When it comes to the most iconic semi-professional espresso machine for home, people consider Gaggia Classic vs Pro. When I compared these two, I found the Classic Pro to be a better choice than its counterpart.
Gaggia Classic Pro is the upgraded version of Gaggia Classic. So obviously it has some better technological improvements in features. The biggest improvement is that Gaggia Classic Pro is equipped with a commercial steam wand instead of a Panarello as in the Classic.
As a runner-up, Gaggia Classic is still like a commercial machine, including a lot of handy features. For those who do not care too much about milk foam and want an affordable machine, the Gaggia Classic would be a good choice.
Gaggia Classic vs Pro: Comparision Chart
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gaggia Classic vs Pro: Similarities
Dimension and Weight
Both Gaggia Classic and Classic Pro have the same dimensions, as well as the same weight. Their compact size makes them perfect for any counter. You don’t have to worry about having too much counter space. The dimensions of these Gaggia espressos are; 14.2 inches high, 9.5 inches long, and 8 inches wide. As for the weight of the machines, that was 20 pounds, so it was easy to transport it from one place to another if needed.
58mm filter basket
While many espresso makers at this price come with smaller portafilters, the Gaggia come with a commercial-sized 58mm filter basket. The professional size allows you to use the finest ground coffee and ensures that water is distributed evenly throughout the puck.
3-Way Solenoid Valve
With solenoid valves, the espresso machine can control the flow of liquids more easily. It has this fantastic feature in both Gaggia Classic and Classic Pro espresso machines. 3-way solenoid valve relieves water pressure off the coffee in the drip tray for a dry, easily discarded puck and also for maintenance reasons
Single Boiler
Classic and Classic Pro are only equipped with single boiler. This means that steaming milk and brewing espresso cannot be done simultaneously. It takes approximately a minute to switch between the brewing and steaming settings, allowing the boiler to adjust for the desired function. It is almost always a matter of choosing whether you want to brew your espresso first or steam the milk first.
Gaggia Classic vs Pro: Differences
In my opinion, Gaggia Classic Pro is not just as good as the highly acclaimed original Gaggia classic, but even better. The differences are pretty small, but Gaggia Classic Pro still wipes the floor with the Classic model in a 4-0 win.
1. Flavor
The winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
If you want to get consistent shot quality, plus a thick layer of crema the same as in professional espresso machines in Italian coffee shops, Gaggia Classic Pro should be your best choice. Because the machine uses unpressurized baskets that let you with a grinder and a good tamping technique. It also comes with pressurized baskets.
Meanwhile, the old model comes with only pressurized filter baskets (in most of the countries, but sometimes Gaggia or local dealers changed the package)
As long as you have freshly ground coffee, a well-heated and well-maintained machine, some practice and, most importantly, a good burr grinder, then the Pro can brew espresso as good as in coffee shops.
2. Easy To Use
The winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
Interface
When it comes to the control of the machine, the Classic version uses heavy-duty snap-acting rocker switches; these switches can be flipped for brewing, steaming, or hot water and lighting the display while the machine is heating itself.
The control panel of the Gaggia Classic Pro is comparatively more advanced than the one on the Classic. There are three switches: one for power, one for brewing, and one for steaming. Each of the Gaggia Classic Pro’s switches have an indicator light, so you can see when the machine is on, ready to brew, and ready to steam. I personally see this upgrade more intuitive than old model.
Water Reservoir
Gaggia Classic’s water tank, which is located so much deep into the machine and partly covered by the drip tray. This annoyed me a bit because I could hardly see the water level.
On Gaggia Classic Pro, the housing has the cutaway around the reservoir so you can see how much water you have in the reservoir easier. I mean you can see from the front but now you can also see from the side.
However, a cons at both machines, which Pro has not updated is the water level not visible when low because it hides behind drip tray. As a result, sometimes I didn’t know that I had run out of water in the reservoir to refill.
Pump Mount
As Gaggia made these machines to be used at home, their noise must be considered. It’s nice to have an espresso machine that’s quiet, especially when brewing coffee early in the morning without waking up the whole house.
With Gaggia Classic Pro, the pump mounts are improved, reducing the sound of the pumps when brewing. You’ll also be able to enjoy an outstanding espresso with less noise. The Classic version does not come with the latest pump, making unpleasant noises.
3. Blending Power – Milk System
The winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
The biggest difference between the two models is the steam wand. The Classic model has a plastic Panarello wand which was easier to use but make less satisfying foam, gives more bubbles in frothed milk and offer far less control. The Classic isn’t a machine that can make good latte art.
Commercial metal steam wand with two holes which is perhaps the biggest improvement overall on Classic Pro. The Pro’s wand gives you full control of the machine while steaming or frothing milk. You can switch between cappuccino style – with more air and froth, and a latte with smooth microfoam.
4. Build Quality
The winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
There is no denying that a high build quality espresso machine is one of the most important factors to consider; luckily they are built with stainless steel and commercial components.
The stainless steel on the Gaggia Classic will rust, and parts are likely to be broken. It can not provide you with longer durability. Stainless Steel brings a glossy appearance to Classic, but it is very easy to get fingerprints.
However, compared to the Gaggia Classic, the Classic Pro uses a stainless steel frame, which was redesigned to give it a more classic look and won’t be rusty. And it makes the machine durable than the Gaggia Classic. I strongly believe that Gaggia Classic Pro will last longer than the Classic machine. Moreover, Classic Pro also has fewer plastic parts and It doesn’t have any smells.
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
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 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Product Videos
Related Articles to Gaggia Classic
- Gaggia Classic Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: What Are The Differences?
- Breville Bambino vs Gaggia Classic: Which Is The Better Cut-Price Espresso Machine?
- Delonghi Dedica EC685 vs Gaggia Classic: Which Is More Beginner-Friendly And Which Is More Barista-Like?
- Breville Infuser Vs Gaggia Classic: Detailed Comparison
- Breville Duo Temp Pro Vs Gaggia Classic: Which Machine Is Easier To Operate And Brews Better Coffee?
- Gaggia Brera vs Classic – Super-Automatic Or Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine?
Related Articles to Gaggia Classic Pro
- Gaggia Classic Pro Vs Rancilio Silvia: Detailed Review & Comparison
- Gaggia Classic Pro Vs Quickmill 820: Top 4 Differences Between 2 Classic Espresso Machines
- Flair Pro 2 Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Comparing 4 Crucial Aspects Of 2 Espresso Machines. Peculiar Vs Classic!
- Flair 58 Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: 1 Classic And 1 Alternative Espresso Machine. Which One Do I Prefer More?
- Rancilio Silvia M Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: 2 Straightforward Espresso Machines With Good Feedbacks. Are They For Real?
- Lelit Anna 2 Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: 2 Straightforward Espresso Machines For Beginners. Which Brews Better Coffees?
- Gaggia Classic Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: What Are The Differences?
- Lelit Anna Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Reviewing 2 Affordable Espresso Machines For Offices. Which Is More Worth To Buy?
- Breville Bambino Plus Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Which One Is Better?
- Breville Infuser Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Which One Is Best For You?
- Breville Bambino Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: A Head-To-Head Comparison
- Breville Duo Temp Pro Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Which Entry-Level Espresso Machine Is Better?
- Breville Barista Express vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Which Is Better Innovation?
- Gaggia Brera vs Classic Pro – What Is The Best Automatic Espresso Machine?
- Gaggia Carezza Deluxe vs Classic Pro: Which Is Best For You?
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.