DeLonghi EC5 Steam-Driven 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Maker, Black

This is my third espresso machine and by far the best, not to mention the most reasonably priced. My last machine cost three times as much and I never figured out how to consistently get great foam (the best part). There is a great article on Whole Latte Love's website on the technique to create foam -- with this machine it is a sure bet. Click the articles link; they even have an article titled "Frothing Doodads."

All the reviews I read before I purchased this item said that the coffee maker was purchased to make lattes. Several reviews mentioned the steaming wand being difficult to use, but that they managed in the long run. Well, I feel that the wand is impossible to use as there is no way to chose between the espresso selection and the steaming selection. If you follow the instruction regarding the coffee and the water portions, you have great espresso, but if you want to steam milk, you need to put in more water, but since there is no way to select steam, you have to try and steam the milk while the espresso is brewing and you end up having watered down espresso or steam milk that is not hot enough. I have resorted to just heating my milk up in the microwave and have more of an espresso with hot milk as opposed to a latte. If you want to make lattes, I recommend looking for another espresso maker.

My 10+ year old DeLonghi espresso maker developed a leak so I thought I'd give this one a try. I didn't want to spend hundreds and liked the looks. The feature I didn't like most was part that holds the metal basket of coffee into the machine was made of plastic. After using it about 5 times, the plastic showed wear. I returned this coffee maker.

I love my DeLonghi EC5 Steam, funny thingis i don't drink espresso and as for cappuccino they're alright, my drink of choice is the Latte. it take a couple of tries to get the foam right but once you get it your set. I usually use less coffee and more water then specified and froth more milk for the lattes. I even use flavored creamers mixed with milk for flavored lattes mmm! great.

For you Espresso and Cappuccino fans this is well worth the money. I make Cappuccino and Lattes that will make starbucks proud or cry(i now spend less time and money in starbucks)

Althogh this machine can not fully take the place of our favorite coffee houses. It is a great supplement when you can't make the trip!

This little gem was a holiday gift and I have used it every day since I received it. I am always on the go and usually stop off at my local coffee shop for a latte before work. I've already saved money using this espresso maker, and after a little practice, can now make lattes as good as anything I've ever paid $5 a cup for. The steamer is a little awkward (which is why 4 stars vs five), but I started putting a regular sized cup under the espresso filter and using the handled glass cup for the milk frothing. The handle makes it easier to do - then I pour everything in my large to-go cup. Here's a tip - add a bit of vanilla extract to the milk before frothing. Mmmmm, vanilla latte!