The DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 is an easy-to-operate super-automatic espresso machine that combines superb reliability with every feature you need (plus a couple nice extras).
It isn’t the flashiest model espresso machine on the market, but it’s a fantastic option in its entry-level price range and has been a fan-favorite since it first debuted in 2001.
Yes, you read that right. This machine has existed in almost the same form for nearly 20 years. Why?
Because it just works.
Of note, the Magnifica ESAM3300 has 2 separate thermoblock boiler systems
This ensures rapid heating without any unnecessary waiting.
I’ll detail some of my favorite features below in our full DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 review, but as you saw above, this machine scores highly across the board.
No wonder it's one of the best-selling super-automatic coffee machines on the market.
The ESAM3300 pulls a great shot and gives you the ability to enjoy it with 8 different dose strengths from 1.5-8.0 oz. I wasn’t wholly enamored with the double shot button’s ability to pull a strong shot, but brewing 2 single shots is an easy workaround and delivers high quality results.
On the frother side, the included Pannarello steam wand is foolproof to use and easy to clean, but it does take away the ability for you to truly make microfoam. The workaround for that is to simply remove the black Pannarello attachment and manually steam your own milk. Either way, it’s A-quality foam.
The external plastic casing isn’t the flashiest, and there’s no digital display that screams top-of-the-line, but the ESAM3300 looks like an espresso machine should.
This is one of the strongest grades I’ve given on any coffee or espresso machine review.
Frankly, it’s the calling card and number one standout feature of this DeLonghi ESAM3300 review.
Even though DeLonghi has unveiled newer, more updated models since the ESAM3300 debuted, it’s still one of the most fail-safe and best-selling espresso machines.
And that includes the $1,000+ models!
If durability is one of the most important factors to you (like it is for me) then look no further.
The front panel gives you easy access to the brew group and spent puck compartment, both of which can be pulled out and cleaned very easily.
Proper cleaning and regular maintenance is of paramount importance to super-automatic espresso machines, the DeLonghi ESAM3300 makes it simple.
A downside: This model isn’t compatible with any water filters, which means you need to use your own filtered water if you want to avoid frequent descaling.
DeLonghi isn’t new to the espresso market. They’ve made a lot of different models ranging from Nespresso-capsule machines to full-blown, super-automatic behemoths.
But while DeLonghi keeps unveiling new models with modern improvements, one model continued to stand the test of time: the Magnifica ESAM3300.
Check out this snapshot from the machine’s Amazon page:
The ESAM3300 first appeared on Amazon in 2001 (it can vote) yet still ranks 2nd in Super-Automatic Espresso Machine sales 4.3-star rating.
Frankly, this model just works. It has everything you need, including a reliable design, and usually you can find it for a great price because it’s not the newest and flashiest model on the market.
But when you’re investing in an espresso machine, what do you want?
If you answered the latter, keep reading for our DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 review.
It’s easy for manufacturers to get caught up in their desire to offer you every adjustable feature under the sun. Sometimes it adds value, and sometimes it adds too much complexity.
Take the Jura Ena Micro 9, for example. I really like that model and think it’s a fantastic, durable, compact and reliable super-automatic espresso machine, but Jura made one of the more involved dial-control panels that I’ve ever seen.
The DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 is the total opposite. What you see is what you get. There’s two knobs, some buttons, and a series of indicator lights, and really that’s all you need for a fantastic espresso time and time again.
Note: The image above shows two buttons labeled “1 or 2 shots.” It’s important to know how this works! Selecting the second button from the left (1 shot) will dispense one serving whereas the third button from the left (2 shots) will dispense two servings.
“Duh. How stupid do you think I am?”
Hold your horses! The “2 shot” button means two of whatever size you selected with the water volume indicator. If you select a full 8 oz cup, you’re getting two of them.
Other machines are designed with the water reservoir in the back or on the top, and refilling them can range somewhere from mildly annoying to extremely difficult.
The DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 solves that problem by having a reservoir that slides right out the front-right side.
It’s incredibly simple, and very much appreciated.
Ask anyone who’s owned this machine what they thought about it, and you’ll probably get the same response back:
“Zero regrets buying that.”
This machine has extremely low rates of failure and is built extremely well. Seriously, you could own this thing for 6-7 years (or longer) of fail-free use.
Just take care of it!
The most frequent issue is with the lever that turns on the Pannarello steam wand — sometimes it breaks. However, you can buy cheap replacements and be back running without sending your machine in for costly repairs and significant downtime.
While the DeLonghi ESAM3300 does have two separate boilers to cut down on heating time, it still has just one pump. That means you can either pull your shot or steam your milk, but not both at the same time.
In terms of day-to-day operations this isn’t a concern for me. However, it can be a little annoying if your machine’s indicator light is on and you aren’t sure why. Is your water reservoir not set properly? Is something jammed in the grinder? Put on your detective hat and figure it out.
If you want to add your own ground coffee, the machine comes with a bypass doser on the top with an accompanying measuring scoop. Be careful not to add more than one scoop, or the machine might jam up. The one scoop provided is the proper quantity.
It’s a little louder than the average integrated grinder.
