If you’re craving barista-style coffee at home, the De’Longhi ECP35.31 Traditional Barista Pump Espresso Machine delivers a truly satisfying brew every time. Designed with casual coffee lovers in mind, this sleek black espresso maker brings Italian quality and café-style craftsmanship to your kitchen.
Brew Like a Barista at Home
With a 15-bar professional pressure pump, this machine creates rich, full-bodied espresso with that all-important crema layer on top. Whether you prefer ground coffee or the ease of E.S.E pods, the ECP35.31 offers flexibility without sacrificing taste.
The adjustable milk frother allows you to create the perfect texture for cappuccinos, lattes, or flat whites. Simply rotate the dial to adjust the steam level and create café-quality microfoam, all from the comfort of your kitchen.
Key Features at a Glance
Stylish Design: Matte black finish and stainless steel touches elevate your countertop look.
Compatible with E.S.E Pods & Ground Coffee: Choose your preferred method with no hassle.
Transparent 1.1L Water Tank: Easy to fill and remove for quick cleaning and maintenance.
Double Drip Tray: Ideal for mugs and taller glasses – less mess, more flexibility.
Fast Heating Time: Brew your favourite coffee quickly without waiting around.
Built-in Cup Warmer: Keep your cups warm for a perfect coffee temperature every time.
Troubleshooting Guide Included: Solve small issues fast without calling support.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔️ Adjustable milk frother for custom milk textures
✔️ Compact and stylish design fits most kitchens
✔️ Compatible with ground coffee and E.S.E pods
✔️ Quick heat-up time for fast brewing
✔️ Easy to clean and maintain with removable parts
Cons:
❌ No built-in grinder – ground coffee or pods only
❌ Manual operation requires a learning curve for beginners
❌ Water tank may be small for high-volume households
What the Product is Used For
This espresso machine is perfect for making high-quality espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes at home. It’s especially suited for coffee lovers who enjoy experimenting with milk textures and coffee blends.
Why We Like This Product (Reviewed by the YPC Team)
At Yorkshire Outdoor Activity Park, we love products that turn everyday moments into something special. The De’Longhi ECP35.31 hits that sweet spot: it’s affordable, easy to use, and lets you play with your coffee craft. The adjustable milk frother is a standout – you can easily go from smooth lattes to frothy cappuccinos. It’s a great entry-level machine with a touch of barista flair!
Alternatives Worth Considering
If you’re exploring more options, consider these:
De’Longhi Dedica EC685 – Slimline design with more precise temperature control and a similar frother.
Sage Bambino Plus – Slightly pricier, but offers auto milk texturing and faster heat-up.
Nespresso Creatista Uno – Pod-based with premium milk frothing, great for no-fuss coffee lovers.
Tips on How to Use Correctly
Always preheat your cup using the cup warmer for best results.
When using ground coffee, make sure it’s medium-fine and evenly tamped.
Regularly clean the frother and filter holders to avoid residue build-up.
Let the machine run a water-only cycle weekly to flush the system.
Store your E.S.E pods in a cool, dry place to maintain flavour.
Comparison Table
| Feature | De’Longhi ECP35.31 | De’Longhi Dedica EC685 | Sage Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee Type | Ground, E.S.E pods | Ground, E.S.E pods | Ground |
| Milk Frother | Manual adjustable | Manual adjustable | Automatic |
| Water Tank Capacity | 1.1L | 1L | 1.9L |
| Heat-up Time | ~40 seconds | ~35 seconds | 3 seconds |
| Built-in Grinder | No | No | No |
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in a Coffee Machine
When shopping for a home espresso machine in 2025, consider these key points:
Brewing Style: Do you prefer ground coffee or the convenience of pods? The ECP35.31 supports both.
Milk Frothing Ability: If you love cappuccinos or lattes, a machine with an adjustable frother is a must.
Ease of Cleaning: Look for machines with removable water tanks and drip trays.
Size and Design: Make sure it fits your kitchen space without compromising on power.
Heating Time: Faster heating equals faster coffee – especially important for busy mornings.
Pressure System: A 15-bar pressure pump is the sweet spot for espresso extraction.
Price vs Performance: The ECP35.31 offers incredible value without the high-end cost.
10+ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use Nespresso pods with the ECP35.31?
No, this machine is compatible with E.S.E pods or ground coffee only.
2. How long does it take to heat up?
It takes around 40 seconds to reach optimal brewing temperature.
3. Is the milk frother easy to clean?
Yes, simply wipe it down after each use and occasionally soak in warm water.
4. Can it make two cups at once?
Yes, the filter holder allows you to brew two espressos at the same time.
5. Does it come with different filter baskets?
Yes, it includes single and double shot filter baskets, plus one for E.S.E pods.
6. What’s the difference between this and a bean-to-cup machine?
This is a manual machine that uses pre-ground coffee or pods, not whole beans.
7. Is it noisy?
It’s relatively quiet, though there is a slight noise during extraction and frothing.
8. What maintenance is needed?
Regular descaling, cleaning the frother, and rinsing the filters will keep it running smoothly.
9. Does it come with a tamper?
Yes, a basic plastic tamper is included, though you may prefer to upgrade.
10. What is the water tank made of?
The 1.1L tank is transparent plastic and fully removable for easy cleaning.
11. Can I make hot water for tea?
Yes, simply run the machine without coffee to dispense hot water.
Looking for more options?
Browse our full range of Coffee Machines for other great choices to suit your space, goals, and budget.
