In-Depth Review of the Delonghi ECAM22.110.SB
Appearance and Design
The ecam22.110sb machine has dual output for producing two espressos.
With its silver exterior and coffee-shop style design, the Magnifica ECAM22.110.SB has a very different appearance to other Delonghi models (such as the Eletta or Esam 4000.b) which are often black and futuristic. While we’ve praised the appearance of other Delonghi models, we’re also big fans of the Magnifica. It won’t look out of place in any kitchen.
The control panel initially looks intimidating, but becomes self-explanatory after a few trial runs. The main dial allows you to decrease the intensity of the coffee, while the buttons surrounding it alter settings such as long or short coffee.
To the left side of the machine is the Cappuccino System (which isn’t found on cheaper Delonghi models such as the Caffe Corso). This allows you to manually froth milk for cappuccino or lattes using the steam arm. While this is a useful feature, it’s not an automated system so it may take some practice to get the correct consistency.
There are two dispensers for coffee, allowing you to make two cups from a single brewing cycle. The height of the dispensers can be adjusted depending on the size of your cups.
Note: If you want an ECAM model with an automatic cappuccino system, check out our ECAM 23.460 review here.
Coffee Customisation
The control panel looks confusing but is actually simple to use.
As you would expect from a bean-to-cup machine in this price range, there are a variety of settings for customising your coffee. Probably the most important is the dial for adjusting coffee strength, but you can also choose the aroma and whether you want a short, medium or long coffee.
A great feature is the coffee temperature button. Not all bean-to-cup machines include this setting, but if you have a temperature preference it can make a big difference.
Like most machines, the integrated grinder also has settings for coarseness (13 to be exact).
Espresso Taste
The Delonghi Magnifica ECAM22.110.SB produces excellent espresso with a strong aroma. While the taste is greatly affected by the quality of beans you use, the machine is capable of producing a balanced espresso with a rich crema. It also comes out piping hot on the highest temperature setting.
Other Coffee Taste
The milk frother allows you to make drinks such as latte and cappuccino. While these can taste great, the milk frother needs to be used manually and requires some practice.
Ease of Cleaning
The water filter is great if you live in a hard water area.
Like other Delonghi machines, the ECAM22.110.SB is designed to be easy to clean. While some manual cleaning and maintenance is required, especially the removable brewing unit, there are also automatic programmes for rinsing and decalcification.
The machine will remind you when the decalcification programme needs to be run. This is usually every few months, but depends on how often you use the coffee maker.
The 1.8 litre water reservoir can be removed for refilling and rinsing. It also includes a full indicator. The drip tray is easy to remove and empty when the full indicator is showing.
Additionally, the machine self-rinses every time it turns on and off. This helps to keep it in top condition without any extra effort.
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