De'Longhi EC9355M La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine - 1.3L Stainless Steel, Dual Heating, Built-in Grinder, Sensor Grinding Technology, MyLatte Art System
$899.95
In stock
- Dual heating system ensures optimal water and steam temperature simultaneously for perfect espresso.
- Integrated burr grinder with 8 settings delivers freshly ground coffee at the touch of a button.
- Sensor grinding technology automatically doses the right amount for consistent, mess-free results.
- Active temperature control maintains precise brewing temperature for full flavor extraction.
- Professional-style steam wand creates rich, creamy microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos at home.
Our Score
De'Longhi La Specialista Prestigio EC9355M Espresso Machine Review — Review
The De'Longhi La Specialista Prestigio EC9355M is a semi-automatic espresso machine that brings professional-grade features into the home. Designed for coffee enthusiasts who want control without the mess, it combines an integrated burr grinder, a patented Smart Tamping Station, and dynamic pre-infusion to consistently deliver rich, flavorful shots. With a stainless steel exterior and a 1.3-liter water tank, this machine is built to handle daily brewing for multiple drinks. Its standout value lies in reducing the guesswork of grinding and tamping while still allowing manual adjustments for experienced users. Whether you're transitioning from pod machines or upgrading from a basic model, the Prestigio aims to simplify the path to café-quality espresso.
Product Overview
For home baristas seeking a balance between automation and hands-on control, the De'Longhi La Specialista Prestigio presents a compelling package. At its core is an integrated conical burr grinder with two sensors that monitor grind size and dose, ensuring consistency shot after shot. The grinder offers eight coarse-to-fine settings, and the dose can be adjusted via a dial on the bean hopper. Once ground, coffee falls into the portafilter via a chute, then the Smart Tamping Station — a lever mechanism built into the machine — compresses the grounds evenly without the counter mess typical of manual tamping. The machine includes both single and double shot filter baskets, and the pressurized baskets are replaced by single-wall versions for those who want more control over extraction. A dynamic pre-infusion system gradually wets the puck at low pressure before ramping up to full extraction pressure, promoting even flavor and crema. The 1.3-liter water tank is removable and features a water hardness test strip to calibrate descaling alerts. Steam is handled by a stainless steel wand that produces microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos, but it shares the single boiler with the brew circuit — meaning you cannot steam and pull a shot simultaneously. The machine heats up in about 30 seconds according to the quick-start feature. Weighing nearly 30 pounds and measuring 14.5 by 15 by 17.5 inches, it occupies significant counter space. The control panel uses buttons and a dial for selecting brew size, steam, or hot water. Included accessories: cleaning brush, descaler sample, single/double filter baskets, and a stainless steel milk jug. The build uses brushed stainless steel and plastic components, with a solid feel reported by many reviewers. The 1450-watt heating element is powerful, but the machine is not smart-home compatible. Overall, it's a substantial machine aimed at users willing to invest in a premium semi-automatic experience.
Key Features
Integrated Burr Grinder
- ✓Two sensors ensure consistent grind size and dose
- ✓Eight grind settings for fine-tuning extraction
- ✓Adjustable dose via bean hopper dial
Smart Tamping Station
- ✓Lever mechanism reduces mess and ensures even tamp
- ✓Eliminates need for separate tamper
- ✓Integrated into machine for streamlined workflow
Dynamic Pre-Infusion
- ✓Gradually wets grounds for even extraction
- ✓Enhances flavor and crema development
- ✓Automatically adjusts based on grind
Single Wall Filter Baskets
- ✓Allows greater control over extraction variables
- ✓Enables experimentation with grind and dose
- ✓Suitable for experienced baristas
Active Temperature Control
- ✓Stable water temperature throughout brew cycle
- ✓Optimizes extraction for coffee and espresso
- ✓Quick recovery between shots
Quick Start & Hot Water
- ✓Machine ready to grind in one second
- ✓Dedicated hot water outlet for tea or Americanos
- ✓Convenient for multiple beverage types
Build & Materials
The La Specialista Prestigio is constructed with a brushed stainless steel front and top, with plastic side panels and a water tank. The portafilter is chrome-plated brass, and the steam wand is stainless steel. The bean hopper holds about 8 ounces of beans, and the water tank is removable with a carry handle. The Smart Tamping Station uses a lever that pivots over the portafilter, compacting grounds into a consistent puck. The grinder burrs are conical and made of steel. Many reviewers describe the build as solid and premium, though the weight (29.7 pounds) indicates a sturdy frame. The control panel features backlit buttons and a dial for selecting brew size, steam, or hot water. The drip tray is large and easy to remove for cleaning.
Shot Quality
Users consistently report excellent espresso with rich flavor and thick crema when the machine is dialed in correctly. The integrated grinder allows for fresh grinding immediately before extraction, which contributes to flavor. The dynamic pre-infusion helps prevent channeling, and the active temperature control maintains stable heat. However, the single boiler means you cannot steam and brew simultaneously, which adds time for milk-based drinks. The steam wand creates acceptable microfoam, but some users find it noisy and recommend incorporating air early to reduce screaming. Reviews note that the machine takes time to dial in settings, but once set, it produces consistent shots. The water tank and grinder are easy to access, though the machine is loud during grinding and extraction. A few users report leaks or pressure loss after descaling, indicating potential reliability issues.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Integrated grinder with accurate dose and grind consistency
- ✓Smart Tamping Station reduces mess and ensures even tamp
- ✓Dynamic pre-infusion improves extraction and crema
- ✓Quick heat-up time (30 seconds)
- ✓Dedicated hot water dispenser for tea or Americanos
- ✓Solid stainless steel construction
- ✓Easy to clean and maintain
- ✓Suitable for both beginners and experienced baristas
What Doesn't
- ✗Single boiler prevents simultaneous brewing and steaming
- ✗Loud during operation
- ✗Reliability concerns after descaling (reported by several users)
- ✗Warranty issues with non-certified sellers
- ✗Heavy and takes up counter space
- ✗No smart home compatibility
The Verdict
The De'Longhi La Specialista Prestigio delivers excellent espresso with convenient features like the integrated grinder and smart tamping station, making it a strong choice for home baristas who want control without the mess. However, reliability concerns, especially after descaling, and warranty limitations with some sellers are significant drawbacks. If you're willing to accept the potential for repairs outside the return window, the daily coffee quality is high. Recommended for enthusiasts who value consistency and are prepared for occasional maintenance.
Is It Worth It?
What You Get
- Integrated burr grinder with 8 settings
- Smart Tamping Station for consistent, clean tamping
- Dynamic pre-infusion for better extraction
- Active temperature control for stable brewing
- Steam wand and hot water dispenser
What You Pay
$899.95 (retail price)
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Product Specifications
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