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Coffee makers have been around for some time now, but they’re still so diverse. On one hand, having so many models to choose from is very convenient because you get a machine which can meet your needs perfectly. Yet, on the other hand, the possibility of making the wrong choice is also high.
Especially when you’re just starting out in the coffee world and haven’t got much experience with what to look for.
So, if you’re a beginner and you’re looking for a decent espresso machine you should have a look at this Gaggia Classic review.
Features of the Gaggia Classic Espresso Machine
1. Design
The Italian made classic that has been on the market for many years this machine has a lot to offer. It’s a good entry-level semi-automatic home espresso machine that presents a great value/budget friendly with pro features.
Everyone knows that a boiler is the heart of the espresso machine. Gaggia Classic has aluminum external heat single boiler which isn’t perfect for a water temperature stability but you can’t expect more from a machine at this price.
This is somehow compensated by commercial quality brass chrome plated brew group that has better temperature stability best for consistent shots brewed back to back as well as the commercial size(58mm) brass chrome portafilter with unpressurized and pressurized baskets.
Another pro feature that I have to mention is a 3-way solenoid valve that releases pressure and excess water at the end of the cycle. This means a dryer puck and reduced stress on internal plumbing – more reliable and user-friendly design not found in cheaper machines.
The Pannarello steam wand with straight forward, back type movement (not a ball joint- less movement) makes automatic easy frothing but it gives you less control over foam. But if you not very experienced it will let you create a decent foam for lattes and cappuccinos.
The machine is ready to brew pretty quickly after steaming. This is a great feature if you need to make many milk based drinks back to back.
Brushed, stainless steel housing gives it an elegant, prestigious look and I’m sure it will be a great addition to your kitchen.
2. Ease of Use
These machines can be so complicated that you end up with a headache as a result of trying to work them out instead of a delicious cup of coffee. Then you start to wonder if they’re even worth it and why you bought them in the first place.
Good news for everyone with the Gaggia classic coffee maker, because it only features three simple rocker switches which let you get your daily dose of caffeine efficiently and easily. On/off, brew and steam. The knob on the side lets you adjust the amount of steam.Pretty easy and straightforward.
And while for some coffee enthusiast it might not be enough in terms of flexibility and dialing the settings for a perfect cuppa, I think for beginners is more than enough.
4. Cleaning and Maintenance
The boiler comes with direct contact with water which means the scale is created faster so you’ll need to schedule regular descaling sessions in order for the machine to work well and make sure you only use filtered water. Another thing I want to mention is that machine can heat up when the boiler is partially dry which can cause premature failure.
So it’s important that you check it and clean it regularly and It’s not likely to break down if you do.
Other Features of the Gaggia Classic Semi-Automatic Espresso Maker
- Has a passive cup warmer- to store your favorite coffee mugs and espresso shot always warm and ready
- This coffee maker is equipped with a 15 bar vibration pump which allows you to brew between 8 and 9 on the pressure bar, allowing for a tasty cup of steamy goodness.
- Fitted with a 72oz water tank which can be removed from the front but also filled from the top. It has a visible water level for convenience
- Comes with pressurized and unpressurized baskets. The pressurized ones are great for pre-ground coffee or ESE pods (no grinder required)
Customer Reviews
Before buying something, you should always see how other users are satisfied with it in order to determine whether the product is right for you or not.
As far as the Gaggia classic coffee machine is concerned, this is what the numbers say at the time of writing this review.
Out of 567 customers that took the time to write a review, 51% gave it five stars, 24% gave it 4 stars, while 7% gave it a 3-star rank. It received two stars from 8% of the users, 13% rated it with a 1 star.
Pros
- A smooth, bold, great espresso with nice crema
Many users said that this machine really lives up to its expectations and produces great tasting coffee time after time - Simple to use, simple to clean and fast
Quickly heats up and is ready to use in no time, very simple to use and clean - Solid, well built quality machine
It has a commercial feel to it and it’s made of quality materials that will last years to come
Cons
This is what the users had difficulties with:
- Rather inflexible and lack of options
It doesn’t allow for much customization when it comes to milk frothing and dialing in a shot of espresso - Poor instructions
Some of the users mentioned that the manual and instructions are poorly translated/made and therefore not very clear what makes the machine more difficult to use - Frothing wand doesn’t allow for much movement
As the frothing wand is not mounted on a ball joint is movement is restricted. And that was an issue for some users as they had problems with placing milk jug correctly to froth the milk
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this Gaggia Classic review and that it’ll help you make an educated decision. But before you do let me summarize all the info about this espresso machine.
Overall, it’s a worthy investment for your home that will keep your family happy. It’s an entry level, budget friendly machine but with some quality features found in more expensive models. It might not be the most customizable coffee maker, but you still get delicious coffee time after time. After all, this is one of the most popular machines on the market, and that just might be because of its quality, durability, and ability to make consistently good coffee.
The Gaggia classic, in particular, is not likely to disappoint whether you are an experienced user or have never had this kind of machine before. But it’ll probably a small learning curve for those just starting out with semi-automatic models.
