#1: DeLonghi Eletta Explore
- Superior milk frothing
- Extensive customization
- Easy-to-use interface
- Fast and consistent performance,
- Automatic cleaning system
#2: Philips 5400
- Good customization options
- Stylish design
- Offers one-touch specialty drinks.
- Reliable performance
- Competitive price point.
When it comes to automatic coffee machines, the competition is fierce, and two of the standout models on the market right now are the DeLonghi Eletta Explore and the Philips 5400. Both machines promise excellent coffee at the push of a button, loaded with innovative features, sleek designs, and a variety of drink options. As a coffee enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours testing both machines, and while both have their strengths, I found myself leaning heavily toward the DeLonghi Eletta Explore.
I know firsthand how important it is to invest in a coffee machine that doesn’t just brew great coffee but also makes the overall experience enjoyable and hassle-free. So in this article, I’ll dive deeper into my personal experience with both machines, highlighting their differences, strengths, and why I ultimately preferred the DeLonghi Eletta Explore.
Design and First Impressions
Both the Philips 5400 and the DeLonghi Eletta Explore look great on the countertop. The Philips 5400’s sleek design is compact and space-saving, which is ideal for smaller kitchens or minimalist setups. Its simple interface and clean lines make it approachable even for first-time users.
On the other hand, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has a slightly larger footprint, but it makes up for it with a premium aesthetic. From the moment I set it up, it felt like a high-end machine. The large, colorful touchscreen drew me in—it’s bright, responsive, and makes selecting drinks intuitive. Every component, from the milk frother to the bean hopper, is designed thoughtfully.
In terms of build quality, I found the DeLonghi Eletta Explore more robust and durable. The materials feel solid, and even after weeks of daily use, there were no signs of wear or any issues. It gives the impression that it’s built to last.
Using the Machines Daily
As someone who drinks coffee multiple times a day, I quickly discovered how important it is for a machine to integrate into daily routines seamlessly. With both machines, the initial setup was straightforward, and I was able to brew my first cup within minutes.
The Philips 5400 impressed me with its simplicity. It offers 12 drink options, which is more than enough for most people. The touchscreen is clear and responsive, and selecting drinks or adjusting settings is easy. I loved that the LatteGo milk system had no tubes to clean, making it perfect for busy mornings when I didn’t have time to deal with extra cleanup.
The DeLonghi Eletta Explore, however, delivered a more elevated experience. The sheer variety of drink options—over 40 recipes, including both hot and cold beverages—was a game-changer for me. I’m someone who likes variety, and having options like iced latte, cold brew, and flat white right at my fingertips was a treat.
One particular feature I appreciated was the Cold Brew function. On hot summer days, I loved being able to enjoy a refreshing cold brew in under five minutes. The ability to prepare both hot and cold drinks sets the Eletta Explore apart from most machines on the market, including the Philips 5400.
Coffee Quality: The Taste Test
As much as I enjoy the features of these machines, it all boils down to coffee quality. After all, what’s the point of having a machine that looks great but doesn’t deliver a satisfying cup?
The Philips 5400 produces consistently good coffee thanks to its ceramic grinder and Aroma Extract system. The coffee tastes fresh, and I enjoyed its ability to tweak settings like temperature, strength, and froth level. It’s perfect for casual coffee drinkers who want reliable, good-quality coffee every day.
That said, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore took the flavor to another level. The steel burr grinder is faster and more precise, ensuring optimal extraction of flavor. What I truly loved was the Bean Adapt Technology. This feature automatically adjusts the grind size and brewing settings based on the beans I’m using.
I experimented with several types of coffee beans, and the Eletta Explore adapted flawlessly every time, bringing out nuanced flavors that I didn’t even realize were present. The espresso had a rich crema, while the milk-based drinks, like cappuccinos and lattes, were perfectly balanced with silky foam.
The Milk Frothing Difference
Milk frothing can make or break a machine for anyone who enjoys cappuccinos, lattes, or other milk-based drinks. While both machines come with impressive milk systems, there are some key differences.
The Philips 5400 features the LatteGo system, which is efficient and easy to clean. It froths milk well, producing a decent texture for cappuccinos and lattes. It’s perfect for quick, no-fuss milk drinks.
The DeLonghi Eletta Explore, however, excels with its LatteCrema System. I found that the froth it produces is creamier, more velvety, and closer to what you’d expect at a coffee shop. Plus, the ability to use Cold Foam for iced drinks was a standout feature for me.
I also appreciated that the Eletta Explore lets me switch easily between regular milk and non-dairy options like oat or almond milk. This is a huge bonus for anyone with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Both machines are designed to be user-friendly, and cleaning is relatively easy. The Philips 5400 scores high with its simple LatteGo milk system, which has only two parts and no tubes. Cleaning it takes under a minute, making it perfect for busy mornings. The AquaClean filter also helps minimize the need for frequent descaling.
The DeLonghi Eletta Explore, however, is equally convenient. The LatteCrema System has an automatic cleaning function, which I found incredibly helpful. After every use, the milk carafe cleans itself with a single button press, keeping everything hygienic.
Who Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore For?
After using both machines extensively, I’d say the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is perfect for someone who wants a versatile, high-quality coffee machine that delivers premium drinks at home. If you enjoy experimenting with different types of coffee—whether it’s a cold brew, iced latte, or a classic cappuccino—this machine is ideal.
It’s also great for families or households with diverse tastes. With over 40 drink options and customization features, there’s something for everyone.
Final Thoughts
While the Philips 5400 is a solid, reliable machine with plenty of features, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers far more versatility, superior coffee quality, and premium features that elevate the entire coffee-making experience.
For anyone looking to enjoy barista-quality coffee at home—whether hot, iced, or cold brew—the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is a worthy investment. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about creating a café-like experience in the comfort of your own kitchen.
After weeks of using this machine daily, I can confidently say it has earned its place as my favorite coffee companion. If you’re a coffee enthusiast like me, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore will not disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many drink options does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore offer compared to the Philips 5400?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers over 40 drink options, including hot, cold, and iced beverages, while the Philips 5400 provides 12 drink options focused mainly on hot drinks.
Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore support non-dairy milk alternatives?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore allows you to use non-dairy milk alternatives such as oat, almond, or soy milk. It works well with its LatteCrema System to create creamy froth with plant-based milks.
Q: Which machine is easier to clean, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore or the Philips 5400?
A: Both machines are easy to clean, but they differ in approach. The Philips 5400 uses the LatteGo system, which has no tubes and takes minimal effort to clean. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore features an automatic cleaning function for its LatteCrema System, which self-cleans after each use, adding convenience.
Q: What makes the DeLonghi Eletta Explore stand out for iced coffee lovers?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore includes a Cold Brew function and the ability to create Cold Foam, making it ideal for iced coffee drinks like iced lattes and cold brews. The Philips 5400 does not offer this feature.
Q: Does the DeLonghi Eletta Explore adjust settings based on the coffee beans?
A: Yes, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore uses Bean Adapt Technology to automatically adjust the grind size, temperature, and brewing pressure to match the coffee beans, ensuring optimal flavor extraction.
Q: Which machine is better suited for families or households with varying coffee preferences?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore is better for families or households with diverse tastes because it offers a wider variety of drinks, including hot and cold options, along with more customization features.
Q: How do the grinders compare between the DeLonghi Eletta Explore and the Philips 5400?
A: The Philips 5400 uses a ceramic grinder, which is durable and effective. However, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore features a steel burr grinder, which is faster, more precise, and long-lasting, ensuring consistent grinding for every brew.
Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore worth the higher price compared to the Philips 5400?
A: If you value versatility, premium features like cold brew and Cold Foam, and advanced customization, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is worth the investment. The Philips 5400 is a great option for its price but offers fewer features in comparison.