De'Longhi La Specialista

The La Specialista automates grinding and provides assisted dosing and tamping, but it still uses a portafilter and requires hands-on espresso preparation. It is therefore closer to a semi-automatic machine than a one-touch superautomatic model.

It is built around freshly ground coffee beans and includes an integrated grinder. The portafilter can also take pre-ground coffee, but it is not a Nespresso capsule machine.

The machine provides controls for grind size, water temperature, and pre-infusion. Those settings let you change extraction speed and flavor when working with different coffee beans.

Yes, the La Specialista includes a steam wand for heating and texturing milk. That supports drinks such as cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites alongside its espresso function.