De'Longhi La Specialista Arte vs Smeg EGF03
Quick take: The Smeg EGF03 costs $50 less.
| Spec | De'Longhi La Specialista Arte | Smeg EGF03 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $700 | $650 |
| Rating | 4.3★ (3,200) | 4.5★ (250) |
| Type | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Boiler | Thermoblock | Thermoblock |
| Built-in grinder | Yes | Yes |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar | 15 bar |
| Water capacity | 51 oz | 81 oz |
| Warm-up time | 40 seconds | 40 seconds |
| Steam wand | Manual | Manual |
| Basket type | Pressurized & Unpressurized | Pressurized & Unpressurized |
| Best for | Beginners | Design-First Kitchens |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 11.1 x 14.4 in | 13.1 x 13.4 x 17.4 in |
| Weight | 18.5 lbs | 28 lbs |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
Pros & cons
De'Longhi La Specialista Arte
- ✓Sensor tamping ensures consistency
- ✓Multiple pre-infusion options
- ✓Good built-in grinder
- ✓Competitive price vs Barista Express
- ✗Thermoblock limits steam
- ✗Busy control panel
- ✗Proprietary portafilter size
- ✗Build quality not as premium as Breville
Smeg EGF03
- ✓Dual thermoblocks mean steam is ready the moment your shot finishes
- ✓Built-in conical burr grinder with 15 settings goes fine enough for true espresso
- ✓Professional 58mm portafilter is rare at this size and styling tier
- ✓Four pre-infusion profiles and temperature levels offer genuine tuning
- ✓Five retro colors match the rest of the Smeg lineup
- ✗Street price swings widely - MSRP is nearly double typical sale pricing
- ✗28 lbs and a 13-inch-deep body dominate the counter
- ✗No PID readout despite the temperature-level options
- ✗Grinder is convenient but not as consistent as a dedicated standalone burr