De'Longhi Rivelia Review: Bean-Switching Coffee Machine

Price note: Overseas prices have been converted to approximate pound equivalents using the reference exchange rate current when this page was updated. UK prices and availability may differ.

Kettles, toasters, air conditioners — the Italian manufacturer De'Longhi is best known for one thing above all: coffee machines. The Rivelia bean-to-cup machine is pitched squarely at modern households, combining intuitive touch operation and multiple user profiles with one genuinely unusual party trick.

Coffee lovers who want to skip pods and capsules — saving waste and time in the process — are well served by a bean-to-cup machine, and De'Longhi has long made its name among the many makers. What sets the Rivelia apart from almost everything else is its swappable bean hopper, or "bean switch system" in De'Longhi's language: rather than laboriously emptying and refilling beans, you simply exchange the entire 250-gram container. Anyone who likes to experiment with different roasts can switch between them in seconds.

The Rivelia looks sharp, is finished to a high standard, and stays wonderfully compact — it fits in the smallest kitchen. Further plus points include the 3.5-inch touchscreen with a menu that learns your habits, and the high-quality, steplessly adjustable stainless-steel conical grinder with automatic adjustment of the coffee and aroma profile to the beans in use. Up to four user profiles make it interesting not just for singles but for families and flat-shares.

Up to 16 pre-programmed coffee specialities are on call, with temperature and dosage flexibly adjustable. Operation is intuitive throughout. Coffee and espresso turn out excellent — lively, with fresh notes — and arrive properly hot at 60C for espresso and 79C for coffee.

A lovely detail: the milk-froth spout pulls out and bends to suit different vessels under the outlet, and the milk foam itself is fluffy and creamy.

During grinding the Rivelia gets briefly louder, but otherwise its 66-decibel operation never intrudes. Cleaning is simple and the machine reminds you when it is due; only the water tank is slightly awkward to remove. This modern, innovative machine is also comparatively affordable for what it offers.

The De'Longhi Rivelia unites enjoyment, convenience and flexibility to an impressive degree. The clever bean-switch system swaps hoppers in seconds — ideal for anyone who likes trying new roasts — while the compact, well-built machine remains easy to drive via its clear touchscreen. With up to four user profiles and generous adjustment options, everyone quickly finds their favourite cup. In practice it delivers hot, aromatic coffee and wonderfully creamy milk foam; operation and cleaning are uncomplicated, with only the water tank handling falling short. Lots of functions, modern technology and genuinely good taste — at a fair price.