DeLonghi’s Dedica has been a popular choice for a beginner’s semi-manual espresso machine. It’s a user-friendly machine that can give you nice professional results. It’s also a great, budget-friendly machine for a beginner at-home barista.
Smeg, the Italian brand famous for its retro-style home appliances, also makes an espresso machine similar in features to the DeLonghi Dedica.
So if you happen to be in the market for a similar espresso machine and looking at these two brands, here’s a comparison between the two.
To start, let’s look at the features of each espresso machine…
Smeg EFC01 vs DeLonghi Dedica
When it comes to specifications, these two machines are identical. So when it comes to function and usability, you should expect the same quality from both brands.
Now let’s talk about quality and value in terms of price. Smeg’s espresso machine has a rather beautiful design. It’s an iconic design and it’s the reason why most people opt for Smeg’s appliances. However, they don’t come cheap. The fact that the espresso machine’s housing is made of plastic is disappointing to me. For the price, it should have a housing of higher quality material.
On the other hand, DeLonghi’s Dedica, which also has a nice sleek design, has a full stainless steel housing and it cost about $200 LESS than the Smeg (as of the time of writing – as prices keep changing, always check for the latest price).
Features of Smeg Espresso Machine
The most noticeable thing about the Smeg espresso maker is its design. It has a 50s retro style design that you’ll certainly love looking at on your kitchen counter.
Looks aside, the machine is equipped with a 15-bar pressure pump, which is pretty standard for most espresso machine. It has a single thermoblock heating system, so there’s going to be a bit of a wait between espresso extraction and using the steam wand for frothing milk.
The exterior of the espresso machine, while it looks nice and shiny, is actually made of plastic. So that’s a bit of a letdown for me.
Operating the machine is quite simple. You have three buttons: single-shot, double-shot and steam. The shot volumes are already programmed, but you have the ability to reprogram them with your own choice of volumes. On the side, you’ll find the wand for steaming and frothing the milk. On the back of the machine, you’ll find a 1-Liter capacity water reservoir.
Included with the Smeg espresso machine three basket filters for a single shot, double shot or e.s.e pods. It also comes with a tamper. Top of the machine features a space to keep your cups.
Is Smeg Made in China?
Yes, Smeg espresso machine is made in China and it’s available in several colors. The brand is Italian, but it’s not Italian made.
Smeg Portafilter and Tamper Size
This machine uses a standard 51mm portafilter size. So if you want to buy a separate tamper or an additional portafilter, you’ll want to go for 51mm size.
Features of DeLonghi Dedica Espresso Machine
Dedica’s specs are not much different than Smeg’s espresso machine. It has a 15-bar pump pressure and a single stainless steel thermoblock heating system, too. On the front panel of the machine, you’ll find three buttons: single-shot, double-shot and steam. All shots are pre-set and reprogrammable. The included portafilter also comes with three basket filters for a single-shot, double shot and for a e.s.e pods. So far, it’s identical in specs to Smeg’s espresso machine.
Let’s talk about design. The Dedica has a slim design, which the Smeg also has. But the Dedica has a full stainless steel housing, which gives it a stronger and more durable body that the Smeg. On top, there’s a flat space where you can keep your glasses to keep them warm before use.
Although this particular model of Dedica is outdated, there are two other models available (Dedica Deluxe and Dedica Arte), I am comparing the Smeg to this one because they have the exact same frother, which is only fair. But I do encourage you to look at other Dedica models, especially the Dedica Arte.
Where Is DeLonghi Dedica Made?
DeLonghi Dedica is also made in China and available in several colors.
DeLonghi Portafilter and Tamper Size
Dedica also uses a 51mm portafilter size. Which is pretty standard for most DeLonghi machines.
Which Do You Buy?
If you opt for the Smeg espresso machine, then know that you’re paying for design only. If you’re a fan of the iconic retro design Smeg offers and don’t mind its price, then go for it. In my opinion, the machine is not worth its price, but I do understand if a design enthusiast wouldn’t mind paying just for its looks.
In terms of value, the DeLonghi Dedica makes a much better choice. It has the same specs and it’s made of better materials which makes it more durable. Better yet, you could consider something like the Breville Bambino which offers more value and quality.
