I Got the Oprah-Approved De'Longhi Magnifica Evo Espresso Machine and It Makes Perfect Lattes Every Dang Time

Wake up and smell the perfect coffee

Author image: An image of Destinee Scott.

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Published Feb 27, 2024

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A wide view of the De'Longhi Magnifica Evo Espresso Maker.

Amazon/Getty Images

Value: 17/20
Functionality: 20/20
Ease of Use: 18/20
Aesthetics: 18/20
Taste: 20/20

Total: 93/100

Have you ever been intimated yet totally mesmerized by a kitchen appliance? That's how I felt about the De'Longhi Magnifica Evo espresso machine when I first came across it in Oprah Winfrey's 'Favorite Things List' in 2022. Now, more than a year later, and after making over 100 coffees, espressos and lattes, I can finally add 'At-Home Barista' to my resume—something I never thought I'd be able to do considering my rather bleak track record in the kitchen. If I can handle it to make mouth-watering beverages, anyone can. So, if you've been contemplating buying an espresso machine or simply can't resist new eye candy for your kitchen countertop, I'd seriously suggest you snag the Magnifica Evo while it's on sale for $800 (was $1,040) at Amazon right now.

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You may be thinking, "Woah, that's *a lot* of money for a coffee maker," and you're totally right—it is—especially when there are more affordable options out there. But listen to me when I say that none of them will make delicious, caffeine-packed drinks better than your favorite barista quite like this baby can. That's what makes the De'Longhi so intimidating at first; it essentially puts you in the shoes of a professional barista, providing you with a slew of settings you probably aren't used to (at least I wasn't). But have no fear—it's way easier to use than it looks.

A close up of the De'Longhi Magnifica Evo espresso machine on a kitchen countertop.

Destinee Scott for PureWow

How to Use the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo

Once the espresso maker is all set up with the automatic milk frother (psst...it took me about an hour from start to finish with the manual), it's actually pretty straightforward to use. Thanks to a control panel, which includes touch buttons and LED integrated lights, you only have to choose from various presets, depending on the drink you have your heart set on. Want a cappuccino? In the mood for a double espresso? Feel like a latte macchiato kind of day? Just fill the top with your favorite beans and adjust the grinder (or leave it as is because it's automatically set to prepare the perfect cup of coffee). You can also add milk to the frother (if your drink requires it) and choose between three coffee strengths (mild, medium and strong). Then, about 90 seconds later, your cafe-quality drink is served.

Now, I know that sounds like a lot of steps, but it's really as easy to use as any other coffee maker. You just have the added benefit of turning your regular cup of joe into something more fancy (if you wish to do so). I'm not going to lie, when I used it for the first time, I was so overwhelmed by the options that I took a nearly month-long break before I came back to it. Then I discovered the brand's how-to series on YouTube, which teaches you everything you need to know about the machine, from setting it up for the first time to cleaning and caring for it (because, at this price, you'll want to keep it in excellent condition for as long as possible, right?). Thankfully, the brand's videos worked wonders to boost my confidence when crafting my coffees.

Using the Espresso Maker

The second time I attempted to make coffee, it came out *super* strong. I'm talking no amount of milk and sugar could've saved it, so the trial and error period was officially on. I was not deterred—De'Longhi recommends making four to five drinks before the results are near perfect. After making several drinks, I was not only more confident while using the machine, I also felt comfortable adjusting the temperature and strength settings. This soon paid off in delicious and beautiful lattes that tasted better than any Starbucks drink I've ever had. And I know that's hard to believe, but just think about it—even if you give your barista explicit instructions, your drink still might not come out *exactly* how you want it.

With the Magnifica Evo, you're in charge of everything, so there's a low chance of ending up with a drink you hate and a high chance of ending up with a drink you love. Case in point: My now go-to latte below, which really is as smooth and tasty as it looks. Just to note, when making any drink that requires milk (such as cappuccinos and lattes), the milk pours into your cup first, then the coffee, so it looks perfect every dang time.

Destinee Scott for PureWow

De'Longhi

Is It Really Worth the Price?

The Magnifica Evo may be pricey, but in my opinion, it's worth every cent. After all, it can make any of your favorite cafe drinks at home with just the push of a button, so it'll pay for itself in saved Starbucks runs soon enough. Not to mention, the Oprah-approved masterpiece, which is very sleek and compact enough to fit effortlessly on any kitchen countertop, is as durable as they come. While I've only had mine for nearly two years, one buyer says theirs has been working like a charm for over *six* years, so I'd consider that a long-term investment. Scoop it up while it's on sale, and prepare to add 'at-home Barista' to your resume in no time.

~~$1,040~~; $800 at Amazon

Destinee Scott

Associate Sales and Deals Editor

Stays on top of the best sales and deals across the internet
Over 3 years of experience in commerce (covering tentpole sales, like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Way Day)
Studied Journalism at St. John's University

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