DeLonghi Magnifica S Bean to Cup Coffee Machine

Description

Our extensive testing of bean-to-cup coffee machines has consistently shown that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get excellent coffee at home. The DeLonghi Magnifica S proves this point brilliantly, offering remarkable value for money whilst delivering consistently good coffee.

Key Specifications:

• 1.8L front accessed water tank
• 250g bean hopper
• One touch Espresso & Lungo
• 13 grind settings
• 1450 Watt thermoblock heater
• Panarello frother
• Max cup height: 14cm
• Grinder bypass chute

At Caffeinated Gear, we’ve spent years testing and reviewing bean-to-cup machines across all price ranges. While its predecessor, the Magnifica 4200, held our top spot for budget-friendly recommendations, the Magnifica S has now rightfully claimed this position with its improved design and competitive pricing under £300.

Let’s be crystal clear about value – whilst there are machines that might edge ahead in specific features, like the Gaggia Brera or Melitta Avanza 600 with their true double shot capabilities, the Magnifica S stands out when considering its regular retail price. These competitors often command significantly higher prices, making the Magnifica S our go-to recommendation for budget-conscious coffee lovers.

We’re particularly impressed by the build quality. Some might assume a lower price point means compromised durability, but our experience tells a different story. The Magnifica S uses similar components to DeLonghi’s premium models, suggesting comparable longevity. This isn’t a case of false economy – it’s genuine value for money.

Regarding double shots, here’s what you need to know: while it doesn’t offer a one-touch true double shot (using 18g of coffee instead of 9g), there’s a simple workaround. Just press the shot button twice to pull two shots into the same cup. Yes, some pricier machines like Gaggia and Melitta offer a more streamlined double-shot process, but we don’t consider this a deal-breaker given the price difference.

For coffee enthusiasts seeking their first bean-to-cup machine, we should mention that while you’ll find cheaper options on the market, we’ve found many of them lacking in build quality and longevity. The Magnifica S hits the sweet spot between affordability and reliability, making it our current top pick in the sub-£300 category.