Breville Infuser Vs Gaggia Classic Pro
For those who crave a rich, café-style espresso but find daily trips to the coffee shop exhausting and expensive, there’s a sweet spot that doesn’t break the bank. Enter entry-level espresso machines like the Breville Infuser and Gaggia Classic Pro. And let me tell you upfront: the Breville Infuser comes out on top.
Why? Well, both machines are similarly priced, but the Breville Infuser offers features that make it the better choice. It’s designed with a pre-infusion feature that enhances espresso extraction, ensuring a smoother, more flavorful shot.
It can handle taller cups, so you’re not stuck juggling tiny espresso mugs. The steam wand is more advanced, giving you better control for frothing milk. Plus, it includes a water filter to soften hard water, which helps extend the machine’s lifespan.
Oh, and did I mention it’s lighter than the Gaggia Classic Pro? Despite being slightly larger, it’s easier to move around your kitchen. All in all, the Breville Infuser packs more convenience and functionality into its design, making it my pick for your home espresso setup.
Breville Infuser Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Specs & Features Comparison
| Feature | Breville Infuser | Gaggia Classic Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.1 x 12.3 x 10.2 inches | 14.2 x 9.5 x 8 inches |
| Weight | 17 lbs | 18.7 lbs |
| Heating System | Single Thermocoil | Single Aluminum Boiler |
| Cup Clearance | 4.5 inches | 3.3 inches |
| Water Reservoir | 1.8 L | 2.1 L |
| Additional Features | Adjustable Pre-Infusion, Optional Water Filter | Solid Stainless Steel, Single & Double Wall Baskets |
| Price | $536.00 | $520.85 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
The Breville Infuser and Gaggia Classic Pro are two popular entry-level espresso machines with distinct features to consider. The Breville Infuser measures 13.1 x 12.3 x 10.2 inches, weighs 17 lbs, and features a single thermocoil heating system, while the Gaggia Classic Pro is slightly smaller at 14.2 x 9.5 x 8 inches but heavier at 18.7 lbs, with a single aluminum boiler.
Both models operate with a button-controlled interface, offer two one-touch drink options, and provide manual steam wands for milk frothing. They also share a 15-bar pump pressure and dual spigots, though the Breville Infuser accommodates taller cups with a clearance of 4.5 inches compared to Gaggia’s 3.3 inches.
The Breville Infuser stands out with its adjustable pre-infusion feature and optional water filter, which isn’t available in the Gaggia Classic Pro. While the Gaggia has a slightly larger water reservoir at 2.1 L versus the Breville’s 1.8 L, neither has a built-in grinder or app connectivity.
The Breville Infuser offers quick heating with its thermocoil system, a high-quality steam wand, and a durable yet compact design, all for $536.00. On the other hand, the Gaggia Classic Pro is praised for its solid stainless steel construction, ease of use, and inclusion of both single- and double-wall baskets, retailing at $520.85.
Breville Infuser Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Differences
The Breville Infuser won the Gaggia Classic Pro with a score of 4-1. Let’s take a closer look at what sets these two machines apart, examining their respective advantages and disadvantages in detail.
COFFEE FLAVOR & BREWING SYSTEM
Winner: Breville Infuser
Built-in Grinder
Neither the Breville Infuser nor the Gaggia Classic Pro features a built-in grinder. While this adds the cost of a separate grinder to your espresso-making journey, it also allows flexibility in choosing a grinder tailored to your needs. Recommendations like the Baratza Sette 270Wi or the Breville Smart Grinder Pro are excellent, albeit expensive, options. These grinders deliver precision and performance, enhancing the flavor of your espresso.
Dosing & Tamping
Both machines include four filter baskets: two single-wall and two double-wall baskets. Double-wall baskets are perfect for beginners, offering a more forgiving process when the grind size or tamping isn’t spot on. Single-wall baskets, on the other hand, require precision but reward users with richer, more nuanced flavors.
The Breville Infuser uses a 54mm portafilter, a standard size for home espresso machines, while the Gaggia Classic Pro boasts a commercial-grade 58mm portafilter. The larger portafilter on the Gaggia allows for more even water distribution through the coffee grounds, resulting in better extraction.
However, the Gaggia Classic Pro comes with a plastic tamper, which pales compared to the sturdier tamper included with the Infuser. For optimal results, investing in a stainless steel tamper is recommended.
Heating System
Both machines feature single boilers, meaning they cannot brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously. However, the heating system differs significantly between the two.
- The Gaggia Classic Pro uses an upgraded aluminum boiler that heats up in about three minutes, faster than many other machines in its category.
- The Breville Infuser, with its thermocoil heating system, is ready to brew in under a minute, making it the faster option.
Brewing System
The Breville Infuser sets itself apart with a pre-infusion feature, which gently saturates the coffee grounds with low-pressure water before full extraction. This process results in a more even extraction and consistent flavor, an essential feature for achieving café-quality espresso. Unfortunately, the Gaggia Classic Pro lacks this function.
Design & Convenience
Winner: Breville Infuser
Dimensions & User Interface
The Breville Infuser measures 13.1 x 12.3 x 10.2 inches and weighs 17 lbs, while the Gaggia Classic Pro is slightly more compact at 14.2 x 9.5 x 8 inches but heavier at 18.7 lbs. Both machines feature durable stainless steel construction, available in multiple colors to match your kitchen aesthetic.
The Breville Infuser includes a pressure gauge, providing real-time feedback on the extraction process. This is an excellent tool for troubleshooting common mistakes, such as incorrect grind size or overfilled baskets.
The Gaggia Classic Pro offers a simpler interface with three switches for power, brewing, and steaming, accompanied by indicator lights. This straightforward design is user-friendly and perfect for beginners.
Spout Type & Cup Clearance
The Breville Infuser offers a cup clearance of 4.5 inches, making it more accommodating for taller cups compared to the Gaggia Classic Pro’s 3.3 inches. If needed, the drip tray of the Infuser can be removed to fit even larger glasses.
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
Both machines feature detachable water reservoirs, making refilling convenient. The Breville Infuser has a 1.8-liter tank, while the Gaggia Classic Pro boasts a slightly larger 2.1-liter capacity.
One significant advantage of the Breville Infuser is its inclusion of a water filter, which reduces the need for frequent descaling and enhances the flavor of your espresso by ensuring optimal water quality. However, the filter requires regular replacement, adding to maintenance costs.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Breville Infuser
The Breville Infuser stands out in the milk frothing department with its manual steam wand, designed to offer greater control over the frothing process. This makes it an ideal choice for those aspiring to create café-quality lattes and cappuccinos.
Features of the Breville Infuser Steam Wand
- 360-Degree Rotation: The steam wand can rotate freely, a feature typically found in professional-grade machines. This flexibility allows users to position their milk pitcher at the optimal angle, making the steaming process more precise and efficient.
- Microfoam Mastery: With practice, the Infuser’s wand helps produce silky microfoam perfect for latte art. The process of steaming milk becomes more than a task—it’s a creative endeavor that adds an artistic touch to your coffee experience.
Gaggia Classic Pro Steam Wand
The Gaggia Classic Pro also includes a manual steam wand, but it falls short when compared to the Breville Infuser’s capabilities.
- Limited Mobility: Unlike the Infuser, the Gaggia Classic Pro’s wand lacks a ball joint, restricting its range of motion. This limitation can make it harder to achieve the right angles for proper milk frothing.
- Durability Concerns: The wand on the Classic Pro feels less robust, raising concerns about its longevity. It requires careful handling to avoid damage.
- Performance Gaps: While the wand can produce a basic foam, it struggles to create the creamy, finely textured microfoam essential for lattes. Additionally, the wand often runs out of steam before heating a full pitcher of milk, leaving drinks lukewarm.
- Key Consideration: The Gaggia Classic Pro does not include a milk jug, adding to the initial setup cost if you don’t already own one.
Drink Options & Programmability
Winner: Tie
Drink Options
Both the Breville Infuser and Gaggia Classic Pro are designed for espresso lovers. Here’s what they offer:
- Pre-Installed Options: Both machines focus on delivering excellent espresso. They also feature a hot water dispenser, which is handy for making Americanos, tea, or other hot beverages. Unlike some entry-level machines, they do not combine milk steaming and hot water dispensing into one wand, which is a plus for cleanliness and usability.
- Cup Warmer: Both models include a cup warmer on the top, utilizing residual heat from the machine to keep your coffee warm for longer.
Programmability
When it comes to programmability, both machines are fairly basic, as is expected at this price point.
- Adjustable Settings: While you can manually control the shot volume, neither machine offers customization options like coffee strength, brewing temperature, milk foam temperature, or milk foam texture.
For users seeking more advanced programmability, these machines may feel limited. However, their simplicity is appealing to beginners and those who prefer a hands-on, traditional espresso-making experience.
Quick Overview of the Breville Infuser
The Breville Infuser BES840XL is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed for coffee enthusiasts looking to craft specialty coffee at home. With its thoughtful features and robust build, it offers an excellent blend of simplicity and performance, making it a top contender in the mid-range espresso machine market.
⏩ Key Features of the Breville Infuser
- Third Wave Coffee at Home:
The Breville Infuser adheres to the 4 keys formula, ensuring:
- The right dose of coffee beans for balanced flavor.
- Precise temperature control for consistent brewing.
- Optimal water pressure with pre-infusion technology.
- Microfoam milk texturing for latte art.
- Volumetric and Shot Control:
- Allows control over the volume of espresso with options for one shot, two shots, or manual customization.
- Ensures consistent dosing and prevents under or over-extraction.
- Pre-Infusion Technology:
- Gradually increases water pressure during the initial brewing phase, ensuring even extraction for a balanced espresso.
- Precise Temperature Control:
- Features PID temperature control adjustable in 2°F increments.
- Equipped with a pressure gauge for real-time monitoring, enabling users to fine-tune their brewing process.
- Manual Microfoam Milk Texturing:
- Powered by a high-capacity 1650W element, the steam wand produces silky microfoam essential for latte art and creamy milk-based drinks.
⏩ Pros:
- Thermocoil Fast Heating System: Heats up quickly and maintains stable temperatures.
- High-Quality Steam Wand: Enables professional-grade milk frothing for barista-quality drinks.
- Compact Design: Fits easily on kitchen counters.
- Adjustable Pre-Infusion: Enhances flavor extraction.
- Affordable for Its Features: Priced competitively compared to high-end models.
⏩ Cons:
- Single Boiler: Cannot brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously.
- No Built-In Grinder: Requires a separate grinder for freshly ground beans.
Quick Overview of the Gaggia Classic Pro
The Gaggia Classic Pro RI9380/47 is a semi-automatic espresso machine built for durability and performance. With its commercial-grade components and Italian craftsmanship, it caters to espresso enthusiasts seeking a traditional brewing experience.
⏩ Key Features of the Gaggia Classic Pro
- Solid Steel Housing:
- Durable, stainless steel body ensures longevity.
- Designed with a compact footprint, making it ideal for small kitchens.
- Commercial-Grade Components:
- Includes a 58mm stainless steel portafilter, standard in professional machines.
- Features a three-way solenoid valve for dry puck removal and easier cleanup.
- Steam Wand:
- Comes with a commercial-style steam wand capable of creating foam for lattes and cappuccinos.
- 9-Bar Extraction:
- Delivers professional-level pressure for authentic espresso shots.
⏩ Pros:
- Durable Build: Solid stainless steel construction ensures long-term reliability.
- Commercial Portafilter: Enhances espresso flavor with even extraction.
- Compact Design: Small footprint fits tight spaces.
- Three-Way Solenoid Valve: Makes cleaning up a breeze.
⏩ Cons:
- Steam Wand Limitations: Lacks 360-degree mobility, limiting flexibility during milk frothing.
- No Grinder Included: Like the Infuser, it requires an external grinder.
Conclusion
Both the Breville Infuser and Gaggia Classic Pro are standout choices in the semi-automatic espresso machine market, offering unique strengths tailored to different preferences and skill levels.
The Breville Infuser is the winner for those who value modern conveniences like pre-infusion technology, precise temperature control, and a highly efficient steam wand. It’s user-friendly, quick to heat up, and versatile, making it perfect for beginners and those who enjoy milk-based coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.
The Gaggia Classic Pro, on the other hand, appeals to espresso purists who prioritize durability and a traditional brewing experience. Its commercial-grade components, such as the 58mm portafilter and three-way solenoid valve, make it a reliable workhorse for those who appreciate the hands-on art of espresso preparation.
Ultimately, your choice between these two machines depends on your priorities:
- If you’re after flexibility, modern features, and excellent milk frothing, go for the Breville Infuser.
- If you prefer a durable, classic espresso experience with fewer bells and whistles, the Gaggia Classic Pro is your best bet.
Whichever you choose, both machines deliver excellent espresso quality and are worthy investments for coffee lovers.
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