DeLonghi Eletta Explore vs Philips 5400

#1: DeLonghi Eletta Explore

  • Superior milk frothing
  • Extensive customization
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Fast and consistent performance,
  • Automatic cleaning system

#2: Philips 5400

  • Good customization options
  • Stylish design
  • Offers one-touch specialty drinks.
  • Reliable performance 
  • Competitive price point.

When it comes to automatic espresso machines, DeLonghi Eletta Explore and Philips 5400 stand out as two of the most popular options on the market. Both machines offer convenience, precision, and versatility, but after using and analyzing both, I can confidently say that the DeLonghi Eletta Explore comes out on top.

In this article, I’ll compare these two machines side by side, sharing my personal insights and breaking down features like design, functionality, ease of use, coffee quality, and maintenance. If you’re on the hunt for a high-quality automatic coffee machine, this comparison will help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in.

My Experience Using the DeLonghi Eletta Explore

When I first got the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I was eager to test its capabilities. I love both hot and cold coffee drinks, so I was particularly intrigued by its Cold Brew feature and the extensive list of over 40 beverages. From the first use, it was clear that this machine was built for coffee lovers like me who enjoy experimenting with different styles and recipes.

I started with a classic cappuccino, and the LatteCrema System blew me away. The milk foam was smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced with the espresso—just like you’d get from a professional barista. Later, I tried its Cold Brew feature, which delivers a smooth, rich cold coffee in just a few minutes. If you’re someone who enjoys iced coffee or cold lattes but doesn’t want to spend hours preparing cold brew manually, this is an absolute game-changer.

Over time, I found myself relying on the machine daily, whether for my morning espresso or an afternoon iced flat white. I also appreciated how easy it was to customize drinks to suit my taste, adjusting strength, temperature, and milk ratio effortlessly.

Coffee Variety for Every Mood

One of the biggest advantages of the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is the sheer variety of drinks it offers. With over 40 options to choose from, it caters to all kinds of coffee drinkers. Whether I’m in the mood for a strong espresso, a velvety flat white, or a chilled iced cappuccino, I can get it with a tap of the touchscreen.

The Philips 5400, on the other hand, offers 12 drink options. While this covers the basics—espresso, cappuccino, latte, and Americano—it feels limited compared to DeLonghi’s impressive range. If you’re someone who likes to mix things up and try different beverages, the Eletta Explore has a clear advantage.

Another feature I absolutely love is the My Latte customization option. If you have specific preferences for how you like your coffee—stronger shots, less milk, or a slightly cooler temperature—you can personalize the drinks and save your ideal settings. This feature has been particularly helpful in making the machine feel like it’s tailored to me.

Perfect for Busy Mornings and Relaxing Evenings

I’ve used many coffee machines in the past, and one of my biggest frustrations has always been the time it takes to prepare a high-quality coffee. With the DeLonghi Eletta Explore, I no longer have to compromise.

On busy mornings, the machine gets the job done quickly. I can choose my drink, press a button, and have a perfect espresso or cappuccino ready within minutes. The double shot option is another favorite for those extra-tired mornings when I need a stronger boost.

In the evenings, the Eletta Explore transforms into a machine for more leisurely drinks. I often make cold brews or creamy lattes to enjoy while winding down. The Cold Brew feature is one of its standout benefits—something that sets it apart from other machines, including the Philips 5400.

Maintenance That Doesn’t Feel Like a Chore

One area where the DeLonghi Eletta Explore truly excels is maintenance. Let’s face it: no one enjoys cleaning coffee machines. With this model, the automatic cleaning programs simplify the entire process. After each milk-based drink, the LatteCrema System performs a self-cleaning cycle, ensuring that no milk residue builds up over time.

The removable parts are dishwasher-safe, which makes cleaning even more convenient. I’ve had machines in the past where cleaning the milk system felt like a nightmare, but DeLonghi has made this aspect surprisingly effortless.

While the Philips 5400’s LatteGo System is also relatively easy to clean, it doesn’t offer the same level of automation or thorough cleaning as the Eletta Explore. Over time, this difference becomes significant, especially if you use the machine regularly.

Built for Coffee Enthusiasts and Families

If you live in a household where everyone has different coffee preferences, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is the perfect solution. The ability to save multiple user profiles means that everyone can have their favorite drink ready at the touch of a button. For instance, I have one profile set for a strong double-shot espresso and another for a light cappuccino with extra milk.

The Philips 5400 does allow you to save up to four user profiles, but it doesn’t offer the same depth of customization. For coffee enthusiasts who like to fine-tune their beverages, DeLonghi provides far more flexibility.

Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore Worth It?

After using the DeLonghi Eletta Explore for several weeks, I can confidently say it’s worth the investment. While it may come at a slightly higher price point than the Philips 5400, the additional features—like the Cold Brew function, the LatteCrema System, and extensive customization options—justify the cost.

For someone like me who values quality, variety, and convenience, the Eletta Explore has become an essential part of my daily routine. Whether you’re an espresso aficionado, a lover of creamy lattes, or someone who enjoys cold coffee drinks, this machine delivers on every front.

The Philips 5400 is a solid competitor, and it does a great job with standard coffee drinks. However, if you’re looking for versatility, innovation, and premium performance, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is the superior choice.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right coffee machine is about finding a balance between convenience, quality, and versatility. The DeLonghi Eletta Explore ticks all the boxes, offering barista-level coffee with minimal effort. Its advanced features—like Cold Brew, LatteCrema technology, and extensive customization—make it a standout option for any coffee lover.

If you’re looking to elevate your coffee experience at home, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore is an investment that pays off with every cup. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick espresso, a perfectly frothed cappuccino, or a smooth cold brew, this machine delivers consistently excellent results.

In my experience, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore has made my daily coffee routine not just easier, but also more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes the DeLonghi Eletta Explore better than the Philips 5400?
A: The DeLonghi Eletta Explore offers over 40 drink options compared to the Philips 5400’s 12, and it includes a Cold Brew feature that delivers smooth cold coffee in minutes. It also features the advanced LatteCrema System for both hot and cold milk foam, giving it an edge in versatility and milk-based drinks.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore easy to use?
A: Yes, the machine features a user-friendly touchscreen interface that is intuitive and responsive. You can customize drinks effortlessly and save multiple user profiles for quick access.

Q: Can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore make cold coffee?
A: Yes, one of its standout features is its Cold Brew system, which prepares smooth and rich cold coffee in under five minutes—perfect for iced lattes and cold cappuccinos.

Q: How easy is it to clean the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The Eletta Explore has an automatic cleaning program for the milk system, ensuring no residue builds up. Removable parts, like the drip tray and milk container, are also dishwasher-safe, making maintenance simple and hassle-free.

Q: How customizable are the drinks on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: The machine offers extensive customization, allowing you to adjust coffee strength, milk ratio, and temperature. The “My Latte” feature lets you create and save your personalized beverages for quick access.

Q: Can the DeLonghi Eletta Explore save drink preferences for multiple users?
A: Yes, it allows you to save multiple user profiles, which is ideal for families or households with different coffee preferences. Each user can have their customized drinks ready at the touch of a button.

Q: Is the DeLonghi Eletta Explore worth the higher price compared to the Philips 5400?
A: Yes, while it is slightly more expensive, the additional features like Cold Brew, the LatteCrema System, and the broader variety of drinks provide better value and a superior coffee experience.

Q: How does the milk frothing system on the DeLonghi Eletta Explore compare to the Philips 5400?
A: The Eletta Explore features the LatteCrema System, which delivers barista-quality hot and cold milk foam. The Philips 5400’s LatteGo system performs well but does not offer cold milk frothing, limiting versatility.

Q: Can I make espresso and other specialty drinks with the DeLonghi Eletta Explore?
A: Absolutely! The Eletta Explore can make a wide range of drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, latte macchiato, flat white, and more. You can easily customize each drink to suit your preferences.


You may also like

Get in touch

Name*
Email*
Message
0 of 350