Diletta Mio Espresso Machine Review – Should You Buy It?

Diletta Mio Review – My Ratings & Top Features

Who Should Buy The Diletta Mio?

The Diletta Mio Espresso Machine is a superior choice for intermediate home baristas seeking a high-performing machine that's energy efficient.

It's also perfect for small coffee shop owners who can't invest in two initial machines.

It offers simultaneous brewing and steaming, PID-controlled temperature, adjustable pressure, and precise control without a hefty price.

Why I Decided To Review The Diletta Mio Espresso Machine

I've been spoiled with all the super-automatic espresso machines I've been trying recently. Because of them, my barista skills are starting to get rusty.

So, I decided to shake things up with the Diletta Mio espresso machine, an excellent semi-automatic machine exclusively distributed by Seattle Coffee Gear.

What's It Like To Live With The Diletta Mio Coffee Maker

What's In The Box?

If you're thinking of buying your machine online, you'll be happy to know that Seattle Coffee Gear put a lot of thought into the packaging of Diletta Mio. The package arrived in pristine condition.

Apart from the espresso machine, you'll also find the following in the box:

If you've been using super-automatic espresso machines, it can be quite surprising that the Diletta Mio comes with only the essentials.

However, you don't really need other accessories to operate this brewer apart from what you can find in the box.

Pulling My First Espresso Shot

Let's get one thing straight: the Diletta Mio espresso machine doesn't come with a grinder.

However, this doesn't make this machine lesser than other machines. In fact, I find it liberating as I can choose what grinder to use to ensure I get the best grind for my brew.

Preparation

Before pulling the shot, I ensured that the machine was properly warmed up.

The Diletta Mio has a PID-controlled boiler that provides precise temperature control, a crucial feature for pulling a perfect shot. (PID stands for Proportional-Integral-Derivative.)

This technology allows you to see the water temperature as the boiler heats up through Diletta Mio's PID display.

So, no more guessing when you're ready to start the brew. No need to worry about burning your espresso by a few degrees!

I've also checked if this PID display shows a true reading of the boiler temperature, and it does! It’s also very temperature stable, allowing for consistent brews.

Since I can control the temperature using the PID temperature control, I can experiment with the process and see which can yield the best espresso quality.

According to studies, the best temperature to brew your espresso is between 92°C and 96°C (197°F and 205°F).[1]

However, the "best" temperature can depend on various factors, including the type of coffee bean, the roast level, the grind size, and personal taste preferences.

Pulling the Actual Shot

Once the machine was warmed up, I prepared my coffee grounds. The Diletta Mio uses a commercial 58mm portafilter, which is a standard size and gives a good extraction surface area.

I filled the portafilter with freshly ground coffee and tamped it down evenly.

I then locked the portafilter into the brew group head and pressed the brew button. As soon as I started pulling the shot, the PID display automatically switched to a shot timer.

This is a handy feature as it eliminates the need for a separate timer.

Apart from the PID temperature control and shot time, the pressure gauge is another feature that helps with espresso extraction.

This allows me to monitor the extraction pressure, ensuring I get the right one to produce that rich crema every barista is raving about—and yes, I am one of them.

The vibratory pump driving the extraction process was smooth and consistent.

On top of that, the Diletta Mio comes with an adjustable OPV (Over Pressure Valve), so you can easily adjust the pressure if needed.

Additionally, the boiler position is on top of the brew group, so there are minimal thermal losses between the boiler and the puck.

The shot I pulled was rich and flavorful, with a nice-looking crema on top. The espresso was more complex and had a better body than many other machines I've used.

The consistency of the machine was impressive— thanks to its PID-equipped single boiler, temperature controls, and analog pressure gauge.

First Time Frothing Milk

I have tried a lot of milk frothers before, and I was impressed with the Mio's steaming performance. Moving the steam arm was a breeze.

Plus, it has a much nicer steam arm compared to many other semi-automatic espresso machines in its price range.

The steam arm is a good size and adjustable, allowing me to froth and steam any milk easily.

On top of that, it comes with two steam tips, which are powerful enough to make milk steaming as straightforward as possible.

Sure, there's a bit of a learning curve when it comes to manual milk steaming and frothing, but once you can get the hang of it, your milk will turn out velvety and creamy, perfect for latte art.

I also like the no-burn steam wand, which is generally safer, especially for new baristas. It also makes clean-ups easier.

In addition, it has a separate power switch for the steam circuit. In other words, the brew boiler is separate from the steam circuit.

This allows for simultaneous steaming and brewing—a feature you only get from a dual boiler.

There's nothing really impressive with the steaming speed, but its higher-quality steam arm makes up for this minor flaw.

Despite this, the Diletta Mio is a perfect machine, a bit quieter compared to other expensive machines, and still delivers excellent performance in virtually every single component.

How Much Control Do You Have Over The Coffee Experience?

With the Diletta Mio, you have complete control over every aspect of the brewing process, even though it's not completely manual.

One of the standout features is the easily accessible Over Pressure Valve (OPV) at the front.

This feature lets me swiftly fine-tune my espresso shot pressures, and the adjustments I can make in a mere 10 seconds really bring out the nuances of different coffee beans.

The PID controller is another delightful addition. This feature doesn't just let me set my desired brewing temperature; it shows me real-time readings.

There's something satisfying about keeping a keen eye on the boiler's heat level to ensure the best espresso quality.

Moving on, the machine's capability for steaming and brewing simultaneously has been a real game-changer.

It significantly streamlines my coffee brewing routine, especially on those hectic mornings.

While the Diletta Mio may require a bit of learning and fine-tuning, the degree of control and quality it offers makes it a machine I've thoroughly enjoyed using.

How Does It Handle Different Roasts?

The Diletta Mio is pretty good at handling all types of roasts, giving you the freedom to choose whatever coffee beans you would like to use.

With light roasts, I usually increase the pressure. These denser beans benefit from the extra force, which helps unlock their intricate, acidic, and floral flavors.

I use the PID's real-time temperature display to increase the brewing temperature and facilitate extraction.

When using darker roasts, I drop the pressure a notch. These less dense beans require less force to avoid over-extraction and to maintain their delicious chocolatey caramel tones.

The PID comes in handy here, too, enabling precise temperature adjustments to prevent over-extraction.

For medium roasts, factory settings generally work well, yielding balanced, rich espressos.

However, the beauty of the Diletta Mio is in its flexibility and ease of adjustability, allowing me to continue fine-tuning until I achieve the perfect cup every time, regardless of the roast I'm working with.

Look, Feel, and Size Of The Machine

When I first saw the Diletta Mio Espresso Machine, I was immediately drawn to its sleek, robust aesthetic.

I've worked with a variety of machines, but the Diletta Mio and its stainless steel boiler material have a unique charm that sets it apart.

It reminds me of the elegant form of the Gaggia Classic Pro, but the Diletta Mio certainly has its own distinctive appeal.

Unlike other espresso machines that only offer just a metal finish, you have variety with the Mio.

It also comes in modern white or black powder-coated finishes—Seattle Coffee Gear has taken build quality seriously.

One feature I love is the metal cup rail, a detail that helps secure cups and adds a chic touch. However, the cup clearance is a bit small, which I find limiting.

Now, in terms of size, the Diletta Mio fits comfortably into the mid-sized category for home espresso machines, measuring around 15 x 11 inches and weighing approximately 30 pounds.

It should slot into most kitchen counter spaces quite nicely.

What Drinks Can It Make?

The Diletta Mio can make a lot of different espresso-based drinks, especially if you can properly steam milk.

You can make a latte, cappuccino, macchiato, latte art, mocha, and more—your imagination is the limit! I've personally enjoyed crafting lattes with this versatile machine.

How Easy Is It To Use?

The Diletta Mio can be easy to use if you have experience using semi-automatic espresso makers before.

However, if you're new to this kind of machine, there's a learning curve, but with a little patience, you can master it.

For me, using the Mio was a breeze. Its separate buttons for power, brew, and steam are remarkably intuitive.

It felt effortless to navigate its uncluttered interface, a real treat for someone like me who values simplicity in their daily brewing routine.

As someone who values environmental sustainability, the energy-saving modes were a real plus point.

Its energy-efficient feature reduces the machine's electrical footprint—one of the trends Seattle Coffee Gear is leaning towards.

I found the separate power switch for the steam circuit to be a practical addition; it allowed me to conserve energy whenever I didn't need to steam.

On top of that, it has a nice energy-saving feature built into the machine, such as the PID energy-saving mode.

Overall, even if the Mio requires a little manual control, it's a noticeably lower-effort machine compared to other semi-automatic brewers in the market.

How Long Does It Take? (From Heat Up To First Sip)

The Diletta Mio doesn't take long to heat up, thanks to its single brew boiler and Thermoblock steam circuit.

It takes about 5 minutes for the machine to heat fully, which is quite impressive compared to other machines I've used.

Once warmed up, the actual shot pulling takes seconds—around 20 to 30, based on your chosen grind and dose.

If you're in the mood for a milk-based drink, the steam wand is quick, frothing your milk to perfection in just a minute.

Therefore, from switching on the Diletta Mio to savoring that first sip of your perfectly brewed coffee, you're looking at approximately 6 to 7 minutes.

This is a total win for someone who values both quality and speed.

Does It Have A Water Filtration System?

The Diletta Mio doesn't have a built-in water filtration system, one of its few shortcomings.

However, as a seasoned barista, I can't stress enough the difference filtered water makes in your coffee game.[2]

So, if you're planning to use this machine, invest in a separate water filter or pre-filtered water. It's a little extra work, but your taste buds will thank you.

How Hard Is It To Clean and Descale?

Cleaning the Diletta Mio espresso machine is super convenient and not the worst system I've encountered in my years of using various espresso brewers.

The group head, which you can immediately notice as a multi-hole setup, is easily removable. The drip tray cover and drip tray nicely detach from the machine, allowing easy cleaning.

Apart from rinsing and cleaning the removable parts, you also need to wipe down the whole machine, including the cup warmer, every week to maintain its beauty.

You also need to backflush the portafilter and group head once a week.

Descaling is crucial for ensuring the machine's brew pressure stays consistent, and the steam circuits ensure modular heating configurations.

One thing that might be considered an additional cost is the descaling solution, which doesn't come with the machine.

My Favorite Parts About The Diletta Mio

My Least Favorite Parts About The Diletta Mio

Despite these points, the Diletta Mio remains perfectly suitable for coffee lovers who value convenience and excellent espresso quality.

It's worth bearing these factors in mind when making your choice.

Diletta Mio Vs Similar Coffee Machines

With many brands of coffee machines on the market, I felt that comparing the most popular models is necessary when buying espresso machines around the $1500 price point.

Diletta Mio Vs Rancilio Silvia

The Diletta Mio and Rancilio Silvia are both premium espresso machines. Still, their appeal lies in different areas.

The Diletta Mio boasts energy efficiency and minimal heat loss thanks to its well-regulated heating configurations. This makes it a compelling package for eco-conscious coffee lovers.

On the other hand, the Silvia is compact and made with high-quality materials, making it an excellent fit for those with limited space who still want a sturdy, reliable machine.

On top of that, Silvia's simple metal box design might appeal to those who favor a minimalist aesthetic.

Diletta Mio Vs Bello

When comparing the Diletta Mio to the Diletta Bello, both machines are crafted to deliver a top-tier espresso experience.

The Diletta Mio stands out with its unique energy-saving feature and the ability to handle a range of coffee roasts with precision.

In contrast, the Bello leans more toward barista-style manual control.

With its all-manual brew and steam controls, it truly puts you in the driver's seat of your coffee experience, making it perfect for honing those barista skills.

On top of that, it has a limited edition Mazarine variant that brings a vibrant and playful aesthetic, injecting an element of fun into any kitchen setup.

However, there's a similar tiny cup clearance issue with the Mio, which is common with most espresso machines.

Despite the differences, the Diletta Mio and Bello are solid choices, offering unique strengths to elevate your espresso game.

Diletta Mio Vs Profitec Go

The Diletta Mio and Profitec Go are both semi-automatic machines that come with similar features.

Both have energy-saving modes and come with a manual frother and PID controller. They also come with a brass cup clearance.

However, the Diletta espresso width is a bit bigger (10.7 inches) compared to the Profitec Go (8.3 inches).

When it comes to design, Profitect Go comes in 4 colors (black, sky, coral, and mustard), while the Mio only has 3 colors (black, white, and stainless steel).

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Conclusion - Is The Diletta Mio Worth Your Money?

The Diletta Mio’s premium features, like the temperature regulation system and the heat exchanger, allow superb espresso extraction, making it a dream for those chasing the perfect cup.

It's also a great choice for small coffee shops that can only invest in one machine. The simultaneous brewing and steaming allow you to serve customers in a short amount of time.

However, for those seeking convenience and ease of use, the Diletta Bello, with its manual controls and heat exchanger, may be a more suitable option.

For those looking for customization and a compact design, the Profitec Pro Go could be the ideal choice.

References: 

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7022572/
2. https://pages.uoregon.edu/chendon/coffee_literature/1955%20J.%20Food%20Sci.,%20Water%20impurities%20effect%20on%20coffee%20flavor.pdf