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De’Longhi coffee makers use different coffee formats depending on the machine. Fully automatic bean-to-cup models use whole beans and some also accept a single serving of pre-ground coffee. Manual espresso machines with integrated grinders grind beans, while drip makers use pre-ground coffee in a filter. Check the manual for your exact model before adding coffee.
Which coffee does each type of De’Longhi machine use?
| Machine type | What to use | Important detail |
|---|---|---|
| Fully automatic bean-to-cup | Whole beans; pre-ground coffee on compatible models | Whole beans go in the bean hopper. Ground coffee uses a separate pre-ground function and funnel, when the model provides them. De’Longhi says this mode makes one serving at a time. De’Longhi’s bean-to-cup FAQ |
| Manual espresso with an integrated grinder | Whole beans for grinding | De’Longhi describes its La Specialista machines as grinding coffee beans. Check the individual model’s manual for any additional options. La Specialista overview |
| Drip/filter | Pre-ground coffee | The ICM15210.1 manual directs users to put ground coffee in the filter and recommends a medium grind. ICM15210.1 manual |
“De’Longhi coffee maker” covers several categories, including automatic espresso, manual espresso, drip, moka and capsule machines. Features vary by model, so use the manual for your exact product number rather than assuming every machine accepts both formats.
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How to use ground coffee in a compatible automatic machine
Use the pre-ground option only if your model has it. De’Longhi’s instructions for compatible fully automatic machines describe a designated funnel and a one-scoop serving. Follow the exact sequence and measure specified in your machine’s manual.
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- Put ground coffee only in the designated pre-ground funnel—not in the bean hopper.
- Do not put beans in the pre-ground funnel. The ECAM250.33.TB manual says not to exceed one level measure and notes that pre-ground coffee makes one cup at a time. These are instructions for that model; check your own manual for its limits. ECAM250.33.TB instructions
Choosing coffee to match your machine
For a bean-to-cup machine or a manual espresso machine with an integrated grinder, buy whole beans unless you are using a supported pre-ground mode. For a drip maker such as the ICM15210.1, choose pre-ground coffee suitable for drip brewing. De’Longhi US lists its Signature Espresso Blend in both 12-ounce ground and whole-bean offerings, but the existence of both formats does not mean either grind suits every machine. De’Longhi US coffee and accessories
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
- Includes Portafilter, measuring scoop/tamper and two filters for single or double espresso
- Stainless steel boiler is engineered to last long and work for years
- Manual steam wand to texture milk for lattes and cappuccinos
Rank #4
- Discover a menu of 20 preset hot & iced drink recipes including espresso, drip coffee, iced lattes, cold brew, and more at the press of a button.
- 3 brewing technologies for authentic espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew unlock 20 recipes with the ideal brewing for each drink.
- Instantly froth dairy milk or plant-based alternatives into velvety smooth hot or cold foam with the included LatteCrema Hot and Cool technologies. Removable and dishwasher-safe.
- Enjoy cold brew in under 3 minutes with Cold Extraction Technology.
- The integrated conical burr grinder is built for long-lasting performance, delivering the highest standard of quality and freshness.
Rank #3
- PERSONALIZE WITH MY LATTE: Allows you to personalize and save your own recipes
- EASY TO CLEAN: Removable and dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
Rank #2
- Built-in Conical Burr Grinder: The built-in burr grinder perfectly grinds fresh beans for a quality cup of coffee, every time.
- One Touch Simplicity to brew your perfect cup, every time.
- Bean Extract Technology: De'Longhi's proprietary Bean Extract Technology automatically grinds, doses, and brews each cup to perfection.
- 6 Brew Sizes: From an 8 oz single-serve, to 12, 16, 20 and 24 oz cup sizes — or a 3 oz espresso style cup.
- 5 Brew Styles: Light, Gold, Bold, Over Ice and Espresso Style.
#1 Best Overall
- #1 Worldwide Espresso Machine Maker* *Independent Research Institute, Sales Leader, Full Year 2025
- NO WAITING TIME WITH DUAL HEATING SYSTEM: Allows you to brew coffee and espresso simultaneously.
- ITALIAN 15 BAR PRESSURE PUMP: Experience authentic espressos brewed at the optimal pressure for rich flavor.
- ADVANCED STEAM WAND: Choose the micro-foam setting to steam milk for lattes, or treat yourself to authentic cappuccinos with the Cappuccino setting on the Advanced Steam Wand.
- 24 HOUR PROGRAMMABLE TIMER AND DIGITAL TOUCHSCREEN: Enjoy an intuitive and enhanced experience with the Digital Touchscreen; allowing you to wake up to freshly brewed coffee with the digital timer.
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