If you require an apparatus that is able to make coffeehouse-grade espresso, the Gaggia Classic Pro is a great option.
Are you just starting your home barista journey? This espresso machine is designed to be easily used by novices, and its operation is simple. The machine exhibits high-grade craftsmanship and is able to make an ideal cup of espresso. If you are a beginner when it comes to making your espresso or an expert looking for a trustworthy and plain machine, this is an excellent selection.
Gaggia Classic Pro Review
Established in Italy in the 1930s, Gaggia has a longstanding record of making espresso machines suitable for both home and professional use. The company manufactures lovely, cafe-style home appliances. The Classic has garnered considerable adulation over the years, and Gaggia has upgraded the design with the ‘Pro’ version.
Gaggia offers a variety of items, however, the Classic is its premier beginner espresso device. The product is of the highest quality construction, though you can anticipate that it will be more expensive. Gaggia machines, despite costing more than some other options, may be a worthwhile purchase as they tend to be long-lasting and of a superior grade.
About the Gaggia Classic Pro
This espresso machine is a semi-automatic Gaggia Classic Pro that can be used in the home. It features a professional-grade steam wand for milk frothing. If you are looking for a coffee maker that will produce barista-style espresso while enabling you to determine the consistency of your grind, steeping time, and dosage, then this appliance may suit your needs.
It should be taken into account that there is no grinder included and it must be bought separately. When budgeting your espresso setup, make sure it includes a burr grinder capable of grinding the beans fine enough. We have some awesome choices here that would go nicely with the Gaggia.
If you are not sure what type of espresso machine would be best for you, read our comprehensive buyer’s guide here!
Features & Specs
My review of the Gaggia Classic Pro has uncovered that it is an incredibly appealing single-boiler espresso machine. Let’s move on and examine the noteworthy characteristics of the machine in more detail.
Stainless Steel Housing
It’s certain that stainless steel construction is an infallible choice. The Classic Pro boasts an aluminum boiler, housed in a stylish and robust stainless steel casing.
I was right away taken aback by the strong make of the Classic Pro, and I was astonished as I hoisted it out of the box over how light it was. Plus, all that stainless steel just looks gorgeous. So far, so good!
Colors
I wouldn’t hold it against you if you decided to go with the stainless steel finish. It was the version I requested to try out. You should be aware that the Gaggia Classic Pro comes in multiple color choices.
Apart from the classic stainless steel color, you can also choose from Cherry Red, Classic Blue, Industrial Grey, Polar White, and Thunder Black. It seems like no matter what style kitchen you have, there will be a color choice to suit it.
Nonetheless, it wouldn’t be equitable to not mention the trendiest decision available – the tinted metal of the Gaggia Classic Pro Limited Edition. You will observe that the Special Version features a picture of an acrobat consuming espresso. What’s there to celebrate the machine’s 30th anniversary?
If you appreciate beauty and design, you may struggle to not get this specific model.
Operation/Controls
As previously stated in this review for the Gaggia Classic Pro, the user interface is quite simple to use. I think it’s beneficial for novices who are mastering the use of semi-automatic espresso machines.
This machine works with the help of three switches and lamps that show whether it is turned on or off, dispensing espresso, and producing steam. The indicator lights are a useful feature that let you know when your machine has reached the desired temperature.
The controls have been changed from what they were in the Pro version. There are three large buttons: one for turning the device on, another for beginning the brewing process, and the last for beginning the steaming action.
There are helpful signals that tell you when the machine is turned on, preheating is completed, or when it is prepared to produce steam. The knob that operates the commercial wand is clearly visible on the side, so you shouldn’t have difficulty finding it.
Removable Water Tank
I’d be quite let down if the container for the liquid couldn’t be taken out considering how durable this device is. Refilling the water reservoir of a 20-pound (9.1 kg) espresso machine requires an onerous task of carrying it to the sink.
The positive aspect is that the 2.1 liter water reservoir is detachable. It is somewhat difficult to eliminate it. You just need to add water to the tank on top of the system. The lid on the pitcher can be taken off, and it was simple to pour water into the container. A handy maximum capacity indicator is included, and you can easily tell how much water is in the tank due to its transparent design, making it simple to fill it precisely.
Heating and Pressure
For heating purposes, the Gaggia Classic is outfitted with an individual aluminum boiler. It does an excellent job of keeping the temperature steady while preparing and producing coffee. A con associated with a single boiler machine is that you will have to wait for it to reach the necessary temperatures when transitioning between making espresso and steaming milk.
The 15-bar pump oversees the pressure, and the 3-way solenoid valve keeps the internal pressure in the filter holder consistent. During the preparation of espresso, the boiler and pump collaborate to pull out a marvelous single espresso shot along with a top layer of crema.
The Gaggia Classic does not allow for temperature and pressure to be altered. If you’re just starting out with brewing, this can help you hone your recipe and brewing skills. If you have had more experience, you may wish to find a machine with a higher level of sophistication to make the necessary changes.
If you were hoping for two boilers to produce both steam and hot water, the single boiler in the Gaggia Classic Pro could be seen as a letdown. You won’t need to wait for very long to reheat the boiler due to the improved aluminum boiler on this machine, which minimizes preheating time.
You won’t have to wait nearly as long with the Gaggia Classic Pro when compared to other machines to enjoy your first espresso shot. You can have delightful coffee beverages in your possession within a very short amount of time. In all honesty, I do not remember exactly how much time the Classic Pro took for preheating; however, I estimate it to have been approximately two minutes.
Brewing
This Gaggia Classic has an included 58 mm portafilter with three types of baskets it can use: a pressurized basket for double shots, as well as both pressurized and non-pressurized baskets for single shots. The filter with increased pressure makes it easier for people who are just starting out to be able to get a proper layer of crema. Every basket works well with both floor espresso and ESE espresso pods.
Fill the 2 Liter container with water and then activate the appliance to start making the brew. Once your equipment has been heated up the signal lamp will illuminate to inform you that you are good to start making your coffee. Fill your container with your most beloved espresso ground coffee, and press the button for espresso to draw your shot.
Portafilter
The Gaggia Classic Pro is designed with a 58mm portafilter, allowing you to make single or double espresso shots with confidence. I have tried out countless espresso makers, yet I don’t recall encountering a portafilter as good as this one. This piece of equipment is remarkably even and strong – it is just like a portafilter from a restaurant style espresso maker.
The Gaggia Classic Pro, additionally, comes with a three-way valve actuator. This function takes away the stress from the group leader, so you can take out the portafilter directly after the brewed coffee is made. Your previously utilized puck should be nice and dry, ensuring that you will not be spraying water and coffee grounds around.
Tamper
With most pieces of equipment that are budget-friendly, you will get a plastic pusher included in the buying price. The tamper that is bundled is not very impressive, but it is somewhat sturdy. Once you become familiar with this machine, it is a good idea to upgrade to a stainless steel tamper for more level-out results.
Steam Wand
It appears that Gaggia has labeled their machine Pro due to its professional quality steam wand. Be prepared for an immense improvement if you’re accustomed to the regular steam wands on small manual espresso makers.
The earlier model of the Gaggia Classic Pro held a Maranello steam wand, which isn’t the most suitable tool if you are looking to craft enough microfoam for making a latte art. Although there may be some initial difficulty professionalizing the steaming process, once you master the skill you will be taking full advantage of the milk.
I was taken aback with how delicate the steam wand is — you need to be cautious when using it so that it doesn’t get broken. Furthermore, the wand does not have a jointed mount, so its movement is somewhat constricted. I was extremely pleased with the steam pressure of the Gaggia during my experiment. The steam wand is very potent and the revolving knob grants you a lot of precise adjustment.
Milk Frothing
The Gaggia Classic is equipped with an outstanding steam wand that has two outlets. The steam wand on this beginner-level machine is remarkable and with a bit of practice, you’ll turn out exquisite cappuccinos and lattes.
Reorient the steam wand by pushing the steam rocker switch and wait until the indication light confirms it is at the ideal heat. Slowly turn the knob open to begin steaming. You’ll be getting that perfect microfoam in no time!
Accessories
The Gaggia Classic does not include many extras. It was unexpected that, considering the high price of the package, it is only bundled with a plastic tamper and scoop. You should purchase an excellent weighted tamper to use along with your machine.
Maintenance
The espresso machine is covered by a 2-year warranty. If your Gaggia machine is broken or not operating properly, their support team will come to your aid.
To ensure optimal performance, it is essential to regularly clean your Gaggia Classic machine. Ensure you clean your steam wand, containers, and portafilter with a moist rag after each use. Gaggia advises that the machine be decalcified every 8 weeks to guarantee a continued supply of great-tasting espresso.
Cup Height
There is no need to be concerned about putting tall glasses for latte macchiato under the spout of the Gaggia Pro, as it won’t offer any unwanted surprises. The size of the cup is the same as those usually used for espresso, and if you need more space, taking out the drip tray grid will help.
Summary
The Gaggia Classic Pro is a superb product to initiate the coffee-making experience at home and it can craft coffee equal to the standard of a standard coffeehouse. It is effortless to employ, perfect for novices. Although this is a basic machine, it is made of stainless steel and has a professional-quality steam wand. The Gaggia Classic is capable of consistently producing delicious espresso accompanied with a rich crema.
In other words, the machine is more expensive than some of the lower priced rivals. It doesn’t have pressure and temperature adjustment. Furthermore, the one-unit boiler makes it impossible to draw shots of espresso and steam the milk at the same time; there is a wait period between the two.
If you are wanting to alter both temperature and pressure, then you may want to consider purchasing an automated device. A device that is self-operating could include an incorporated grinder if you want a comprehensive solution. Those who have gone beyond beginner-level home barista skills may decide to invest more money on a pricier semi-automatic double boiler coffee maker.
If your funds are limited, you may want to investigate less expensive alternatives. A Gaggia espresso machine is more expensive than other machines, but its top-notch components make it easier to consistently obtain premium tasting espresso.