might appeal. However, if the fundamental espresso-making performance and ease of use are your main concerns, the EC680 offers an almost identical experience at a potentially lower price point, making it a great value.
Final Verdict
The Delonghi EC680 and EC685 are remarkably similar in their core functionality, offering excellent espresso and a user-friendly experience. The EC685 presents minor aesthetic updates and potentially a slightly more refined design, but the fundamental brewing performance remains consistent with the EC680. For those seeking the absolute latest look, the EC685 has a slight edge. However, the EC680 provides exceptional value, delivering nearly identical coffee quality and ease of use at a potentially more accessible price point.
Winner: Delonghi EC680