How to use a De'Longhi bean-to-cup machine

First time setup

1. 1

   Remove packaging, then fit the drip tray and grounds container.

2. 2

   Fill the water tank with fresh cold water and slide it back in firmly.

3. 3

   Fill the bean container with whole beans and close the lid.

4. 4

   Plug in and switch on. Select your language if asked.

5. 5

   Place a cup under the spout; the machine heats and rinses.

6. 6

   Dip the supplied test strip in tap water and set the water hardness in the menu or with the buttons as the manual describes.

7. 7

   Fit the water filter if supplied, following the manual's soak and rinse steps, and activate it in the menu.

Making coffee and setting strength

Choose a drink with the buttons or touch screen. On many models, the aroma setting controls how much coffee is ground, from mild to extra strong. Some models have a dedicated aroma button; others show it on screen. Cup volume can usually be adjusted while the drink pours or saved in the settings.

Models with profiles, such as Magnifica Evo Next, Rivelia and Eletta Explore, let each household member save their own settings. Rivelia models have interchangeable bean containers so you can swap between two types of beans. Our De'Longhi models compared guide sets out which features each range offers.

Using the grinder knob

On most De'Longhi bean-to-cup machines, the grinder adjustment knob sits inside the bean container. Lower numbers give a finer grind. De'Longhi's manuals say to turn the knob only while the grinder is running, one notch at a time, to avoid damage. After changing it, make two or three coffees before judging the result.

If coffee comes out too slowly or drips, grind slightly coarser. If it runs fast, looks pale and tastes watery, grind finer. Very oily, dark beans can clog the grinder, so medium roasts are a safer choice. If the grinder makes noise but no coffee comes out, see our De'Longhi problems guide.

LatteCrema and manual frothers

LatteCrema models use a milk carafe that clips onto the front. Fill it with cold milk, attach it, and select cappuccino, latte macchiato or another milk drink. Some carafes have a froth dial to adjust thickness. After the drink, the machine prompts you to turn the knob to Clean, which flushes steam and hot water through the milk circuit. Store the carafe in the fridge if milk is left inside, and wash the parts regularly.

Machines with a manual frother, such as the Magnifica S, use a steam wand with a sleeve. Fill a jug one third full with cold milk, dip the wand, open the steam and move the jug to create froth. Wipe and purge the wand after every use. Our steam wand guide explains technique.

Cleaning and descaling

Empty the drip tray and grounds container daily. Once a week, remove the brew unit from the side door, rinse it under lukewarm water without soap, let it dry and refit it. When the descale light shows, use De'Longhi's EcoDecalk or an approved descaler and run the descale programme.

Our De'Longhi cleaning guide and how to descale a Magnifica cover these steps in more depth.

Note:Always switch off and unplug before removing the brew unit or wiping inside the machine. Never put the brew unit in the dishwasher.

Getting better coffee from your De'Longhi

• Use fresh beans and keep the hopper lid closed.
• Preheat cups with hot water, or use the cup warmer if fitted.
• Set coffee temperature to high in the menu if drinks seem lukewarm.
• Use a lower cup volume for espresso; long drinks can taste thin.
• Use the long coffee or americano setting where available rather than a very long espresso.

Compare De'Longhi bean-to-cup models →

Frequently asked questions

Where is the grinder setting on a De'Longhi Magnifica? On most Magnifica models, it is a knob inside the bean container. Turn it only while grinding, one notch at a time.

Can I use pre-ground coffee in my De'Longhi? Many models have a pre-ground funnel for one level scoop. Check that yours has one before using it.

Why does my De'Longhi ask me to fill the water tank when it is full? The tank may not be seated properly, or the float may be stuck. Remove and refit it firmly.

How do I reset a De'Longhi to factory settings? Most models have a reset option in the settings menu. Your manual lists the exact steps for your model.