DE1PRO

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of home espresso, few machines have caused as much buzz and excitement as the Decent DE1PRO. This high-tech marvel represents a significant departure from traditional espresso machine design, offering unprecedented control and data-driven insights to home baristas.

Brief history of Decent Espresso

Decent Espresso was founded in 2014 by John Buckman, an entrepreneur and technologist with a deep personal interest in coffee. Drawing on his background in tech, Buckman sought to address limitations in traditional espresso machines, particularly the lack of real-time feedback and precision control over critical brewing variables like temperature, pressure, and flow rate. His vision was to create a machine that would cater to both beginners and experts, offering unprecedented control and data-driven insights to improve espresso-making. 

By 2016, Decent Espresso unveiled its first prototype, the DE1, at the SCAA Expo, showcasing its innovative integration of tablet-based software that provided real-time monitoring and adjustment capabilities. Buckman’s mission to democratise precision espresso-making has since garnered widespread attention in the coffee industry.

Overview of the DE1PRO market position

The Decent DE1PRO occupies a unique position in the high-end home espresso machine market. It sits in a premium tier alongside prosumer machines from established brands like La Marzocco, ECM, and Rocket. The DE1PRO sets itself apart with its technology-first approach and unparalleled customisation capabilities.

While traditional machines in this price range often boast features like dual boilers, E61 group heads, or manual levers, the DE1PRO takes a completely different tack. It eschews these conventional designs in favour of a compact, software-driven system that offers capabilities previously unseen in home espresso machines.

The DE1PRO is marketed towards home baristas who are passionate about exploring the nuances of espresso extraction. It appeals particularly to those who enjoy data analysis, experimentation, and fine-tuning their shots. This machine isn’t just about making espresso; it’s about understanding and controlling every aspect of the extraction process.

The DE1PRO’s market position is not without controversy. Its tablet-centric design and lack of traditional espresso machine aesthetics have been points of contention among some coffee enthusiasts. Additionally, its reliance on software and electronics represents a significant departure from the mechanical simplicity that many associate with classic espresso machines.

Despite these potential drawbacks, the DE1PRO has garnered a devoted following among tech-savvy coffee lovers and professionals alike. Its ability to replicate the pressure and flow profiles of various commercial machines, combined with its compact size and portability, has even made it attractive for commercial use in certain settings.

The Decent DE1PRO is positioned as a forward-thinking, highly capable machine for those who want to push the boundaries of what’s possible in home espresso brewing. Whether it lives up to this lofty promise is what we’ll explore in the rest of this review.

Specifications and Technical Details

The Decent DE1PRO packs a surprising amount of technology into a compact frame.

Dimensions and weight

One of the DE1PRO’s most striking features is its compact size, especially when compared to other prosumer-level machines.

• Height: 42 cm (16.5 inches)
• Width: 23.2 cm (9.1 inches)
• Depth: 36.9 cm (14.5 inches)

Weight: 

• Espresso Machine: 13.2kg (29.1 lbs)
• Suitcase: 3.2kg (7 lbs)
• Shipped: 20kg (44 lbs)

This small footprint makes the DE1PRO an attractive option for home baristas with limited counter space. Its relatively light weight, combined with the included hard-shell carrying case, also makes it surprisingly portable - a feature rarely associated with high-end espresso machines.

Boiler specifications

Here’s where the DE1PRO really stands out from the crowd: it doesn’t have a traditional boiler system at all. Instead, it uses a unique system of thermocoils and a mixing valve to heat water on-demand. This system allows for:

• Extremely fast heat-up times (around 5 minutes or less)
• Precise temperature control
• The ability to change temperatures rapidly between shots

While this design means you can’t steam milk and pull a shot simultaneously, it also eliminates many of the maintenance issues associated with traditional boiler systems.

Pump type

The DE1PRO utilises two vibratory pumps. These pumps work in tandem to mix hot and room-temperature water in real-time, achieving precise temperature accuracy. This system allows the machine to adjust water temperature multiple times per second during extraction, offering a level of control that’s simply not possible with traditional boiler and pump setups.

Electrical requirements

The DE1PRO operates at:

• Voltage: 110-220V 
• Wattage: 1500W

The machine’s unique heating system likely contributes to relatively modest power consumption compared to traditional dual-boiler machines, though exact wattage figures weren’t specified in our sources.

It’s worth noting that despite its advanced technology, the DE1PRO doesn’t require any special electrical setup - it can be plugged into a standard household outlet, making it accessible for home use without any additional electrical work.

These specifications highlight the DE1PRO’s innovative approach to espresso machine design. By reimagining fundamental components like the boiler and pump systems, Decent has created a machine that offers unique capabilities in a compact, home-friendly package. However, these departures from tradition may also present challenges or limitations, which we’ll explore further in subsequent sections of this review.

Design and Build Quality

The Decent DE1PRO’s design philosophy is a significant departure from traditional espresso machines, prioritising function and technology over classic aesthetics. This approach has resulted in a machine that looks and feels quite different from what many coffee enthusiasts might expect.

Materials used

Decent Espresso has chosen materials that balance durability, functionality, and aesthetics in the DE1PRO:

• Chassis: The machine’s exterior and frame are constructed from powder-coated metal. This choice provides a robust, long-lasting finish that has proven to hold up well over time.
• Water tank and drip tray: Unlike many espresso machines that use plastic for these components, the DE1PRO features porcelain for the water tank and ceramic for the drip tray. This choice not only adds a premium feel but also offers practical benefits. The porcelain is easy to clean and doesn’t retain odours or stains.
• Group head: The DE1PRO comes with precision IMS shower screens, demonstrating attention to detail in critical components that directly affect espresso quality.
• Portafilter: The machine ships with a bottomless 58mm portafilter, which is industry standard and allows for easy observation of extraction.

It’s worth noting that while the overall build quality is high, there have been some minor criticisms. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that the black finish on the portafilter handles can chip if dropped or knocked too hard against a knock box.

Aesthetic considerations

The DE1PRO’s appearance is perhaps its most contentious aspect:

• Modern design: The machine has a boxy, futuristic look that’s a significant departure from traditional espresso machine aesthetics. It lacks the chrome finishes, analog gauges, and lever controls that many associate with high-end espresso machines.
• Tablet-centric interface: The most striking visual feature is the large tablet that sits atop the machine. This is integral to the DE1PRO’s functionality but contributes to its non-traditional appearance.
• Minimalist facade: The front of the machine is remarkably clean and simple, with a mirrored lip that allows users to watch their espresso extraction.

While some users appreciate the DE1PRO’s modern, tech-forward look, others find it lacking in the visual charm of more traditional machines. Decent Espresso argues that the design reflects the machine’s nature as a precision tool and scientific instrument rather than a mere appliance.

Footprint and space requirements

The compact design is a significant advantage for home users with limited kitchen space. It also makes the DE1PRO an attractive option for small cafes or catering services that need a powerful, portable espresso solution.

In summary, the Decent DE1PRO’s design and build quality reflect its innovative approach to espresso making. While it may not appeal to those seeking a traditional espresso machine aesthetic, its thoughtful material choices, compact size, and modern design make it a unique and practical option for the right user. The machine’s build quality appears to be high overall, with only minor criticisms noted in our sources.

Core Functionality

The Decent DE1PRO’s core functionality is where it truly shines, offering capabilities that set it apart from traditional espresso machines. Its innovative approach to espresso extraction, temperature control, pressure profiling, and steam production provides users with unprecedented control and consistency.

Espresso extraction process

The DE1PRO’s extraction process is fundamentally different from traditional machines:

• Real-time control: The machine uses two vibratory pumps to mix hot and room-temperature water in real-time, allowing for precise control over temperature and flow rate throughout the extraction.
• Sensor array: Multiple temperature sensors within the group head provide feedback, allowing the machine to adjust parameters hundreds of times per second during extraction.
• Customisable profiles: Users can choose from a variety of pre-programmed extraction profiles or create their own, controlling parameters like pre-infusion, pressure, flow rate, and temperature throughout the shot.
• Gravimetric dosing: When paired with a compatible Bluetooth scale, the DE1PRO can automatically stop the shot at a predetermined weight, ensuring consistency across extractions.

This level of control allows users to replicate the extraction characteristics of various commercial machines, from traditional Italian models to modern pressure-profiling machines like Slayer.

Temperature stability data

Temperature stability is crucial for consistent espresso extraction, and the DE1PRO excels in this area:

• Precision control: The machine can achieve degree-perfect accuracy, with temperature adjustments possible multiple times per second.
• Puck temperature focus: Unlike machines that measure boiler or group head temperature, the DE1PRO targets the actual temperature at the coffee puck’s surface.
• Rapid adjustments: The absence of a traditional boiler allows for quick temperature changes between shots, beneficial when experimenting with different roast levels or coffee origins.

While exact temperature variance figures weren’t provided in our sources, users consistently report excellent temperature stability and the ability to make precise adjustments that noticeably impact the flavour of the espresso.

Pressure profiling capabilities

Pressure profiling is one of the DE1PRO’s standout features:

• Full profile control: Users can create custom pressure profiles, controlling the pressure at each stage of the extraction.
• Real-time adjustments: Pressure can be adjusted on the fly during extraction using the tablet interface.
• Pre-programmed profiles: The machine comes with profiles designed to mimic popular commercial machines and brewing styles.
• Adaptive profiles: Some profiles can analyse shot progression in real-time and adapt flow targets accordingly, helping to compensate for variations in puck preparation.
• Maximum pressure: The machine can apply up to 13.5 bar of pressure, allowing for experimentation beyond traditional 9 bar extractions.

These capabilities allow users to experiment with advanced techniques like low-pressure pre-infusion, pressure ramps, and declining pressure profiles, all of which can significantly impact espresso flavour and extraction.

Steam wand performance metrics

While the DE1PRO’s steam wand performance is generally good, it operates differently from traditional machines:

• The machine produces very dry steam, which helps create silky microfoam without excessively diluting the milk.
• Users can adjust the steam pressure and flow rate to suit their preferences and milk texturing technique.
• The steam temperature remains consistent due to the machine’s unique heating system.
• Unlike dual-boiler machines, the DE1PRO cannot steam milk and brew espresso simultaneously. However, the transition from brewing to steaming is nearly instantaneous.

It’s worth noting that while the steaming performance is good, some users accustomed to powerful dual-boiler machines might find it slightly slower. However, the ability to fine-tune the steam pressure and the consistency of the steam quality are significant advantages for many users.

User Experience

The Decent DE1PRO offers a unique user experience that sets it apart from traditional espresso machines. Its software-driven approach and extensive customisation options provide unparalleled control but also come with a distinct learning curve and workflow.

Daily operation workflow

Once familiar with the machine, the daily workflow with the DE1PRO can be quite efficient:

• Quick start-up: The machine heats up in about 5-7 minutes, significantly faster than traditional boiler-based machines.
• Profile selection: Users can quickly select from saved profiles for their daily coffee, streamlining the process once preferred settings are established.
• Automated dosing: When paired with a Bluetooth scale, the machine can automatically stop the shot at the desired yield, reducing the need for constant monitoring.
• Cleaning: The ceramic drip tray and porcelain water tank are easy to clean. The machine also has built-in cleaning cycles accessible through the tablet interface.
• Milk steaming: While the machine can’t steam milk and brew simultaneously, the transition between brewing and steaming is nearly instant.
• Data logging: The machine automatically logs data from each shot, allowing users to review and refine their technique over time.

It’s worth noting that some users find the need to remove the drip tray to refill the water tank slightly inconvenient, and the lack of a cup warming surface means an extra step of pre-heating cups for those who prefer hot ceramics.

Ease of adjustments and customisation

The DE1PRO excels in its customisation capabilities:

• Intuitive interface: Despite its complexity, the tablet interface is generally described as intuitive and easy to navigate.
• Real-time adjustments: Users can make on-the-fly adjustments to pressure and flow during extraction, allowing for immediate experimentation.
• Profile creation: The machine allows users to create, save, and share custom extraction profiles. These can control every aspect of the shot, from pre-infusion to pressure ramping and flow rates.
• Temperature control: Users can set precise temperatures for different stages of extraction, even programming temperature changes during the shot.
• Steam customisation: The steam pressure and flow rate can be adjusted to suit different milk texturing preferences.
• Firmware updates: Decent regularly releases firmware updates that add new features and profiles, expanding the machine’s capabilities over time.
• Open-source API: Advanced users can create their own apps and interfaces for the machine, allowing for even deeper customisation.

The level of customisation available is unprecedented in home espresso machines, making the DE1PRO particularly appealing to those who enjoy tinkering and experimenting with their coffee.

Maintenance and Longevity

The Decent DE1PRO’s innovative design not only affects its functionality but also impacts its maintenance requirements and potential longevity. While it eliminates some traditional maintenance concerns, it introduces new considerations unique to its technology-driven approach.

Regular cleaning requirements

The DE1PRO’s cleaning needs are somewhat different from traditional espresso machines:

• Daily cleaning: The porcelain water tank and ceramic drip tray are easy to clean and dishwasher safe. This material choice helps prevent the build-up of coffee oils and scale, which can be problematic in plastic components.
• Group head: Regular backflushing, a common maintenance task for traditional machines, is not required with the DE1PRO due to its unique group head design.
• Steam wand: The steam wand is self-purging, which helps keep it clean. However, users should still wipe it down after each use to prevent milk build-up.
• Tablet screen: The touchscreen interface requires regular cleaning to remove fingerprints and smudges. Users report that disposable lens wipes or tech wipes work well for this purpose.
• Descaling: The absence of a traditional boiler system reduces the risk of scale build-up. However, using filtered water is still recommended to prolong the life of the machine’s components.
• Cleaning cycles: The DE1PRO has built-in cleaning profiles accessible through the tablet interface, simplifying the process of running cleaning cycles.

Long-term maintenance needs

The long-term maintenance of the DE1PRO presents a mixed picture:

• Reduced mechanical wear: The absence of a traditional E61 group head means there are fewer gaskets and moving parts to maintain or replace over time.
• Electronics longevity: As a highly computerised machine, the long-term reliability of its electronic components is a consideration. While Decent uses high-quality components, the longevity of the tablet and other electronic parts over many years of use remains to be seen.
• Firmware updates: Decent regularly releases firmware updates that can add new features or fix issues. While this is generally a positive aspect, it does require users to stay on top of updates.
• Commercial rating: The DE1PRO is rated for 200,000 shots, suggesting robust build quality and longevity.
• Warranty: Decent offers a two-year warranty on the DE1PRO, which can be extended for an additional cost. This extended warranty can be renewed repeatedly, providing long-term peace of mind for owners.

Availability of parts and service

The availability of parts and service for the DE1PRO is an important consideration:

• Direct support: Decent Espresso sells and supports their machines directly. This means that customers can communicate directly with the manufacturer for support issues.
• Shipping for repairs: If a machine requires servicing and there’s no local service centre, users may need to ship their machine back to Decent. While the company covers shipping costs for warranty repairs, this process can be time-consuming.
• Spare parts: As the sole manufacturer, Decent is the primary source for spare parts. This centralisation can be both an advantage (in terms of part quality and fit) and a potential concern (if the company were to cease operations).
• Community support: There is a strong and active community of Decent users who share troubleshooting tips and advice. This can be a valuable resource for solving minor issues.
• Technician familiarity: Due to the unique nature of the DE1PRO, many traditional espresso machine technicians may not be familiar with its systems. This could make local repairs challenging in some areas.

For those considering a DE1PRO, it’s important to factor in these maintenance and service considerations, especially if you’re located far from a Decent service centre.

Performance in Various Scenarios

The Decent DE1PRO’s advanced technology and customisation options allow it to perform well across a variety of scenarios. Its ability to adjust parameters on the fly makes it particularly versatile when dealing with different shot types, roast levels, and drink styles.

Single shots vs. double shots

The DE1PRO comes equipped to handle both single and double shots effectively:

• Basket options: The machine ships with a precision 18g filter basket, which is suitable for standard double shots. While information on included single baskets wasn’t specified in our sources, the DE1PRO is compatible with standard 58mm portafilters, allowing users to use a variety of basket sizes.
• Profile adjustments: The DE1PRO’s software allows users to create and save profiles specifically tailored for single or double shots. This means you can optimise extraction parameters for different dose sizes.
• Gravimetric dosing: When paired with a compatible Bluetooth scale, the DE1PRO can automatically stop the shot at a predetermined weight. This feature is particularly useful for ensuring consistency between single and double shots.
• Flow profiling: The machine’s ability to control flow rate throughout the extraction can be especially beneficial for single shots, which can be more challenging to extract evenly due to their lower dose and thinner puck.

While most users will likely stick to double shots (as is common in specialty coffee), the DE1PRO’s flexibility means it can produce high-quality single shots when desired.

Light vs. dark roasts

The DE1PRO truly shines when it comes to handling different roast levels:

• Temperature control: The machine’s precise temperature control allows users to set the ideal brewing temperature for different roast levels. Lighter roasts often benefit from higher temperatures, while darker roasts may require lower temperatures to avoid over-extraction.
• Pressure profiling: The ability to adjust pressure throughout the shot is particularly beneficial for light roasts. Users can experiment with lower pressure pre-infusion and ramped profiles to enhance extraction from denser, lighter roasted beans.
• Flow profiling: The DE1PRO’s flow control capabilities allow for techniques like “blooming” espresso shots, which can be particularly effective for highlighting the complex flavours in light roasts.
• Preset profiles: The machine comes with pre-programmed profiles designed for different roast levels, providing a starting point for users to experiment.
• Real-time adjustments: The ability to make on-the-fly adjustments during extraction allows users to fine-tune their approach for different roasts.

One reviewer noted that the DE1PRO is particularly adept at extracting lighter roasts, allowing users to “grind much finer than would otherwise be possible.” This capability can help bring out the nuanced flavours often associated with lighter, more acidic coffees.

Performance with milk-based drinks

While the DE1PRO’s steaming capabilities differ from traditional machines, it can still perform well with milk-based drinks:

• Steam quality: The machine produces very dry steam, which is ideal for creating silky microfoam without excessively diluting the milk.
• Adjustable steam pressure: Users can control the steam flow rate, allowing for customisation based on personal preference or the specific requirements of different milk types.
• Temperature consistency: The steam temperature remains consistent due to the machine’s unique heating system, which can help in achieving repeatable results.
• Steaming time: At maximum flow, the DE1PRO can steam milk to 60°C in about 30-35 seconds. While this may be slower than some commercial machines, it’s generally sufficient for home use.
• No simultaneous steaming: Unlike dual-boiler machines, the DE1PRO cannot steam milk and brew espresso simultaneously. However, the transition from brewing to steaming is nearly instantaneous, minimising any workflow disruption.
• Latte art capability: The quality of microfoam produced by the DE1PRO is suitable for creating latte art, though achieving this may require some practice due to the different feel of the adjustable steam pressure compared to traditional machines.

It’s worth noting that while the DE1PRO can certainly produce high-quality milk drinks, its design philosophy is primarily focused on espresso extraction. Users whose primary focus is on milk-based drinks might find some traditional machines more intuitive for this purpose.

Comparative Analysis

To fully appreciate the Decent DE1PRO’s position in the high-end home espresso machine market, it’s important to compare it with other machines in its class. This comparison will help potential buyers understand how the DE1PRO’s unique features and price point stack up against more traditional options.

Objective comparison with similar machines in its class

For this comparison, we’ll consider prosumer-level machines in a similar price range to the DE1PRO.

Key competitors include:

• La Marzocco Linea Mini
• ECM Synchronika
• Rocket R58
• Lelit Bianca

Key features comparison:

• Boiler system:
  
  • DE1PRO: Thermocoil system with mixing valve
  • Competitors: Dual boiler systems
• Temperature control:
  
  • DE1PRO: Consistently accurate to +/- 1°C, with ability to change during shot
  • Competitors: PID controlled, typically accurate to 1-2°C
• Pressure profiling:
  
  • DE1PRO: Full pressure and flow profiling via software
  • Lelit Bianca: Manual flow control via paddle
  • Others: Fixed or limited profiling capabilities
• Pre-infusion:
  
  • DE1PRO: Fully customizable
  • Competitors: Varied, from basic to advanced on some models
• User interface:
  
  • DE1PRO: Tablet-based with extensive data display
  • Competitors: Traditional knobs, switches, and basic displays
• Warm-up time:
  
  • DE1PRO: 5-7 minutes
  • Competitors: Typically 15-30 minutes
• Size:
  
  • DE1PRO: Compact (23.2 cm wide)
  • Competitors: Generally larger footprint
• Simultaneous brewing and steaming:
  
  • DE1PRO: Not possible
  • Competitors: All capable
• Customization:
  
  • DE1PRO: Extensive via software
  • Competitors: Limited to physical modifications
• Data and feedback:
  
  • DE1PRO: Comprehensive real-time and historical data
  • Competitors: Limited or no data feedback

Price-to-feature ratio

When considering the price-to-feature ratio, the DE1PRO offers a unique value proposition:

• Technology and customization: The DE1PRO provides unparalleled control over extraction parameters and offers extensive data feedback. For users who value these features, the price may be justified.
• Compact size: The DE1PRO offers advanced capabilities in a smaller package compared to most competitors, which could be valuable for users with limited space.
• Rapid heat-up: The fast warm-up time could lead to energy savings and added convenience over time.
• Ongoing development: Regular software updates that add new features could increase the machine’s value over time.
• Learning tool: The wealth of data and customization options make the DE1PRO an excellent learning tool for those deeply interested in espresso extraction.

However, there are areas where traditional machines may offer better value:

• Simultaneous brewing and steaming: All listed competitors offer this feature, which the DE1PRO lacks.
• Proven longevity: Traditional machines have a longer track record of durability and repair.
• Simplicity: For users who don’t need or want extensive customization, simpler machines may offer better value.
• Aesthetic value: Traditional machines often have a classic look that some users prefer.

Long-term Ownership Considerations

When investing in a high-end espresso machine like the Decent DE1PRO, it’s important to consider the long-term aspects of ownership. These factors can significantly impact the overall value and satisfaction you derive from the machine over time.

Resale value

While specific data on the DE1PRO’s resale value isn’t available in our sources, we can make some informed inferences:

• Niche appeal: The DE1PRO’s unique technology-driven approach may appeal to a specific subset of coffee enthusiasts, potentially maintaining its value among this group.
• Continuous updates: Decent’s practice of regularly releasing firmware updates that add new features could help maintain the machine’s relevance and value over time.
• Build quality: The machine’s commercial rating for 200,000 shots suggests robust construction, which could contribute to longevity and sustained value.
• Technological obsolescence: As a technology-dependent device, there’s a risk that future innovations could make the current model less desirable. However, Decent’s update policy may mitigate this to some extent.
• Limited production: As a smaller manufacturer, Decent produces these machines in limited quantities, which could potentially help maintain value due to relative scarcity.

It’s worth noting that the resale market for DE1PRO machines is likely smaller than for more traditional espresso machines, which could affect liquidity if you decide to sell.

Warranty information

Decent Espresso offers a comprehensive warranty package for the DE1PRO:

• Standard warranty: The machine comes with a two-year warranty, covering parts and labour for manufacturing defects.
• Extended warranty: Decent offers the option to extend the warranty for an additional two years, allowing owners to continue renewing this extended warranty indefinitely, as long as the machine remains under warranty.
• Transferable: The warranty is transferable, which could be a selling point if you decide to resell the machine.
• Shipping costs: For warranty repairs, Decent covers all shipping costs, which is significant given the potential need to ship the machine internationally for service.

This warranty structure provides long-term peace of mind, especially considering the machine’s reliance on electronics and unique components.

User community and support resources

The Decent DE1PRO benefits from a strong and active user community:

• Profile sharing: The ability to share custom extraction profiles within the community is a significant benefit, allowing users to learn from and build upon each other’s experiments.
• Direct manufacturer support: Decent Espresso provides direct customer support, allowing users to communicate directly with the manufacturer for assistance.
• Online resources: There are numerous YouTube videos, blog posts, and forum threads dedicated to the DE1PRO, providing a wealth of information for users.
• Software updates: Decent regularly releases firmware updates, often incorporating user feedback and suggestions. This ongoing development helps keep the machine current and adds value over time.
• Open-source API: For technically inclined users, the machine’s open-source API allows for custom app development and deeper integration possibilities.

The strength of this community is a significant asset for DE1PRO owners. It provides a support network that can enhance the ownership experience, help troubleshoot issues, and inspire new ways to use the machine.

Potential Limitations

While the Decent DE1PRO is a highly capable and innovative espresso machine, it’s not without its limitations. There are certain scenarios and user preferences for which this machine might not be the ideal choice. Understanding these limitations is crucial for potential buyers to make an informed decision.

Scenarios where the machine might not be ideal

• Traditional espresso enthusiasts:
  
  • The DE1PRO’s modern, tablet-driven interface and lack of traditional controls might not appeal to those who prefer the tactile experience of operating a manual lever or E61 group head.
  • Users who enjoy the ritual of manipulating physical knobs and levers may find the software-centric approach less satisfying.
• Technophobes or those uncomfortable with technology:
  
  • The machine’s reliance on a tablet interface and software controls could be intimidating or frustrating for users who are not tech-savvy.
  • Those who prefer simpler, more straightforward machines might find the learning curve too steep.
• High-volume environments:
  
  • While the DE1PRO is commercially rated, its inability to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously could be a limitation in busy café settings.
  • The need to switch between brewing and steaming modes might slow down service during peak hours.
• Users seeking a ‘set and forget’ experience:
  
  • The DE1PRO’s wealth of customisation options and data feedback might be overwhelming for users who simply want to press a button and get their espresso without thinking about parameters.
• Those with limited counter space:
  
  • While compact compared to many prosumer machines, the DE1PRO still requires space for the machine itself plus the tablet. In very small kitchens, this could be a constraint.
• Milk-drink focused users:
  
  • While capable of producing good steamed milk, the DE1PRO’s design philosophy is primarily focused on espresso extraction. Users whose primary focus is on milk-based drinks might find some traditional machines more intuitive for this purpose.
• Those without access to technical support:
  
  • The DE1PRO’s unique design means that many traditional espresso machine technicians may not be familiar with its systems. Users in areas without a Decent service centre might face challenges if their machine requires physical servicing.
• Budget-conscious buyers:
  
  • The DE1PRO represents a significant investment. Users who don’t plan to take advantage of its advanced features might find better value in less expensive, more traditional machines.
• Those who prefer a classic aesthetic:
  
  • The DE1PRO’s modern, somewhat industrial design might not fit well in kitchens with a more traditional or classic decor.
• Users in areas with unreliable internet:
  
  • While not strictly necessary for operation, many of the DE1PRO’s advanced features and updates rely on internet connectivity. Users in areas with poor internet access might not be able to take full advantage of the machine’s capabilities.
• Those who prioritise simultaneous brewing and steaming:
  
  • Unlike traditional dual-boiler machines, the DE1PRO cannot brew espresso and steam milk at the same time. This could be a dealbreaker for some users, particularly those making multiple milk-based drinks in succession.
• Users who prefer a cup warming surface:
  
  • The DE1PRO lacks a traditional cup warming surface. Users who prioritise this feature for keeping their cups hot might find this inconvenient.
• Those who dislike regular software updates:
  
  • The DE1PRO’s reliance on software means regular updates are part of the ownership experience. Users who prefer appliances that remain static in their functionality might find this aspect frustrating.

Consumer Feedback Summary

The Decent DE1PRO has garnered significant attention in the coffee community, with users providing a range of feedback on their experiences. While individual opinions vary, certain themes emerge consistently in user reviews.

Common praise

• Espresso quality: Many users report that the DE1PRO is capable of producing exceptional espresso, particularly with light roasts that can be challenging for traditional machines.
• Customization and control: The ability to fine-tune every aspect of the extraction process is frequently cited as a major advantage, allowing users to experiment and dial in their perfect shot.
• Temperature stability: Users consistently praise the machine’s ability to maintain precise and stable temperatures throughout the extraction.
• Compact size: The DE1PRO’s small footprint compared to other prosumer machines is often mentioned as a positive feature.
• Fast heat-up time: Many appreciate the machine’s ability to be ready for use in just 5-7 minutes.
• Software updates: Users value the regular firmware updates that add new features and improve functionality over time.
• Steam quality: The dry steam produced by the machine is praised for creating silky microfoam.
• Data insights: Coffee enthusiasts appreciate the wealth of data provided about each shot, which helps in understanding and improving their espresso.
• Build quality: The machine’s construction and use of materials like ceramic for the water tank and drip tray are often commended.
• Community support: Many users highlight the active Decent user community as a valuable resource for learning and troubleshooting.

Common criticisms

• Learning curve: The steep learning curve is frequently mentioned, with some users finding the abundance of options and data overwhelming at first.
• Aesthetic: Some users find the machine’s modern, tablet-centric design less appealing than traditional espresso machine aesthetics.
• No simultaneous brewing and steaming: The inability to brew espresso and steam milk at the same time is a common criticism, particularly for those making multiple milk-based drinks.
• Price: While many feel the machine offers good value for its capabilities, some users find the price point high, especially when factoring in accessories like the Bluetooth scale.
• Workflow adjustments: Users accustomed to traditional machines sometimes report needing time to adjust to the DE1PRO’s unique workflow.
• Tablet dependency: Some users express concern about the long-term reliability of the tablet and the machine’s dependence on it for operation.
• Maintenance concerns: A few users mention worries about long-term maintenance and repair, given the machine’s unique design and electronic components.
• Steam power: While steam quality is praised, some users find the steaming process slower compared to powerful dual-boiler machines.
• Water tank access: The need to remove the drip tray to refill the water tank is occasionally noted as an inconvenience.
• Lack of cup warming surface: Some users miss having a dedicated cup warming area, which is common on traditional machines.

Conclusion

The Decent DE1PRO represents a significant departure from traditional espresso machine design, offering a unique blend of technology, customization, and precision that sets it apart in the high-end home espresso market.

Recap of key points

• Innovative design: The DE1PRO eschews traditional boiler systems in favor of a thermocoil and mixing valve setup, allowing for precise temperature control and rapid heat-up times.
• Customization capabilities: With its tablet interface and extensive profiling options, the machine offers unprecedented control over every aspect of espresso extraction.
• Compact footprint: Despite its advanced features, the DE1PRO maintains a relatively small footprint, making it suitable for home use where space may be at a premium.
• Espresso quality: Users consistently report the machine’s ability to produce high-quality espresso, with particular praise for its performance with light roasts.
• Learning curve: The DE1PRO’s wealth of options and data-driven approach can present a steep learning curve, especially for those accustomed to more traditional machines.
• Build quality: The machine’s construction, including the use of porcelain for the water tank and ceramic drip tray, is generally well-regarded.
• Steaming performance: While capable of producing high-quality microfoam, the DE1PRO cannot steam milk and brew espresso simultaneously.
• Community and support: A strong user community and regular software updates contribute to an evolving and supportive ownership experience.
• Aesthetic considerations: The machine’s modern, tablet-centric design may not appeal to those who prefer the look of traditional espresso machines.

Suggestions for further research

For those considering the Decent DE1PRO, we recommend the following avenues for further research:

• Hands-on experience: If possible, try to find a way to use the DE1PRO in person. This could be through a local coffee shop, a trade show, or a fellow enthusiast.
• User forums: Explore the Decent Diaspora forum to get a sense of the user community and the types of discussions that take place around the machine.
• Video reviews: Watch detailed video reviews and demonstrations to better understand the workflow and user interface of the DE1PRO.
• Comparison with traditional machines: Research how the DE1PRO compares to traditional prosumer machines in your price range, considering factors like workflow, maintenance, and long-term reliability.
• Future-proofing: Look into Decent’s history of software updates and new feature releases to understand how the machine might evolve over time.
• Service and support: Investigate the availability of service and support in your area, considering the potential need for repairs or maintenance.
• Accessories: Research the recommended accessories, such as Bluetooth scales, and factor these into your overall budget considerations.
• Extraction profiles: Explore the variety of extraction profiles available for the DE1PRO to understand the range of experimentation possible.
• Milk-drink performance: If you primarily enjoy milk-based drinks, seek out specific feedback from users who focus on these beverages.
• Long-term ownership reports: Look for reviews or forum posts from users who have owned the DE1PRO for an extended period to gauge long-term satisfaction and reliability.

The Decent DE1PRO offers a unique approach to espresso making that may revolutionize how some enthusiasts approach their coffee. However, its technological focus and customization options may not align with everyone’s preferences or needs. By thoroughly researching and considering your own priorities, you’ll be better equipped to decide if the DE1PRO is the right choice for your espresso journey.