An updated list of what's currently on my coffee bar: www.itsxris.com/brew All the behind-the-scenes equipment I use to make my content: www.itsxris.com/store
Obviously, when you spend 300% more in anything (most of the time), you'll get more consistency. Thousands of people in Italy and all around Europe have a Gaggia Classic as their only espresso machine at home (which is a great luxury to most of us). A very well used one, though. We can make espressos like the ones we will get basically anywhere. Good coffee, good grinders and 1200USD less. Lots of owners have had it for 20+ years and they work like a charm. Aesthetics apart, we don't use the milk wand that much, maybe for only one drink in the morning. So... do we really need a 1750USD machine at home? I guess we would buy a car to use it for our weekends. Wow... we live in different worlds, including James H. We don't even think about these weird things in Italy, France or Spain. It all comes, in the end, to your lifestyle.
You know, being Italian myself is really easy to non invest in a good espresso machine because is full of bars that they can offer you a great espresso for 1 euro (At least before 2023). Now that I live in another country is impossible to me to find a good espresso around (They are all lungo from the italian perspective, if you find a place with a good coffee blend) so one machine like that is starting to make sense now 😂. I didn't buy it, but you know when you have a very strong temptation to buy something? I would like to try the Gaggia because I tried the coffee from a rocket and it is amazing.
Great sum up! I just want to say that with the Gaggia you can steam enough milk for 2 cappuccino too, easily. 03:45 There is just the tip of not waiting for the light to be red under the steam switch, but start steaming after 20 to 30 secs after click the button. In this way the machine will keep generating steam inside the boiler, since it will be never switch on the light of the steam switch. =)
We steam 8 ounces of fridge cold 2% milk around 30 seconds with the GCP, too hot to hold in the hand. It is ready to steam the second cup within half a minute.
I’ve had my rocket for over a year and you touched on fact that once your coffee is dialled in you get the consistency to smash out multiple coffees. Most mornings I make 3-4 coffees in a row , the machine handles it with ease, not to mention saving plenty of dollars 💵 not buying coffee out. Great review .
@@djohnsongolf hey. Yeah definitely. My Lelit has been amazing. The e61 group head makes a big difference. The BBE had a 54mm portafilter. Being able to have a 58mm has made a difference for me. Also, the steam is a lot stronger. The BBE is a good machine, but I wouldn’t go back.
Nice video. I would just point out that, if you’re on a budget, any E61 heat exchanger machine will give you similar results. I upgraded from the Gaggia Classic to a $1050 Expobar Office Lever and it was night and day IMO. I highly recommend installing the $100 group head thermometer for better consistency.
Thank you for you videos! I just purchased the Rocket and the Eureka Mignon Specialita Grinder. I am so so excited! You have great tips and I will probably be commenting with some questions. It’s time for the real deal as no coffee shop is satisfying my need for better quality (milk options, and coffee) !!!!!
You didn't touch on one aspect that I think is important. The Rocket takes 30+ minutes to come up to temperature from cold. Whereas the Gaggia because of the tiny boiler takes about five minutes. Sure you can wait for 10 but you can pull shots in 5. I run a Mignon Knotte grinder for $350. I'm not sure I'd feel comfortable using it with the Rocket. I also found doing the 9.5 OPV spring mod seemed to help with consistency with the Gaggia. Also if you like to to tinker (I do) you can now build a PID for the Gaggia for about $50. This will absolutely lock in temperature and provide that consistency that people look for and different temps for different roasts. You can buy a PID kit for $200 + shipping from Mr Shades but that kind of blows the cost savings of the Gaggia. There's a bunch of videos showing how to do it. You can even get into flow control naughtiness using a cheapo single channel light dimmer to control the pump.
Rocket does not take 30 min (more like 15), and is a million times better. A silvia smoked a gaggia, and the rocket smokes the silvia (even PID). All about consistency playa.
I've had my Rocket Appartamento for almost 4 years now and it's such a power house in my opinion for the price point. I first got a more automated espresso machine The Jura E6 and for about the same price I'm glad I returned it about 3 weeks after getting it and going with the Rocket. I got the base rocket and at the time I think it was about $1400ish. MILES better than the Jura. Having the ability to dial in your own coffee and steam for multiple drinks is way better and the Rocket is just built like a tank. I had only 1 issue since owning the machine and it was a fuse that blew or one of the small heating sensor went bad I can't remember but it wasn't heating the boiler. It was a simple fix, still under warranty and customer service was amazing on the phone walking me through the fix. It took about 5-7 shots to really dial in the dose but I use pretty much the same coffee all the time "Kaui Estate roast" and it pulls great shots super constantly. You can surly tell the difference even from the beginning bag of coffee towards the end of the bag but still great. Steaming milk is super fast and easy and can be done at the same time as shots. I do wish it had a larger water source or a plum in option, especially sitting under a cabinet I have to refill about 2x a week but other than that I'm loving it and I know it will last a long long time. I will say mine is a tough on the louder side too but nothing earth shattering. That is really the huge difference between this priced machine and say a 3500-5000$ machine
Great video! Do you have any videos on how to maintain and clean these machines? Also what is more reliable for someone who doesn't want to work on them?
I have a thermometer on my Rocket group head and always get consisted results now. My coffee beans work best at 204 F It’s a machine I recommend to everyone once they have learned all the basics fundamentals of espresso and have had practice with a regular machine. I used my Breville machine for five heads before switching over to a prosumer machine. Worth the upgrade!
the gaggia ist actually 360 EUR - and you can do some updates: 5 EUR for a new spring (looks like a spring for a ballpan)to get 9 bar, or 6 bar. Or a better themosthat for 120 EUR... there are shops that offer that stuff ; )
Great video. I went from a Gaggia to a ECM Classika PID. The Gaggia is great. After some mods like a precision shower screen and precision baskets with a naked portafilter, and a PID installed,I was eventually pulling great shots. I highly recommend the Gaggia if you want to make great espresso but don't want to pay for the next level. As Xris says, you get better temperature stability with the more expensive machine, and you can add things like a flow control device. Are the shots better? A little. A big difference is the Gaggia didn't have the same range when it came to different roasts. With the ECM I have more control to adjust to light and dark roasts. Again if you want to jump in without mortgaging your house (if you have one, I don't) go for the Gaggia. But make sure you get a good burr grinder to go with it. Thanks for the excellent video!
I myself just got the Gaggia a few weeks ago along with a Breville pro grinder, since I'm the only coffee drinker in my house (the wife can't drink coffee because of medical reasons) I figured the Gaggia was good for me at this point, maybe one day I can afford a machine like the Rocket.
@@brilandis2 Υια σου Βασιλεα! I like to have fun with a variety of bean types from the very light to the medium, and occasionally slightly dark beans. I found that particularly with some of the light beans it was hard to grind fine enough to stop the shot from running too fast. I think this is due to the pressure on the Gaggia being set too high (see below). But if you stick to espresso blends most of the time, you'll be fine. It's a great machine. I would recommend getting an OPV (overpressure valve) from Shades of Coffee in the UK (very cheap - around $25 I think). The Gaggia is set at around 12 bars of pressure, which is too high. With the OPV (which you have to install yourself, but there is an instruction video on the Shades of Coffee site), you can lower the basic pressure to 9 bars or lower, depending on you preference. Or, as I said, if you stick to a narrower range of espresso blends you'll be fine with the Gaggia as is. I loved my Gaggia. Compact, easy to use, makes great espresso.
@@alexlazaridisf.7276 thanks for your response Alex! I have installed the 9 bar opv. with the classika are you getting better shots than with the gaggia with pid and opv ? I am trying to decide whether I should install the pid or just get a better machine. I use a sette 270 grinder and I don’t froth milk. Μόνο εσπρέσο και φρεντο εσπρέσο 😁
@@brilandis2 Well I'm getting better shots with the more challenging beans. But with easy to work with beans, I think the Gaggia is every bit as good. I had a PID put into my Gaggia when I bought it so I've never made espresso without one. I think temperature control is essential. I sold my Gaggia privately after 6 months for a decent price. With the flow control installed I think my ECM Classika cost me around $2,200, so it's a much bigger outlay. I also use precision VST baskets (which force you to grind much finer) and installed precision shower screen (I did all this on my Gaggia as well). One of the things about using the flow restrictor is that it's just more fun to experiment with. It takes a while to get the hang of it and how you use it changes with every espresso. On the other hand if you generally always use the same beans, you can set your profile and repeat it every time. Και εγω, μονο εσπρεσο! Ειδελα να ξερω πως κανεις το φρεντο με το Gaggia.
"Emptying the drip trays at least once a week" Meanwhile me over here with my Bambino Plus, afraid not to empty the tray after flushing the group head once. 😂
Well cost not being a factor the Rocket is the way to go. Currently I’m very happy with my Gaggia because I don’t do more than one or two drinks back to back. Maybe in the future I may treat myself but it’s tough to justify the expense for now.
Great video. I may upgrade the machine my wife and I have (Gaggia Classic Pro) to a Rocket sometime next year, we just bought ours so we're still pretty excited about just having one. I do agree about the grinder though, and it cost us more than the actual machine. We got the Sette 270 and I am actually really glad we did. I almost got the Wi version, but if you're grinding by weight on a per dose basis, weighing it yourself will save you like $300 and is just as accurate. Also, I find it cleaner, since I hate grinding directly into a portafilter due to static and the mess that follows. In any case we are really happy with the Gaggia and Sette combo and have finally dialed in some really nice espresso, using the Lavazza Super Crema coffee - able to now get 18g in the filter to come out as approx. 38g of coffee in about 24.5 sec. I could probably adjust the grind by a little to get that a few seconds longer and get the output down to 36g, but h onestly I am really happy.
@@itsxris to be honest I quite like the super crema and so does my wife, but it could be that we just haven't tasted recently roasted beans. We are still pretty new to the whole coffee scene and I am still pretty excited that I was able to dial in my espresso for the first time lol. but I guess part of all of this is trying new things so I'm going to see if I can find some Roasters in the area and buy direct from people who have roasted the beans within the last week or two instead of from April of this year LOL.
Back again. We had something like the Gaggia, only it was a Starbucks single boiler model. They all die. Ours lasted us about 20 years. So pretty good for a $350.00 model. Been looking at Profitec Pro 600 PID or just the ECM, single boiler Clasika PID. Still comparing. My wife and I just drink black coffee with our BUNN brewer. Our second one now. But would be nice to have an HX or double boiler PID where the steam boiler could be turned off until folks did come over. Thanks for sharing your video. Good job! You gave me more info to think about now.
Nice video. The Gaggia certainly seems to be an excellent value; I cannot see what a Silvia at $750 would really have over it for the cost difference. In the $1500 to $1700 range there are many solid options. I first wanted the Apartmento, but the Berreza BZ13 has PID and an electrically heated group head for only $1550 and so far I'm pleased with it.
Bought a Gaggia a few weeks ago. I like it, but the Apartamento Nera is my dream! I will definitely have to get one some day so I can have an all Rocket setup! (I have a Rocket Faustino grinder)
I spend a lot of money on coffee and am debating just going into home espresso with the rocket. Yeah it has a higher price tag but I feel like I could use it for years
Great comparison, also went for the rocket! Where did you get those rubber mats? Especially the one that fits on top of the appartamento perfectly? Need it so much now that i know it exists... :D
high quality video and nice comparison, most for people on the beginning of exciting tour of coffee world :) I have a Rocket Mozzafiato and must agree :) Gaggia is good, but only for a few espresso a day. If you're really plannig milk frothing, machines with a bigger boiler (or dual) worth it :)
Nice video, although I can pull 2x double shot lattes in under 4-5mins easily. 2 mins to grind and pull two double shots, then 2mins to steam 2x milk pitchers back to back. I do have a PID fitted to my Gaggia Classic Pro, although I could still do the same before I fitted it, just the temperature stability wasn't as good. FYI -Once I flick the steam switch its up to temp (145c) within 20secs with the PID. I recently took my machine on holidays and was making 6 'back to back' single shot lattes each morning with ease
I have to admit that I find the E61 pretty attractive. But I was surprised to find out that the lever is completely unnecessary, since all it does is push a switch when you lift it. I always though it was opening/closing a valve. Still, for some reason I find this more interesting than machines which simply have a brew button, like on many Bezzeras.
Thanks for making this comparison video. Now that you've had the Appartamento Nero for a couple of months, are you satisfied or are you wanting to upgrade in the future! I started with looking at the Gaggia Classic Pro and then the Appartamento and now i'm looking at the Profitec 700. It seems like no matter what machine you buy, there's always something you don't like about it and I'm even talking about the Linia Mini and Nuova Simonelli Appia Life. I need to come back down to earth and figure out what machine would give me a coffee shop expresso at an affordable price and be happy with it for years to come. Thanks!
Absolutely satisfied - any upgrade beyond this would either be one of two things. One, a Decent Espresso machine for the extra nerdy or two, a La Marzocco Linea Mini or GS3 for the flex. Definitely not looking to upgrade anytime soon. Definitely figure out what you want in a machine - will you benefit from PID and Flow Control? Or do you just think you would because that's what people tell you and what you read. I know for myself I don't want to mess with even more variables so I was set on a powerful HX machine (to make multiple drinks back to back) like the Appartamento (not to mention the good looks of the machine). If I lived alone, as much as I'd love the Appartamento, its hard to justify getting that over a modded GCP (9-Bar mod) just to pull a single drink everyday. But also knowing my habits, I would want to upgrade from the GCP. So far I've had no remorse with the Appartamento and don't see a need to upgrade anytime soon! A good machine alternative is the Lelit Mara X, has extra features from the Rocket and about the same price if not less (but not as good looking imo although this part is subjective - another consideration for me was the looks since I shoot photos and take videos).
Dear Chris, another great video there, thank you so much for taking the time doing this, the video's quality is just superb. I'm also considering upgrading (from a Breville), currently looking at Bezzera BZ10 as the price is quite reasonable where I live (Australia) compared to the Rocket Appartamento (which is nearly $3000 AUD). Before you made the upgrade, did you consider the BZ10? Or any other Heat Exchanger machines? Thanks, Lam.
I would love to hear your take on the difference between the Eureka and the Niche. Why choose one over the other and which one to get if u can only buy one?
Hey Xris great review. I have also the appartamento and I make one double espresso(2 Cortados) a day, but I’m filling the water reservoir every 2 days(2 or 3 times a week). How long are you heating up your machine before you using it? Anyway, I like your videos and keep up with the great work.
I try to use a brush to clean out my portafilter instead of using the water (helps extend how long it takes before refilling) I typically like to wait 30mins, but 15 is definitely fine too. Thank you! I'm working on improving quality so smaller video frequency but hopefully better quality :)
Hey man, why didn’t you get a Mozzafiato w/ the PID, brew manometer, beefier build quality, insulated boiler? These were the reasons I ditched my Appartamento!
@@itsxris totally man, Idrinkcoffee just gave me $650 USD for my Appartamento and I jumped immediately to the Mozzafiato. Give them a shout. They’re giving great store credit for the Appartamento right now.
Have gaggia classic pro, was looking into apartamento, but just can’t justify a hefty price tag and at the end it does not produce a better espresso shot…
Beautiful video. I appreciate both machines but wow, the design and craftsmanship of the Rocket! Just WOW! I bet real coffee enthusiasts are horrified with those 100% plastic Nespresso Vertuo machines - those pods taste really bad like vending machine coffee!
I am trying to decide between the gcp and the lelit Anna (2) with PID. Don’t really know which . Read a bit regarding aluminum boiler and brass boiler. Also, do anyone know the difference in speed between them when using the wand? Lelit has 57mm also . Do the pros of lelit pid and boiler etc result in more consistency shots and easier handling you think?
I'd say the GCP is more beginner-friendly. It's not as robust and doesn't have as much steam power as the Silvia, but apparently it doesn't have as wild of a temperature swing as the Silvia. Both machines would benefit from adding a PID, so you don't have to bother with temperature surfing.
@@itsxris The Silvia Pro goes for $1700, which is about the same price as your Appartamento; I think Ralph was referring to the OG Silvia, given the small price difference :)
About 5 seconds. Turn off the steam circuit, purge the boiler by running the pump with the portafilter off (big cloud of steam) wait for water then turn off the pump and load the portafilter. Your good to go.
Just wondering why you didn't look at the Profitec Pro 500 with the built in PID for the same cost at the Rocket? Asking since I am in the market for a HX. I have the Niche Zero already :)
Hi! Great video bro! Excuse me I bought a niche zero grinder on the pack for March (pre order). How does it go with the gaggia classic pro? Do you think I have to upgrade my machine too, ? (I added the PID Kit to my gaggia classic pro) I just do 3 espresso per day (mainly)
@@itsxris yeahh I'm in that group. I already installed a PID kit for my gaggia classic pro and works great. So, I'm not sure if worth the money to upgrade my espresso machine because I upgraded my espresso grinder (for a niche zero grinder) or with my current machine I can achieve greats espresso results just upgrading my grinder.
@@maurodelgadoo No need for an expensive espresso machine if it is not multiple back-to-back shots. Also assuming you're not into too much latte art game. Gaggia with 9 bar adjustment and a PID will provide similar espresso taste results. Given you got a decent grinder to pair with. You do need to wait >15min btw shots with Gaggia, though.
I need a espresso machine and found the gaggia classic pro for 150$ less than the brevillle barista express and I’m thinking of staying with the gaggia and I’ll get a grinder for it. I don’t drink espresso I rather make latte’s or other espresso based drinks so I don’t think I need a 1000$+ machine for now I have a lot to learn yet. Anyways thanks for the awesome video enjoyed the editing, keep it up!
I have an opportunity buy a used (but in very good condition) Rocket for the price of brand new Gaggia or Breville Barista Express. I guess it’s a no-brainer to go for a Rocket even though I am not at a barista-level yet, right?
Very loaded question - check out resources like r/espresso to do some research! Or check out my latest video (goes live at 9AM EST today) about how to pick an espresso machine!
The Breville is definitely going to be a more hobby type machine that lets you fine tune the taste, the Gaggia Brera seems to be a superautomatic machine so you might have less flexibility there with fine tuning
@@itsxris thanks for your response! that’s true but since you have gaggia do you think it makes better tasting coffee or would it be similar to a Breville? 😊
E61 machines have been around for decades, with good reason. They're reliable, and because they share a lot of common parts, can be easily serviced and maintained for many, many years. The Gaggia is a great beginner machine, but there are lots of benefits to getting an E61 heat exchanger or dual boiler. Rocket pricing is pretty standard compared to other brands such as Profitec/ECM, Bezzera, Quick Mill, etc.
That rocket looks like one of those dreams you don’t want to wake up from 😅 based on looks alone it is worth the difference, especially if you want justification for taking up half the kitchen space🤣
You did well. I had a Breville Duel Infuser then I got smart and purchased a Gaggia Classic Pro. Two worlds apart in quality and experience even though they're around the same price.
e61 group heads in 2020 (particularly for home setups) are silly, outdated designs. They're inefficient, take way way too long to heat up and actually are NOT thermally stable. It's 2020 - get a machine with a saturated group head, or even an electrically heated one. While you're at it, get a machine with a PID, and one with dual boilers not an HX that requires cooling flushes like this Rocket. Unfortunately the Italian made machines are all hugely overpriced for what you get.
@@pierregov9719 Silly question. For what situation? Home? How many shots per day? What budget? Espresso, Milky or both? Do you need to be able to pull multiple shots at once and/or back to back? How much space do you have? I recommend going to r/espresso or r/coffee on Reddit and asking for your specific situation there.
you upgraded... lol all you had to do was spend $100 and install a PID on the Gaggia and you would have consistent shots, temperature control for different roasts and great and steam power.
An updated list of what's currently on my coffee bar: www.itsxris.com/brew
All the behind-the-scenes equipment I use to make my content: www.itsxris.com/store
Obviously, when you spend 300% more in anything (most of the time), you'll get more consistency. Thousands of people in Italy and all around Europe have a Gaggia Classic as their only espresso machine at home (which is a great luxury to most of us). A very well used one, though. We can make espressos like the ones we will get basically anywhere. Good coffee, good grinders and 1200USD less. Lots of owners have had it for 20+ years and they work like a charm. Aesthetics apart, we don't use the milk wand that much, maybe for only one drink in the morning. So... do we really need a 1750USD machine at home? I guess we would buy a car to use it for our weekends. Wow... we live in different worlds, including James H. We don't even think about these weird things in Italy, France or Spain. It all comes, in the end, to your lifestyle.
You know, being Italian myself is really easy to non invest in a good espresso machine because is full of bars that they can offer you a great espresso for 1 euro (At least before 2023). Now that I live in another country is impossible to me to find a good espresso around (They are all lungo from the italian perspective, if you find a place with a good coffee blend) so one machine like that is starting to make sense now 😂. I didn't buy it, but you know when you have a very strong temptation to buy something? I would like to try the Gaggia because I tried the coffee from a rocket and it is amazing.
@@keropaci agree!
“And don’t forget to save at least $250 more for a decent grinder...” then casually showcased his pristine $700 Niche Zero... 🤔😂🤣😏😜
Love the increasing production quality. Everything looks crisp!
trying my best! glad you noticed :D
One thing to add about the e61's is the way longer warm-up time compared to the Gaggia. The clear water tank is also helpful.
Great sum up! I just want to say that with the Gaggia you can steam enough milk for 2 cappuccino too, easily. 03:45 There is just the tip of not waiting for the light to be red under the steam switch, but start steaming after 20 to 30 secs after click the button. In this way the machine will keep generating steam inside the boiler, since it will be never switch on the light of the steam switch. =)
🙏Thanks so much
We steam 8 ounces of fridge cold 2% milk around 30 seconds with the GCP, too hot to hold in the hand. It is ready to steam the second cup within half a minute.
I’ve had my rocket for over a year and you touched on fact that once your coffee is dialled in you get the consistency to smash out multiple coffees. Most mornings I make 3-4 coffees in a row , the machine handles it with ease, not to mention saving plenty of dollars 💵 not buying coffee out. Great review .
Nice channel man! Just upgraded this fall from a barista express to a HX LELIT Mara X.
Love channels like these. Keep up the good content.
Are you noticing the difference? Thinking of upgrading to Rocket
@@djohnsongolf hey. Yeah definitely. My Lelit has been amazing. The e61 group head makes a big difference. The BBE had a 54mm portafilter. Being able to have a 58mm has made a difference for me. Also, the steam is a lot stronger. The BBE is a good machine, but I wouldn’t go back.
I was just looking for this comparison!!
And you gave me a clear answer.
Thank you!!
glad I could help!
I see you used to make videos about custom mechanical keyboards aswell!! coffee enthusiast and mech keyboard user gets a sub anyday!!
Nice video. I would just point out that, if you’re on a budget, any E61 heat exchanger machine will give you similar results. I upgraded from the Gaggia Classic to a $1050 Expobar Office Lever and it was night and day IMO. I highly recommend installing the $100 group head thermometer for better consistency.
Thank you for you videos! I just purchased the Rocket and the Eureka Mignon Specialita Grinder. I am so so excited! You have great tips and I will probably be commenting with some questions. It’s time for the real deal as no coffee shop is satisfying my need for better quality (milk options, and coffee) !!!!!
I just love the look of the Rocket Apartamento, don't know it compares to similarly priced models?
You didn't touch on one aspect that I think is important. The Rocket takes 30+ minutes to come up to temperature from cold. Whereas the Gaggia because of the tiny boiler takes about five minutes. Sure you can wait for 10 but you can pull shots in 5. I run a Mignon Knotte grinder for $350. I'm not sure I'd feel comfortable using it with the Rocket. I also found doing the 9.5 OPV spring mod seemed to help with consistency with the Gaggia.
Also if you like to to tinker (I do) you can now build a PID for the Gaggia for about $50. This will absolutely lock in temperature and provide that consistency that people look for and different temps for different roasts. You can buy a PID kit for $200 + shipping from Mr Shades but that kind of blows the cost savings of the Gaggia. There's a bunch of videos showing how to do it. You can even get into flow control naughtiness using a cheapo single channel light dimmer to control the pump.
Rocket does not take 30 min (more like 15), and is a million times better. A silvia smoked a gaggia, and the rocket smokes the silvia (even PID). All about consistency playa.
great review, quality content. keep it coming mate
I've had my Rocket Appartamento for almost 4 years now and it's such a power house in my opinion for the price point. I first got a more automated espresso machine The Jura E6 and for about the same price I'm glad I returned it about 3 weeks after getting it and going with the Rocket. I got the base rocket and at the time I think it was about $1400ish. MILES better than the Jura. Having the ability to dial in your own coffee and steam for multiple drinks is way better and the Rocket is just built like a tank. I had only 1 issue since owning the machine and it was a fuse that blew or one of the small heating sensor went bad I can't remember but it wasn't heating the boiler. It was a simple fix, still under warranty and customer service was amazing on the phone walking me through the fix.
It took about 5-7 shots to really dial in the dose but I use pretty much the same coffee all the time "Kaui Estate roast" and it pulls great shots super constantly. You can surly tell the difference even from the beginning bag of coffee towards the end of the bag but still great. Steaming milk is super fast and easy and can be done at the same time as shots. I do wish it had a larger water source or a plum in option, especially sitting under a cabinet I have to refill about 2x a week but other than that I'm loving it and I know it will last a long long time.
I will say mine is a tough on the louder side too but nothing earth shattering. That is really the huge difference between this priced machine and say a 3500-5000$ machine
Just a pity about the long warm up time before 1 st shot.
Planning to get the regular Appartamento + niche zero setup going soon. Great video, keep up the good work. :)
Don't get the rocket. Get a hx machine with pid
Great video! Do you have any videos on how to maintain and clean these machines? Also what is more reliable for someone who doesn't want to work on them?
You should also mention that the Gaggia is often modded with PID and 9-bar OPV, which improves the shots.
I have a thermometer on my Rocket group head and always get consisted results now. My
coffee beans work best at 204 F
It’s a machine I recommend to everyone once they have learned all the basics fundamentals of espresso and have had practice with a regular machine. I used my Breville machine for five heads before switching over to a prosumer machine. Worth the upgrade!
This will be my exact upgrade, from Infuser to Apartamento. Grinder is fine for now, since it is a Niche.
Love your stuff bro, thanks for the amazing video and the smooth editing
the gaggia ist actually 360 EUR - and you can do some updates: 5 EUR for a new spring (looks like a spring for a ballpan)to get 9 bar, or 6 bar. Or a better themosthat for 120 EUR... there are shops that offer that stuff ; )
Great video. I went from a Gaggia to a ECM Classika PID. The Gaggia is great. After some mods like a precision shower screen and precision baskets with a naked portafilter, and a PID installed,I was eventually pulling great shots. I highly recommend the Gaggia if you want to make great espresso but don't want to pay for the next level. As Xris says, you get better temperature stability with the more expensive machine, and you can add things like a flow control device. Are the shots better? A little. A big difference is the Gaggia didn't have the same range when it came to different roasts. With the ECM I have more control to adjust to light and dark roasts. Again if you want to jump in without mortgaging your house (if you have one, I don't) go for the Gaggia. But make sure you get a good burr grinder to go with it. Thanks for the excellent video!
I myself just got the Gaggia a few weeks ago along with a Breville pro grinder, since I'm the only coffee drinker in my house (the wife can't drink coffee because of medical reasons) I figured the Gaggia was good for me at this point, maybe one day I can afford a machine like the Rocket.
In what way the gaggia didn’t have the range? Asking because I am thinking to upgrade from the gaggia :)
@@brilandis2 Υια σου Βασιλεα! I like to have fun with a variety of bean types from the very light to the medium, and occasionally slightly dark beans. I found that particularly with some of the light beans it was hard to grind fine enough to stop the shot from running too fast. I think this is due to the pressure on the Gaggia being set too high (see below). But if you stick to espresso blends most of the time, you'll be fine. It's a great machine. I would recommend getting an OPV (overpressure valve) from Shades of Coffee in the UK (very cheap - around $25 I think). The Gaggia is set at around 12 bars of pressure, which is too high. With the OPV (which you have to install yourself, but there is an instruction video on the Shades of Coffee site), you can lower the basic pressure to 9 bars or lower, depending on you preference. Or, as I said, if you stick to a narrower range of espresso blends you'll be fine with the Gaggia as is. I loved my Gaggia. Compact, easy to use, makes great espresso.
@@alexlazaridisf.7276 thanks for your response Alex! I have installed the 9 bar opv. with the classika are you getting better shots than with the gaggia with pid and opv ? I am trying to decide whether I should install the pid or just get a better machine. I use a sette 270 grinder and I don’t froth milk. Μόνο εσπρέσο και φρεντο εσπρέσο 😁
@@brilandis2 Well I'm getting better shots with the more challenging beans. But with easy to work with beans, I think the Gaggia is every bit as good. I had a PID put into my Gaggia when I bought it so I've never made espresso without one. I think temperature control is essential. I sold my Gaggia privately after 6 months for a decent price. With the flow control installed I think my ECM Classika cost me around $2,200, so it's a much bigger outlay. I also use precision VST baskets (which force you to grind much finer) and installed precision shower screen (I did all this on my Gaggia as well). One of the things about using the flow restrictor is that it's just more fun to experiment with. It takes a while to get the hang of it and how you use it changes with every espresso. On the other hand if you generally always use the same beans, you can set your profile and repeat it every time. Και εγω, μονο εσπρεσο! Ειδελα να ξερω πως κανεις το φρεντο με το Gaggia.
"Emptying the drip trays at least once a week"
Meanwhile me over here with my Bambino Plus, afraid not to empty the tray after flushing the group head once. 😂
Well cost not being a factor the Rocket is the way to go. Currently I’m very happy with my Gaggia because I don’t do more than one or two drinks back to back. Maybe in the future I may treat myself but it’s tough to justify the expense for now.
Lovely video and spot on commentary. Thanks so much!
Just landed here tonight. That was a great video. Thank you!
Great video. I may upgrade the machine my wife and I have (Gaggia Classic Pro) to a Rocket sometime next year, we just bought ours so we're still pretty excited about just having one. I do agree about the grinder though, and it cost us more than the actual machine. We got the Sette 270 and I am actually really glad we did. I almost got the Wi version, but if you're grinding by weight on a per dose basis, weighing it yourself will save you like $300 and is just as accurate. Also, I find it cleaner, since I hate grinding directly into a portafilter due to static and the mess that follows. In any case we are really happy with the Gaggia and Sette combo and have finally dialed in some really nice espresso, using the Lavazza Super Crema coffee - able to now get 18g in the filter to come out as approx. 38g of coffee in about 24.5 sec. I could probably adjust the grind by a little to get that a few seconds longer and get the output down to 36g, but h onestly I am really happy.
nice!! now just upgrade the beans ;) I tried the super crema but just couldn't enjoy it personally. fresh beans all the way for me!
@@itsxris to be honest I quite like the super crema and so does my wife, but it could be that we just haven't tasted recently roasted beans. We are still pretty new to the whole coffee scene and I am still pretty excited that I was able to dial in my espresso for the first time lol.
but I guess part of all of this is trying new things so I'm going to see if I can find some Roasters in the area and buy direct from people who have roasted the beans within the last week or two instead of from April of this year LOL.
Back again. We had something like the Gaggia, only it was a Starbucks single boiler model. They all die. Ours lasted us about 20 years. So pretty good for a $350.00 model. Been looking at Profitec Pro 600 PID or just the ECM, single boiler Clasika PID. Still comparing. My wife and I just drink black coffee with our BUNN brewer. Our second one now. But would be nice to have an HX or double boiler PID where the steam boiler could be turned off until folks did come over. Thanks for sharing your video. Good job! You gave me more info to think about now.
thanks! I have a vid coming next week about choosing your first espresso machine ;)
Nice video. The Gaggia certainly seems to be an excellent value; I cannot see what a Silvia at $750 would really have over it for the cost difference. In the $1500 to $1700 range there are many solid options. I first wanted the Apartmento, but the Berreza BZ13 has PID and an electrically heated group head for only $1550 and so far I'm pleased with it.
More steam. The Silvia's boiler is 3 times the size. However I still haven't made the jump from the Classic. It still fulfills our needs.
Bought a Gaggia a few weeks ago. I like it, but the Apartamento Nera is my dream! I will definitely have to get one some day so I can have an all Rocket setup! (I have a Rocket Faustino grinder)
In the distant future I'm hoping to get a custom designed GS3 or LMLM ;)
I spend a lot of money on coffee and am debating just going into home espresso with the rocket. Yeah it has a higher price tag but I feel like I could use it for years
Great comparison, also went for the rocket! Where did you get those rubber mats? Especially the one that fits on top of the appartamento perfectly? Need it so much now that i know it exists... :D
the rubber mats on the counter are rubber bar mats, the sheet on top of the machine is a perforated shelf liner cut to size
high quality video and nice comparison, most for people on the beginning of exciting tour of coffee world :) I have a Rocket Mozzafiato and must agree :) Gaggia is good, but only for a few espresso a day. If you're really plannig milk frothing, machines with a bigger boiler (or dual) worth it :)
Great video, great narrative and great voice bro.
Nice video, although I can pull 2x double shot lattes in under 4-5mins easily. 2 mins to grind and pull two double shots, then 2mins to steam 2x milk pitchers back to back. I do have a PID fitted to my Gaggia Classic Pro, although I could still do the same before I fitted it, just the temperature stability wasn't as good. FYI -Once I flick the steam switch its up to temp (145c) within 20secs with the PID. I recently took my machine on holidays and was making 6 'back to back' single shot lattes each morning with ease
I love the Rocket - the only thing the Rocket needs is a PID.
Rocket R58 has it but $3k
And 500 bucks less of price. MaraX kinda beats its ass and it's 300 cheaper.
Thanks for the unbiased review 👍
I have to admit that I find the E61 pretty attractive. But I was surprised to find out that the lever is completely unnecessary, since all it does is push a switch when you lift it. I always though it was opening/closing a valve. Still, for some reason I find this more interesting than machines which simply have a brew button, like on many Bezzeras.
the lever does allow for pre-infusion if you pulled if up halfway, I simply don't use it tho
Thanks for making this comparison video. Now that you've had the Appartamento Nero for a couple of months, are you satisfied or are you wanting to upgrade in the future! I started with looking at the Gaggia Classic Pro and then the Appartamento and now i'm looking at the Profitec 700. It seems like no matter what machine you buy, there's always something you don't like about it and I'm even talking about the Linia Mini and Nuova Simonelli Appia Life. I need to come back down to earth and figure out what machine would give me a coffee shop expresso at an affordable price and be happy with it for years to come. Thanks!
Absolutely satisfied - any upgrade beyond this would either be one of two things. One, a Decent Espresso machine for the extra nerdy or two, a La Marzocco Linea Mini or GS3 for the flex. Definitely not looking to upgrade anytime soon.
Definitely figure out what you want in a machine - will you benefit from PID and Flow Control? Or do you just think you would because that's what people tell you and what you read. I know for myself I don't want to mess with even more variables so I was set on a powerful HX machine (to make multiple drinks back to back) like the Appartamento (not to mention the good looks of the machine).
If I lived alone, as much as I'd love the Appartamento, its hard to justify getting that over a modded GCP (9-Bar mod) just to pull a single drink everyday. But also knowing my habits, I would want to upgrade from the GCP.
So far I've had no remorse with the Appartamento and don't see a need to upgrade anytime soon! A good machine alternative is the Lelit Mara X, has extra features from the Rocket and about the same price if not less (but not as good looking imo although this part is subjective - another consideration for me was the looks since I shoot photos and take videos).
@@itsxris Decent are overpriced and definitely ugly! Great videos, I really enjoy having basically the same set up as yourself.
Dear Chris, another great video there, thank you so much for taking the time doing this, the video's quality is just superb.
I'm also considering upgrading (from a Breville), currently looking at Bezzera BZ10 as the price is quite reasonable where I live (Australia) compared to the Rocket Appartamento (which is nearly $3000 AUD). Before you made the upgrade, did you consider the BZ10? Or any other Heat Exchanger machines?
Thanks, Lam.
thank you! I did consider a profitec pro 500 and 600 as well as a lelit mara x, but ultimately went with the rocket
Amazing quality. I have a Niche/Breville Infuser setup, and am currently saving for and Appartamento
the Niche is great, endgame home grinder for sure
The difference in the filming quality from just a short period of time ago is craaaaaazy
I would love to hear your take on the difference between the Eureka and the Niche.
Why choose one over the other and which one to get if u can only buy one?
Hey Xris great review. I have also the appartamento and I make one double espresso(2 Cortados) a day, but I’m filling the water reservoir every 2 days(2 or 3 times a week). How long are you heating up your machine before you using it? Anyway, I like your videos and keep up with the great work.
I try to use a brush to clean out my portafilter instead of using the water (helps extend how long it takes before refilling)
I typically like to wait 30mins, but 15 is definitely fine too.
Thank you! I'm working on improving quality so smaller video frequency but hopefully better quality :)
Hey man, why didn’t you get a Mozzafiato w/ the PID, brew manometer, beefier build quality, insulated boiler? These were the reasons I ditched my Appartamento!
price 😅 at the time at least, now I mightve chosen to go for it!
@@itsxris totally man, Idrinkcoffee just gave me $650 USD for my Appartamento and I jumped immediately to the Mozzafiato. Give them a shout. They’re giving great store credit for the Appartamento right now.
Have gaggia classic pro, was looking into apartamento, but just can’t justify a hefty price tag and at the end it does not produce a better espresso shot…
You really can’t compare any machines unless you do it side by side in real time with both machines getting the same grind at the same time...
Nice video fun and informative, thank you
man I love this review!
thank you!
Great review!
Great video! I would go with the rocket if I were to get into espresso 🚀
Beautiful video. I appreciate both machines but wow, the design and craftsmanship of the Rocket! Just WOW! I bet real coffee enthusiasts are horrified with those 100% plastic Nespresso Vertuo machines - those pods taste really bad like vending machine coffee!
How’s the temperature control on the Rocket?
Nice review
Have you noticed a big difference in your shot when putting in the 9bar spring in the gaggia?
Hi, my shelf have 35,5cm (14 pol) Then , i dont have more space or another placê in the kitchen.
My complain Would bê is It secure?
Thanks
How did you only empty your Gaggia Classic's water tray weekly? I make 3-4 cups of coffee a day and find myself emptying it daily.
Very informative video bro
What's the alternative/better to Gaggia in that price range that can last for years?
Why do you think the temp control was not included in the Rocket??
I am trying to decide between the gcp and the lelit Anna (2) with PID.
Don’t really know which . Read a bit regarding aluminum boiler and brass boiler. Also, do anyone know the difference in speed between them when using the wand?
Lelit has 57mm also . Do the pros of lelit pid and boiler etc result in more consistency shots and easier handling you think?
Great video. Should I pay the extra $250 for a Rancilio Sylvia or go for the Gaggia?
thanks! imo the rancilio pro with the pid is a pretty solid machine/deal for the price - if I did it over from the start, I'd go for the rancilio
I'd say the GCP is more beginner-friendly. It's not as robust and doesn't have as much steam power as the Silvia, but apparently it doesn't have as wild of a temperature swing as the Silvia. Both machines would benefit from adding a PID, so you don't have to bother with temperature surfing.
@@itsxris The Silvia Pro goes for $1700, which is about the same price as your Appartamento; I think Ralph was referring to the OG Silvia, given the small price difference :)
Pounds and ounces, OK my friend, very useful in today's scientific world. How much is it in rainbow droplets?
2 leprechauns and 43 rainbow droplets with a splash of gold flakes
Thanks for the comparison. How long does one need to wait after making 2 drinks on the gaggia in order to make more?
About 5 seconds. Turn off the steam circuit, purge the boiler by running the pump with the portafilter off (big cloud of steam) wait for water then turn off the pump and load the portafilter. Your good to go.
l just bough a sage barista touch and serously thinking to give it back to buy a rocket appartamento, l am so confused:( is there anyone for advise?
Just wondering why you didn't look at the Profitec Pro 500 with the built in PID for the same cost at the Rocket? Asking since I am in the market for a HX. I have the Niche Zero already :)
One of my last points, aesthetics ;) You might be getting better value with the PP or a Lelit machine
What’s the point in comparing one machine with one you no longer have🤷🏻♂️
Thought this was going to be a side by side and taste test video
look at recent videos on the channel.
Hi what the best for beginer rancilio pro or lelit bianca?
Have you modified the pressure or temp for your rocket?
Hi! Great video bro! Excuse me I bought a niche zero grinder on the pack for March (pre order). How does it go with the gaggia classic pro? Do you think I have to upgrade my machine too, ? (I added the PID Kit to my gaggia classic pro) I just do 3 espresso per day (mainly)
Works great! With regards to upgrades - check out the r/gaggia subreddit!
@@itsxris yeahh I'm in that group. I already installed a PID kit for my gaggia classic pro and works great. So, I'm not sure if worth the money to upgrade my espresso machine because I upgraded my espresso grinder (for a niche zero grinder) or with my current machine I can achieve greats espresso results just upgrading my grinder.
@@maurodelgadoo No need for an expensive espresso machine if it is not multiple back-to-back shots. Also assuming you're not into too much latte art game. Gaggia with 9 bar adjustment and a PID will provide similar espresso taste results. Given you got a decent grinder to pair with. You do need to wait >15min btw shots with Gaggia, though.
I need a espresso machine and found the gaggia classic pro for 150$ less than the brevillle barista express and I’m thinking of staying with the gaggia and I’ll get a grinder for it. I don’t drink espresso I rather make latte’s or other espresso based drinks so I don’t think I need a 1000$+ machine for now I have a lot to learn yet. Anyways thanks for the awesome video enjoyed the editing, keep it up!
the gcp and a good grinder is more than enough for lattes just for yourself!
I have an opportunity buy a used (but in very good condition) Rocket for the price of brand new Gaggia or Breville Barista Express. I guess it’s a no-brainer to go for a Rocket even though I am not at a barista-level yet, right?
if its in good condition - sure!
@@itsxris thanks brother, will try to get it 👊🏻
Where did you get the Font of your Thumbnail? Looks pretty neat :)
its my handwriting ;)
@@itsxris damn you should make a font out of it and sell it🤔
@@itsxris still fascinated about it tho haha how did you make it did you use photoshop and a sketchpad?
iPad & Apple Pencil + Procreate
Expresso Quality 👍🏻
If I want best bang for buck to get better quality espresso compared to starbucks' which one do i get?
Very loaded question - check out resources like r/espresso to do some research! Or check out my latest video (goes live at 9AM EST today) about how to pick an espresso machine!
Does it make better coffee than starbucks' caramel macchiatos?
100%
Not even a fair comparison. Apples and oranges. The price point says it all. You get what you pay for.
Grwat videos!
what about the pre-infusion?
I don't really mess with it but it is a feature - check out my full review of the machine!
What is your favorite Super Automatic Brand and Model Please, Thanks!
I dont have any experience with super-autos, check out the r/espresso subreddit!
@@itsxris Thank You!
Just to check if I get Rocket which kind of the grinder should I get? Any recommendations?
Imo - the Niche Zero if you can get your hands on it, highly depends on your budget
@@itsxris thank you for reply. Is it a big difference between different price ranges?
theres some budget options like the sette270 then there's the niche around $700, plenty of options in between (and ofc more than the niche)
Rocket, any day.
I can’t decide between Breville barista express or gaggia Brera any suggestions ?!
The Breville is definitely going to be a more hobby type machine that lets you fine tune the taste, the Gaggia Brera seems to be a superautomatic machine so you might have less flexibility there with fine tuning
@@itsxris thanks for your response! that’s true but since you have gaggia do you think it makes better tasting coffee or would it be similar to a Breville? 😊
I have only had experience with the Gaggia Classic Pro but I think it would be closer to the Breville machine in this case!
@@itsxris thanks for your help!!
I guess if I sell my kidney I could get Rocket? Don't get me wrong but this is like comparing Opel Corsa to Mercedes
The latte's I make with my Gaggia Classic are better than what I get in Starbucks. You don't need an overpriced Rocket machine.
But I want it so bad 😭
E61 machines have been around for decades, with good reason. They're reliable, and because they share a lot of common parts, can be easily serviced and maintained for many, many years. The Gaggia is a great beginner machine, but there are lots of benefits to getting an E61 heat exchanger or dual boiler. Rocket pricing is pretty standard compared to other brands such as Profitec/ECM, Bezzera, Quick Mill, etc.
That rocket looks like one of those dreams you don’t want to wake up from 😅 based on looks alone it is worth the difference, especially if you want justification for taking up half the kitchen space🤣
Lel, I ordered my gaggia before seeing this. Glad I went with it over the breville
got a good grinder paired with it? ;)
You did well. I had a Breville Duel Infuser then I got smart and purchased a Gaggia Classic Pro. Two worlds apart in quality and experience even though they're around the same price.
just gotta make sure you've got a good grinder for the Gaggia too!
@@itsxris Exactly. Grinder (mostly) > Machine
@XRIS would the sette 270 be ok?
Do you think pre-Infusion makes a huge difference?
have you consider Lelit Mara X over Appartamento?
I have, that was my other option actually, Overall the matte black appartamento sold me though
@@itsxris I am still researching... ECM Classika PID looks very nice too
it does! i'm actually putting out a vid next week about choosing an espresso machine!
@@itsxris Appartamento got the look for sure... but ECM w PID temp control for both brew/steam + pressure gauge sure is a winner
e61 group heads in 2020 (particularly for home setups) are silly, outdated designs. They're inefficient, take way way too long to heat up and actually are NOT thermally stable. It's 2020 - get a machine with a saturated group head, or even an electrically heated one. While you're at it, get a machine with a PID, and one with dual boilers not an HX that requires cooling flushes like this Rocket. Unfortunately the Italian made machines are all hugely overpriced for what you get.
Ok then what brands and/or models would you recommend?
@@pierregov9719 Silly question. For what situation? Home? How many shots per day? What budget? Espresso, Milky or both? Do you need to be able to pull multiple shots at once and/or back to back? How much space do you have? I recommend going to r/espresso or r/coffee on Reddit and asking for your specific situation there.
@@AP-mn4os Could you please, suggestions for: home/10shots per day/
Both are better than that Brevelle garbage
Do not waste your money on the Gaggia!
you upgraded... lol all you had to do was spend $100 and install a PID on the Gaggia and you would have consistent shots, temperature control for different roasts and great and steam power.
Rockets are $3500 where i come from lol
So the machine that’s 3x more expensive is better? Breaking news alert. What a waste of time.
🤔 Go to college or new espresso machine...? Who needs an education anyways 😆 ☕️