9 Best Black DeLonghi Espresso Machines (November 2026)
The best black DeLonghi espresso machines include the Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi for several capsule drink sizes, the De’Longhi Classic Matte Black Espresso Machine for manual milk texture control, and the De'Longhi Magnifica Start Automatic Espresso Machine for one-touch bean-to-cup drinks.
On this page (5 sections)
The best black DeLonghi espresso machine depends on your morning routine: choose the Magnifica Start for one-touch bean-to-cup drinks, the Classic for manual espresso and milk texture control, or a Nespresso model for capsule convenience. These picks compare finish, coffee input and the amount of work involved.
Black machines range from glossy plastic capsule brewers to matte-finish espresso makers. A dark exterior alone doesn't tell you whether a machine grinds beans, accepts pods or has a steam wand, so start with those daily-use differences.
If milk drinks are central to your routine, see our guide to the best DeLonghi espresso machine with milk frother. For a narrower manual machine, read the De'Longhi Dedica Arte review and our De'Longhi Classic espresso machine reviews.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for several capsule drink sizesVertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for manual milk texture controlDe’Longhi Classic Matte Black Espresso Machine
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for one-touch bean-to-cup drinksDe'Longhi Magnifica Start Automatic Espresso Machine
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itBreville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine
Best for grinding and dosing at home - 5
Check itDeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino
Best for a compact manual setup - 6
Check itChefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine
Best for adjustable shot volume - 7
Check itCitiZ Original Espresso Machine by De'Longhi
Best for programmable capsule espresso - 8
Check itSlim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother for
Best for a narrow counter - 9
Check itInissia Espresso Machine by De'Longhi
Best for a small capsule machine
Which black DeLonghi espresso machines fit different routines?
The Magnifica Start is the strongest match for push-button bean-to-cup drinks, while the Classic serves buyers who want a manual steam wand and espresso presets. Capsule choices such as Vertuo and CitiZ reduce coffee preparation to loading a compatible capsule and pressing a button.
We compared the stated coffee inputs, controls, drink options and milk features. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
| Product | Best for | Input | Drink sizes | Water reservoir | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi | several capsule drink sizes | Nespresso Vertuo capsules | 1.35, 2.7, 5 and 7.7 oz | 54 oz | 9.7 |
| De’Longhi Classic Matte Black Espresso Machine | manual milk texture control | Ground coffee | 9.7 | ||
| De'Longhi Magnifica Start Automatic Espresso Machine | one-touch bean-to-cup drinks | 9.4 | |||
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine | grinding and dosing at home | Whole beans | 9.3 | ||
| DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino | a compact manual setup | Ground coffee or E.S.E. pod | 9.5 | ||
| Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine | adjustable shot volume | Ground coffee | 9.4 | ||
| CitiZ Original Espresso Machine by De'Longhi | programmable capsule espresso | Nespresso Original capsules | 9.2 | ||
| Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother for | a narrow counter | 8.8 | |||
| Inissia Espresso Machine by De'Longhi | a small capsule machine | Nespresso Original capsules | 8.3 |
Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi: Best for several capsule drink sizes
- Black finish
- Vertuo capsules
- Four cup sizes
- Fully automatic
This black capsule machine makes four drink sizes at the touch of a button. Barcode reading adjusts brewing for compatible capsules.
Pros
- Four cup sizes
- Automatic capsule ejection
- Removable reservoir
Cons
- Uses Vertuo capsules
- Does not use whole beans
The Vertuo stands out for households where people want different drink sizes from the same machine. It brews espresso, double espresso, gran lungo and coffee, using compatible Vertuo capsules.
Its barcode system reads each capsule and adjusts brewing parameters. The machine also has an adjustable drip tray, a 54 oz reservoir and storage for up to 17 used capsules.
This is the best fit if you prefer a repeatable capsule routine and want more than espresso-sized drinks. Keep in mind that Vertuo capsules are a distinct system from the Original capsules used by CitiZ and Inissia.
De’Longhi Classic Matte Black Espresso Machine: Best for manual milk texture control
- Matte black finish
- Steam wand with two settings
- Customizable single or double presets
- Thermoblock temperature control
A compact manual setup gives you control over milk texture and customizable single or double espresso doses. Its matte finish suits buyers who prefer a lower-sheen look.
Pros
- Two espresso preset options
- Steam wand for milk and alternatives
- Thermoblock temperature control
Cons
- Requires ground coffee
- Milk is frothed manually
The Classic is a good match if you want a matte black machine and direct control over milk texture. Its steam wand has two settings, and the espresso presets can be customized for single or double doses.
Thermoblock technology is designed to bring water to temperature quickly and keep temperature control stable. The machine uses ground coffee and has an auto-stop function for espresso extraction.
This pick makes sense for someone willing to learn a short manual routine. If you want a detailed look at this style of machine, compare the De'Longhi Classic espresso machine reviews before choosing.
De'Longhi Magnifica Start Automatic Espresso Machine: Best for one-touch bean-to-cup drinks
- Black finish
- Three one-touch recipes
- 13 grind settings
- Manual milk frother
The built-in grinder and three one-touch recipes make this a fit for bean-to-cup convenience. A manual frother keeps milk preparation in your hands.
Pros
- Grinds whole beans
- Three one-touch recipes
- Removable dishwasher-safe parts
Cons
- Milk frothing is manual
- Larger footprint than a small capsule machine
The Magnifica Start suits a daily routine built around whole beans and a small set of drinks. Its built-in conical burr grinder has 13 settings, and the one-touch panel offers Espresso, Coffee and Americano.
Milk preparation remains manual, despite the machine's automatic brewing. You can use the traditional frother with milk or milk alternatives, then remove dishwasher-safe parts for cleaning.
Choose this model if you want grinding and brewing handled by one machine, with a manual step for milk drinks. It's a stronger fit for beans than capsules or pre-ground coffee.
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine: Best for grinding and dosing at home
- Black Truffle finish
- Integrated conical burr grinder
- Manual microfoam steam wand
- 67 oz water tank
The integrated grinder doses freshly ground coffee into the portafilter, while the steam wand lets you texture milk manually. Choose it if you want several steps in your espresso routine.
Pros
- Grinder built in
- Adjustable grind size
- Manual milk texturing
Cons
- Requires manual preparation
- Heavier and larger than capsule options
The Barista Express is for someone who wants the espresso process to include grinding and milk texturing. Its conical burr grinder delivers coffee to the portafilter, and the grind-size dial lets you adjust for different beans.
Low-pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start of extraction. The steam wand is manual, so making microfoam requires your attention and practice.
A 67 oz water tank and 1/2 lb bean hopper suit repeated drink making, while the machine's dimensions and 22.1 lb weight call for a firm, roomy counter. For a more compact DeLonghi manual option, compare the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe review.
DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino: Best for a compact manual setup
- Black finish
- Ground coffee or E.S.E. pods
- Manual frother
- Removable water tank
This manual machine accepts ground coffee or E.S.E. pods, with a three-in-one filter holder for single shots, double shots or pods. The manual frother supports cappuccino and latte routines.
Pros
- Two coffee input options
- Removable tank and drip tray
- Manual milk frother
Cons
- Brewing requires user steps
- Its dimensions need a counter-space check
The EC155 gives you two coffee input options: ground coffee or E.S.E. pods. Its three-in-one filter holder supports a single shot, a double shot or an easy-serve pod, while the swivel frother makes milk foam manually.
The removable water tank and drip tray simplify cleaning. DeLonghi also describes the design as compact, but check the listed dimensions against your available counter space before deciding.
Pick this machine if you want to choose between grounds and pods without moving to a fully automatic brewer. The routine includes loading the filter, brewing and frothing milk by hand.
Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine: Best for adjustable shot volume
- Stainless Black finish
- Touch control panel
- Adjustable shot volume
- Steam wand
The touch panel and built-in timer let you adjust shot volume for a longer or more concentrated brew. A steam wand adds manual milk preparation.
Pros
- Adjustable shot volume
- Single and double shot baskets
- Removable reservoir
Cons
- Uses ground coffee
- Milk frothing takes practice
Chefman's CraftBrew is not a DeLonghi, but it offers a black manual alternative in this comparison. The touch control panel and timer let you adjust shot volume, with baskets for single or double shots.
Its 1.5 L removable tank and steam wand support repeated espresso and milk drink preparation. The machine also has a programmed descale function that alerts after 500 brewing cycles.
Consider it if adjustable brew volume and a black finish matter more than matching the DeLonghi name. It uses ground coffee and requires manual milk frothing.
CitiZ Original Espresso Machine by De'Longhi: Best for programmable capsule espresso
- Black finish
- Nespresso Original capsules
- Programmable Espresso and Lungo buttons
- Removable tank
The CitiZ keeps capsule brewing simple with programmable Espresso and Lungo buttons. It fits a routine built around Nespresso Original capsules.
Pros
- Two programmed drink buttons
- Removable tank
- Capsule system
Cons
- Limited to compatible capsules
- No steam wand listed
The CitiZ is a capsule option for buyers who mainly drink espresso or Lungo. Two programmable buttons control those drinks, and the removable tank keeps refilling straightforward.
It uses Nespresso Original capsules, so it won't take the Vertuo capsules used by the first pick. The machine is fully automatic and has a used capsule container that holds up to 10 capsules.
Choose CitiZ for a simple capsule routine with two drink choices. If you expect to make frequent cappuccinos, compare machines with a listed steam wand or frother instead.
Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother for: Best for a narrow counter
- Black stainless steel finish
- 5.5 in wide
- Ground coffee
- Steam wand
At 5.5 inches wide, this manual machine suits a tight counter. It uses ground coffee and includes a steam wand for espresso-based milk drinks.
Pros
- Narrow footprint
- 40 oz tank
- Pre-infusion function
Cons
- Not a De'Longhi machine
- Requires manual brewing
The CHULUX Slim is the narrowest option here, at 5.5 inches wide. It uses ground coffee and includes a steam wand, pressure gauge and 40 oz water tank.
It is a manual espresso machine rather than a DeLonghi model, but it can suit a buyer who needs to save counter width. Its 11.7 in depth and 12.5 in height still deserve a space check.
The maker's guidance recommends following its manual before first use and gives specific steps for priming a dry pump.
Inissia Espresso Machine by De'Longhi: Best for a small capsule machine
- Black finish
- Nespresso Original capsules
- Programmable Espresso and Lungo buttons
- Folding drip tray
The Inissia offers one-touch Espresso and Lungo brewing in a compact capsule machine. Its folding drip tray makes room for taller cups.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight design
- Two programmable buttons
- Folding drip tray
Cons
- Uses capsules
- No milk frother listed
The Inissia is the compact Original capsule option. It has programmable Espresso and Lungo buttons, and its folding drip tray accommodates taller cups.
Its 24 oz capacity is smaller than the CitiZ's listed capacity, which makes it better suited to occasional drinks or a compact kitchen. It is fully automatic and uses Nespresso Original capsules.
For more compact choices, compare small espresso machines.
Choose Inissia if small size and quick capsule preparation matter more than a milk frother or a broad menu of drink sizes. For help with a manual machine instead, see how to use the De'Longhi Dedica Arte.
What should you compare before choosing a black espresso machine?
Compare the coffee input first, because capsules, ground coffee and whole beans create different daily routines. A machine with a built-in grinder may reduce separate steps, while a capsule brewer trades that flexibility for one-button preparation.
Next, decide whether you want milk handled by a steam wand. The Magnifica Start, Classic, EC155, Barista Express and Chefman include manual milk tools, while the listed Nespresso models do not include a frother.
Counter fit matters as much as color. Check width, depth, height and room for the water tank or drip tray to move, especially for larger machines such as the Barista Express and Magnifica Start.
Are black DeLonghi machines automatic or manual?
Both types appear in this group. Nespresso capsule models automate brewing after you load a compatible capsule, while the Magnifica Start grinds and brews beans automatically but still asks you to froth milk by hand.
The Classic and EC155 are better suited to buyers who want to handle more steps themselves. The Barista Express is semi-automatic and adds built-in grinding, grind adjustment and manual microfoam texturing.
Which black DeLonghi machine is best for milk drinks?
The Magnifica Start fits buyers who want automatic espresso preparation with a manual frother for milk and alternatives. The Classic is better if customizable single or double espresso presets and a two-setting steam wand appeal to you.
For capsule convenience with milk drinks, none of the listed Nespresso models includes a frother. Pair one with a separate milk frother or choose a machine that has a steam wand.
Final choice: which black DeLonghi espresso machine should you pick?
Pick the Magnifica Start if you want whole-bean grinding and one-touch recipes, the Classic if matte black styling and manual milk control matter, or Vertuo if you want four capsule drink sizes. Choose the CitiZ or Inissia for Original capsules, and check fit against your counter before ordering.
For another compact manual option, read our De'Longhi Dedica Arte review and compare its controls with your preferred routine.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for several capsule drink sizes
Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for manual milk texture control
De’Longhi Classic Matte Black Espresso Machine
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for one-touch bean-to-cup drinks
De'Longhi Magnifica Start Automatic Espresso Machine
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Which black DeLonghi espresso machine is best for beginners?
The Magnifica Start is a straightforward bean-to-cup option, with one-touch Espresso, Coffee and Americano recipes and 13 grind settings. Its milk frother is manual, so you still prepare foam yourself.
For a simpler capsule routine, consider the Nespresso CitiZ or Inissia.
Does DeLonghi make a matte black espresso machine?
Yes. The De’Longhi Classic Matte Black Espresso Machine has a matte finish, customizable single and double espresso presets, and a steam wand with two settings.
It uses ground coffee and calls for manual milk preparation, unlike a capsule machine that automates more of the brew.
What is the difference between Nespresso Vertuo and Original?
Vertuo and Original use different capsule systems. The Vertuo option here brews four sizes, from espresso to 7.7 oz coffee, while the CitiZ and Inissia use Nespresso Original capsules and offer Espresso and Lungo buttons.
Choose capsules for the system you plan to keep buying.
Can black DeLonghi espresso machines make cappuccinos?
Some can. The Magnifica Start, DeLonghi EC155 and De’Longhi Classic include manual milk frothers or steam wands for preparing milk foam.
The capsule models in this comparison do not list a milk frother, so check a separate frother or choose a machine designed for milk drinks.
Should I choose an automatic or manual espresso machine?
Choose automatic brewing if you want fewer steps between beans or capsules and a drink. Manual and semi-automatic machines suit people who want to dose coffee, manage extraction or texture milk themselves.
Counter space and your preferred coffee input also help narrow the choice.
