Gaggia Classic vs Pro – Why We Recommend Gaggia Classic Pro?
Gaggia Classic Pro is the upgraded version of Gaggia Classic. Plus, Classic pro has some technological improvements in features that are suitable for entry-level users too. That’s why Classic Pro should be your choice.
Why Gaggia Classic Pro Should Your Choice?
- Gaggia Classic Pro includes filter baskets to give you consistent shot quality; also, you will get a thick layer of crema from almost any coffee when you prepare them with the pressurized basket. Furthermore, you can use them with your grinder to prepare cafe-quality espresso. Besides, the filter baskets are not included in the Gaggia Pro.
- The machine has a commercial steam wand so that you can make microfoam for latte art. But the Gaggia Classic does not have a commercial steam wand in it.
- Gaggia Classic Pro has improved pump mounts that reduce the vibration while brewing. It ensures less noise but creates excellent espresso; on the other hand, the old Gaggia Classic does not have an improved pump mount that means it makes noise.
- Both are built with stainless steel material, but the chances are Gaggia Classic tends to get rusty. It can also not provide you with longer durability, while the Gaggia Classic Pro won’t be rusty since it is built with updated material.
- This machine’s temperature consistency is perfect, and it is always ready to offer you a hot espresso. Besides, the Gaggia Classic temp does not work properly, and the temp never gets above 154 degrees; hence it is unable to prepare perfect hot espresso.
These are the features you will get from the Gaggia Classic Pro, which make this machine far better than the previous model.
.
Similar Features of Gaggia Classic vs Pro
- Gaggia Classic and Pro use a 58mm portafilter that holds the ground espresso beans.
- The water tank is 72 oz, plus the machines have a rapid heat feature, which can provide coffee instantly.
- They have a 3-way solenoid valve that helps control the flow of liquids or coffee for a dry, easily dropped puck.
- They have rocker switches for brewing, steaming, or hot water, and feature lights to show when the machine is heating.
Comaparison Chart: Gaggia Classic vs Pro
| Specifications | Gaggia Classic | Gaggia Classic Pro |
| Editor’s Rating | 4.5 out of 5 | 4.8 out of 5 |
| Portafilter | Commercial | Commercial |
| Microfoam | No | Yes |
| Filter Basket | No | Yes |
| Dimension | 9.5 x 8 x 14.2 inches | 9.5 x 8 x 14.2 inches |
| Weight | 20 pounds | 20 pounds |
| Improved Pump Mount | No | Yes |
| Noise level | Noisy | Less Noisy |
| Power Wattage | 1450 | 1450 |
| Fast Heat-up | 20 seconds | 20 seconds |
| Water Tank | 72 Oz | 72 Oz |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Pod Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| 3-Way Solenoid Valve | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | One Year | One Year |
Differences and Similarities Between Gaggia Classic vs Pro
Design
Gaggia Classic and Classic Pro are designed for the best entry-level semi-automatic espresso machines. They both have a commercial 58mm portafilter, including a commercial steam wand. You can find the machines also come with single, as well as double-shot baskets. Also, they are compatible with the ESE pods. But the steam valve and control buttons of the Gaggia Classic Pro are upgraded, and you can easily use the machine.
Dimension and Weight
Gaggia Classic and Classic Pro share the same dimension plus weight as well. The machines are very compact, so they will perfectly fit to any countertop. If you have a small countertop area, do not worry! The measurement of these Gaggia espressos is; 14.2 inches high, 9.5 inches long, and 8 inches wide. And the 20 pounds weight made it easier for you to take the machine from one place to another if needed.
3-Way Solenoid Valve
The solenoid valves make it easier for the espresso machine used to control the flow of liquids. Gaggia Classic and Gaggia Classic Pro are commercial espresso machines, and they include this fantastic feature. And you won’t find the solenoid valve on the traditional espresso machines. However, the 3-way solenoid valve relieves pressure from the coffee so that you can easily discard the puck.
And the water tank capacity of these two machines is 72 oz; one refill is sufficient for the whole day. You can easily refill or clean it since the water reservoir is removable.
Build-Quality
The build quality of an espresso machine is crucial to consider; fortunately, they use sturdy stainless steel and commercial components. But compared to the Gaggia Classic, the Classic Pro uses an updated stainless steel frame, redesigned for the classic look.
And it makes the machine more durable than the Gaggia Classic. I strongly recommend you select the Gaggia Classic Pro because it will last longer than the previous machine. Another downside of the Gaggia Classic is, that the stainless steel will be rusty, and chances are the parts will be broken.
Commercial Steam Wand
Gaggia Classic Pro is built with a commercial steam wand that gives you full control of the machine while steaming or frothing milk. Also, the machine is capable of preparing microfoam for latte art. On the other hand, the Gaggia Classic has no steam wand; thus, you cannot make latte art.
Easy Control
In terms of controlling the machine, the old version uses heavy-duty snap-acting rocker switches; these switches can be flipped for brewing, steam hot water, or lighting the display while the machine is heating itself.
Gaggia Classic Pro control panel is comparatively upgraded; it uses three switches for steaming, brewing, and power. Each switch of Gaggia Classic Pro has its indicator light. The light says itself when your espresso will be ready or when it is ready for brewing. Since the Pro has an upgraded control function, you can select this machine for yourself.
Maintenance
Gaggia Classic and Pro espresso machines are straightforward to clean compared to other traditional machines. It is recommended to wipe clean inside and outside of the machines with a damp cloth. Ensure to do it after each use; keep in mind, that regular maintenance makes a machine last longer.
Rapid Heating
These espresso machines use dual heating elements to heat the boiler for brewing. When you turn on the machines, they will be steam-ready within 30 seconds. On the other hand, traditional espresso machines require more than a minute to heat the machine, so these two will save you time.
Commercial and Pressurized Basket
If you want to get consistent shot quality, plus a thick layer of crema from every coffee, then Gaggia Classic Pro should be your best choice. Because the machine uses a commercial basket that lets you with the grinder. While these are not included in the Gaggia Classic machine.
Commercial Portafilter
Gaggia Classic and Pro have the same 58mm portafilter; the portafilter ensures you drink cafe-style espresso every time. When I compare the portafilters, I found that the Gaggia Classic portafilter is not durable as the Classic Pro. If you want to get a long-time service from your espresso machine, select the Pro with your eyes closed.
Noise Level
Gaggia made these machines for use at home, so considering these machines’ noise is necessary. Gaggia Classic Pro has improved pump mounts that superior the vibration pumps and reduce the sounds when brewing. Also, it will give you an outstanding espresso with less noise. On the other hand, the previous version does not come with the latest pump, making unpleasant noise.
Warranty
Gaggia Classic and Pro cover a one-year limited warranty; the period will repair any defective parts in the machine. If you fail to meet the warranty requirements, it will not work. Though the machines share the same warranty period, I suggest you go with the Gaggia Classic Pro because it will last longer.
Final Words
When it comes to espresso machines, Gaggia Classic and Pro are good choices for many reasons. When I compared these two, I found the Classic Pro is far better than its rival. It is a commercial machine, including a lot of handy features. So I highly recommend this one for your home. If you do not require these features and need a budget-friendly machine, the Gaggia Classic would be your best bet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gaggia Classic vs Pro
| Is it possible to backflushed in the Gaggia Classic?
Officially, Gaggia said you could not backflush the machine, but it is practically possible to backflush, and there is no issue with that. Tell me the actual size of Gaggia Classic Pro? The actual size of the Gaggia Classic Pro is 8 inches long, 9.5 inches wide, and 14.2 inches high. Also, Gaggia Classic shares the same size, plus weight too. When will the indicator light be ready? The indicator light will take only a minute or two, and if your light is not coming, it means you have a bad sensor. Does the Gaggia Classic Pro have a tamper? It includes a plastic tamper that works fine, and the size of the filter basket is 58mm, which is a standard size. How much time do I need to wait to prepare espresso in Classic Pro? You do not need to wait much because the espresso machine has rapid heating, and the espresso will be prepared within seconds. |
Read other comparison articles here