Our Verdict
It's a Tie
Both use thermoblock boilers and 15-bar pumps. De'Longhi offers PID control and cold brew. Philips has a 58mm portafilter for wider accessory compatibility. Choose Philips for standard accessories, De'Longhi for temp control & cold brew.
Bottom Line: Both products are excellent choices. Both use thermoblock boilers and 15-bar pumps.
Who Should Buy Which?
Find the right product for your needs
Buy De'Longhi if...
De'Longhi La Specialista Arte
If you prioritize precise temperature control and unique beverage options, the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo is ideal. Its PID temperature control ensures optimal extraction, while the 5-minute cold brew function offers versatility beyond traditional espresso. This machine suits home baristas keen on mastering their craft with the aid of a comprehensive barista kit, who also appreciate exploring different coffee styles like iced coffee, justifying its premium price for advanced features.
Buy Philips if...
Philips Barista Brew Semi
The Philips Barista Brew is perfect for those seeking a robust semi-automatic espresso experience at a more accessible price. Its standard 58mm portafilter allows for wide compatibility with professional accessories, making it great for users who might want to upgrade their tools over time. Ideal for individuals focused on mastering traditional espresso and Americano, valuing consistent puck preparation with a calibrated tamper, and preferring the convenience of an integrated grinder without a high budget.
Spec Comparison
7 specs compared
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $500 | $352 |
| Rating | 4.1(1.1k) | 4.0(279) |
| Boiler Type | thermoblock | thermoblock |
| Pump Pressure Bars | 15 | 15 |
| Portafilter Size mm | — | 58 |
| Steam Wand | Yes | Yes |
| Model Number | EC9255M | PSA3218/01 |
| Grinder Included | Yes | Yes |
| PID Temperature Control | Yes | — |
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Pros & Cons
Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses
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.
Philips Barista Brew
- 58mm portafilter for standard accessories
- Integrated grinder saves counter space
- Calibrated tamper aids consistent puck prep
- Steam wand included for milk frothing
- Requires manual espresso preparation skills
- Thermoblock design may have temperature swings
- 15-bar pump often too high for optimal extraction
- 250g bean container needs frequent refilling
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this comparison
Which is better for advanced customization and future upgrades?
Philips is better due to its 58mm portafilter, which is a standard size for espresso machines. This allows for wider compatibility with professional-grade accessories like tampers and baskets for more control over extraction.
How do their core brewing specifications compare?
Both machines feature a thermoblock boiler and a 15-bar pump pressure. While the 15-bar pump is standard, optimal extraction often occurs at 9 bars, which might require user adjustment techniques.
Which machine offers better temperature control during brewing?
The De'Longhi machine is likely to offer superior temperature control as it includes PID temperature control with 3 infusion settings. The Philips unit, while also using a thermoblock, does not specify PID.
Which machine is better if I enjoy cold brew coffee?
The De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo is significantly better for cold brew enthusiasts. It boasts the ability to brew a single cold brew coffee in under 5 minutes, a feature not offered by the Philips machine.
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