DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine Review: The Long-Awaited DeLonghi Release

I’ve been working hard to keep track of all the new DeLonghi releases this year, hence this DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine review.

As soon as this new machine became available I bought one from Amazon to test out for you. And having spent the past few days playing with this compact and affordable espresso maker, I’ve got plenty to say. So, without further ado, let’s cut to the chase!

Compact and lightweight

DeLonghi Linea Classic

Good espresso for the price

Great value

Solid construction

Easy to use

Makes good espresso

Very lightweight

CHECK PRICE

DeLonghi Linea Classic Review Overview

The DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine is one of the Italian manufacturer’s newest offerings, and at just $179.95, it certainly won’t break the bank.

Still, can the DeLonghi Linea Classic make it onto my list of the best espresso machines under $200? My first impressions certainly suggested that it stands a chance. I mean, it’s not a given that a budget espresso machine will feature stainless steel construction as well as a pressure gauge. What’s more, this sleek beauty is about as compact as they come, making it ideal for smaller kitchens.

Then again, you’ll need to make space for the best espresso grinder you can afford if you want to get convincing espresso from this DeLonghi model.

I’ll share my experiences using the DeLonghi Linea Classic a little later. For now though, I’ll just say that this machine is far from perfect. However, it can produce good espresso with a little extra effort. And for the money, it represents excellent value.

DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine Features

If you’ve been struggling with the question of how to choose an espresso machine that’s compact, affordable and effective, this DeLonghi Linea Classic review might just be for you. Seriously, there are a ton of cool features packed into this tiny marvel. Let’s continue by taking a look at what’s on offer.

Materials and Design

I’ve already referred to the machine’s diminutive size in this DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine review. Still, its dimensions are similar to a couple of other models in my guide to the best home espresso machines. One thing that stood out to me is the fact that the DeLonghi is very light. And while that makes it easy to lift the thing out of the box, it does move around when you’re inserting or removing the portafilter.

As for the overall look of the DeLonghi Linea Classic, I appreciate the boxy, minimalist design as well as the abundance of stainless steel housing. With that said, there’s plenty of plastic too, although that’s to be expected at this price point.

User Interface

I definitely appreciate the simplicity of the DeLonghi control panel. There are four buttons on the front of the machine – one for a single shot, one for a double shot, a steam button and a power button. Elsewhere, there’s a dial on the side for engaging the hot water/steam function.

Fortunately, you’re able to adjust the espresso volume which I found to be set way too high at the factory. It’s easy to do, but I’ll leave it to the user manual to explain.

Incidentally, I should make special mention of the prominent manometer on the front of the machine. It’s not often you find a working pressure gauge on such an affordable espresso machine.

Water Tank

The DeLonghi Linea Classic features a 57.5-ounce (1.7-liter) removable water reservoir, which lifts up from the rear of the machine. Sure, the water tank is plastic, but it actually feels nice and solid. Just remember that even though the machine only rises to 12 inches (30.5 centimeters), you’ll need extra headroom when removing the water tank.

Thermoblock Technology

The DeLonghi Linea Classic is equipped with a pretty darn powerful thermoblock which heats up really quickly. In my experience, the machine was ready to go in well under a minute. What’s more, the thermoblock ensures consistent temperature for espresso extraction, even if I did find the espresso to be a little on the hot side.

Oh, and I should mention that the passive cup warmer on top of the machine also heats very quickly, so your best espresso cups will be kept nice and toasty.

Portafilter

Remember earlier when I said the DeLonghi Linea Classic isn’t perfect? Well, it’s time for a little trash talk. Listen, I don’t expect a professional portafilter when I spend less than $200. However, I would like to see a sturdier portafilter than this one, which is super lightweight. What’s more, there are only pressurized filter baskets included, so it’s almost impossible to get truly complex espresso from this machine.

Finally, I have to draw attention to the useless plastic tamper/scoop that comes in the box. Seriously guys, I’m not asking you to include the best espresso tamper with a budget machine, but something that actually works would be nice!

Milk Foam

Having tested it on the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe, I was happy to find the same Adjustable Cappuccino System on this machine. Sure, you won’t be able to get silky microfoam, and the steam function takes its sweet time to get going. However, you can decide whether you want rich foam for a cappuccino or simple, steamed milk.

All in all, this adjustable steam wand will be versatile enough for those who aren’t bothered about learning how to make latte art.

The Linea Classic by DeLonghi in Use

Getting started with the DeLonghi Linea Classic is a piece of cake. Once you’ve filled the water tank and pressed the power button, preparation is simply a case of running water through the portafilter a couple of times. As I mentioned earlier, you’ll need a decent coffee grinder to get the best out of this machine. Still, I found that dialing in a suitable grind size was straightforward, thanks to the presurized filter baskets.

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Notes of Chocolate & Hazelnut

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The manufacturer recommends using two scoops of ground coffee for a double shot. Still, I’d recommend using a coffee scale. I found the ideal dose to be around 12-14 grams, and once I’d reduced the factory-set dispensing volume to 1.5 ounces (44 milliliters), the machine consistently produced very drinkable espresso with a lovely layer of crema.

One thing I love about this DeLonghi espresso machine is its adjustable drip tray, which can be removed altogether if you want to brew directly into a larger glass. With that said, keep an eye on the drip tray if you’re using it, seeing as it’s rather small.

DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine Troubleshooting

Seeing as the machine is so new, I’m not aware of any common problems. With that said, plenty of things can go wrong, especially if you’re new to espresso preparation. Fortunately, there’s a troubleshooting section in the user manual, so it’d be best to start there if you’re experiencing problems with your machine.

How to Clean the DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine

Keeping the DeLonghi Linea Classic in good working order won’t take up too much of your time. Still, make sure to clean the portafilter and filter baskets at the end of each day’s use. Likewise, keep the steam wand free of nasty buildup by wiping it with a damp cloth after every use.

Elsewhere, don’t let weather sit in the tank for too long if you want to avoid bad tasting espresso. Oh, and empty and rinse the drip tray on a regular basis. For more detailed information, check out my guide to coffee maker cleaning and descaling. 

DeLonghi Linea Classic Specifications

DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine vs Other Espresso Machines

For the sake of completeness, let’s continue this DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine review by seeing how it measures up in comparison with a couple of its siblings.

DeLonghi Linea Classic vs DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe

I’m actually a big fan of the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe, which retails for $247.00. It’s even more compact than the DeLoinghi Linea Classic, but offers the same level of performance in my opinion. The manual steam wand is the same, and you’ll still only get pressurized filter baskets. And while you can select from three temperature settings, there isn’t a manometer on board.

See Also: DeLonghi Dedica Review

DeLonghi Linea Classic vs DeLonghi Dedica Maestro Plus

If you’re willing to spend a little more, the DeLonghi Dedica Maestro Plus represents a big step up in quality for $299.98. For starters, the manufacturer includes single-walled filter baskets and an actual espresso tamper with the Dedica Maestro Plus. What’s more, the machine is equipped with an automatic milk frother, although I was rather disappointed by its performance. 

See Also: DeLonghi Dedica Maestro Plus Review

DeLonghi Linea Classic vs Others Comparison Chart

Verdict: DeLonghi Linea Classic Review

Compact and lightweight

DeLonghi Linea Classic

Good espresso for the price

Great value

Solid construction

Easy to use

Makes good espresso

Very lightweight

CHECK PRICE

I’m not sure whether this model will make my list of the best DeLonghi espresso machines. Still, it’s a great beginner machine with an attractive price tag. During my DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine review I was more impressed than I though I’d be. However, I would recommend spending a little more if you can afford it. That way you’ll get a more versatile machine that’ll keep you interested in espresso preparation.

Then again, if you just want a solid performer that’ll produce decent shots every time, this could be the machine for you!

DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine Review FAQ

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