Best Portafilter for Delonghi

DeLonghi ECP3220, ECP3420, ECP3630

• Pros:
  • Makes decent espresso
  • Affordable options
  • Easy to clean
  • Compatible with mods like bottomless portafilters for better shots
  • Can be upgraded with a new steam wand for improved milk frothing
  • DeLonghi ECP3630: "My shots seem to be pretty consistent in terms of extraction times"
  • DeLonghi ECP3630: Small boiler machine may offer consistent results
• Cons:
  • DeLonghi ECP3630: Temperature might not be high enough, leading to longer extraction times
  • DeLonghi ECP3420: May not come with non-pressurized baskets
  • Plastic inside the portafilter may interfere with third-party baskets
  • Steam wand performance may need improvement for optimal results
  • DeLonghi ECP3420: Issues with heat-up time and pressure adjustment

Gaggia Espresso Deluxe / Evolution

• Pros:
  • Good value for the price
  • Can be modded for better performance
  • Gaggia Espresso Deluxe: Allows for mods like the 9 bar spring modification for pressure control
  • Gaggia Espresso Deluxe: Temperature control can be improved through mods
  • Compatible with accessories like non-pressurized portafilters, showers screens, and additional baskets
• Cons:
  • Gaggia Espresso Deluxe: Issues with extraction temperature, might result in lukewarm shots
  • Gaggia Espresso Deluxe: Might require preheating of machine, portafilter, and cups for better results
  • Issues with steam wand performance for frothing milk
  • Gaggia Espresso Deluxe: Tendency for leaks that may need troubleshooting
  • Gaggia Espresso Deluxe: Tinkering and mods may be necessary for optimal performance

Customer Recommendations

• Recommendations:
  • For Gaggia Espresso Deluxe, Edesia 53 portafilter and a 9 bar spring are popular upgrades
  • Suggestions for a tamper upgrade due to dissatisfaction with the plastic one
  • Consider buying the correct accessories like shower screens and baskets for improved performance
• Concerns:
  • Some users experience temperature issues and loud operation, particularly after modifications
  • Others have had difficulties with shots being too fast or lukewarm, despite modifications
  • Steam wand issues reported, affecting milk frothing quality
• Usage Tips:
  • Preheating water and equipment, including cups, can help improve shot temperature
  • Precision and consistency in shot extraction may require adjustments and experimentation
• Compatibility Questions:
  • Questions about compatible accessories, like baskets, tampers, and portafilters, for specific models

Overall, consider the DeLonghi ECP series or the Gaggia Espresso Deluxe/Evolution for espresso making, but be prepared for potential temperature, pressure, and modding challenges to achieve optimal results.