If you’re a beginner coffee maker on the hunt for your first espresso machine, the De’Longhi Scultura ECZ351 might be the end to your search.
This expert, unbiased De‘Longhi Scultura ECZ351 BG review will explore the pros, cons, and intricate details of this machine.
De’Longhi Scultura Coffee Machine Review in a Nutshell
The De’Longhi Scultura ECZ351W traditional pump espresso machine is for the espresso lover looking to dive into making quick and easy coffee at home.
It helps that you can use ESE pods or ground coffee which means you have two options – easy or easier.
We found that the machine’s espresso shot was okay, but not something to write home about.
While it has a smooth, rich aroma and was flavoursome enough with fresh beans, it isn’t as full-bodied as espresso made by the espresso machines on our 10 Best Espresso Machine list.
The crema is also a little watery and inconsistent for our liking, suggesting the pressure isn’t quite right.
But since the Scultura is one of the cheapest coffee machines in De’Longhi’s collection, we can forgive that flaw.
The milk frothing is truly impressive, with a smooth bubble-less foam that makes a creamy cappuccino or latte.
Scultura’s steaming is also speedy, producing beautifully textured milk within half a minute. Check out our tips on making the perfect latte at home.
Small conveniences like the cup warmer (to pre-heat your cup), a larger drip tray, and speedy milk frothing make this machine hard to look past as a cost-effective beginner’s machine.
It’s also a good-looking device, with a sleek yet traditional look that will slot perfectly into most kitchens.
There are three colour options – black, silver, and champagne. We loved the champagne, which was more of a nut-coloured cream.
You can get your hands on the Scultura coffee machine on Amazon for a pretty reasonable price.
But is it the type of machine you’ll quickly outgrow? Let’s explore the pros, cons, and comparisons of this machine.
De’Longhi Scultura Coffee Machines Specifications
The De’Longhi ECZ351 is a smaller machine that punches above its weight in many ways. Here’s everything you need to know about this machine.
| Capacity | 1.4 L |
|---|---|
| System | Semi auto/manual hybrid |
| Maximum cup height | 7.7 cm |
| Pressure | 15 bars |
| Construction Materials | Stainless steel |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 30 cm x 24.2 cm x 30.5 cm |
| Weight | 4.1 kg |
| Volt | 230 Volts |
| Power | 1100 Watts |
| Accessories | Cup warmer Coffee tamper Removable water tank Removable drip tray Two thermostats |
| Special Features | Hot water function One-touch for cappuccino and espresso Steam emission regulation Can use ground coffee or ESE pods |
| Colour options | Champagne Black |
| Settings | Single-shot espresso Double-shot espresso Milk frothing |
| Warranty | Two-year repair or return |
Special Features of The Scultura ECZ351
We were impressed by the Scultura espresso machine’s features for such a simple and cheap machine. They make a fuss-free cup of joe even easier.
Ground Coffee or Espresso Pods
The option of easy-serve espresso pods means a tasty coffee could just be a couple of button clicks away.
If you want freshly ground coffee for this machine (which we highly recommend), you will have to buy a separate grinder.
Otherwise, the ESE pods are probably the simplest way toward a barista-brew. Find our top ESE pod picks for 2022 here.
Three Easy Buttons
Coffee, on/off, and milk steaming – those are the only buttons you’ll need to press for good coffee.
Making a creamy milk-based drink with this machine is almost ridiculously easy. Simply pop your milk under the steam wand and click the steam button – that’s it!
The steam wand produces beautifully silky lattes and cappuccinos, so we recommend this machine to lovers of milkier coffees.
Cup Warmer
Lukewarm drinks are a surefire way to spoil good coffee, and this coffee machine’s warmer means this doesn’t have to happen.
By warming your mug beforehand, you can ensure you still have a piping cuppa by the time you add coffee and textured milk.
Issues to Consider
It’s easy to use, and the price means you’re getting bang for your buck.
But this machine isn’t for everyone – here are some of the cons to consider before coughing up the cash.
Inconsistent Espresso
We found the quality of espresso was sometimes great but not consistent. At times, it lacked depth, and the crema was too thin, even when using freshly ground beans.
This can be an issue with the pressure or temperature of the coffee machine.
It can also happen when you’re not giving your coffee grounds a good enough tamp, so make sure you’re firm with it.
Dripping From Spout
The coffee spout tends to leak a little once you’ve turned the coffee machine off.
It’s not a major, but it does mean more of a clean-up once you’re finished, which isn’t ideal.
Lack of Functions
While the lack of functions and options is fine for the beginner at-home coffee maker, it could feel limiting for those further along the journey.
There isn’t much room to play, and with a simple option like this, there’s a higher chance of your having to upgrade coffee machines sooner.
De’Longhi Scultura ECZ351 vs. De’Longhi Dedica — an Honest Comparison
Both the Scultura and the Dedica are simple, easy, and great beginner’s machines within De’Longhi’s impressive range. But which is the better choice for you?
Both Are Quick and Easy-To-Use
These machines are both made for those beginning their at-home coffee making. Speed and simplicity are the selling points for both of these beauties.
Simple buttons mean you could almost make a good cup in your sleep, and the quick brew and froth time are perfect for those trying to get out of the door in a hurry.
Both Can Take Pods or Ground Coffee
Both these machines have the option, so you can choose just how easy you want your morning drink to be.
Both Are Smaller Machines
These are great space-saving machines that are an excellent option for those with limited countertop space.
They’re similar in size – another reason they’re both great as beginner machines.
Different Tank Sizes
If you’re making coffee for a fair few people, the Scultura might be the better option. A decent tank size – 1.4 L to the Dedica’s 1 L – means you won’t have to refill too often.
Different Milk Frothing Abilities
The Scultura is the winner when it comes to texturing milk. Perhaps it’s a shorter milk wand that makes it slightly longer to perfectly froth.
Different Espresso Quality
The mighty Dedica is the winning model when it comes to espresso. It’s why we ranked it our number one espresso machine for 2022.
While the Scultura’s is a little unreliable, the De’Longhi Dedica serves consistently cafe-level espresso.
Should You Buy The Scultura Espresso Machine?
If you’re in the market for a machine that will whip up your morning brew in a minute or so with a couple of clicks – the De’Longhi Scultura is hard to look past.
Our De’Longhi Scultura coffee machine review found the best parts of this machine were:
- It’s easy to use
- Using it is quick
- It has a classy style that suits most kitchens
- You have the option of traditional espresso or ESE pods
- The milk steam wand is excellent
- The machine has many handy features
But if you’re deep into the art of coffee making, this probably isn’t the machine for you. As one of De’Longhi’s cheaper options, it lacks the sophistication of its higher-end machines.
You’re better off spending a little more on other machines like the De’Longhi Dedica.
While it doesn’t make the perfect espresso, the Scultura provides an easy fix for cappuccino or latte lovers. And you can improve the espresso with these handy tips.
We reckon this is a pretty nifty coffee machine for lovers of low-maintenance coffee. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
If you haven’t found what you’re looking for, check out our top espresso machine picks for 2022.
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Dan is a former competition barista and has been honing his knowledge of coffee for over two decades.
He has worked in coffee farms in Peru, as well as roasters in Australia. He now trains new baristas and hosts cupping experiences in Austin.