Our Verdict
De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo Wins

While more expensive at $499.95, its integrated burr grinder with 8 settings and dedicated cold brew function offer significant value and convenience over the Dedica Maestro Plus. Both units share a 15-bar thermoblock system, but Arte Evo's all-in-one approach streamlines the coffee-making process for users seeking fresh grounds. The De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus is the better pick for those prioritizing automated milk frothing and a lower entry price of $429.99, willing to purchase a separate grinder.
Bottom Line: De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo is the better choice. While more expensive at $499.
In-Depth Analysis
How they compare in practice
The De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus and La Specialista Arte Evo cater to distinct espresso enthusiasts, though both share De'Longhi's reliable thermoblock heating and 15-bar pump pressure for consistent extraction. The most striking difference lies in the Arte Evo's integrated burr grinder. This feature transforms the coffee-making ritual, allowing users to go from bean to espresso within minutes, ensuring optimal freshness and flavor. The Dedica Maestro Plus, lacking a grinder, necessitates a separate purchase, adding to the overall cost and counter space requirement.
In terms of milk frothing, the machines diverge significantly. The Dedica Maestro Plus boasts an automatic steam wand with three foam settings, ideal for users who prioritize ease and consistency without needing to master manual frothing techniques. This system delivers pre-programmed milk textures at the press of a button. Conversely, the La Specialista Arte Evo features a manual steam wand designed for producing consistent micro-foam, empowering aspiring baristas to hone their latte art skills and achieve precise milk textures. This manual control, while requiring a learning curve, offers greater versatility for milk-based drinks.
Another key differentiator is the La Specialista Arte Evo's unique cold brew function, capable of brewing a single cold brew in under 5 minutes. This adds a versatile dimension for those who enjoy chilled coffee beverages, a feature absent in the Dedica Maestro Plus. The Dedica Maestro Plus compensates with a larger 54oz removable water tank, reducing the frequency of refills, a practical benefit for households with multiple coffee drinkers or those who prefer less maintenance.
Ultimately, the choice hinges on convenience versus control and features. The Arte Evo, at $499.95, offers a complete "barista kit" experience with its grinder and cold brew, targeting users who want an all-in-one solution and are willing to engage with manual frothing. The Dedica Maestro Plus, priced at $429.99, prioritizes automated simplicity, particularly in milk preparation, and a larger water capacity, making it suitable for those who value minimal fuss and already own a grinder or prefer pre-ground coffee.
Which to Pick for Your Situation
Concrete scenarios with a clear recommendation
For Freshly Ground Coffee Enthusiasts
De'LonghiProduct B, the La Specialista Arte Evo, includes a built-in burr grinder with 8 settings, providing unparalleled freshness for every shot.
For Consistent, Hands-Off Milk Frothing
De'LonghiProduct A, the Dedica Maestro Plus, features an automated steam wand with three programmable foam settings for effortless milk preparation.
For Budget-Conscious Buyers
De'LonghiAt $429.99, the Dedica Maestro Plus is the more affordable option, offering excellent espresso capabilities without the higher price tag of Product B.
For Variety in Coffee Beverages (Hot & Cold)
De'LonghiThe La Specialista Arte Evo not only makes espresso but also features a quick cold brew function, expanding beverage options beyond traditional hot drinks.
Who Should Buy Which?
Find the right product for your needs
Buy De'Longhi if...
De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus
The ideal buyer for the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus is an espresso enthusiast seeking convenience, consistency, and a slightly lower entry cost, without compromising on quality espresso shots. This individual likely appreciates automation, particularly when it comes to milk preparation. They might be a busy professional who wants a quick, perfect latte before work without the fuss of mastering a manual steam wand, relying on the automated steam wand with its three foam settings. They either already own a high-quality coffee grinder or prefer the convenience of pre-ground coffee. With a 54oz removable water tank, this machine is perfect for small families or individuals who drink multiple coffees a day and want to avoid constant refills. They prioritize ease of use and a compact stainless steel design that fits seamlessly into their kitchen, valuing the rapid heat-up via thermoblock and consistent 9-bar pressure for optimal extraction, all at a competitive price of $429.99. They're willing to give up the integrated grinder and cold brew function of Product B for automated milk and a more budget-friendly approach.
Buy De'Longhi if...
De'Longhi La Specialista Arte
The De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo is perfectly suited for the burgeoning home barista who desires an all-in-one solution for crafting café-quality beverages from scratch. This buyer prioritizes freshness and control, appreciating the ability to grind their beans precisely with the built-in burr grinder offering 8 grind settings, unlocking the full aroma and flavor potential of their coffee. They are keen to develop their manual milk frothing skills using the steam wand to create delicate micro-foam for latte art, valuing the learning curve for superior results. This individual isn't afraid of a more hands-on approach and sees coffee preparation as a rewarding ritual. Furthermore, the inclusion of a dedicated cold brew function in under 5 minutes makes this machine ideal for those who enjoy a variety of coffee drinks, catering to both hot espresso and refreshing cold brew preferences. At $499.95, they are willing to invest a bit more for the comprehensive feature set, including the barista kit, that allows them to experiment and achieve professional-level results at home, even if it means sacrificing the automated milk frothing and slightly larger water tank found in Product A.
Spec Comparison
7 specs compared
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $500 | $500 |
| Rating | 4.2(875) | 4.1(1.1k) |
| Boiler Type | thermoblock | thermoblock |
| Pump Pressure Bars | 15 | 15 |
| Steam Wand | Yes | Yes |
| Model Number | EC950M | EC9255M |
| Water Reservoir oz | 54 | — |
| PID Temperature Control | Yes | Yes |
| Grinder Included | — | Yes |
Swipe horizontally to see all columns
Pros & Cons
Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses
De'Longhi Dedica Maestro
- Consistent 9-bar pressure for optimal extraction.
- Rapid heat-up via thermoblock technology.
- Three programmable brew temperature settings.
- Automated steam wand offers three foam settings.
- Automatic steam wand limits control over milk texture.
- Cannot brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously.
De'Longhi La Specialista
- Built-in burr grinder offers 8 grind settings.
- Brews single cold brew in under 5 minutes.
- Steam wand produces consistent micro-foam.
- Active temp control with 3 infusion settings.
- Manual milk frothing requires user skill.
- Single thermoblock may not permit simultaneous brew/steam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this comparison
Does either machine allow simultaneous brewing and steaming?
Both the Dedica Maestro Plus and La Specialista Arte Evo use a single thermoblock heating system, meaning they typically cannot brew espresso and steam milk at the exact same time without a slight pause.
How do the milk frothing capabilities differ between the two De'Longhi models?
The Dedica Maestro Plus has an automatic steam wand with three preset foam settings for ease, while the La Specialista Arte Evo features a manual steam wand requiring user skill for micro-foam.
Which machine is better for someone who wants to use fresh coffee beans directly?
The De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo (Product B) is ideal as it includes a built-in burr grinder with 8 settings, providing a complete bean-to-cup experience.
What is the water tank capacity of the De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus?
The De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus (Product A) features a generous 54oz removable water tank, reducing the frequency of refills during daily use.
Can I make cold coffee with either of these machines?
Only the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo (Product B) offers a dedicated cold brew function, capable of producing a single cold brew in under 5 minutes.
Explore Other Categories
Popular comparisons across the site
Ask AI
Get instant answers about specs
Get the Deets
Ask our AI assistant
Ask Deets anything!


























