Gaggia Classic vs Gaggia Classic Pro, the Gaggia Classic has seen few changes over the years since 1991, except for some less-than-popular updates in 2015. With the introduction of the Gaggia Classic Pro, this old dog has returned, improved and better than ever.
Compared to the Gaggia Classic, the Gaggia Classic Pro offers a pro-level steam wand and more color options, while also reviving beloved features such as the 3-way solenoid valve, stainless steel body, and aluminum boiler. So if you plan to steam milk often, the Pro version is worth adding to your arsenal.
Gaggia Classic Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2025-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gaggia Classic Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Differences
Without further ado, here is my detailed comparison between these two models
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System
Winner: Tie
Built-in Grinder
Of course, the new Pro version still doesn’t have a grinder, and the old version, of course, doesn’t have one. So if you’re thinking about getting one of these espresso machines, consider the additional investment required for a good grinder and a scale for precise dosing.
Dosing & Tamping
Both come with a lot of accessories, which is not unusual with semi-automatic machines. Inside the box, you’ll find the drip tray cover (crafted from perforated steel and safeguarded with a protective film), a 58-mm portafilter, a coffee scoop, a plastic tamper, and both pressurized and non-pressurized filter baskets.
I have two big complaints here. The first one is the absence of a milk jug. Sure, it’s not a bank-breaker to grab one on your own, and it’s readily available elsewhere, but isn’t it just a bummer when you have to make a separate purchase right after you thought you had everything you needed?
Also, despite numerous upgrades, both big and small, the Pro version continues to sport a plastic tamper. Oh dear! You will need to separately purchase a steel tamper to upgrade the tamping game.
Heating System
Both have only one aluminum boiler with a durable stainless steel housing. So if you’re expecting a dual-boiler system for brewing and steaming at once, the single boiler in these machines might feel like a disappointment.
Still, it’s not all gloom and doom.
Sure, there might be moments when you’ll need to pause and let the boiler catch up, but we’re not talking about a 15- or 30-minute wait like with some other machines out there. In fact, you can go from nothing to having a good coffee drink in your hands within 5 mins.
Both also have no PID controls, so you will need to learn about temperature surf, or you can also dive into a DIY PID mod if you feel a little more adventurous. Anyway, I’m crossing my fingers for the next iteration of the Classic to come equipped with a built-in PID.
Brewing System
In addition to temperature surfing, you need to do a bit of a trick on your own to manually pre-infuse the puck. All you need to do is open the steam wand knob a tad and hit the brew button for a few seconds. Then turn the steam wand off to kickstart full extraction handled by their robust 15-bar pumps, and voila!
Design & Convenience
Winner: Tie
Dimensions & User Interface
| Gaggia Classic | Gaggia Classic Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 14.2 x 9.5 x 8 inches | 14.2 x 9.5 x 8 inches |
| Weight | 18.7 lbs | 18.7 lbs |
From the original Classic to the latest Pro model, the construction and body of the machine have been entirely metal. Unlike some budget or entry-level espresso machines that might give off a flimsy vibe with their creaky, superficial metal exteriors, thinly plastic frames, these machines exude quality and durability.
Both also have a simple three-button control panel: one for powering the machine on or off, one for brewing, and one for steaming. You really don’t require a fancy touchscreen or any more complex controls for such function-poor machines.
Spout Type & Cup Clearance
| Gaggia Classic | Gaggia Classic Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Spout Type | Dual | Dual |
| Cup Clearance | 3.3 inches | 3.3 inches |
The cup clearance between the spouted portafilters and drip trays on these machines is disappointingly low, almost as if Gaggia designed them with only espresso cups in mind.
For those of us who prefer our brews in larger cups, this design choice can be a real source of frustration. And if you’re someone who likes to use a scale to ensure the perfect brew ratio, you might find yourself having to remove the drip tray entirely just to make room.
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
| Gaggia Classic | Gaggia Classic Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 2.1 liters | 2.1 liters |
| Bean Hopper | None | None |
Their removable water reservoirs are quite large and sit behind the drip trays. Sliding these reservoirs in and out might be a bit tricky, but you can easily top them up directly from the top. The Pro version features side cutouts that offer a clearer view of the water level. An LED inside would surely be better.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
The biggest improvement of the Pro version is its commercial steam wand over the Panarello automatic wand on the older one. The wand features a 2-hole tip and a rubberized grip at its main bend for easy handling.
The Classic Pro’s wand lacks a ball joint, limiting it to 360-degree rotation on a single plane. No problem. It can help you whip up velvety, paint-like microfoam in around 30 seconds. Positioned on the machine’s right side, the steam knob valve offers you a degree of control over the steam’s velocity.
The Panarello wand on the older Classic is more forgiving for beginners, but its capability for texturing milk leaves much to be desired. It can’t achieve the perfect microfoam needed for intricate latte art. I guess you have to take the bad with the good.
Drink Options & Programmability
Winner: Tie
Drink Options
| Gaggia Classic | Gaggia Classic Pro |
|---|---|
| Espresso Hot Water | Espresso Hot Water |
The good news is that both deliver hot water for an Americano or tea beverage. The water is approximately 100°C, so just be cautious of any potential splashes to avoid the unpleasant surprise of burning yourself.
Programmability
| Adjustable Settings | Gaggia Classic | Gaggia Classic Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Strength | No | No |
| Coffee Temperature | No | No |
| Milk Foam Temperature | No | No |
| Milk Foam Texture | No | No |
Both only allow you to manually control the shot volume and the steam power (by turning the dial on the right). The ability to fine-tune the brew temperature, which I’ve personally longed for, is absent here.
Quick Rundown Of Gaggia Classic Pro
- Solid Steel Housing, Made in Italy
- 9 Bar Espresso Extractions
- Stainless Steel 58mm Commercial Portafilter
- Commercial Three Way Solenoid Valve
- Commercial Steam Wand
Last update on 2025-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Gaggia Classic
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References:
- Gaggia Classic Pro: 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.