What makes the De'Longhi Rivelia Start stand out?
The De'Longhi Rivelia Start is a fully automatic bean-to-cup coffee maker designed for small kitchens or households looking to maximize counter space. Despite its compact size, it offers an impressive menu of 10 coffee drinks at the touch of a button—including authentic cold brew, espresso, and specialty milk coffees. Notably, its cold brew function actually brews with ambient water rather than just adding ice to hot coffee, delivering a smoother, less bitter drink in under five minutes.
Who should consider the Rivelia Start?
This machine is ideal for anyone with limited space who still wants the flexibility and quality of a premium bean-to-cup machine. If you enjoy switching between caffeinated and decaf beans, the Rivelia Start’s swappable bean hoppers let you change beans without waste or tricky cleaning. The clear, button-based interface is also a bonus for those who prefer simple, tactile controls over touchscreens. Those who love iced or specialty milk drinks can expand the device’s capabilities with the optional LatteCrema Cool kit for cold foams and extra summer drinks.
How does it compare to other compact coffee makers?
The Rivelia Start’s closest competitors are other compact bean-to-cup machines like the Philips Series 2200 or basic Jura models. Unlike many rivals, it supports genuine cold brew and features two easily exchangeable bean hoppers—most machines in this segment only hold a single bean type at a time. Its price point, while higher than standard pod or manual espresso makers, remains competitive within the automatic bean-to-cup category given its versatility. The palette of earthy color options also distinguishes it from the typical monochrome kitchen appliances.
Limitations and running costs
While compact and powerful, the Rivelia Start isn’t the cheapest option on the market. There are no recurring app or connectivity costs, but buyers should plan for ongoing expenses like water filters, descaling solutions, and milk system cleaning—common with all fully automatic machines. The LatteCrema Cool kit for chilled foams is sold separately. It’s also advisable to check for local availability if you’re outside the UK, as color options and distribution may vary by region. There’s no mention of smart home integration like Alexa or Google Home, so those seeking that level of automation will need to look elsewhere.
Takeaway: Who gets the most value from the Rivelia Start?
If you want a bean-to-cup coffee maker that conserves space, handles multiple bean types, and brews both hot and authentic cold drinks with ease, the De'Longhi Rivelia Start is a compelling option. It’s best for small households or individuals who value variety and convenience over connectivity or ultra-low prices. The ease of use, flexibility, and stylish appearance make it a strong fit for renters, apartment dwellers, or anyone looking to upgrade their morning routine without sacrificing space or quality.