You want me to pay how much?
So shocked I don’t have a subtitle!
You want me to pay close to $3k for a coffee machine but it just runs water over beans… still?
Let’s reassess.
If you read part 1, you know I bought a used Delonghi Dedica online after many months of research and obsessive run-ins to Marshalls and HomeGoods trying to find a Breville.
Although I did find a $499 Breville Barista Pro, I felt it was still too much when the brand released about seven new models after that one.
Instead, I paid $66 for my Delonghi and the more I use it the more I realize… it’s enough. It doesn’t have a screen or automatic steam wand flush. In fact it has three buttons and it still performs!
Let me share a secret every DIYer knows (I’m not one to build my own stuff but I still figured that out.). If you want to feel fancy with a cheap/used purchase, upgrade a detachable part.
1. I ditched the double spout portafilter it came with, as soon as possible.
2. I bought a new and improved portafilter.
After hours spent on YouTube, I now know the basics of what a good espresso shot is supposed to look like coming out, and if you want to witness the quality of it, you need a bottomless portaflter.
Now, when you purchase your new portafilter, make sure it has the same dimensions as your machine. For example, most portafilters are 53 millimeters but the Delonghi Dedica’s dimensions are 51 millimeters.
3. I also bought a tamper because it came without one.
Those two things were the price of the machine.
I’d only upgrade to a better machine for the steam wand. It’s too short and messy, which is why every espresso machine makes them differently now. But for now, it’s very nice.
This oat milk is simply delicious!
(I’m not sponsored by Trader Joe’s. My husband and I just love it.)
Now if you want to go down the cellar and watch a bunch of old videos, here’s a curated list of the best ones to perhaps help you make your own informed decision.
Next up, we’re choosing coffee grinders and coffee beans!
Camille Charles is the voice behind The Minimalist Herbalist. She is an Herbal Researcher, Best-Selling Author and Consumer Advocate. You can find her distilling rose water in her instant pot, repurposing olive jars to store her cacao butter and overnight nettle infusions. She talks way too much about tinctures for womb health. When not writing or checking on her brews, she designs graphics.