Gaggia Brera vs Anima – Choosing the Best Super-Automatic Espresso Machine

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In the debate of Gaggia Brera vs Anima, the final winner is Gaggia Anima thanks to its 3 different temperature settings, energy-saving standby mode that Gaggia Brera does not have.

It would be a mistake to ignore the other runner-up, Gaggia Brera because it too has remarkable qualities similar to Gaggia Anima. For people seeking an entry-level super-automatic model that is comparatively, and certainly more affordably priced, this is an excellent option.

Gaggia Brera vs Anima – Comparison Chart

Image
The Winner (#1)
Gaggia Anima Coffee and Espresso Machine, Includes Steam Wand for Manual Frothing for Lattes and Cappuccinos with Programmable Options
The Runner-up (#2)
Gaggia Brera Super-Automatic Espresso Machine, Small, Silver
Model
Gaggia Anima
Gaggia Brera
Dimensions
16.93 x 8.7 x 13.38 Inches
10 x 15.5 x 11.5 Inches
Material
Plastic
Stainless Steel
Capacity
1.7 Liters
1 Liters
Color
Black
Silver
Weight
16 Pounds
18 Pounds
Pump pressure
15 bar
15 bar
Power
1400 W / 110V-120V
1250 W / 110V-120V
Temperature control
3 Levels
Non-Programmable
User Interface
LCD + Buttons
Indicator Lights + Buttons
Aroma Strength
5 Selections
3 Selections
Dreg Drawer Capcaity
15 Coffee Pucks
8 Coffee Pucks
Hopper Capacity
8.8 oz
8.8 oz
Max. Cup Height
5.9"
4.5"
Adjsutable Coffee Length
Low Energy Standby Mode
What I Like
Price
$899.00
$486.33
The Winner (#1)
Image
Gaggia Anima Coffee and Espresso Machine, Includes Steam Wand for Manual Frothing for Lattes and Cappuccinos with Programmable Options
Model
Gaggia Anima
Dimensions
16.93 x 8.7 x 13.38 Inches
Material
Plastic
Capacity
1.7 Liters
Color
Black
Weight
16 Pounds
Pump pressure
15 bar
Power
1400 W / 110V-120V
Temperature control
3 Levels
User Interface
LCD + Buttons
Aroma Strength
5 Selections
Dreg Drawer Capcaity
15 Coffee Pucks
Hopper Capacity
8.8 oz
Max. Cup Height
5.9"
Adjsutable Coffee Length
Low Energy Standby Mode
What I Like
Price
$899.00
More Info
The Runner-up (#2)
Image
Gaggia Brera Super-Automatic Espresso Machine, Small, Silver
Model
Gaggia Brera
Dimensions
10 x 15.5 x 11.5 Inches
Material
Stainless Steel
Capacity
1 Liters
Color
Silver
Weight
18 Pounds
Pump pressure
15 bar
Power
1250 W / 110V-120V
Temperature control
Non-Programmable
User Interface
Indicator Lights + Buttons
Aroma Strength
3 Selections
Dreg Drawer Capcaity
8 Coffee Pucks
Hopper Capacity
8.8 oz
Max. Cup Height
4.5"
Adjsutable Coffee Length
Low Energy Standby Mode
What I Like
Price
$486.33
More Info

Last update on 2023-03-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Gaggia Brera vs Anima – Similarities

Both Brera and Anima are great espresso machines, no doubt, that are priced under $700 (Brera being the more inexpensive of the two). But for the price point, both coffee makers seem very reasonable. However, you shouldn’t expect them to perform like higher-end espresso machines that cost over $1,500-$2,000.

The fact that both are also super-automatic is a huge advantage in itself. Because that means, you get grinding, brewing, and steaming ALL IN ONE. On top of that, there are just too many similarities between the two. And this implies that you can’t go wrong with either.

For example, Gaggia Brera and Anima feature the Pannarello steam wand, stainless steel construction, simple interface, grinding Adapting System, removable brew group and water reservoir (although the size of the water tank differs between the two), and built-in ceramic burr grinder.

Gaggia Brera vs Anima – Differences

Comparison Analysis Between Gaggia Brera vs Anima
Comparison Analysis Between Gaggia Brera vs Anima

With 5 selections of aroma strength, a bigger Dreg Drawer, intuitive interface and energy-saving standby mode, Anima wins by 4 to 1 against Brera and deserves to be investing in as soon as possible. Keep reading know the differences between them.

1. Dreg Drawer Capcaity

There’s a nice big dreg drawer, or grounds bin, on the Anima – this is where the used pucks of coffee go. You’ll get prompted every time there are 15 pucks in there, which is a fairly big number – it’s 8 on the Brera.

2. Espresso Strength

You can select from five different coffee strength settings, ranging from 7 to 11 grams. By pressing “Aroma Strength”, the system can easily be programmed and adjusted. You can experiment with different coffee strengths and aromas until you find the perfect blend.

On the Brera, you can tailor your desired strength to one of 3 settings vary from 7 to 10.5 grams according to the preferred aroma strength. One bean displayed = mild aroma; Two beans displayed = medium aroma; Three beans displayed = strong aroma.

3. Steam Wand

The Panarello is a metal steam pipe in the Gaggia Anima espresso machine that acts as a pro steam wand for preparing not only the standard foam but also for the microfoam that makes your flat white coffee so good. It is an excellent choice if you would like to make a thick and voluminous bubble foam.

In order to produce froth for cappuccino or latte, there is a pinhole that is located at the top of the wand which automatically adds air to the milk. This certainly makes you want to learn new skills in latte art.

Like Gaggia Anima, Brera also has Panarello’s frothing wand that enables you to manually steam your milk as well as customize your drinks. Furthermore, Gaggia Brera uses Rapid Steam technology to steam your milk very quickly.

In this battle, Gaggia Brera is slightly better.

4. Interface

The Gaggia Anima really cannot let you down, as the display and buttons on the display are both clear and neat, making it a cool-looking device.

The Gaggia Anima features one-touch beverage selection. That means you can prepare your favorite coffee and milk specialties at one touch of a button, thanks to the multi-beverage interface.

There are only four buttons and LED icons on Brera’s display, so its interface is more basic. The intuitive interface allows users to choose how many coffee beans are added to their espresso, or how much hot water to obtain for tea or steam for frothing milk.

5. Energy-saving Standby Mode

Anima consists of an energy-saving standby mode. After 1 hour of inactivity, the system will automatically switch to standby mode. This is a low-energy mode which in turn reduces the amount of power consumed.

The Gaggia Anima does not have that mode.

Quick Rundown of Gaggia Anima

Gaggia Anima Coffee and Espresso Machine, Includes Steam Wand for Manual Frothing for Lattes and Cappuccinos with Programmable Options
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
  • MANUAL FROTHING FOR MILK-BASED DRINKS: Pannarello steam wand for frothing milk
  • PROGRAMMABLE: Programmable brewing options for espresso and espresso lungo
  • TEMPERATURE CONTROL: 3 different temperature settings. Min/177.5 °F, Med/182.9 °F, Max/184.5 °F
  • EASY ACCESS TO WATER RESERVOIR AND BEAN HOPPER: Features a removable 60 oz water reservoir that can be accessed on the top left of the machine, and an 8.8 ounce capacity bean hopper with access from the top right of the machine

Last update on 2023-03-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Presenting to you the standard version of Gaggia Anima. The price tag (around $700) is categorized as budget-friendly given that there are espresso machines that cost thousands of dollars.

With Anima, you get front-placed buttons for choosing if you want to prepare traditional espresso or espresso lungo. The same can be said about the strength of the aroma (can you believe it?! Aroma!!).

Since the super-automatic machine is designed with a built-in grinder, it features the exclusive Gaggia Adapting System, which simply means that the grinding process is automatically adjusted based on the beans you’re using.

Moving on to the brand’s phenomenal Pannarello steam wand. When this is combined with the steam button, nothing stands in between you and the rich, creamy foam of specialty beverages (cappuccino, latte, etc.).

The basics include a 60-ounce water tank – a brewing capacity of 6 cups or more. So it means you’re looking at less frequent refilling. Along with an LCD screen and temperature control settings. And of course bonus points for additional functions like energy-saving mode and removable brew group for easy, regular cleaning.

Pros
  • Programmable super-automatic espresso machine
  • Removable, large-capacity 60-ounce water tank
  • Top-access 8.8-ounce bean hopper
  • Pannarello steam wand for rich, creamy foam and hot water
  • Energy-saving standby mode
Cons
  • When pouring coffee, it makes a loud, squeaky noise
  • Quality and performance of grinder are questionable

Quick Rundown of Gaggia Brera

Gaggia Brera Super-Automatic Espresso Machine, Small, Silver
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
  • FROTHING FOR MILK BEVERAGES: Pannarello wand frothing for cappuccinos & lattes. Wand doubles as a hot water dispenser for americanos & tea.
  • EASY ACCESS: The dregs drawer, drip tray, and water tank are all within reach and accessible from the front of the machine for quick and easy cleaning and maintenance.Volts:110V-120V
  • USER-FRIENDLY DISPLAY: Push-button controls and an LED display with illuminated icons make for an easy and intuitive experience.Watts:1250 W
  • RAPID STEAM TECHNOLOGY: Quick heat up times and robust brewing and steaming operations. Coffee bean capacity : 250 gr

Last update on 2023-03-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Ever heard of the phrase less is more? It’s the most appropriate thing to say about Gaggia Brera. A slightly smaller footprint but with the same high-performing grinding, brewing, and steaming abilities.

The water filtration system, in particular, seems like a highly praiseworthy feature as it makes sure water passes through 4 levels of pure filtration. This just means better tasting coffee at your disposal. Plus, more impurities removed implies less scaling and accumulation of unwanted elements in your coffee maker. Therefore, less cleaning and maintenance efforts.

Double coffee spouts and a steaming wand in the front, much like Gaggia Anima. It’s just that Brera’s spouts are covered with a stainless steel roof, but that’s not necessarily indicative of anything.

Moving on, the removable drip tray and brew group are convenient additions. The water reservoir capacity, however, is different – only 40 ounces as opposed to Anima’s 60 ounces.

But with this super-automatic espresso machine too, you get the Gaggia Adapting System for automatically adjusting the grinding process depending on the coffee beans. What’s new probably is the on-demand Rapid Steam (less than 10 seconds!). And also the notification alert for when the hopper runs out of coffee beans.

Pros
  • Super-automatic machine with Rapid Steam technology
  • Pannrello wand frothing acts as hot water dispenser too
  • Adapting System automatically adjust grinding operation
  • Compact, space-efficient design with user-friendly LED display
Cons
  • Smaller water reservoir – only 40 ounces
  • Not all coffee mug sizes fit under the spout
  • Not a highly programmable espresso machine

Product Videos

The Decision Is All Yours Now!

Both espresso machines have enough features to exceed all of your expectations – that can be said for sure. Your homemade lattes and cappuccinos are sure to taste delicious even with generic espresso. But with Brera and Anima, the Pannarello steam wand is the biggest surprise indeed as it heats milk pretty quickly minus the noise most machines generally make.

And it also goes without saying that it’s confusing to pick between any two espresso machines designed by Gaggia, let alone Brera and Anima. So maybe you can let the capacity of the water reservoir decide since it’s not the same between the two. Just like the larger water container volume, even the warranty is longer with Anima.

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