De'Longhi Magnifica Start review: good coffee, confusing controls

TechRadar’s Max Langridge reviewed the De'Longhi Magnifica Start, an entry-level automatic coffee machine, and found it makes consistently good espresso while taking time to learn. The review focuses on the white ECAM220.61.W model.

Its four one-touch functions are espresso, coffee, latte macchiato and hot water. That means three coffee drinks, and the selection is more limited than on some pricier machines. Langridge found the controls and customization options less intuitive than expected, though the machine’s compact design may suit smaller kitchens.

The review reports that espresso takes 30 seconds to prepare and has a layer of crema. Langridge preferred the flavor after setting the grinder slightly coarser. The LatteCrema automatic milk-frothing system produced a generous amount of foam with oat milk. The review also notes a marked milk carafe and dishwasher-safe components.

Langridge says Magnifica Start variants can look similar while offering different features, so the model number matters. The reviewed ECAM220.61.W is sold in Australia for AU$799 through De'Longhi’s online store. The related US model ECAM22080B has five one-touch functions and a $749.95 price. In the UK, the ECAM220.61.GB has the same four functions and a £399.99 recommended retail price. These details apply to the named models and markets.