Introduction
The De'Longhi La Specialista Touch (EC9455M) is designed for those who want the precision of a professional barista machine but with the modern convenience of a smartphone While manual espresso machines can be intimidating the "Touch" version aims to simplify the process through its intuitive interface and automated grinding and tamping. But does the digital convenience compromise the authentic taste of Italian espresso? In this review I’ll walk you through its standout features, including the LatteCrema system and the smart tamping station to see if it’s the ultimate upgrade for your home office or kitchen
Technical Specifications | De'Longhi La Specialista Touch
| Feature | Value | Notes |
| Type | Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine (Bean-to-Cup) | Requires manual tamping but features an integrated grinder |
| Power Consumption | 1450 Watts | High power for rapid heating and stable temperature control |
| Pump Pressure | 15 Bar | Standard pressure for optimal espresso extraction |
| Heating System | Advanced Thermoblock | Features Active Temperature Control for precise thermal stability |
| Water Tank Capacity | 1.7 Liters | Generous capacity to minimize frequent refilling |
| Grinder | Integrated Stainless Steel Conical Burr Grinder | Equipped with Sensor Grinding Technology |
| Grind Settings | 15 Precision Settings | Allows fine-tuning for different bean varieties and roasts |
| Control & Display | 3.5-inch Color Touchscreen | Provides intuitive, guided instructions for brewing |
| Pre-set Recipes | 9-10 Programmed Recipes | Includes Espresso, Americano, Cold Brew, Cappuccino, Latte, Flat White, and more |
| Bean Adapt Technology | Yes | Automatically adjusts grind, dose, and temperature for optimal extraction |
| Milk Frothing | Auto LatteArt Steam Wand | Manual or automatic frothing with 4 temperature settings and 5 foam levels |
| Cold Brew Function | Yes (Cold Extraction Technology) | Prepares refreshing cold brew in under 5 minutes |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | Approx. 40cm x 31.9cm x 36.7cm | Relatively compact design for its class |
| Weight | 10.8 kg | Sturdy build for stability during operation |
| Build Material | Stainless Steel & Metal | Premium finish for durability and aesthetics |
Core Features & Technologies | La Specialista Touch
| Core Feature | Technology & Function |
| Bean Adapt Technology | Bean Adapt Technology: Automatically balances and adjusts the grind size, dose, and brewing temperature to suit the specific coffee beans you are using, ensuring the best flavor extraction |
| Precision Grinding | Sensor Grinding Technology: Integrated conical burr grinder equipped with sensors to ensure consistent and precise grinding every time, featuring 15 grind settings |
| Active Temperature Control | Active Temp Control: Maintains an ideal and stable water temperature throughout the extraction process using the Thermoblock system, preventing any loss of espresso flavor profile |
| Professional Milk Frothing | Auto LatteArt Steam Wand: A steam wand that offers an automatic frothing option to create silky microfoam perfect for Latte Art. It can also be used in manual mode |
| Fast Cold Brew Function | Cold Extraction Technology: An exclusive technology that allows you to prepare a refreshing, low-acidity Cold Brew in under 5 minutes |
| Display & Control Panel | 3.5-inch Color Touchscreen: Provides a Guided Barista Experience, leading you step-by-step through the process, with 9-10 customizable pre-set recipes |
Summary of Pros | La Specialista Touch (EC9455.M)
| Category | Insights from Experts & Users |
| Espresso Quality & Flavor | Excellent Extraction: Achieved through Bean Adapt Technology, which automatically calibrates grind, dose, and temperature Perfect Crema Consistently produces a rich thick crema layer in every cup |
| Ease of Use & Tech | Intuitive 3.5 Touchscreen Offers a Guided Barista Experience that makes the process seamless and beginner-friendly Bean Adapt Technology Removes the guesswork, helping users master professional settings quickly Precise Integrated Grinder 15 grind settings ensure a highly consistent dose |
| Milk & Frothing Features | Superior Auto LatteArt Wand Produces silky microfoam ideal for latte art, with both automatic and manual options Milk Versatility Ability to adjust temperature and foam levels for dairy and plant-based milk alternatives |
| Innovative Functions | Fast Cold Brew Function: Prepares a refreshing, high-quality cold brew in under 5 minutes a standout and unique feature |
| Design & Build Quality | Elegant Italian Design Robust stainless steel body that adds a premium aesthetic to any kitchen Relatively Compact Fits well on countertops without occupying excessive space |
| Customization | Customizable Recipes Allows users to save their preferred settings and personalized recipes for different household members |
The Final Verdict
Conclusion: Is the La Specialista Touch Worth the Premium
After testing the EC9455M it’s clear that this machine is a bridge between two worlds the art of manual espresso and the ease of automation
The Highlights: The touch screen makes switching between recipes like Flat Whites and Americanos incredibly easy and the consistent tamping ensures you get a perfect extraction every single time
Who should buy it If you love the look and feel of a professional machine but want a guided experience that reduces the risk of making a bad cup, this is your best bet
My Final Recommendation The La Specialista Touch offers a sophisticated, mess-free, and highly enjoyable coffee experience It’s an investment in quality that will pay off for years to come Do you prefer a touch screen on your coffee machine or do you like the classic buttons and dials? Join the discussion in the comments
After testing the EC9455M it’s clear that this machine is a bridge between two worlds the art of manual espresso and the ease of automation