DeLonghi ECAM26455

DeLonghi’s brand new high-end bean to cup machine, the ECAM26455, is a luxurious addition to their existing range. Its price tag seems ever so slightly excessive – is it really worth forking out more than a grand for one?

The ECAM26455 is DeLonghi’s second-most expensive bean to cup machine (after the PrimaDonna ESAM6700, and, on first impression, is in a very similar mould. The stainless steel finish, futuristic interface and display (the former has something of a Hi-Fi set about it – you almost want to check whether it has a multiple CD player) give the machine a bit of a monolithic look, but you can’t fault the build for quality.

The separate parts feel secure and well-constructed, and the whole machine is actually slightly smaller and slimmer than the ESAM6700.

There are the usual helpful features like an adjustable dispenser (so you can use your favourite huge coffee mug), and the ability to customise your drink according to temperature, strength, coarseness of grind, intensity and water hardness. Programming these preferences in is a bit of a headscratcher to start with, but once you’ve tried a few options you’ll get the hang of it quite quickly.

The DeLonghi ECAM26455 has one of the biggest water tanks in the bean to cup coffee machine sector: at 2L, this is a coffee maker that lends itself to either big households or small offices whose employees value their quality coffee (they would definitely appreciate the programming function).

There are indicators for the water tank, bean and used coffee grounds containers, as well as a reliable decalcification programme.

The quality of the build and the impressive feel of the interface and the separate parts is a big plus, but it goes a long way to justifying the steep price. It might not look like a quirky, retro coffee maker – and that’s because it isn’t. It is, however, a modern, versatile appliance for people with little time but high standards.