Gaggia Classic Pro Review: Amazon's Bestselling Prosumer Espresso Machine
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- Опубліковано 26 чер 2024
- The Gaggia Classic Pro is probably the best prosumer home espresso machine, under $500. In this deep dive video review, we take a look at build quality and features, haptics and ergonomics, pros and cons, and we do an espresso and milk foaming demo. We also talk about the "wife acceptance factor", and go into the available mods for this machine. Since the Gaggia Classic Pro is such a popular and beloved machine, there are many forums, modifications, and in general great resources for using this machine.
Products used/recommended in this video:
(these are affiliate links that help fund videos like this, at no extra cost to you)
►The Gaggia Classic Pro:
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► Springs:
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► Shorter Drip Tray:
🇺🇸/🇨🇦 ebay.us/BwS2EG
► Single hole Steam Tip:
🇺🇸/🇨🇦 ebay.us/SVeXur
►Bottomless Portafilter:
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🌎 geni.us/GaggiaBottomlessPF (worldwide Amazon link)
►Timemore Chestnut Nano Grinder: geni.us/TimemoreNano
► 5 Essential Accessories for GCP: kit.co/tomscoffeecorner/gaggi...
(*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
Links:
Join Patreon: / tomscoffeecorner
GCP Facebook: / 562488620537786
GCP Reddit: / gaggiaclassic
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:40 Build & Features
6:04 Ergonomics & Handling
7:11 Pros & Cons
9:23 P.A.F.
10:22 Modability
11:16 Demo: Espresso
12:55 Demo: Steaming Milk for Latte Art
----------------------------
*DISCLOSURE: The above Kit.co and Amazon links lead to Amazon, and since I am an affiliate, help fund videos like this one, at no extra cost to you.
#TomsCoffeeCorner #GaggiaClassicPro #homebarista
Gaggia Classic Pro: Home Espresso Machine Review & Test
Gaggia Classic Pro: Deep Dive Review & Test
Gaggia Classic Pro: Review & Test of the Classic Home Espresso Machine
Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine: A Comprehensive Review
TN1 5.2, 2 and 2/3 - Навчання та стиль
Thanks for watching; comments welcome!
what is the function of the "Nipple" inthe pressurized portafilter?
@@KaizenMontage I think just to direct the flow.
Great work! Until you talked about the heated group I thought I was takin' a beatin' to get to 58mm.
Found a deal. Got her a d40 and kpod single shooter and we keep her in specialty drinks. She loves it.
So I got a back up grinder and a 58mm that was almost as good as the Stilosa. But I fixed that 😂
ua-cam.com/users/shortsge8wgKNTs08?feature=share
@@perldog07 Hey great! I am glad to hear you found yourself a nice deal! The GCP is a nice machine - I think you'll enjoy it! Cheers, Tom
@@TomsCoffeeCorner the Stilosa silicone nozzle is working great so far.
Great review. Just bought barista pro that hasn't got all of Gaggia classic pro problems. Makes amazing coffee and doesn't require mods.
Great review👏👏👏 thank you.
Excellent demonstration
Ya know Tom, im personally a person that hates when youtubers say " like & subscribe" and i watched some of your videos and did not...but the INSTANT you said "crap, i forgot the water." made me laugh, im like "toms a reg bloke, i would do that same thing" Subscribed. Thanks for reviewing and making these vids.
Just bought one. My first espresso machine. Excited for it.
Hope you enjoy it!
Me too! First one 🎉
thank you so much for this video. I really enjoyed it!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!
Great Review and handiwork especially in the demo section. The awkward angles during milk steaming and your latte art pour shows how much practice you've had on the machine! I also really enjoyed the analogy with driving a manual car and 100% agree on your comments. The Gaggia Classic Pro is not perfect for everyone, but has it's quirks. Deal breaker for some, but clearly not for all as they're still making them. Maybe we'll see refinements in a V3! One mod that's helpful is I plugged my US model into a smart plug that's on a schedule to help with warm up times in the morning. Unfortunately, in the European models they have a rocker switch so some modding is required. Overall the GCP is a great machine if you do your homework and read up on it before purchasing. For me it was a great entry point into home espresso and the money I saved went towards a good grinder which is just as important! Thanks Tom!
Hey Santos, thanks for your feedback and observations! I think you hit the nail on the head - if people do their homework before buying this machine, they will know its pros and cons, and can be satisfied with their purchase. For me, it is a nice machine that can deliver great results. I don't mind the manual nature of it - but it takes some getting used to.
I think what really sets this machine apart is the community behind it. There are SO many mods, and people willing to give help, to get the very best out of this machine.
I guess that's why they call it "Classic."
Cheers,
Tom
this is the best reviews on this machine. Hope Gaggia will watch this review and make changes as per Tom's suggestions.
Wow, thanks! Glad you liked the review. Cheers! Tom
Thank you Tom, very helpful!
You betcha! Thanks for watching!
I love this machine and definitely don’t think it’s ugly. Looks quite sleek in my kitchen! ☺️ Loved your video and all the mod details!
I think it's pretty handsome, too. Thanks for the feedback!
I ordered the Gaggia Classic Pro EVO model. Bottomless portafilter, good tamper, ims basket, 9 bar spring, timemore scale, K4 grinder, Airscape ceramic canisters, and low profile drip tray - are underway as well. All these based on the reviews of this excellent UA-camr. Thanks Tom!
forgot to mention - wdt tool, puck screens, and tamping mat.
Awesome, Oto! The K4 is quite fun to use, and the GCP is a treat!
@@kakhidzeotoand how are you finding the system you ordered?
@@lts1682 just awesome. I have cafe quality espresso and cappuccino at home.
How is everything running? I bought the breville Infuser and decided to return it and get the GCP Evo too. For the 9bar spring.. Is this still needed? The Evo says its set for 9 bar extraction
We have this machine and it’s amazing! ❤❤❤
Hi Tom, great video again, I’m back using the Dedica as it seems to be more consistent than the Gaggia, although I do swap them about, just wanted to tell you about my new hand grinder, I’ve bought a “Kingrinder K4….! It took ages to come from the U S but it finally arrived and I have to say it is Brilliant! I followed advice on UA-cam how to adjust grind size and it is even better than my Eureka Manual! The coffee seems to have more flavour and there’s no retention! 👍🏻
Awesome! I will have to check out the Kingrinder in the future. Is that an American company? Glad you like the K4! I also have fun experimenting with, and swapping out both machines by the way. Cheers!
PID is a game changer for this machine - especially for steaming milk as you can keep the temp in the boiler really hot.
Far better is the Gaggiuino mod. Like way way better
I love my Gaggia 2021 - yet lookimg 4 a step up "D
Thanks again for a very comprehensive review Tom! Would you do an espresso taste comparison with the Gaggia Classic Pro and the Solis Barista Perfetta Plus in the future? Cheers!
Ach, the GCP wins for me hands down. The Perfetta is reminiscent of the Bambino Plus or Dedica. It lacks a heated brew group, and is lacking a bit of temperature.
Nice vid and good tips on the frother timing, might also be worth mentioning how horrible the tamp is that comes with it and the necessity to replace it!
Good point! Yes, I'd suggest a Motta 58.4mm tamper.
Unless you pull classic 7gr(ish) singles. The small end will tamp the center then use your reglaur tamper.
Thanks so much 🙏 💓
You betcha! 👍🏻
My old machine broke early last week, and when I looked online one part was discontinued, time for a new one. I looked at machines and reviews online till my head ached. Your thorough review sold me on the Gaggia Classic Pro; thank you. P. S. form follows function, I like the look, and after squeezing my fingers into my old machine to take it apart, I look forward to the extra room inside it.
Very nice, and thanks for sharing! The GCP is a dream to work on, if you need to. Or if you wand to do mods. Loads of space, and common parts. It's a real nice machine - a real classic. Have fun! Tom
My Gaggia finally arrived today (weather delayed) pulled my first double this afternoon and made a Cappuccino after dinner. A+. I didn't have a straw to copy what you did for the water level, so I cut about the bottom 1/4" of a red Solo cup and used it instead.
@@genepicariello1477 I'm happy you're happy. 😉 Have fun with this nice machine!
Buying this machine soon,, going to mode it and also get a new roaster,,, Black coffee matters 🙂Great channel,,,,,
Sounds like a plan! Thanks for watching!
I purchased a refurbished Gaggia Classic Pro from Whole Latte Love over a year ago. I have two lattes each morning and up to 3 decaf lattes in the evening. So, with at least 4 per day, 365+ days, that is 1,460+ and it just keeps on going. This is a quality machine!!
Very nice thanks for sharing! These are tanks!
Thank you for your detailed video! I love your dry humor: "Crap I forgot the water."@@TomsCoffeeCorner
Hi Tom Great Video!! Was wondering if you could do a review of the rancilio silvia, I am torn between the gaggia classic pro and the silivia!
I used to own a Silvia. It has a larger boiler, but had some things I didn't like so much, like the chrome plating falling off the brew group, a drip tray dimensioned too small, and I didn't like the tank that much. Espresso was fine - it's similar to the GCP in that department. That's what I remember anyway.
I'm deciding between Rancilio Silvia V6 and Gaggia Classic Pro but after every video I watch about Gaggia I'm one step closer to order Silvia.
Honestly, I would say they are about a horse apiece. They both suffer from similar ergonomic shortcomings. They also both offer a similar result in the cup, in my opinion. I would say, choose the one that suits you better aesthetically.
The silvia is always too hot for the group head you have to purge it, so unless you are not getting a a PID =to manage temp the Gaggia would be easier and more stabble with temperature control in stock form.
Personally I'd go for a lellit Anna pid or the Profitec Go. After months of use with the Gaggia classic pro, the lack of real accurate temp control is pretty annoying. Pid mods aren't cheap, but that's probably what I'll do to mine. That said, I wasn't willing to drop $700-$1000 on an espresso machine.
Could you review the New Classic EVO model? thanks.
Great video Tom! I always wondered about this machine as a dedica user. As I`m using it only for espresso&americano, I wouldn`t care about it`s manual design and I`d buy this one if it wasn`t double the price of dedica ec685.
Totally agree about that. In some markets, the Gaggia is 3x the Dedica price. It's a fun machine to use for espresso though. Cheers!
Buy a second hand model on ebay from early 2000's to 2013 they were made in Italy and built like tanks, the design had not change much and there is so much support online and accessories to allow you to restore, and mod the machine.
@@CH-yp5by Thanks for the advise but I’m not that kind of adventurist person myself. That’s why I bought brand new dedica instead :)
I have just discovered that Gaggia Classic Pro also has that famous three-way solenoid valve, this also allows use with commercial filter holder rather than pressurized ones. Furthermore, it is suitable for easy modding given the practicality of removing the covers.
Speaking of modding, could you tell us if that "three-way solenoid valve" can be used in "smaller" sisters like the Carezza Deluxe that don't have it?
This would be a great mod.
Where did you get your magnetic wdt holder? Love your content!!
Thank you! I got the WDT here: WDT Tool: tidd.ly/3KIG541 (etsy)
You should try to do the gaggiuino mod and video it
Great Vid Tom!!! Could you please link that handy hand grinder pls?? Cheers
Sure thing, Drago. It's the Timemore Chestnut Nano: geni.us/TimemoreNano
@@TomsCoffeeCorner much appreciated 🙏
I’m a big fan of your reviews, particularly the “partner acceptance factor”. In fact, the partner acceptance factor is why I have a Gaggia Brera Super-automatic instead of a Classic Evo Pro!
Thanks for that! Honestly, with Boilergate and all, I think you dodged a bullet on that one. Cheers!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner I purchased my Brera 2nd hand, so refurbishing it has posed its own challenges to relationships. Parts arriving to rebuild the grinder tomorrow. Hopefully that will get it running reliably.
Please also do a review of the Lelit Anna PL41, TEM if possible, thank you!
Hi! I might do that in the future - I think a friend of mine has that machine. Cheers! Tom
New to Expresso machines, thank you for the video. This unit or the barista express to start?
If you don't have a grinder yet, then I'd go for the Barista Express to start.
Excellent review! The most dissappointing part of this machine for me is that i used to have some latte art capability, now I lost it with this machine and i need to startover practicing again:))
Yes I know. Lance Hedrick can do nice latte art with the GCP, but he is a professional. I find it personally a challenging machine for latte art, but many people can get some nice results with practice. Maybe check out Lance's channel for more tips. Cheers!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner thanks for the advice! I will check it out for sure👍
Best machine to buy to mod so it can perform like a 4000 Euro machine, (I honestly would not buy this to use in stock form)I bought a 2006 classic and fully restored it with brass shower plate, silvia steam wand and IMS shower screen then modified it with a PID ( a deal breaker) and box, a pressure gage plus dimmer mod and changed pressure from 11 to 9bar.
I used the money I saved to by the Eureka specialita grinder which cost more than the machine and the mods combined. With a precision naked basket and some chemix filter paper I make some espresso amazing shots!
The good thing about the aluminium boiler is it heats up a lot quicker than stainless steel, and you only need to open the steamer to cool it down and you can see the water fairly easily depending on the light in your room, you can do an LED mod it you really want which is a pain.
You can make the machine look pretty, there are plenty of aftermarket accessories, just look at google images! I bought walnut steam knob matching the naked porta filter and a more shallow drip tray to fit in the scales.
The coolest mod you mention is a lot of effort and takes away the manual join but each to their own, tbh if I was going to go to that much effort I would buy a different machine.
Thanks for sharing, CH! I agree that this machine has a ton of potential, and is fun to mod. I think with a lowered drip tray, LED lights, and a nice PID, one would be set up with a very nice ergonomic machine. It already makes nice shots out of the box in my opinion. I have not tried changing the shower plate or screen yet. Did that make a noticeable difference for you?
Which brand bottomless did you buy?
Cheers,
Tom
Just got my machine. I’m thrilled. It’s not a machine for the kind of dumbos who get on Amazon and leave hysterical reviews because food is sticking to their All Clad Copper Core Sauce pot. It requires a bit of patience and a bit of experimenting. Thus, mastering it brings the satisfaction of a job well done. The cappuccino I made for my wife was significantly better the second day both in espresso quality and milk quality. The steam wand never runs out of adequate steam contrary to many reviews I’d seen. The positioning of the steam wand presents no issues at all. The espresso is plenty hot. Doing the pre infusion trick works wonders. Can’t wait to get up tomorrow and give it another whirl- practice makes …well… more close to perfect every day. It’s a great little machine. Be careful the first day that in all your experimenting you don’t run out of water. Yup. I did. But there appears to be no damage. I filled it quickly as soon as I realized in my enthusiasm I’d forgotten to keep an eye on the essential element- you know, the one the world is running out of - water.
Thanks for posting your experience! I'd agree with all those points. It requires some patience in getting to know the machine, but it's worth it. Cheers!
For the water tank level hard to see, just put a small plastic ball fluorescent color in so you can see the level, it will flow and easy to see, nice review 👌
Cool idea, thanks for that tip! I have tried a straw before, but sometimes that floats to the back. 🙈
I am grateful for your channel in spreading your knowledge about coffee machines. I have an office and I need a machine that makes coffee, latte, cappuccino, etc. within the limits of 20 cups per day. I have seen many options, Breville, DeLonghi, and many others, but prices differ and models differ, and they may I became confused between the options.
Would you recommend one of excellent quality at a reasonable price?
Hi there! Well, what is your market? For 20 drinks a day, you may want to consider a higher price class, with better reliability. I think under that load, a Breville or Delonghi might be a little under dimensioned. What is your budget?
@@TomsCoffeeCorner I am from Saudi Arabia, the city of Jeddah, my budget is between 900-1500$
What about an Ascaso Steel Duo PID or Uni PID? Which marketplace do you have?
@@TomsCoffeeCorner I found it in my country, but its price is 3 times the price in the USA, and I am afraid to buy it online and then not find spare parts when it breaks down.
@@mohdalhelali Hey Mohammed, Ahlan wa Sahlan ya Sheik! I was in Jeddah for a long time. I later went to Al Khobar. Many Saudis helped me find stuff when I was there, so if you need a hand getting this machine or parts, message me your email and I'll see what can be done. Aufwan
Did i have a reason to bye it for using in stock complectation? Becouse in my country i cant bye any accessories. Sorry for my bad English...
I bought a seimens bean to cup fully automatic,I will never ever recommend a bean to cup automatic machine in my experience this gaggia is far better and far more reliable I wish I had got one of these instead as I used to have one similar years ago and it was great
How would this compare to the La specialista arte? besides from the built in grinder.
I received an update from Australia post they have indeed lost my item, thankfully Delonghi is sending me a replacement :D
Well honestly, these are two entirely different machines. The ARTE has an integrated grinder, and better ergonomics in my opinion. The GCP does have more potential for espresso however.
Glad you are getting sent a replacement!
Hey Tom where did you get the magnetic wdt holder?
I got it from etsy, but it's starting to break. I think I'm gonna look for a new one. Maybe this guy: amzn.to/3NpJlVy
Hey Tom, thanks for your effort on Gaggia explaining. May you please tell is if there is any was to replace 120v to be 220-230v elec? Is there something to replace or any way around?
Hi there, I am not really sure what you mean? Why would you want to change the voltage?
Hey, sorry for the confusion. I was trying to say that I already have a Gaggia Classic Pro that I bought here in the USA. However, as 99% of elec in the US are 120v, I could use it in the country I am moving to (Saudi Arabia). The V there is 220, and I was wondering if you may be able to help me out if there is a way for me to replace some items in the maker to transfer it to 220v ability. I know some solutions may help, like a voltage transformer, but that is not a permanent solution. Still, I have to keep in mind the watss, etc., so the Q is may I be able to change some parts of my American Gaggia to 220v? So I can use it back home in the SA! 😅
@@Ahmed-uk5sc No, I think you'd be better off selling your USA version, and getting a 220V version in SA. It's the heater, the pump, and likely a board that run on mains, so imho it wouldn't be worth it to fiddle with. Cheers! Tom
@@TomsCoffeeCorner thanks 👍
Thank you Tom!!. I would like to ask you which one you think is better for art latte, Dedicate Art or Gaggia? Or another machine for that price range.
I think the new EC885 Dedica Arte is the best choice. It's pretty easy to get nice milk foam with that machine, and the steam wand goes in deeply into the pitcher for incorporation, and it swivels too.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner thanks Tom! very helpful!
Hello there! What about for espresso extraction? Which would produce the best shot? Lets say the difference between the Gaggia and Arte is around 200$. Would that be worth to go with the Gaggi or not?
@@okc4029 Right, for espresso I would say the GCP is better. It has a lot more potential. So if you primarily do espresso, then the GCP is better. But if you do lots of milk drinks, or have a partner in the house and you want an easier machine to use, then I would recommend the Arte.
Hello Tom! I just bought my first manual espresso machine: The Gaggia Classic Evo together with Eureka Specialita. I'm using the included portafilter with the unpressurized double basket. However after the espresso is done and I remove the portafilter I see that is quite a lot of water over the coffee pod inside it, it doesn't look dry like in some videos. Any idea what am I doing wrong? Thanks!!
Oh, that doesn't really matter. Happens to all of us. It depends on dose amount, grind size, and maybe the bean. It's not really any indicator of a good or bad shot.
Hi Tom, I can’t find any review of Solis Barista Perfectta from you?
Hi Frankie, would you be interested in that? I used it for a few weeks, but have not made a video yet.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner yes please
Hello. What would you recommend, Gaggia Classic Pro or Sage Bambino Plus (from both espresso and steaming perspective)? Thank you
It's hard, because GCP is better for espresso, and Bambino is much easier with steaming milk. But you can steam silky beautiful milk with the GCP, but it just takes time and practice. Cheers!
I love mine.
Thank you for the video. I’m debating whether to get a Breville express or a Gaggia Milano with Baratza Seate. I don’t want to spend more than $800-1000. Thoughts?
A Gaggia Classic Pro with Baratza Sette will get you better espresso. Just beware that the Sette is SUPER loud. I'd recommend a Eureka Manuale/Notte/Facile - whatever they market the cheapest Eureka Mignon in your country.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner thank you! What’s your recommendation for a decent, budget, all-purpose grinder? I have a Baratza encore and I want to gift it and get one that can do pour over and espresso for myself. I’m satisfied with the quality of the Encore.
@@danielsaezv Eureka Specialita or Manuale, for the win!
Will the boiler age prematurely if you don't purge and bring down to temperature each time you end? Does hitting both buttons bypass the 3 way valve?
Certainly it will be better for your machine to cool down the boiler after steaming, even if the heating elements are on the outside of the boiler as is the case on the GCP.
In your opinion after make coffee with delonghi dedica, bambino plus, solis barista perfetta and gaggia classic what is in your opinion the best machine for make coffee and the best for cappuccino? Thank you very much Tom!
Hi Gianluca. I 'd say with practice, they are all capable of great milk foam. Espresso winner is the GCP. Dedica, Bambino and Solis are all about the same in my opinion for espresso. Ergonomics winner is the Dedica. Cheers!
Hello Mr. Tom
How much coffee is needed for a non-pressurized pertafilter size 51
I'd say 12-13 grams.
i'm looking for a ~cheap machine to learn on (for using machines in cafes), and leaning towards this one - and I guess it being manual is a pro in this case?
Yes, because it will force you to watch your ratios (recipe). It's a good machine to learn on.
Is it possible to make regular coffee or only expresses lol idk super new to this stuff
You can make an Americano with this, sure. Check this video for reference: ua-cam.com/video/Kkl4sO2l45w/v-deo.html
Could you just reduce flow with using dimmer mod instead of grinding coffee finer?
Yes, that’s exactly what the dimmer does. 👍🏻
Do you prefer that machine unmodded over the dedica modded?
Honestly, I use the Dedica more, because the ergonomics are better. It is more user friendly, also for my wife.
Can you use the baratza encore grinder with the gaggia
I've heard it can grind fine enough with a mod, but that the resolution's not great. What about the Sette? Or Eureka Notte?
what's a good grinder for the money that you would recommend to use with this?
Here is a list of suggestions: kit.co/tomscoffeecorner/grinder-suggestions
Can you do a video on the Gaggia Accademia super automatic, please……
Sorry, I think it's going to be a long time until I get my hands on one of those. I am sure there's other reviews out there though. Good luck!
Is it possible to pull a nice shot (coffeshop style, heavy bodied) ristretto with this machine (without the modification)?
Fine grounded, dark roast coffee
Single basket, hard tampered
1:1,5 ratio?
Sure it's possible with good puck prep. Replacing the 12 bar with the 9 bar spring makes it easier though, in my opinion. It's a super easy mod.
Tom, Gaggia classic pro or breville Batista infuser (or express) for espresso?
Well, that depends if you have a grinder or not. Separates will do a better job. Therefore, I'd recommend the Gaggia and a capable grinder. Cheers!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner thanks 🙏🏼
Do you have a link for that espresso cup? Is the line the double mark?
I think that was a Kruve. They sell them up der in Canada. Or, here's a link: amzn.to/48dM4J0 (affiliate link)
Wonderful - thank you! @@TomsCoffeeCorner
Hi, Tom. I use gaggia clasic for a mounth now, and yesterday i think, not sure, accidently i press the brew button when the Steam button was press and on. After when press brew button, a very hot water flow from head, almost Steam. From yesterdey, after steam milk, usualy i press the brew and steam buttons for cleaning, but now after press them off, both the steam and brew buton led are light in the same time. It îs normal or somethings are broken? Thanks a lot.
Hi there. Well, you shouldn't leave the steam on too long on these machines, or the heating coil can burn out. When you press both buttons at the same time, it initiates the pump, and bypasses the brew group to pump water out of the steam wand. If both lights are on at the same time, that means both the brew and steam thermostats are met. Do the lights turn off after a while? They should, while it's heating. Hope this helps!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner yes, the light turn off after a while. And yes, your answer help a lot. Now i realise that i left the steam buttons press too long... after steaming. I hope the coil is not damage. Now, after steaming, i turn it off. The maschine is new, hope no damage inside, if it works. Now ordered a 9 bar opv spring and a single steam hole nozzle, i d'ont like the 2 hole ones that comes with the maschine. Thanks a lot, Tom.
is a Gaggia classic evo pro an upgrade to the ECP 35.31?
The build quality is certainly more heavy duty, and a nicer portafilter. But if you use the 3420 in advanced mode, I find the results are similar.
Gaggia should sell these with the features mods give as stock. At least with temp and pressure gauges. Then I'd say would be worth the money. I currently find It a little expensive.
I actually think the price is pretty good for what you get. It's a quality machine.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner It definitely is, but in my opinion should cost a little lower than It currently does. In my region, It retails for about 350 to 395€. I think a more fair price would be 280 to 300€.
Breville Bambino plus or gaggia classic Pro, which one is best? ( without any mod)
Well, for espresso potential the GCP is better. But the ergonomics is WAY better on the Bambino.
Hi, I just brought the Gaggia. I noticed when the machine is warm and the portafilter is empty. I can't tighten the portafilter to the center spot. Is this a defect?
You might be able to turn it a little past 90 degrees, if that's what you mean. You can change the gasket if you need to though...just search Amazon for a Gaggia 58mm gasket. Cheers!
Is basket size 58.5 or 58 please ?
All baskets are just slightly over, so yes it's like 58.5mm at the top.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner can i use distributer and tamper 58 ?
Or must use 58.5 ?
Yeah good 'entry-level' machine, if you want to learn about making espresso and froth milk, but not if you want to not work for it. It's a lot of prep fopr just one or two espressos, cleanup, turning things on and off to reach a good temperature and pressure, ect...
I have bottomless as well, and a the 9 bar spring, JX-Pro, plus bits and bobs like a tamper (you need one), little needle things, shower screen (makes things less messy), and a scale (Timemore something or other, digital, with timer, very good, not cheap), pitcher, baskets.... lots of exta stuff that increase costs significantly when you all add them up, but are necessary, or else, don't bother.
The new 'Evo' machine is 9 bar from factory. Bottomless is nice, especially if you're having problem with watery espressos, or not up to a decent standard. You can monitor what's going on in there, and improve tampering, prevent channeling, ect.
A good grinder is really important. I have a JX-Pro, but you can get a good manual espresso grinder for $100. Or something nice like the J-Series from 1zpresso, or a Commandante. Anything less, and it's not gonna work (like a cheap electric blender, or a grinder that isn't calibrated for espressos). Although, the Gaggia can take coarser grinds with the pressurised baskets, it's not its strength. You might as well go with Nespressos and cheaper pressurized espresso machines.
Kin Grinder K6, 1zpresso Q2, Timemore C2, whichever is available, in order of preference. If you go electric, you gonna have to spend significantly more, almost as much as the machine ( I think about 300 you can get something decent).
It's all a very manual operation. Grinding, prepping, surfing, cleaning... For people who like to work on cars, DIY, tinker, and dont mind spending 10 minutes making a espresso. A Nespresso machine, you're there under a minute, with very little work (but it's actually expensive coffee, passable espressos, not mod friendly, and wasteful).
Else, you gonna have to spend a lot more, like a PID machine (Rancillio Silvia Pro X, Profitech Go, onwards), with a an electric grinder (Niche Zero, DF64, ...). So like, x3, x4 the investment. And it's still gonna require some work, but with less guessing and more consistency.
The advantage with the Gaggia is that its' all standard. You can transfer all the extra bits to another more expensive machine (like the filters, baskets, keep the grinder, tampers, ect...). So it's good 'entry-level', allows you to get to more expensive machines and know what you are doing.
Agree with you! Thanks for posting your experience with this GCP!
what brand of pump does this machine use? Same as delonghi? Ulca pumps
Yes, almost all machines use Ulka pumps.
How to use store bought pre ground coffee in Gaggia
Just use the 'Crema Perfetta' filters, the pressurized ones. Cheers!
HI, i'm total into this machine, but you mentioned this machine is not very partnerfriendly - so which machine would you suggest instead if partnerfriendly is a huge point?
In that case I'd honestly say a Breville Barista Express.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner thx for the honest answer
I did not find the Pro version on their website.
It's this one: www.gaggia.com/manual-machines/new-classic/
@@TomsCoffeeCorner I mean, they never had the prefix "Pro" in the Classic models.
Gaggia looks like an unfinished priduct, plus too expensive just for the name, better sage barista express in offer than this. Cool video Tom 👍
Thanks for your comment Rezart. Well, the barista express is a different product, which includes a grinder. It does not have a heated group as far as I know, and I do think the Gaggia has more potential. But you are right, that the barista express has better ergonomics.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner better value for the money i think it is the barista express. Of course you can choose what ever you want, people choose only by the brand too. When i bought the dedica that was the only cheap option the rest what were in sale were more than 1000e.
But it has a 58mm portafilter which is a negative factor for me. I had just bought gaggia classic pro + sage smart grinder for a cost effectivity:)
Would you recommend this or a bambino?
The GCP. It makes better espresso, hands down. And it is more robustly built.
I don't understand the aluminium boiler.
Gaggia is the only brand of espresso machines using such a boiler.
De'Longhie espresso machines have stainless steal boilers.
Even the cheaper ones.
How many millimeters does your tamper have?
58.4mm
I just got mine today. I noticed after brewing the puck was stuck at the top of the machine it wasn't in the filter. Am I doing something wrong? Also what is the two-to-one ratio? What was the weight on the scale?
2:1 just means that you are aiming for 30g of espresso, if you put 15g of coffee in. Pucks sticking to the brew group just happens sometimes. It's no big deal in my book.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner what do you recommend for a good espresso grinder since I just got my espresso machine? Thx 🙏
@@lukefuno Hi Luke, which market are you in? And what's your budget?
@@TomsCoffeeCorner us. Budget $500 and less.
@@lukefuno For that price, I like Eureka the best. You can get the Mignon Silenzio for $479, which is a great flat burr grinder that is quiet. amzn.to/42krx2w
Otherwise, the Baratza sette is also a nice conical grinder, but it's super loud. I would stick with Eureka. Cheers!
Seems an awesome machine and almost was set on buying it, but, the fact you need to cool the machine afterwards is a bit of a downer. Guess I need to look for an easier device, so the kids can use the machine as well..Guess it is going to be concession time. Thought about the dedica, but it looks messy. I guess the Sage Bambino plus is the only contender in this price range.
Hi Robert. Well, the Dedica should also ideally be cooled down after steaming. But at least it's smart enough to disable an espresso extraction while it's too hot. The Gaggia doesn't do that. The Bambino Plus auto cools, as does the Solis Barista Perfetta Plus: ua-cam.com/video/2w81e_nG0JQ/v-deo.html
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Do I understand coreectly it is only after steaming? I was wondering, because pulling multiple shots without steaming does not require this? I still lean towards the gaggia to be honest. T
@@bassetnl Hi, no you only need to cool down the boiler after steaming.
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Well....got the gaggia classic pro, used lavazza d' oro cheap beans with the sage smart grinder pro (on 12 and 9) Undrinkable!!!! No crema with the unpressurized filter. I did numerous things wrong probably (coffee ran way to fast) wrong beans, bad tamping, but did not want to ruin shots with my local roastery beans. Coffee came out without turning lovely brown. It was just black. I expected a so so espresso, but not a sour under extracted glass of bad. Today back to the drawing board. :-)
Got a passable drink with the grinder on 1. Still took only 14 seconds to fill the cup.
@@bassetnl What's the date on the bag of Lavazza?
This or de'longhi ecp3420?
I find the ECP is a mini version of this, but cheaper.
Looks ugly design but if you say so Tom it is good machine sir,learning lot from your videos.I started with STILOSA DELONGHI and will buy better one this model or Breville bambino...thanks
Unless you spliced the video, that shot pulled in 12 seconds, which is the same for me. I don’t know how to get it to slow down.
I sometimes cut parts out to make the video a little shorter. It's definitely possible to pull longer shots. Mainly has to do with your beans.
These videos may help:
How to extract the perfect espresso: ua-cam.com/video/piO6c695Op8/v-deo.html
How to Get Crema: ua-cam.com/video/00NSG9459a8/v-deo.html
Why Supermarket Coffee Beans are RUINING your Espresso! ua-cam.com/video/5BgMKqu8fJI/v-deo.html
Looks are great, but aluminum boiler makes it a big NO. I just don't like neurotoxins and heat associated with things I ingest on a daily basis. Also, a little more convenience factor is something I would look for, yet I am trying to avoid Breville and other mass market brands(if I can). But what I am seeing is that, IF you want something better than this machine, even upto 1200$(other than Breville or mass mfg), you are pretty much in the same performance in making espresso. Like the Rachilio Silva, or the Nuovo Simonelli Oscar... Which sucks, as I want to stay below the $1000 mark this time in my espresso machine purchase, and wish the extra money over $500 would make some strong improvements. Maybe I am not looking far enough?!
Enjoying your videos, clean layout in presentation, and the topics I want to have covered. Cheers!
How about the Lelit Grace or Victoria?
I saw the Profitec Pro 500, and the Go, and someone convinced me to get used, and now looking if I can make a deal with someone looking to upgrade their setup, lol. If not I will end up with a lesser "pro-sumer" machine@@TomsCoffeeCorner
I'll have to check them out, BUT, I want a PID for my next machine@@TomsCoffeeCorner
I used to have a Nuovo Oscar, so trying to find better, with PID. cheers!!@@TomsCoffeeCorner
Victoria sounds like a good one Tom! Will be looking into that more.@@TomsCoffeeCorner
Picked mine up for $401 USD amazon
This or Silvia?
I like this more, because it's not so sluggish in between espresso brewing and steaming, due to the smaller boiler. The Siliva takes too long to heat up the boiler to steam mode.
Nice video but it is made of stainless steel not aluminum. I found my 2019 model to be very easy to use. Except the horrific tamper.
Philips shortly took over in 2019, and made a SS boiler, that is correct. But people rejected them, and so they went back to the aluminum boiler. I made a video comparing the two models a while back. Cheers!
@@TomsCoffeeCornerTom. I must apologize. I know realize I miss heard you. The housing is indeed stainless steel and mine is magnetic. The boiler is indeed aluminum and it is fine. I know there is a stainless steel upgrade but I wonder if that is worthwhile.
Tom, nice vid, but couple of your claims are mistaken. For example, you mentioned that the on/off switch flips off after 20 minutes. Nope. There’s no auto shut off feature on the Classic Pro. See the Q&A about the Gaggia on Amazon. I wish it had an auto off function, I truly do, but my machine (purchased in February 2022) will stay on until it’s turned off.
Also your mention that the machine only needs a few minutes to warm up in the morning isn’t correct. The brew light blinks on way too soon when the machine isn’t even close to the 195-205F needed for espresso. I measured temperatures on mine after a 5 minute warm up in the morning, and it consistently runs in the low 130’s F. When I called the factory about this issue I was told that 133 - ish is “within factory specs.”
Reviewers suggest a 30 to 40 minute warm up and “temperature surfing” to make consistently good espresso since the boiler temp is so erratics. One of the most popular mods is to add a PID to cure the erratic heating element.
Other than those small issues I thought it was a great video. Especially enjoyed your video on replacing the 12 bar opv spring with a 9 bar spring!
Hello, and thanks for sharing! I guess I should have mentioned the distinction that the models made for the US market differ somewhat to the EU models. I know that since about 2019, both the GCP and Rancilio Silvia made for Europe both have automatic standby timers. I think it's a safety issue, and also electricity is MUCH more expensive in western Europe, than in the US. So, it is good that the machines turn off automatically. But it is also nice on the US models, that the machine stays on, so that it can stay at operating temperature.
As for the temperatures, I think our experiences differ. On my machine, even after the machine just being turned on for 5 minutes, with one blank shot, the portafilter is already plenty hot, which tells me the machine is already pretty hot. Admittedly, it gets better as time goes on. 10 or 15 minutes is even better. But I don't know if 30 minutes is really necessary with this little aluminum boiler.
Thanks for watching, and cheers! Tom
I bought a smart plug on Amazon and plugged in my Gaggia. Just be sure to buy a plug with 15 Amp as the machine uses 12 Amp. Now, everyday, my machine is turning on before I wake up, and is perfectly warmed up when I need my coffee. You can also set a timer to turn it off, and lots of other perks.
@@kargaud This just works on the US models, right? The EU turns off automatically.
@@kargaud Great idea - thanks!
@@TomsCoffeeCorner Interesting info! Had no idea the Canadian and European versions had the auto shut offs. No doubt folks have different experiences with the heating element in their Gaggias - you’re right though, a half hour warm up is probably more than my machine needs. Thanks again for an informative video series on this classic espresso machine! Really like your channel. Take care.
Some problems about this machine.
1. The steamer drips all the time, espesially while the espresso shot is taken.
2. 100ml boiler is not enought to steam the milk. While steaming the milk the heat light turns off, meaning, the steam turns to cold. The hot water is allready finishes far before the milk steamed.
You're not wrong. But the steam wand doesn't always drip. It depends on descaling, and maybe some luck. I know that quite a few people have had to replace it though.
As for the milk steaming, just wait 10 seconds, then start steaming. Don't wait for the light. That way it will keep steaming long enough to froth the milk. Cheers!
15 bar? now 9 bar? coffee smoother? i noob. isn't more pressure better?
8-9 bar is the sweet spot, in my opinion.
Dit is een prima machine (ik heb ‘m ook gehad), maar om het in de categorie ‘prosumer’ te scharen slaat echt nergens op. Dit is puur een thuismachine.
Have you noticed flaking from the boiler?
Nope. I have the older, non Evo version without the coating. But I've heard of this on many forums.
You made a big mistake regarding the boiler of this machine, it’s stainless steel instead of aluminium!
No, it's aluminum. I've taken it out and examined it.
Is it Wi-Fi or Bluetooth lol
Hi Barry, what do you mean?
@@TomsCoffeeCorner I’m joking it’s not got any computer chips etc nice and simple obviously no Wi-Fi etc . I had a classic in 90s wish I still had one
@@barrytipton1179 That's true. This is a NON-smart device. ;)
@@TomsCoffeeCorner just getting used to my new sage grinder on my 19 bar pressure dualit will get shut soon and buy one
Very interesting review indeed but the cup you use in this video it’s not a proper espresso cup very sorry to say it’s not the Italian espresso I would say but you’ve got a point nevertheless, another object regarding this nice machine.
Stainless steel should be inside not outside. If you open machine every thing inside including pumps are made out of plastic. Plastic with hi heat is not very healthy to drink. That is why it is much more important to have outside plastic but all tubing is stainless steel . Machine is cheep. Even cofe holder made out of aluminum.
You're right that the cold water path is in all plastics. But the hot water path is just metal, aluminum for the boiler, and I think SS for the outlet to the steam wand.
Pro tip: Gaggia is n Italian name. It's pronounced "gawd-gee-uh." There is no French "zh" sound in Italian. It's pronounced like Joe DiMaggio, or DellaMaggiore.
I bought it and was a bad buy
It is ugly but in the good way. :D
Haha, great comment!
This thing is ugley i gotta agree with your wife.
Haha, beauty (or lack thereof) is in the eye of the beholder, I guess. 😉
the worst espresso machine. never get any real crema, and I've used fresh ground coffee of every kind and grind. Save your money and buy a Nespresso machine.