The De’Longhi EDG210.B “Piccolo XS” is a pod-based coffee maker built for anyone wanting café-style drinks in the smallest, most stylish form. Compact, efficient, and simple, this machine delivers espresso and hot/cold beverages with a satisfying crema, minimal footprint, and no complicated setup. It’s ideal for smaller kitchens, student living, or wherever counter space is at a premium.
Compact Design That Fits Anywhere
One of the first things you notice is how little space the Piccolo XS takes up. It stands tall but doesn’t project far into your countertop, making it a great choice for flat kitchens, office desks, or side tables. Despite its slim body, the water tank is generous enough for multiple brews before needing a refill. The exterior styling is polished—matte and gloss black finish with clean lines gives a premium feel that contrasts nicely with plastic bodies of many rivals.
Pressure & Brewing That Impresses
Espresso lovers will appreciate the strong 15-bar pump pressure capable of extracting rich flavours from pods. The crema produced is visibly thick and velvety. Whether you’re preparing a short espresso shot or a longer brew, the consistency is strong; the pressure delivers a satisfying kick without bitter after-taste when used properly. Switching between hot and cold beverages feels seamless, thanks to the manual lever and precise temperature handling.
Pod Convenience with Good Variety
Being a capsule machine, the Piccolo XS removes much of the mess and fuss of grinding, dosing, and tamping. Pods are easy to insert, easy to dispose of, and cleanup is minimal—there’s no loose grounds to sweep up. The machine supports a wide range of pod drinks, from strong espresso to milk-based beverages and even hot chocolate, allowing users to experiment without owning separate machines.
Quick Boiler Heating & Time-Saving
It heats up fast—ready to brew in under a minute. This is really convenient first thing in the morning or in moments you need a coffee quickly before leaving the house. The machine also includes an auto-shutoff feature: after a period of inactivity, it powers down to save energy. A drip tray and adjustable cup support accommodate different cup sizes, adding to the convenience of use day-to-day.
Ease of Use & Cleaning
Controls are simple—manual lever, pod placement, and one-button start. There are no complicated menus or digital displays, which keeps operation intuitive. The removable components—water tank, drip tray—can be detached easily for cleaning. Since most of the brew happens inside sealed pods, there’s less residue to maintain.
Strengths & Considerations
| Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Strong 15 bar pressure for deep espresso flavour | No built-in milk frother—milk-based drinks require separate frothing |
| Compact footprint makes it suitable for small spaces | Cold-brew or very large cups may require more water than tank holds |
| Pod-based system for tidy cleanup and ease of use | Capsule cost higher over time than ground coffee |
| Fast heat-up time and energy-saving auto shut-off | Manual control means fewer custom settings for strength or temperature |
| Adjustable cup support and removable drip tray for flexibility | No built-in grinder or ability to use loose coffee beans |
Final Thoughts
The Piccolo XS by De’Longhi is a brilliant pick if you want café-like espresso and hot drinks without the bulk, noise, or mess of traditional espresso machines. It’s perfect for those who value speed, aesthetics, and simplicity, especially when kitchen space is limited. You get that strong, creamy espresso finish thanks to the 15 bar pressure, and the pod system keeps everything tidy and easy.
If your priority is flavour, quick results, and low maintenance—and you're okay with using capsules instead of loose beans—then this machine delivers real value. It won’t replace high-end espresso makers for enthusiasts, but for everyday drinkers and convenience seekers, it’s a winner.
