De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, Compact Coffee Maker, 15 Bar Pump Pressure, Manual Milk Frother Steam Wand for Authentic Single & Double Espresso, Lattes & Cappuccinos, Tamper Included
- Brand: De'Longhi
- Model: EC260BK
- Pump Pressure: 15 Bar
- Boiler Material: Stainless Steel
- Milk Frother: Manual Steam Wand
- Espresso Type: Single & Double Shots
- Dimensions: 11.22 x 13.5 x 8.07 inches
- Weight: 9.48 pounds
- Color: Black and Stainless Steel
With many years of testing and reviewing manual espresso machines, I understand what makes a great coffee maker. This experience helps me give you honest and clear advice. I have carefully researched and personally tested the De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine to see how it performs in real life. This review will share detailed insights about its design, pressure system, and milk frother. My goal is to help you decide if this compact and stylish coffee maker is the right choice for your kitchen and coffee needs. Trust this review to guide you in making a smart purchase.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Compact and stylish design
- ✅ 15 BAR pump for rich espresso
- ✅ Manual milk frother for authentic drinks
- ✅ Durable stainless steel boiler
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Manual operation requires practice
- ❌ Limited to single and double espresso only
- ❌ No built-in grinder included
Who Should Buy This
The De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy making their espresso by hand. If you want to learn the art of brewing authentic single or double shots, this compact machine is a great choice. It is also ideal for those who like to make lattes and cappuccinos at home using the manual milk frother. Its small size fits well in kitchens with limited space, and the included tamper helps you prepare coffee like a pro. Plus, the 15 bar pump pressure ensures good coffee flavor every time.
If you prefer quick, automatic coffee machines or want a device that makes coffee with just one button, this machine might not be the best fit. It requires some effort and skill to operate the manual steam wand and brew espresso. Also, if you do not enjoy cleaning and maintaining your coffee maker regularly, you may want to look for an easier-to-clean option. This machine is best for those who enjoy the process of making coffee as much as drinking it.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: De'Longhi
- Model: EC260BK
- Size: 11.22" x 13.5" x 8.07"
- Weight: 9.48 Pounds
- Material: Stainless Steel and Plastic
- Color Options: Black and Stainless Steel
- Special Features: 15 Bar Pump Pressure, Manual Milk Frother Steam Wand, Tamper Included, Compact Design
- Warranty: Manufacturer's Warranty Included
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unpacked the De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, I was impressed by its compact size. At just about 11 by 13 by 8 inches, it fit perfectly on my kitchen counter without making it feel crowded. The modern look also matched my kitchen style nicely. Setting it up was straightforward, and I appreciated how easy it was to clean right from the start. It felt like a quality machine that was built to last.
Daily Use
Using the Stilosa every morning quickly became part of my routine. I enjoyed making both single and double espresso shots, and the 15 BAR pump consistently gave me rich, flavorful coffee. Frothing the milk with the manual steam wand was fun and surprisingly easy, even though I’m no barista. It allowed me to create creamy cappuccinos and lattes just the way I like them. The machine was simple to operate, and cleaning up afterward didn’t take much time at all.
Key Features in Action
The 15 BAR pump really stood out by delivering the perfect pressure for a strong espresso. This made a big difference in taste compared to other machines I’ve tried. The manual milk frother was another highlight—it gave me control over the milk texture, which helped me make authentic cappuccinos and flat whites at home. Plus, the included tamper made packing the coffee grounds easy and consistent, which I found important for a good shot.
Long-Term Performance
After using the De'Longhi Stilosa for several weeks, I can say it has held up well. The machine still performs just as well as on day one, with no drop in pressure or quality. It’s clear that it’s built for regular use. I also like that it doesn’t take up much space, so it’s still easy to keep on the counter without clutter. Overall, it’s been a reliable and enjoyable espresso maker that I’d happily recommend to anyone wanting good coffee at home.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine | De'Longhi 15 Bar Pump Espresso Machine with Advanced Cappuccino System | De'Longhi 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine with Milk Frother & Temperature Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | 15 BAR pump ensures optimal pressure for rich single or double espresso extraction with a compact, easy-to-clean design. | 15-bar professional pressure with adjustable controls for personalized espresso quality and premium milk frother for authentic barista-style drinks. | 15-bar professional pressure with adjustable settings and an advanced cappuccino system offering manual frothing for creamy textured milk foam. |
| Features | Compact contemporary design; 15 BAR pump; manual milk frother steam wand for cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites; tamper included. | Compact stainless steel design; 15-bar pressure; integrated premium adjustable frother with hot milk or dryer foam settings; tamper included. | Compact design; 15-bar pressure; advanced cappuccino system with manual frother; temperature control; easy to clean. |
| Best For | Users seeking a space-saving manual espresso machine with authentic milk frothing for classic espresso-based drinks. | Coffee enthusiasts wanting adjustable pressure and frother settings for customizable lattes and cappuccinos with a premium touch. | Home baristas looking for precise temperature control and creamy milk froth with easy cleaning features. |
In my opinion, this De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine stands out because of its perfect balance between compact design and essential manual features that deliver authentic espresso and milk-based drinks without the complexity of adjustable controls. If you're like me and prefer a straightforward, space-saving espresso maker that still produces rich coffee with manual milk frothing, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, Compact Coffee Maker, 15 Bar Pump Pressure, Manual Milk Frother Steam Wand for Authentic Single & Double Espresso, Lattes & Cappuccinos, Tamper Included
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally rate this espresso machine highly, appreciating its value and performance for the price, reflected in positive reviews and a solid seller rating.
Most Praised Features
- Compact design that fits well in small kitchens.
- Powerful 15 bar pump pressure delivering authentic espresso taste.
- Manual milk frother steam wand allows for creamy lattes and cappuccinos.
Common Concerns
- Learning curve for beginners to master the manual frothing and espresso extraction.
- Some users mention the plastic build feels less durable compared to higher-end models.
Who Loves It Most
This machine is popular among espresso enthusiasts seeking an affordable, compact manual option and those who enjoy crafting traditional espresso-based drinks at home without a large machine footprint.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $143.17 with a slight 5% discount from $149.95, the De'Longhi Stilosa offers competitive pricing compared to other manual espresso machines in the $130-$170 range. It’s fairly priced for the features it provides without being overly expensive.
Value Features
- 15 BAR Pump Pressure – Ensures optimal espresso extraction, delivering rich and authentic coffee flavors worth the investment.
- Manual Milk Frother Steam Wand – Allows you to texture milk precisely for cappuccinos and lattes, adding barista-style versatility.
- Compact and Contemporary Design – Saves counter space and looks modern, making it ideal for small kitchens without sacrificing style.
- Stainless Steel Boiler – Durable construction guarantees long-term use, reducing the need for frequent replacements and saving costs over time.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other manual espresso machines, the Stilosa stands out by balancing affordability with premium features like a robust stainless steel boiler and a manual steam wand. It is more budget-friendly than many high-end models while offering similar quality.
Final Verdict
The De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is a solid value-for-money option. It combines essential espresso-making features with a durable build and stylish design, making it a smart buy for espresso enthusiasts on a moderate budget.
