Choosing the first serious carob coffee maker for your home often turns into a complex process of comparing hundreds of models. Among the many options, it stands out Delonghi EC685 R, which has become a kind of benchmark in the budget segment of compact cars. This device attracts attention not only with its stylish retro-style design, but also with a metal body, which is rare for this price category. Many users are looking for a balance between size, functionality and price, and this model often finds itself at the top of the ratings.
However, behind the external attractiveness there are a number of technical nuances that you need to know before purchasing. Carob coffee maker requires a certain approach to operation, unlike capsule or automatic systems. In this article we will analyze in detail the capabilities of the model. EC685, its strengths and weaknesses, and we will also give recommendations on how to set it up to get the perfect cup of espresso. Understanding how it works will help you avoid disappointment and unlock the potential of your device.
It is worth noting that the coffee equipment market is constantly updating, and manufacturers may make design changes without prior notice.
⚠️ Attention: The design of filters and panarellos may differ in different production batches. Always check the package contents with the official documentation in the box upon receipt of the product.
Therefore, the information presented below is based on the current specifications, but minor details may vary depending on the year of manufacture of the particular unit.
Case design and ergonomics
The first thing that catches your eye when meeting you is Delonghi Dedica Style (this is the marketing name of the series) is its incredible compactness. The width of the body is only 15 centimeters, which allows you to install the coffee maker even in the narrowest kitchen or in the corner of the countertop. Despite its small dimensions, the device feels monolithic due to the use metal case. This is not only an aesthetic solution, but also a practical one: metal better retains heat inside the working chamber and is resistant to mechanical damage.
Model EC685 R often available in red, but the range also includes other options such as black, white and silver. The surface can be glossy or matte, which affects the perception of the device in the interior. The control ergonomics are thought out concisely: three backlit buttons are located on the front panel, providing intuitive access to the main functions. Cup platform It is equipped with a mesh grille and has height adjustment, which allows you to use both small espresso cups and tall latte glasses.
⚠️ Attention: Glossy red surfaces are prone to micro-scratches if not carefully cleaned with abrasive products. Use only a soft, damp cloth.
Particular attention should be paid to the storage system. The set often comes with a holder for two cups, which can be placed on top, saving space. The power cable is long enough for a comfortable connection, and it is stored in a special compartment at the bottom of the device. This is a small thing, but it makes life a lot easier if you plan to put the coffee maker away in the cupboard after each use, although metal case makes it not always convenient due to the weight.
Specifications and performance
The heart of any coffee maker is its pump and heating system. In the model Delonghi EC685 a pump pump is used, creating a pressure of 15 bar. This is a standard value for household machines, which theoretically allows the coffee tablet to be punched and essential oils extracted. However, it is important to understand that the operating pressure when pouring water through coffee is usually lower and is about 9 bar, which is the optimal value for classic espresso. Thermoblock made of stainless steel ensures quick access to operating temperature, reducing the waiting time for the first cup to a minimum.
The power of the device is 1350 W, which is quite high for such a compact device. This allows you to quickly heat the water and maintain a stable temperature during cooking. System Flow Stop makes it possible to program the serving size, which is especially convenient for those who like to drink coffee of a certain volume every morning. The function of supplying hot water for preparing Americano or tea is also implemented, which expands the functionality of the device beyond just an espresso machine.
To compare the main parameters with competitors in this segment, consider the following table:
| Parameter | Delonghi EC685 | Competitor A (Budget) | Competitor B (Premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pump pressure | 15 bar | 15 bar | 19 bar |
| Power | 1350 W | 1100 W | 1450 W |
| Housing material | Metal | Plastic | Metal |
| Tank volume | 1.0 l | 1.2 l | 1.5 l |
As can be seen from the comparison, EC685 Offers great balance. Its metal body and ample power put it above many plastic counterparts, although the 1-liter water tank is a compromise for compactness. For a small family or office of 2-3 people, this volume is quite enough for the whole day.
Use filtered or bottled water with low mineralization. This will significantly extend the life of the thermoblock and improve the taste of the coffee, reducing the formation of scale.
Brewing system and coffee handling
The key element of a carob coffee maker is the holder (horn). B Delonghi EC685 The standard size is 51mm, which is slightly smaller than the professional standard of 58mm, but is sufficient for home use. The kit includes two types of filters: for ground coffee and for pods (tablets). Filters for ground coffee have a double bottom (system Creamy), which creates additional pressure and foam even with imperfect grinding. This is a lifesaver for beginners, but limits the potential for experienced baristas.
To obtain real espresso, it is recommended to use a filter without a double bottom (or modify an existing one), which will allow you to control the extraction through coffee grinding. If you plan to get serious, you'll need a quality burr coffee grinder. The brewing group is made of metal, which has a positive effect on thermal stability. The process of pouring water occurs evenly, although in the very first versions there were complaints about the uneven distribution of water in the shower head, which is usually corrected in new batches.
An important aspect is the possibility of using pods. This is convenient when there is no time or desire to tinker with scales and tempering. You simply insert the tablet into the appropriate filter and the machine does its job. However, the taste of such coffee is inferior to freshly prepared coffee beans. The overheating protection system automatically turns off the heating if the machine is idle for more than 9 minutes, which meets the requirements of energy saving.
The secret to perfect foam on the EC685
If standard double-bottom filters produce too watery results, try tamping the coffee a little looser than usual. The double bottom itself creates resistance, and excessive pressing can lead to overextraction and bitterness.
Cappuccino maker and preparation of milk drinks
Model EC685 R is equipped with a classic panarello, which allows you to whip milk into a fluffy foam. The tube is made of plastic with a metal tip. The design of the panarello involves air suction through a special hole, which makes the process easier for beginners: there is no need to look for the ideal immersion depth, the machine itself will saturate the milk with bubbles. This is the easiest way to make a cappuccino or latte.
However, if you use a microfoam texture for latte art, the stock panarello may seem rough. It creates large foam that quickly settles. Experienced users often remove the plastic casing, leaving only the metal tube, and learn to froth the milk by hand while controlling the swirl in the pitcher. It takes skill, but the results are worth it. Steam pipe has sufficient power, but due to the compactness of the thermoblock, a short pause may be required between preparing espresso and frothing milk.
After each use, the milk system must be immediately purged and wiped with a damp cloth. Dried milk clogs the channels and gives drinks an unpleasant aftertaste. The kit often comes with a special measuring cup, which also serves as a tamper for tamping coffee, although its functionality as a tamper is very conditional due to its imperfect fit to the diameter of the basket.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave milk in the pitcher or system after cooking. The next time you turn it on, it may curl up inside the tube, and it will be extremely difficult to clean it without disassembling the unit.
☑️ Proper frothing of milk
Setting up and maintaining a coffee maker
For stable operation Delonghi EC685 requires regular maintenance. The most important procedure is decalcification. The hardness of water varies in regions, and ignoring this process will lead to the thermoblock becoming overgrown with scale, which will reduce pressure and heating. The machine itself signals the need for a procedure by flashing indicators. For cleaning, special liquid products or citric acid solutions are used (although the manufacturer recommends branded products).
The decalcification process takes about 20-30 minutes and requires care. It is necessary to strictly follow the algorithm, switching modes with buttons. It is also important to regularly wash the brewing group and holder. Fat deposits from coffee oils oxidize over time and spoil the taste of the drink, making it rancid. Once a week it is recommended to do a “idle” pour without coffee to clean the internal channels from residual oils.
If you notice that the coffee is flowing too quickly or too slowly, the problem lies in the grind. Grinding too coarsely will result in a sour, watery drink, while grinding too finely will result in a bitter and difficult to pass through the filter. Settings serving size carried out through the menu, where you can program the water flow time for each button. This eliminates the need to stand next to the cup and monitor the liquid level.
Regular decalcification is the only way to guarantee long service life of the thermoblock. Skipping this procedure is not a warranty claim.
Frequently asked questions and final recommendations
To summarize, we can say that Delonghi EC685 R is an excellent entry ticket into the world of carob coffee makers. It is not without compromises due to price and size, but offers quality results when done correctly. The metal body, stylish design and the presence of all the necessary functions make it a bestseller. However, it is worth remembering that this is still a household device, and not a professional machine for a coffee shop.
If you like to experiment with different types of beans and are picky about every detail of the extraction, you might want to consider models with a larger holder and the ability to connect directly to the water supply. But for daily preparation of delicious espresso, Americano and cappuccino for the family, this coffee maker does a brilliant job. The main thing is not to skimp on the freshness of grain and the quality of water.
Can I use ground coffee from the supermarket?
Yes, you can. Standard double-bottom filters are specially designed to work with medium-ground coffee, which is sold in packs. However, the taste will be different from freshly ground.
How often should filters be changed?
Filters are consumables, but if used carefully they will last for years. They need to be changed only in case of mechanical damage or severe wear of the mesh.
Why does coffee flow out of the sides of the holder?
This may be due to insufficient coffee (the basket is not full), too coarse grinding or too little pressure (tempering). Also check the cleanliness of the rubber seal.
Does the case get hot during operation?
Yes, the metal case can heat up, since there is a thermal block inside. This is normal for this design, but touching hot surfaces during operation is not recommended.
Is it possible to adjust the temperature?
The standard version of the EC685 does not have software adjustment of the brewing temperature. The temperature depends on the steam pressure and the condition of the thermoblock. To change the temperature, use the method of pouring hot water before cooking or, conversely, waiting for it to cool.