Delonghi Prima Donna Coffee Machine: Full Review After a Week
Welcome back to the Links London global headquarters, AKA the garage! In this follow-up video, we’re reviewing our Delonghi Prima Donna coffee machine after using it for over a week. If you missed the first video, we covered our initial excitement and first impressions, but now that we’ve had time to fine-tune it, here’s the full scoop on how it’s performing!
Why I Bought the Delonghi Prima Donna
First things first: I bought this coffee machine to make black coffee—specifically, espressos and black Americanos. While the machine comes with all the features for frothing milk and making lattes or cappuccinos, I can’t give any insight into that since I don’t drink milk-based coffee. If you’re interested in a review for making milk-based coffees, this might not be the one for you.
Noise and Price Considerations
The first thing you’ll notice about the Prima Donna is the noise level. If you’re used to quieter machines like a Nespresso, this one will seem loud in comparison, but that’s to be expected since it grinds fresh beans. If you’re brewing coffee early in the morning in a shared space or flat, it’s something to keep in mind.
When it comes to price, the Delonghi Prima Donna is expensive. New models cost around £1,000 here in the UK, and if you’re interested in the Elite model, you’re looking at £1,300+. That being said, I managed to snag this one for £100 on eBay, so deals are out there if you’re willing to search for used or refurbished models.
Fine-Tuning for the Perfect Espresso
After making several cups of coffee and adjusting the grind size, I’ve managed to dial it in for the perfect espresso. The grind size adjustment is crucial—when you switch coffee beans or adjust the machine’s taste settings, you may need to tweak the grind size for optimal results. Luckily, this machine allows you to do that easily.
Consistency and Convenience
One of the biggest selling points for me is consistency. I’ve owned several manual espresso machines in the past, including the Sage Dual Boiler and the La Pavoni Lever Machine. While they produce excellent coffee, they require a lot of skill and practice to get right. With the Prima Donna, you just push a button, and it delivers a great-tasting cup every time. It’s convenient and far less fussy.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Investment?
If you’re serious about coffee and want consistency without all the fuss, the Delonghi Prima Donna is worth considering. However, the high price tag may put it out of reach for some. If you can find a used model in good condition like I did, it’s definitely a bargain!
For now, I’ll continue to enjoy the machine here at the Links London HQ, and if you’re thinking about getting one yourself, I hope this review helped!
