Last Updated on June 3, 2025 by Karen
Honest review of De’Longhi Stilosa espresso machine — budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, great espresso shots with 15-bar pump pressure.
If you’re dreaming of making espresso at home but don’t want to spend a fortune, the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK is a popular budget-friendly choice. Priced at about $100, it’s one of the most affordable manual espresso machines on the market. But how does it perform in real life? I put the Stilosa to the test to see if it’s worth your money.
Testing the Machine: How Does It Perform?
To give you a clear picture of what to expect from the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK, I tested the machine extensively over several weeks. I made multiple espresso shots, experimented with different grind sizes, and practiced steaming milk to see how it handles everyday use.
Espresso Shots
The Stilosa uses a 15-bar pump and a pressurized filter basket designed to help beginners pull better shots even if the grind or tamping isn’t perfect. During testing, I found that the espresso came out with a decent crema—a creamy, golden foam on top—which is a good sign. The shots were flavorful but tended to vary depending on the grind size and tamping pressure. At times, the espresso was a bit watery or bitter, especially when the grind was too coarse or tamping was uneven. However, when I upgraded to a better grinder and fine-tuned my tamping technique, the espresso quality improved significantly, with richer flavor and a thicker crema.
Steam Wand and Milk Frothing
The manual steam wand is a key feature for making milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. Frothing milk took some practice because the steam pressure wasn’t always consistent. The wand produces enough steam to create foam, but getting smooth, velvety microfoam—like you’d get from a barista—was challenging. It’s doable but requires patience and some trial and error, especially if you’re new to steaming milk. For simple frothy milk, the Stilosa does the job, but don’t expect perfect latte art straight away.
Ease of Use
The machine’s simple design makes it easy to understand, but that doesn’t mean pulling perfect shots is effortless. It’s very much a hands-on experience—you’ll need to grind your coffee, tamp it properly, and time your shots. The water tank is easy to fill, and the controls are straightforward, which helps beginners get started quickly. However, consistency in results comes with practice.
Build Quality
During my testing, the machine felt solid enough for daily use, especially the stainless steel boiler which helps maintain temperature. However, some plastic parts like the portafilter handle and outer casing felt a little cheaply made to me — less durable and may not hold up to heavy use over time. The compact design is a plus if you have limited counter space.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning was fairly simple. I rinsed the portafilter and steam wand after every use and performed a descaling routine after about 200 shots, as recommended. Descaling took roughly 15 minutes and involved using a special cleaning solution to remove mineral buildup inside the machine, which keeps it running smoothly.
Overall Performance
Overall, the Stilosa performs well for a budget machine. It offers good espresso shots for beginners who want to learn the craft, though it requires some effort and patience to get the best results. The milk frothing capability is decent but not barista-level. With consistent practice and a quality grinder, the Stilosa can deliver satisfying coffee drinks without spending a lot.
Price and Value of De’Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine
One of the biggest reasons people consider the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK is its price. At around USD$100, it’s one of the most budget-friendly espresso machines available, especially when compared to higher-end models that can cost several hundred to over a thousand dollars. This makes it an attractive choice for beginners who want to start making espresso at home without a big upfront investment.
Despite the low price, the Stilosa doesn’t feel cheap. It offers key features like a 15-bar pump, which is essential for extracting quality espresso, and a stainless steel boiler that helps maintain stable water temperature during brewing. These features are usually found in more expensive machines, so getting them at this price point is a good value.
Of course, there are trade-offs. Some parts are made from plastic, and it lacks some of the convenience features found in pricier models, such as programmable buttons or built-in grinders. Still, for those willing to put in a bit of effort and patience, the Stilosa provides excellent bang for your buck.
In short, if you’re looking for an affordable entry point into espresso making, this machine delivers solid performance for its price. It’s especially ideal for users who want to learn the manual process of espresso brewing without breaking the bank.
Performance and Espresso Quality
The De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK delivers solid performance for a budget-friendly espresso machine, especially when you consider its price point. Thanks to its 15-bar pump pressure, it can extract espresso with enough force to bring out the rich flavors from your coffee grounds, which is key to brewing a good shot.
One of the machine’s standout features is its pressurized filter basket. This design helps create crema—the golden, creamy layer on top of espresso—even if your grind size or tamping technique isn’t perfect. For beginners, this is a big advantage, as it makes the machine more forgiving and easier to use.
During testing, the espresso shots had a pleasant aroma and a balanced taste, though sometimes the flavor was a bit watery or slightly bitter. These issues usually happen when the grind is too coarse or tamping is uneven. However, by fine-tuning your grind size and tamping pressure, you can significantly improve the richness and crema of your shots.
If you’re serious about getting the best espresso, upgrading your grinder and switching to a bottomless portafilter (sold separately) can greatly enhance the quality of your shots. These upgrades allow better control and feedback, so you can perfect your brewing technique.
Overall, the Stilosa offers espresso quality that rivals machines costing much more, as long as you take the time to practice and adjust your brewing process.
Ease of Use and Beginner Friendliness
The De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK is designed with simplicity in mind, making it a solid choice for beginners who want to learn how to make espresso at home. Its straightforward controls and manual operation give users hands-on experience without overwhelming complexity.
Setting up the machine is quick and easy—just fill the water tank, add coffee grounds to the portafilter, and start brewing. The pressurized filter basket helps beginners by compensating for imperfect tamping or grind size, so you can still get a decent espresso without being a pro barista.
That said, the Stilosa isn’t a “push-button” automatic machine, like a Nespresso or Keurig. You’ll need to learn some basics like grinding your beans to the right size, tamping evenly, and manually frothing milk with the steam wand. The steam wand takes some practice to master because steam pressure can be a little inconsistent, but it’s a great way to develop your milk frothing skills.
While it may take a few tries to get consistent results, this machine is very forgiving and encourages hands-on learning. If you enjoy experimenting and improving your coffee-making skills, the Stilosa is a great beginner-friendly option.
However, if you’re looking for a fully automatic espresso machine that requires zero effort, this might not be the best fit. But for those who want to truly learn and control their espresso experience, it’s an excellent starter machine.
Drinks You Can Make with the De’Longhi Stilosa
The De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK is a manual espresso machine that opens up a world of delicious coffee drinks you can easily make at home. With its 15-bar pump and manual steam wand, you can craft a variety of classic espresso-based beverages. Here are some popular options:
Espresso Shots
Of course, the Stilosa’s main job is pulling single or double espresso shots. Thanks to its pressurized filter baskets, even beginners can get a decent shot with good crema. You can enjoy a quick, strong espresso straight or use it as the base for other drinks (like a red eye coffee!)
Lattes
Using the steam wand, you can froth milk to make creamy lattes. While the frothing takes some practice to get silky microfoam, the Stilosa lets you experiment with milk texture and create your own café-style latte.
Cappuccinos
For a frothier drink, the steam wand can also produce the foam needed for a classic cappuccino. It’s a little harder to master the smooth foam, but with patience, you can create rich, velvety drinks at home.
Americanos
If you prefer a longer, milder coffee, just pull a shot and add hot water to make an Americano. It’s a simple way to enjoy espresso without the intensity.
Macchiatos
A macchiato is an espresso “marked” with a small amount of frothy milk. The Stilosa’s steam wand allows you to create this delicious, balanced drink easily.
With some practice, you’ll be able to make all these drinks—and more! Whether you like your coffee bold and straight or creamy and frothy, the Stilosa gives you the tools to explore the world of espresso from your kitchen.
Build Quality and Design of De’Longhi Stilosa
The De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK is designed to fit neatly into most kitchens, especially if you’re short on counter space. Its compact size and sleek black finish give it a modern, stylish look that won’t feel out of place in a variety of kitchen styles—from minimalist to cozy home setups. If you live in an apartment or have a smaller kitchen, the Stilosa’s footprint is a big plus since it doesn’t take up too much space.
One of the machine’s strongest points is its stainless steel boiler, which is unusual for a machine at this price. The metal boiler does a great job maintaining stable water temperature during brewing, which is crucial for pulling consistent, flavorful espresso shots. This helps the Stilosa punch above its weight compared to other budget-friendly machines that often rely on plastic or less durable components for heating.
That said, while the core brewing components are solid, some parts of the machine are made from plastic, such as the portafilter handle and the outer casing. These plastic elements can feel a little lightweight and may not be as durable as the metal parts. Over time, with frequent use, these areas might show wear or loosen slightly. For daily home use, however, this is generally not a big issue unless you’re very rough with the machine.
The machine also features a removable water reservoir, which makes refilling and cleaning more convenient, especially in tight spaces. The drip tray is also removable, allowing for easy cleanup of spills and coffee grounds.
Overall, the Stilosa balances durability and design well for its price. It’s not built like a commercial espresso machine, but its overall design and materials make it a solid and attractive option for home users who want decent quality without sacrificing counter space.
Cleaning and Maintenance of De’Longhi Stilosa
Keeping your De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK clean and well-maintained is key to making great espresso and extending the life of your machine. Fortunately, this model is pretty straightforward when it comes to upkeep.
Daily Cleaning
After each use, it’s important to rinse the portafilter and filter basket to remove leftover coffee grounds and oils. This prevents buildup that can affect the taste of your espresso. Also, wipe down the steam wand immediately after frothing milk to avoid milk residue hardening on the tip. Using a damp cloth right away makes cleaning much easier.
Weekly and Monthly Care
About once a week, give the drip tray and water reservoir a good wash with warm, soapy water. Since both parts are removable, this is simple and helps keep things hygienic.
Descaling
Mineral buildup from water can affect performance over time, so descaling your Stilosa every 200 shots or every 1-3 months (depending on your water hardness) is important. Descaling removes limescale deposits inside the boiler and water lines, ensuring consistent temperature and pressure during extraction.
To descale, you’ll need a commercial descaling solution or a vinegar-water mixture. Run the descaling cycle according to the instructions in the instruction manual, flushing the machine thoroughly afterward with fresh water. This process usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Other Tips
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Regularly check the group head gasket for wear and replace if necessary, as this helps maintain a good seal during brewing.
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Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive sponges on any parts of the machine to keep the finish looking good.
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If you notice any changes in steam pressure or shot quality, it might be time for a more thorough cleaning or servicing.
By sticking to this cleaning routine, you’ll ensure your De’Longhi Stilosa stays in great shape, making delicious espresso shot after shot with minimal hassle.
Why is 15-bar Pump Pressure so Important?
Espresso isn’t just regular coffee; it’s made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure. This pressure helps extract rich flavors, oils, and aromas from the coffee, producing that thick, intense shot with a layer of crema on top.
A 15-bar pump means the machine can push water through the coffee at about 15 times the normal atmospheric pressure at sea level. This is the standard pressure for most espresso machines and is considered ideal for good extraction.
If the pressure is too low, the espresso might be weak or under-extracted—thin and sour. Too high, and it can over-extract, resulting in bitterness. A 15-bar pump helps strike the right balance to get high-quality espresso.
In short, having a 15-bar pump on the De’Longhi Stilosa means it has the right muscle to pull a proper espresso shot—giving you good flavor and crema, especially when combined with the right grind and tamping technique.
How to Get the Best Results with the De’Longhi Stilosa
Getting great espresso and milk drinks from the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK takes a bit of practice and attention to detail, but it’s definitely doable—even for beginners! Here are some detailed tips to help you improve your shots, milk frothing, and overall experience:
1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Coffee Beans
The foundation of a good espresso shot starts with your beans. Choose fresh, high-quality beans from a reputable roaster, ideally roasted within the last two weeks. Whole beans retain flavor longer, so grind just before brewing to maximize freshness and aroma.
2. Invest in a Good Grinder
While the Stilosa’s pressurized filter basket helps mask some grind inconsistencies, a quality burr grinder like the Baratza Sette or similar will make a huge difference in your shot quality. Experiment with grind sizes—aim for fine but not powdery. Consistent grind size means better extraction and more balanced flavor.
3. Master Your Tamping Technique
Even pressure when tamping is essential. Use a firm, level tamp to compress the coffee grounds evenly in the portafilter. This ensures water flows through the grounds uniformly during the extraction process, preventing under- or over-extraction which can cause bitterness or sourness.
4. Preheat Your Machine and Cups
Running a blank shot (without coffee) warms up the boiler and internal pipes, helping the machine reach the right temperature for brewing. Also, preheat your espresso cups by rinsing them with hot water—this keeps your espresso hotter longer and improves the overall taste experience.
5. Perfect Your Milk Frothing
The Stilosa has a manual steam wand, so frothing takes some practice. Start with cold, fresh milk and position the wand just below the surface to introduce air and create foam. Then lower the wand deeper to heat the milk evenly. The goal is smooth, velvety microfoam—not just bubbly froth. Don’t rush it—take your time to learn how to control steam pressure and milk texture.
6. Use the Right Amount of Coffee
For single shots, use about 7 grams of coffee; for double shots, aim for 14 grams (check your machine’s instruction manual for specific recommendations). Using the right amount of coffee helps balance flavor and strength.
7. Pay Attention to Shot Timing
Ideal espresso shots typically take between 25 to 30 seconds to pull. Use a timer to monitor your shot, adjusting grind size or tamp pressure if shots are pulling too fast or too slow. A shot that pulls too quickly may taste weak; too slow may taste bitter.
8. Clean and Maintain Regularly
Keep your machine in top shape by rinsing the portafilter and steam wand after each use. Descale every 200 shots or as needed to remove mineral buildup—this helps maintain consistent pressure and temperature. A clean machine means better espresso and longer machine life.
9. Experiment and Be Patient
Espresso making is as much art as science. Don’t get discouraged if your first shots aren’t perfect—use the Stilosa as a learning tool and try different grind sizes, tamping pressures, and milk textures. With time, you’ll find your sweet spot and enjoy the process.
10. Consider Upgrading Accessories
If you want to take your espresso to the next level, investing in accessories like a quality tamper, a bottomless portafilter, or a digital scale can help you get better feedback and more consistent results.
With these tips, you can transform the De’Longhi Stilosa into a reliable and rewarding espresso maker. Whether you’re just starting your espresso journey or looking for a budget-friendly machine to hone your skills, patience and practice will pay off—giving you delicious, café-style espresso right at home.
Comparable Machines: How Does Stilosa Stack Up?
If you’re thinking about the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK, it’s smart to see how it compares to other espresso machines in its price range — and a bit above. Whether you’re on a tight budget or planning to upgrade later, here’s a quick look at some popular options.
Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a classic and beloved by many home baristas. It costs quite a bit more — around $700 to $800 — but it offers sturdy, commercial-style build quality and great temperature stability. Unlike the Stilosa’s pressurized baskets, the Silvia uses standard baskets, so you’ll need a good grinder and some technique to get the best shots. It’s perfect if you want to dive deeper into espresso making and don’t mind a steeper learning curve.
Gaggia Classic Pro
Priced around $400-$500, the Gaggia Classic Pro strikes a nice balance between quality and price. It has a manual steam wand and uses standard baskets like the Silvia, which means better control over your shots. The build feels solid, and it’s a favorite among those ready to step up from budget machines but not ready to spend hundreds more.
Breville Bambino Plus
If convenience is high on your list, the Breville Bambino Plus is a great pick. It’s about $500-$600 and offers quick heat-up, automatic steam wand, and precise temperature control with its built-in PID system. This machine takes a lot of the guesswork out of steaming milk, making it beginner-friendly but with better espresso quality than many budget machines.
Profitec Pro 300 / Profitec Go
For those who want to go all-in on espresso quality, the Profitec machines are top-tier, but they come with a hefty price tag—starting at around $1,000. These machines feature dual boilers for simultaneous brewing and steaming, PID temperature control, and professional-grade components. They’re aimed at serious home baristas who want café-level results.
How the Stilosa Fits In
Compared to these machines, the Stilosa stands out as a budget-friendly option that still delivers decent espresso thanks to its 15-bar pump and pressurized baskets. It’s compact, beginner-friendly, and great if you want to learn the basics without spending too much. The trade-off is that it requires more manual effort and patience to get really good shots, and the build quality isn’t as rugged as some higher-end models.
In short: If you’re just starting your espresso journey or on a tight budget, the Stilosa is a solid choice. If you want more control and better shot quality as you advance, machines like the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic Pro are worth considering. And if convenience and advanced features matter most, look to the Breville Bambino Plus or Profitec models.
Pros and Cons of De’Longhi Stilosa
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Compact size (great for small kitchens)
- Good 15-bar pump pressure for espresso extraction
- Stainless steel boiler for stable temperature
- Manual steam wand for milk frothing practice
- Beginner-friendly with patience and effort
Cons:
- Espresso can be watery or bitter if grind or tamping isn’t right
- Steam wand pressure can be inconsistent
- Some plastic parts feel less durable
- Requires practice to master tamping and frothing
- Not a fully automatic machine—requires manual effort
Conclusion
The De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK is a solid entry-level espresso machine. My testing showed it can produce tasty espresso and milk drinks if you’re willing to practice and possibly upgrade your grinder. It’s a great value for the price and perfect for those who want a hands-on espresso experience.
If you want an affordable machine to learn with and don’t mind the learning curve, the Stilosa is a strong choice. But if you want something fully automatic and super easy, you might want to look elsewhere.
