DeLonghi 3120 vs 3420 – Which Espresso Is the Best?

Coffee lovers often want a reliable espresso machine that balances ease of use with rich flavor. DeLonghi has built a reputation for crafting machines that deliver café-quality drinks at home, and two models frequently compared are the DeLonghi 3120 and the DeLonghi 3420.

Each one offers its own strengths, making the decision more about personal preference than simple specs. The 3120 appeals to beginners who want consistent results without a steep learning curve.

It brings a practical design, easy controls, and dependable performance for everyday brewing. The 3420 steps up the experience with a bit more power, advanced features, and flexibility for those who enjoy experimenting with their coffee.

Both machines deliver strong espresso shots, creamy froth, and a compact design that fits modern kitchens. Understanding their differences helps narrow down which model feels like the right fit for your daily coffee ritual.

DeLonghi 3120 vs DeLonghi 3420

Coffee lovers often look for an espresso machine that makes strong, flavorful coffee without being too hard to use. DeLonghi is one of the most trusted names in this space, and two of its models, the DeLonghi 3120 and the DeLonghi 3420, stand out.

Both deliver barista-style drinks at home, yet they have small differences that may matter for daily use. Let’s go step by step and break down both machines.

De’Longhi ECP3120 15 Bar Espresso Machine

 

Product Details

The DeLonghi 3120 is built for people who want café-style drinks at home without too much hassle. It has a 15-bar professional pressure system that ensures every cup has rich flavor. The machine comes with adjustable controls, so you can make your coffee strong or light, just the way you prefer.

It also supports single or double espresso shots, and even easy-serve espresso pods. A manual frother lets you create creamy milk froth for lattes and cappuccinos. One of its key highlights is the Advanced Cappuccino System, which keeps the right temperature, allowing you to brew multiple cups back-to-back.

Features

• 15-bar pressure system for quality espresso

• Adjustable controls for personal taste

• Manual frother for milk-based drinks

• Three-in-one filter holder: one shot, two shots, or pod

• Advanced Cappuccino System for continuous brewing

What is the good?

• Strong espresso flavor with rich crema

• Easy to make both single and double shots

• Great milk frothing for cappuccinos and lattes

• No long wait between cups

• Compact enough to fit in small kitchens

What is the bad?

• No removable water tank, which makes refilling less convenient

• Cleaning takes more effort compared to newer models

• Lacks a modern look compared to other DeLonghi machines

Overall Opinion

The DeLonghi 3120 is a solid choice for beginners and casual coffee drinkers. It delivers great espresso, makes frothy cappuccinos, and works fast between cups. While it does not have the easiest cleanup system, it still gives reliable performance at an affordable price.

DeLonghi 3420 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine

 

Product Details

The DeLonghi 3420 takes everything the 3120 does and adds more convenience. It also uses a 15-bar professional pressure system with adjustable controls for taste. You can make single or double shots and use pods.

This model also includes the Advanced Cappuccino System with a manual frother for creamy milk foam. On top of that, the 3420 features a sleek, space-saving design with a narrow footprint that fits well on small countertops. A big upgrade is the removable water tank and drip tray, which makes it easier to clean and refill.

Features

• 15-bar professional pressure system

• Adjustable controls for taste preference

• Manual frother for creamy foam

• Three-in-one filter holder

• Advanced Cappuccino System for consistent brewing

• Sleek, compact design that saves counter space

• Removable water tank and drip tray

• Dishwasher-safe parts

What is the good?

• High-quality espresso with full flavor

• Easy to use and quick to set up

• Compact design fits in small kitchens

• Removable water tank makes refilling simple

• Easier cleaning since parts are dishwasher safe

What is the bad?

• Slightly more expensive than the 3120

• Manual frother still requires practice for perfect foam

• Water tank capacity may feel small for heavy users

Overall Opinion

The DeLonghi 3420 is a more user-friendly upgrade of the 3120. It has the same strong espresso performance but adds practical features like a removable water tank, drip tray, and easier cleaning. It also looks more modern, making it a good fit for today’s kitchens.

Details Comparison for DeLonghi 3120 vs DeLonghi 3420

Both machines share the same 15-bar pressure system and can make espresso, cappuccino, and lattes with adjustable taste settings. The key difference is in convenience and design.

The 3120 is reliable but lacks a removable water tank and requires more effort to clean. The 3420, on the other hand, includes a removable water tank, dishwasher-safe parts, and a compact, modern design.

This makes the 3420 more user-friendly for daily use. If budget is tight, the 3120 works well. If convenience and easy maintenance matter, the 3420 is the better choice.

FAQs

Q1: Does the DeLonghi 3120 make cappuccinos?
Yes, it has a manual frother to create milk foam for cappuccinos and lattes.

Q2: Is the 3420 harder to use than the 3120?
No, both are easy to use, but the 3420 is more convenient with a removable water tank.

Q3: Can both models use espresso pods?
Yes, both machines come with a three-in-one filter holder that supports pods.

Q4: Which machine is easier to clean?
The 3420 is easier to clean because it has a removable water tank and dishwasher-safe parts.

Q5: Do both machines brew strong espresso?
Yes, both use a 15-bar pressure system that delivers strong, café-style espresso.

Conclusion

The DeLonghi 3120 and DeLonghi 3420 both make high-quality espresso at home. The 3120 is a dependable choice for beginners and budget-friendly buyers.

The 3420 adds convenience with a removable tank, easier cleaning, and a sleek design.

If cost is the main factor, the 3120 will serve you well. For a more modern and user-friendly experience, the 3420 is the smarter pick.