Delonghi Magnifica S Smart Vs Dinamica: Which One Is the True Winner?

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When comparing the Delonghi Magnifica S Smart vs Dinamica, I’ve got to hand it to the Dinamica for its extra features.

The Delonghi Dinamica is the first Delonghi machine with its patented TrueBrew Over Ice technology, but this one isn’t only good for brewing iced coffees. It also brews high-quality espresso as well as milky drinks, and there’s a whole lot to love about it.

With a very affordable price, the Magnifica S Smart still delivers consistently tasty coffee without any hassle. It also comes with an upgraded Pannarello wand, making it super easy for even a beginner to whip up a decent latte or cappuccino. Still, it doesn’t have as many bells and whistles.

Delonghi Magnifica S Smart Vs Dinamica: Specs & Features Comparison Chart

Image
THE WINNER (#1)
De'Longhi Dinamica LatteCrema Espresso Machine with Automatic Milk Frother for Latte, Cappuccino, Built-in Grinder, Silver, ECAM35075SI
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
PrimaDonna Class
Model
Delonghi Dinamica
Delonghi Magnifica S Smart
Dimensions/Weight
9.3 x 14 x 17 inches/20.8 lbs
9.4 x 17.3 x 14.1 inches/20.3 lbs
Interface
Non-touch Display
Button-Operated Interface
One Touch Drink Options
15
3
Built-in Grinder
Stainless Steel Conical Burr Grinder
Stainless Steel Conical Burr Grinder
Grinding Settings
13
13
Heating System
Dual Thermoblocks
Single Thermoblock
Pump Pressure
15 Bars
15 Bars
Pre-Infusion
Milk Frothing System
Auto-Frothing System
Pannarello Steam Wand
Spigot Type/Cup Clearance
Dual/3.5-5.5 inches
Dual/3.2 – 5.5 inches
Water Reservoir/Bean Hopper
1.8 L/0.3 Kg
1.8 L/0.25 Kg
Filter
Yes (Optional)
Yes (Optional)
Compatible With Pre-ground Coffee
App Connectivity
User Profile
What I Like
Price
$1,130.28
N/A
THE WINNER (#1)
Image
De'Longhi Dinamica LatteCrema Espresso Machine with Automatic Milk Frother for Latte, Cappuccino, Built-in Grinder, Silver, ECAM35075SI
Model
Delonghi Dinamica
Dimensions/Weight
9.3 x 14 x 17 inches/20.8 lbs
Interface
Non-touch Display
One Touch Drink Options
15
Built-in Grinder
Stainless Steel Conical Burr Grinder
Grinding Settings
13
Heating System
Dual Thermoblocks
Pump Pressure
15 Bars
Pre-Infusion
Milk Frothing System
Auto-Frothing System
Spigot Type/Cup Clearance
Dual/3.5-5.5 inches
Water Reservoir/Bean Hopper
1.8 L/0.3 Kg
Filter
Yes (Optional)
Compatible With Pre-ground Coffee
App Connectivity
User Profile
What I Like
Price
$1,130.28
More Info
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Image
PrimaDonna Class
Model
Delonghi Magnifica S Smart
Dimensions/Weight
9.4 x 17.3 x 14.1 inches/20.3 lbs
Interface
Button-Operated Interface
One Touch Drink Options
3
Built-in Grinder
Stainless Steel Conical Burr Grinder
Grinding Settings
13
Heating System
Single Thermoblock
Pump Pressure
15 Bars
Pre-Infusion
Milk Frothing System
Pannarello Steam Wand
Spigot Type/Cup Clearance
Dual/3.2 – 5.5 inches
Water Reservoir/Bean Hopper
1.8 L/0.25 Kg
Filter
Yes (Optional)
Compatible With Pre-ground Coffee
App Connectivity
User Profile
What I Like
Price
N/A
More Info

Last update on 2024-12-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Delonghi Magnifica S Smart Vs Dinamica: Differences

The Dinamica defeated the Magnifica S Smart, clinching a 4-1 victory. So let’s compare them to see how these two differ from each other.

Coffee Flavor & Brewing System

Winner: Delonghi Dinamica

Built-in Grinder

Both the Magnifica S Smart and Dinamica boast a built-in grinder with 13 grind adjustment levels, giving you some room to experiment and fine-tune your espresso to perfection.

both have a stainless steel conical burr grinder with 13 grind settings
Both have a stainless steel conical burr grinder with 13 grind settings

I am very familiar with stainless steel conical burr grinders on DeLonghi machines. They’re not the quietest grinders you’ll ever experience, but, like I said, I am familiar with them.

A key tip to remember is to make grinder adjustments while the grinder is running. Also, steer clear of oily beans. Trust me, they tend to leave a residue in the grinder, potentially leading to clogs over time.

Another feature both machines share is the bypass grind chute, which allows you to opt for pre-ground coffee. It’s a handy option, especially when you’re craving a cup of decaf. That way, it offers the best of both worlds – freshly ground or pre-ground,

Heating System

The Dinamica sets itself apart with its dual thermoblock system, a feature that’s not even present in the Dinamica Plus. This double-heating system allows you to brew espresso and foam milk at the same time and maintain a consistent temperature throughout. 

On the other hand, the Magnifica S Smart comes with a single thermoblock system. This means you will need to wait a bit as the machine switches from brewing to steaming. But don’t worry! It’s just a matter of seconds.

I also like the idea of the thermoblock only heating water on demand. This not only means the machine heats up quickly but also cuts down on your electricity bills. What a real game-changer!

Brewing System

Before extracting the espresso at the optimal pressure, which is created by a 15-bar pump, gently pre-soak the coffee grounds with a bit of hot water at low pressure. This is called pre-infusion and is an automatic feature on both of these machines.

Pre-infusion is as crucial in espresso making as it is in pour-over and Chemex methods. It allows the coffee’s aromas and flavors to fully develop, creating a more nuanced and rich espresso.

Not every super-automatic espresso machine includes this feature, so I’m glad to know that the S Smart and Dinamica deliver.

Design & Convenience

Winner: Tie

Dimensions & User Interface

Delonghi Magnifica S SmartDelonghi Dinamica
Dimensions9.4 x 17.3 x 14.1 inches9.3 x 14 x 17 inches
Weight20.3 lbs20.8 lbs

These machines are moderately stylish and don’t eat up too much space on the kitchen counter. As always, too much plastic is used in these machines. Plastic isn’t the most ideal material for a premium feel, but it’s a trade-off that helps keep the cost more accessible. Also, these machines don’t feel flimsy at all.

For my taste, the Dinamica has a more eye-catching and modern appeal, probably thanks to its front-facing control panel. All the essential buttons are right there and the text display is clear and easy to read, which definitely simplifies the operation of the machine.

the delonghi dinamica's text display
The Delonghi Dinamica’s text display

The Magnifica S Smart, on the other hand, features a button-operated panel, which certainly delivers in terms of functionality and straightforward operation. It includes a large knob for dose control and a couple of buttons dedicated to one-touch drinks and steaming milk. Additionally, you will find some indicator lights.

the magnifica s smart's button-operated panel
The Magnifica S Smart’s button-operated panel

Spout Type & Cup Clearance

Delonghi Magnifica S SmartDelonghi Dinamica
Spout TypeDualDual
Cup Clearance3.2 – 5.5 inches3.5-5.5 inches

These Delonghi machines come with fully adjustable coffee dispensers, each with a pair of spouts. This flexibility is great for when you’re brewing espresso and want to keep those dispensing spouts close to your cups. If you drink coffee long enough, you’ll know that this helps preserve that rich, dark crema on top of your espresso.

If you’re someone who’s always on the go and relies on a travel mug for your morning coffee, these adjustable spouts can accommodate decent-sized travel mugs too. What’s more, they can also prepare two cups of espresso at the same time.

Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper

Delonghi Magnifica S SmartDelonghi Dinamica
Water Reservoir1.8 liter1.8 liter
Bean Hopper0.25 kilogram0.3 kilogram

Their water tanks slide from the front for easy filling or cleaning. And when you pull out their water tanks, their brewing groups, where the real magic happens, are revealed. Their brewing groups are removable for deep cleaning, which is really a big bonus. 

I should also mention that both come with a water filter. Using the water filter means less descaling since there will be less calcium deposit. Less calcium deposit also means better coffee.

Milk Frothing System

Winner: Delonghi Dinamica

Now I think the Magnifica S Smart received its “Smart” moniker partly because it is equipped with an upgraded Pannarello wand with a “Cappuccino”/”Hot Milk” collar. 

the magnifica s smart uses an upgraded pannarello wand
The Magnifica S Smart uses an upgraded Pannarello wand

Slide it to “Cappuccino,” dip it into a jug of cold milk, and switch it on. The wand might not produce the exceptionally silky microfoam you’d get from a manual wand, but you can still create some pretty convincing results. Don’t forget that you need to buy the milk jug separately to go with it. The wand itself is also an outlet for hot water, so aside from steaming the milk for a cappuccino or a latte, you can brew tea or make hot chocolate with it.

As for the Dinamica, it uses DeLonghi’s LatteCrema milk system. I’m really into its integrated milk carafe since you don’t have to mess around with any fiddly tubes or external containers. You can also just remove the carafe and pop it into the fridge when you’re not using it.

the delonghi dinamica's lattecrema milk system
The Delonghi Dinamica’s LatteCrema milk system

When it comes to milk frothing, Dinamica offers a decent range of consistency options, including “thick,” “medium,” and “relatively thin.” Switching between these three settings is as easy as a simple turn of a knob on the carafe’s top. 

the milk-textured dial
The milk-textured dial

In my experience, the Dinamica’s automatic system is great for creating milk foam that’s just right for a latte macchiato or cappuccino. However, if you’re after that super smooth, microfoam for a real flat white, the machine might fall a bit short.

Drink Options & Programmability

Winner: Delonghi Dinamica

Drink Options

Delonghi Magnifica S SmartDelonghi Dinamica
Espresso
Coffee 
Long Coffee
Espresso
Espresso Lungo
Long Coffee
Over Ice
Cappuccino
Latte Macchiato
Cappuccino +
Hot Milk
Cortado
Caffelatte
Cappuccino Mix
Flat White
Espresso Macchiato
Hot Water
Steam

The Dinamica really shines with its impressive array of one-touch drink options. Take the latte macchiato, for instance – it’s spot on. The layers are just as beautiful and distinct as you’d hope for, and the machine nails the preparation order: pour hot milk first, then foam, and finally, the espresso. 

lovely multi-layered latte macchiato
Lovely multi-layered latte macchiato

Now, let’s talk about something I absolutely adore, called the TrueBrew iced coffee function. It brews a higher dosage of coffee at a lower pressure and temperature. Then just place your cup with ice under the spout, and what you get is a perfect, full-bodied iced coffee.

truebrew iced coffee
TrueBrew iced coffee

Programmability

Adjustable SettingsDelonghi Magnifica S SmartDelonghi Dinamica
Coffee StrengthYesYes
Coffee TemperatureYesYes
Milk Foam TemperatureNoNo
Milk Foam TextureNoYes

The Dinamica allows you to change the coffee strength via a five-bean scale, whereas the Magnifica S Smart provides a much broader range of strength options with its stepless knob. 

Both also let you adjust the brewing temperature to a couple of levels, but that’s among the underneath-the-surface settings of the Magnifica S Smart, and you’ll need the user’s manual to make the adjustment.

Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Dinamica

Sale
De'Longhi Dinamica LatteCrema Espresso Machine with Automatic Milk Frother for Latte, Cappuccino, Built-in Grinder, Silver, ECAM35075SI
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
  • From beans to latte, in a single touch. Espresso Made Right(TM)
  • 18 espresso and specialty coffee recipes, with a simple touch of a button, including latte, cappuccino, macchiato, espresso, iced coffee, ristretto, flat white and more
  • Built-in conical burr grinder with 13 settings for always freshly ground coffee, for any beans of your choice
  • Automatic and adjustable milk frothing from the proprietary LatteCrema System for perfectly textured lattes and cappuccinos; works with oat, soy and rice milk

Last update on 2024-12-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Easy to use and clean.
  • Dual thermoblocks.
  • Has a variety of one-touch drinks.
  • All drinks can be personalized.
  • Automatic milk frothing.
Cons
  • No user profile.
  • No app.

Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Magnifica S Smart

Pros
  • Thermoblock fast-heating system.
  • Easy to use and clean.
  • Built-in grinder with 13 settings.
  • Upgraded Pannarello steam wand.
  • Good espresso.
Cons
  • One boiler.
  • Not many bells and whistles.

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References

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