Tested by me Machines

De’Longhi Dedica EC685 review: 9 years of use

By [Your name] Updated How I test

Quick verdict

Tested by me
Rating
4 / 5
Best for
First-time espresso machine buyers

I've used my Dedica EC685 for nine years. It makes strong, consistent shots with good crema, and I'd recommend it to first-time buyers, but there isn't much to customise, so it's not for professionals. The pump failed after eight years, the basket and shower screen clogged, and the gasket was replaced a couple of times at the service centre.

I’ve used a De’Longhi Dedica EC685 for nine years, mostly for South Indian-style filter coffee. I bought it in India. It makes strong shots. After eight years the pump failed, and instead of repairing it I bought the Dedica Duo EC890W.

Using it day to day

The shots are strong and consistent, with good crema and full flavour.

I don’t use the steam wand. On both the EC685 and the EC890W it isn’t the best: it adds a little water to the milk and takes time, so I use a separate milk frother.

What went wrong over nine years

  • Pump: failed after eight years. I didn’t repair it.
  • Clogging: the filter basket and shower screen clogged. The service centre sorted it out.
  • Gasket: replaced a couple of times, at the service centre.

Upgrading it: a bottomless portafilter

I tried a 51mm bottomless portafilter on it. It’s messier, and it needs more practice and precision, but the taste does change. It works best with freshly ground coffee.

[YOUR PHOTO · Bottomless portafilter on the EC685]

Who should buy it

I’d definitely recommend it to first-time buyers. It’s not for professionals: there isn’t much to customise.

Pros

  • Strong, consistent shots with good crema
  • Lasted eight years before the pump failed
  • Takes 51mm accessories, like a bottomless portafilter

Cons

  • Pump failed after eight years
  • Filter basket and shower screen clogged
  • Gasket replaced a couple of times (service centre)
  • Not much to customise
  • Steam wand is slow and adds a little water to the milk

Specs

Pump pressure 15 bar
Power 1450 W, 220-240 V
Water tank 1.1 L
Weight 4.22 kg
Dimensions (W x D x H) 149 x 330 x 305 mm
Heating Thermoblock
Milk Manual steam wand
Max cup height 120 mm
Filter basket 51 mm (fits my bottomless portafilter)

Who it’s for

First-time buyers: yes, I'd definitely recommend it.
Professionals, or anyone who wants to tinker and customise: look elsewhere. There isn't much to customise.