De'Longhi Magnifica Start ECAM220.21 vs Philips 2200 Series EP2220
Side-by-side comparison of two espresso machines
| Specification | De'Longhi Magnifica Start ECAM220.21 | Philips 2200 Series EP2220 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | De'Longhi | Philips |
| Price (MSRP) | $450 | $450 |
| Category | Super-Auto | Super-Auto |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Boiler Capacity | N/A | N/A |
| Pump Type | Gear | Gear |
| PID Control | No | No |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | No | No |
| Flow Control | No | No |
| Group Head | Internal Brew Unit | Internal Brew Unit |
| Portafilter | N/A | N/A |
| Steam Wand | Panarello | Panarello |
| Water Source | Reservoir | Reservoir |
| Reservoir | 1800 ml | 1800 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No | No |
| Dimensions | 238 x 430 x 351 mm | 246 x 433 x 336 mm |
| Weight | 9.0 kg (19.8 lbs) | 7.5 kg (16.5 lbs) |
| Power | 1450W | 1500W |
| Made In | Italy | Netherlands |
Expert Analysis
The De'Longhi Magnifica Start ($450) and Philips 2200 EP2220 ($450) are the most affordable super-automatics worth buying. At identical prices, they compete directly. The Magnifica Start at 9.0 kg has a Panarello steam wand for manual milk frothing. The Philips 2200 at 7.5 kg also uses a Panarello. Both use thermoblock heating, gear pumps, and pre-infusion. The Magnifica Start has a removable brew group — the single most important maintenance feature on super-autos, allowing thorough cleaning that prevents mold and coffee oil buildup. The Philips 2200 also has a removable brew group. The Magnifica Start offers more grind adjustments (13 levels) versus the Philips's fewer steps. The Philips is lighter and more compact. Both produce similar quality espresso — adequate but not remarkable. Both handle medium to dark roasts better than light roasts. Verdict: These are nearly interchangeable at the same price. The Magnifica Start has a slight edge in grind adjustment and De'Longhi's wider service network. Choose based on aesthetics and local availability.
Size & Weight: The De'Longhi Magnifica Start ECAM220.21 is the heavier machine at 9.0 kg compared to 7.5 kg for the Philips 2200 Series EP2220. Consider your available counter space and whether you need to move the machine frequently.
Our Verdict
Choosing between the De'Longhi Magnifica Start ECAM220.21 and the Philips 2200 Series EP2220 depends on your priorities. Both are capable machines that can produce excellent espresso in the right hands.