In the debate of Breville Bambino vs Gaggia Classic, many coffee lovers wonder which is the better cut-price espresso machine. It is so hard to tell because of the great difference in their designs. But after testing both, I believe Breville Bambino is the final winner, thanks to its value-for-price characteristics.
Bambino is quite consistent with its brewing process, and it can deliver bodied and nuanced espresso flavor. The auto-purge function also draws me in since it takes a bit of effort off my shoulders when it comes to cleaning. I recommend this entry-level model to you if you are looking for a simple one.
Gaggia Classic is a solid opponent thanks to its wonderful espresso extraction that gives me thick layers of crema every time, and the big 72oz water tank really got my attention.
Breville Bambino vs Gaggia Classic: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Breville Bambino vs Gaggia Classic: Differences
Breville Bambino wins 3-2 against its oponent Gaggia Classic. The former model is compact, intuitive, and it can pull me some creamy coffee. I like the fact that it has an auto-purge system since it saves me extra work. But, Gaggia is a very formidable choice as well. Find out more below.
Coffee Flavor: Gaggia classic
Dosing + tamping
Breville Bambino does a better job in this aspect. Since both machines are semi-automatic, we have to dose and tamp manually. The amount of coffee that you use depends on the size of the baskets that come with the portafilter. So overall, it varies a lot. Every basket has an indicator line that tells you when it’s time to stop pouring in more grounds, so just follow it.
But, the details that make me declare that Breville is better in this aspect is that the machine controls the espresso volume. It means that you just have to press the button, for example, double espresso, and the device will brew you enough for a double espresso.
As for the Gaggia Classic, we have to control it manually. It is slightly inconvenient, but it is not something that makes the machine not worth buying, at least for me since I have experience with espresso machines. You simply have to get a cup which you know the size of and fill it according to the amount of espresso that you need.
Heating system
Breville Bambino boasts of its Thermojet system that helps prepare the machine to brewing condition in 3 seconds. If you are a busy employee and you have no time in the morning to wait for a cup of coffee, I highly recommend the Bambino line. It is hella affordable as well.
In the case of the Gaggia Classic, it takes around 3 minutes to do it, so you will have to wait with this one. But here is the thing: Gaggia Classic is equipped with a giant 72oz water tank while Breville Bambino comes with a humble one of 47oz.
So with 3 minutes of waiting with the Classic line, you actually get a decent number of servings. If you are by any chance looking for a quality and cheap espresso machine for your office, the Gaggia one will be quite an option.
Brewing technique
While Gaggia Classic boasts of its 15 bars pump system, Breville Bambino pulls around 9 bars only. If you prefer a balanced espresso flavor with a slightly sweet note, Bambino is your baby. But, if you want stronger coffee with different layers of flavor, Gaggia Classic is what you need.
The 15 bars pump system also gives Gaggia’s espresso shots an extra layer of crema. With the Gaggia Classic and Classic Pro lines, I usually get really good crema. If you enjoy the velvety texture of espresso crema as well, I recommend Gaggia Classic.
Utilities: breville bambino
Auto shut-off and auto-purge are 2 additional features of Breville Bambino that I find extra convenient. With the auto shut-off feature, not only will the machine saves energy but it will also have a better lifespan.
And with the auto-purge feature, each time I switch between brewing and steaming, the device pushes the extra steam and hot water out of the boiler automatically. Normally I don’t find this feature in espresso makers at the same price range.
If you are wondering why I enjoy the auto-purge feature so much, it’s because it helps bring the water temperature back higher after the machine finishes steaming. This ensures that Bambino can extract another serving of espresso that is hot and mellow. And it’s true that I never pull lukewarm espresso with this machine. All thanks to the auto-purge and PID technology.
Milk system: tie
Both machines are equipped with a Pannarrello wand that works efficiently. After testing their performance, I don’t find one better than the other and overall, they do a decent job. I get creamy milk foam that is good for latte art, but not quite for a cappuccino. Nevertheless, Breville Bambino and Gaggia Classic are solid options for milk frothing, especially for their price.
Cleaning & Maintain: breville bambino
After every use, the steam wand must be wiped. This is essential for any espresso machine, with or without the auto rinsing feature. And you will have to cleanse the milk path and the coffee path frequently to avoid scale and bad water taste. As for the milk path, cleaning that of Bambino is easier thanks to the purge feature.
I suggest that you use special solutions to clean espresso machines, don’t use dish soap since it can leave an unpleasant stench or ruin the removable parts.
Design & Material: tie
The designs are very different. If you prefer a more modern and sleek device, Breville Bambino is the go-to option. On the contrary, Gaggia Classic is an excellent pick if you enjoy a sturdy and straightforward espresso machine. Breville Bambino also is more lightweight, so it definitely is more compact and easy to manage.
Breville Bambino vs Gaggia Classic: Similarities
There are 2 similarities between Breville Bambino and Gaggia Classic that I want to highlight. Both have a cup warming tray, and the steam wand can dispense hot water for tea as well. Check for more details below.
Cup warming tray
Bambino and Gaggia Classic both come with a cup warming tray. Personally, I don’t think they need one because the pair does a good job with the temperature control. But, it is good to have a cup warmer just to avoid lukewarm coffee. Keep your coffee extra hot with these trays.
Hot water
Sometimes we all crave a change, and a cup of tea is a good idea. Through the steam wands, you can get hot water for your tea. So make the most of these espresso makers.
Quick Rundown Of Breville Bambino
Quick Rundown Of Gaggia Classic
- Rugged brushed stainless steel housing
- Commercial three-way solenoid valve
- Commercial-style 58mm chrome-plated brass portafilter and Brew Group
- Easy-to-use Turbo-Frother steam wand attachment
- Easy-to-use Turbo-Frother steam wand attachment
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- Breville Bambino: https://www.breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/bes450.html
- Gaggia Classic: https://www.gaggia.com/manual-machines/new-classic/
Felix Hendricks is a skilled barista with over 12 years of experience. He excels in crafting coffee and has a strong foundation in coffee machine mechanics. Felix holds a Coffee Machine Maintenance Certification from the Coffee Equipment Technical Institute, showcasing his ability to diagnose and repair coffee machines. He’s also worked as a quality control specialist, selecting premium coffee beans for optimal flavor. Felix has a diverse work history, including stints at renowned coffee spots like Café Euphoria & Starbucks. His expertise in both brewing and machine maintenance makes him a respected figure in the coffee industry.