Delonghi BCO430 Review 2024: Espresso + Drip Coffee Maker
If you love espresso but need a versatile brewing machine, the Delonghi BCO430 might be your next must-have appliance. This dual coffee maker brings together an espresso machine and a drip coffee maker in one sleek unit, perfect for those who crave variety in their coffee experiences.
This unique brewer combines an espresso machine, drip coffee maker, and milk frother. The BCO430 features a 15 bar espresso machine and a drip coffee maker, each with their own dedicated settings, power buttons, and even water reservoirs.
The BCO430 is great for espresso lovers who also enjoy the option of brewing a pot of coffee. It’s constructed from durable ABS plastic and stainless steel, and includes an LCD display for easy use. Just add ground coffee, and you’re ready to go! Useful features include 24-hour programmability, a carbon filter, glass carafe, dedicated water filter, and various sized espresso filters.
The Delonghi BCO430’s strength lies in its dual functionality. On the left, you’ll find an espresso setup with a 40 oz. water tank, frothing wand, drip tray, and group head. With 15 bars of pressure, you can easily pull a perfect shot. On the right, there’s a drip coffee maker with a 47 oz. reservoir that brews up to 10 cups per batch. The drip side also features the patented Flavor Savor Brew System for a more intense flavor and aroma.
The machine measures about 14.5″ x 11″ x 12.8″ and weighs 13.89 pounds—compact enough for most kitchens. Made from hard ABS plastic and accented with stainless steel, it promises durability without hefty weight. A cup warmer on top ensures your cups are always ready for use.
The BCO430 offers a manual approach to brewing. You can adjust the dose and yield when making espresso, allowing you to brew a ristretto or lungo. The drip coffee maker extracts the inherent sweetness of your coffee beans. However, the single boiler system means you can’t brew on both sides simultaneously.
The built-in steam wand allows you to brew milky coffees like a pro. Unlike automatic frothing systems, this wand gives you full control over foam quality. Turn the steamer’s knob, wait for the signal, and froth away. Note that you’ll need your own milk jug.
Using the BCO430 is straightforward but mastering it takes practice. For the espresso side, fill the water tank, place coffee grounds in the portafilter, attach it to the brew head, and press the button. The drip side is simpler—add water and coffee, press a button, and you’re done. Features like a programmable timer and 1-4 cup setting make it convenient for busy mornings.
Cleaning the BCO430 requires some diligence. Regularly clean the group head, steam wand, filters, filter basket, drip tray, and water tank. The active carbon filter helps reduce the need for frequent cleaning. Delonghi recommends deep cleaning after every 300 cups to ensure longevity.
A notable feature is its time management system, allowing you to set a 24-hour timer for automatic brewing. The auto-shutoff system is also a handy safety feature. Additionally, the brew-pause function lets you sneak a cup before the brewing cycle finishes.
Is it worth the money? If you love a variety of coffee drinks and enjoy controlling the brewing process, the BCO430 offers good value. While it’s pricey, it’s packed with features that cheaper machines often lack. However, if you prefer a machine that does all the work for you, need a single-brew unit, or are on a tight budget, this might not be the best choice for you. Also, consider the space required for a separate grinder since this model only uses ground coffee.
The Delonghi BCO430 offers a blend of versatility and quality for coffee lovers who appreciate both espresso and drip coffee. Although it comes at a higher price point, its dual functionality and array of features make it a worthy investment for the dedicated coffee enthusiast.