By: Caffeinated Gear Review Team
Before we guide you through the finest Gaggia coffee machines available today, let’s explore the fascinating origins of this revolutionary brand that literally invented modern espresso as we know it.
While the earliest espresso machines emerged in the 1800s, it wasn’t until a brilliant Milan café owner named Achille Gaggia revolutionised coffee making forever. His groundbreaking “steam-free coffee machine”, patented in 1938, would transform how we experience espresso.
In this historic photo, you’ll spot Achille Gaggia himself, standing proudly next to his revolutionary machine.
His invention didn’t just create a new type of coffee maker – it fundamentally changed what espresso could be. The higher pressure his machine generated produced something entirely new: the distinctive golden crema that crowns a properly pulled shot of espresso.
Here’s a fascinating bit of coffee history that might surprise you: that beloved layer of crema wasn’t always celebrated. In fact, early customers initially dismissed it as “coffee scum”, viewing it with suspicion rather than appreciation.
But Gaggia proved himself as brilliant at marketing as he was at engineering. Through clever positioning, he transformed this initially unwanted foam into “crema” – the hallmark of perfectly extracted espresso that we cherish today.
Now that we’ve explored these essential roots of modern espresso, let’s discover which Gaggia machine might be perfect for your home coffee bar.
When discussing Gaggia coffee machines with our customers, we consistently recommend Gaggia Direct.
Their story is fascinating and speaks volumes about their dedication to the Gaggia brand. After Philips acquired Saeco (Gaggia’s parent company) and subsequently closed Gaggia UK, something remarkable happened. The managing director of Gaggia UK, Raj Beadle, refused to let the legacy fade. Instead, he established Gaggia Direct, securing his team’s jobs and maintaining the brand’s presence in Britain as the official UK distributor for Gaggia Milan.
Our firsthand experience with Gaggia Direct’s operations in Elland, Halifax, has been nothing short of impressive. They maintain a comprehensive UK-based stock, provide direct customer support, and house their own engineering team for repairs. As the official warranty providers for Gaggia in the UK, they’re the backbone of after-sales support for all genuine UK Gaggia machines.
During our visits to their Yorkshire facility, we’ve witnessed their outstanding customer service in action. Combined with consistent positive feedback from our community of coffee enthusiasts, we’re confident in our recommendation.
It’s worth noting that all legitimate UK Gaggia retailers work through Gaggia Direct. If you spot a Gaggia machine at an unusually low price, proceed with caution. Several websites, while appearing UK-based, actually sell grey imports. Watch out for these warning signs:
1: Extended delivery times, often exceeding two weeks
2: European plugs with UK adapters
3: No valid UK warranty
The warranty issue is particularly crucial. Some suppliers might claim UK warranty coverage, but this isn’t possible with EU machines not intended for the British market.
Choosing the ideal Gaggia coffee machine isn’t about finding the absolute best model – it’s about finding the perfect match for your needs. Let’s break down the different types to help you make an informed decision.
First, let’s understand the two main categories of espresso machines that Gaggia offers:
Bean to Cup Coffee Machines & Traditional Espresso Machines
Bean to cup machines are espresso machines with integrated grinders. They simplify the brewing process, with most functions automated at the push of a button. These machines come in two varieties:
Standard Bean to Cup Machines & One Touch Bean to Cup Machines
Standard (or semi-automatic) machines handle the coffee brewing automatically but require manual milk steaming via a steam wand. One touch machines automate both coffee brewing and milk frothing with a single button press.
Traditional espresso machines have their own categories. Most modern models are semi-automatic pump machines, which create pressure mechanically. This differs from the original lever machines that Gaggia pioneered, where baristas manually “pulled” shots – hence the term still used today. While beautiful manual machines like the La Pavoni Europiccola still exist, semi-automatic machines dominate the market.
Semi-automatic machines fall into two main categories:
Home Barista Machines vs Domestic Machines
Home barista (or prosumer) machines are essentially commercial-grade equipment scaled for home use. While compact and sometimes more affordable, they use professional-grade components to achieve the standard 9 bars of pressure through traditional filter baskets.
These machines require proper espresso-capable grinders and significant skill development. The home barista journey is a rewarding hobby that demands time, dedication and investment in both equipment and learning.
Domestic machines target casual coffee drinkers seeking an accessible entry point. They’re designed for immediate use with minimal learning curve and work well with pre-ground coffee or basic grinders. While sharing similar components with professional machines (portafilters, filter baskets, pumps), they operate differently.
Most use 15 bar pumps (higher than the traditional 9 bars) and pressurised filter baskets. While many brands use thermoblock boilers in this category, Gaggia stands out by incorporating proper brew boilers in all but one of their domestic models – a distinction we’ll explore further.
When examining coffee machines priced under £200, we’ve found they offer remarkable value, particularly for coffee lovers who prefer simplicity over mastering complex barista techniques.
Unlike traditional espresso machines, these models don’t require extensive training or the precise dialling-in process that commercial and home barista machines demand.
At Caffeinated Gear, we appreciate that Gaggia produces machines across multiple categories.
To help you find exactly what you’re looking for, we’ve organised our comprehensive review by machine type.
Before diving into specific models, let’s examine the core features shared across Gaggia’s bean-to-cup range.
Our testing revealed these standard features across all models:
Ceramic Burrs
While most manufacturers opt for stainless steel, Gaggia consistently chooses ceramic burrs for their grinders.
Through our temperature testing, we’ve confirmed Gaggia’s stance that ceramic burrs generate less heat during grinding, helping preserve the beans’ flavour profile.
Removable Brew Unit
We particularly appreciate the practical design of the brewing unit.
The entire component slides out smoothly for quick cleaning under the tap – a feature that makes maintenance refreshingly straightforward.
Opti Dose System
This clever innovation often goes under-appreciated.
The machine actually learns from each shot it pulls, measuring the pressure needed for tamping and adjusting automatically.
Its software analyses whether more or less pressure was required than expected, fine-tuning the motor’s power output accordingly.
When testing new beans, we’ve noticed that shot quality typically improves after the first few extractions as the machine adapts.
Dregs Drawer Full Indication
For convenient maintenance, these machines include an internal drawer for used coffee pucks.
The system monitors usage and prevents further brewing once the drawer reaches capacity, ensuring proper waste management.
Cleaning & Descaling Alerts
Each machine provides timely maintenance reminders.
Premium models even allow water hardness settings for customised descaling schedules – a feature we find particularly useful for prolonging machine life.
The Three Versions
Through our extensive testing, we’ve identified distinct advantages to each of the three available versions:
The standard version comes with a Panarello steam wand (which can be removed to access the steam pipe beneath).
The mid-range ‘milk’ or ‘deluxe’ version features a cappuccinatore attachment that draws milk directly from your container.
The premium ‘prestige’ version includes a milk carafe for fully automated drink preparation.
Based on our hands-on experience, we strongly recommend the mid-range version.
Here’s why we prefer the cappuccinatore model:
1: Superior Milk Texturing Options
While the cappuccinatore delivers identical results to the carafe system, it offers more flexibility.
By removing the attachment, you can use the steam pipe as a traditional wand – perfect for achieving that silky microfoam needed for flat whites.
2: Built-in Backup Plan
If milk frothing issues arise with a prestige model, you’re completely stuck until repairs are made.
The cappuccinatore version allows manual milk frothing as a backup, often buying time for simple fixes like replacing a worn seal.
3: Minimal Extra Effort
The difference between one-touch and two-button operation is negligible in practice, especially considering the cost savings and added versatility.
Let’s explore filter baskets, a crucial component in espresso preparation.
These metal containers sit within the portafilter, holding your ground coffee for extraction.
Commercial and home barista machines use multi-hole baskets requiring precisely ground coffee – significantly finer than other brewing methods.
Each machine and bean combination needs specific adjustment through ‘dialling in’ to achieve optimal extraction.
Gaggia revolutionised the market with their ‘perfect crema’ basket design.
Instead of multiple holes, it features a single opening that creates pressure build-up during extraction.
This innovation, now widely adopted as the ‘pressurised basket’, aims to replicate the crema achieved by traditional machines.
While these baskets make espresso more accessible, they trade some flavour control for consistency.
However, when paired with quality beans (especially freshly ground), they produce results that satisfy most coffee drinkers.
Our testing team was particularly intrigued by this compact bean-to-cup machine from Gaggia. Its unique design sets it apart from traditional coffee machines, but don’t let its unconventional appearance fool you – this is a serious piece of kit at a remarkably accessible price point.
While some might know this machine was previously marketed under Philips, our technical assessment reveals its true Gaggia DNA. The professional-grade ceramic burrs and removable brew group mirror classic Gaggia engineering principles we’ve seen in their higher-end models.
At £299 from Gaggia Direct, this machine offers remarkable value. We particularly appreciate its straightforward approach – two programmable buttons that can be easily customised for your perfect espresso or lungo. The fixed 10-gram dose might seem limiting, but we’ve found it produces consistently balanced shots when properly dialled in.
One crucial point for precision brewing: since you can’t adjust the coffee dose, we recommend using quality Best coffee scales review to maintain your desired brew ratios. For a classic double shot, you’ll need to run two cycles – a small compromise given the price point.
The main competition comes from the discontinued De’Longhi Magnifica ESAM 4200, which typically costs slightly less and offers more adjustability. However, the Besana’s build quality and simplicity shouldn’t be overlooked.
Moving up the range, the Naviglio presents a more traditional aesthetic combined with enhanced functionality. During our testing, we found its larger 1.8L water tank and adjustable dose settings (7g, 9g, 11g) offer welcome flexibility for different brewing preferences.
The double shot function, while essentially automated consecutive singles, streamlines the workflow compared to the Besana. The three-position strength selector is brilliantly simple – one bean symbol for 7g, two for 9g, and three for 11g.
A note about bean storage: despite the generous 300g hopper, we strongly recommend adding only what you’ll use in the next day or two. For optimal freshness, store your beans in an airtight container.
Speaking of storage, many customers ask us about freezing coffee beans. Our experience shows it’s perfectly fine, but requires proper technique. Rather than repeatedly accessing a large frozen batch, we recommend portioning beans into daily servings before freezing. Always defrost overnight – grinding frozen beans can stress both the grinder and compromise extraction quality.
For more detailed guidance on maintaining bean freshness, check out our comprehensive guide on How to store beans correctly.
When comparing prices, we find the machine sits comfortably at £350 with a 2-year warranty, or £360 for 3 years of coverage. Its main competitor is the De’Longhi Magnifica S Ecam E22, which typically retails in the same price bracket. While both machines offer similar capabilities, our team particularly appreciates the Naviglio’s sleek design. We’re also impressed by Gaggia’s outstanding customer service through Gaggia Direct, which gives it a slight edge in our assessment.
After putting the Brera through its paces in our testing kitchen for several weeks, we can confidently say it’s a brilliant compact bean-to-cup machine that offers fantastic value for money.
The machine’s compact design does come with some practical considerations. The water tank, drip tray, and bean hopper are sized to fit the smaller footprint. However, we don’t see the modest hopper size as a limitation – in fact, we recommend against filling any hopper to capacity. Instead, store your beans in an airtight container and measure out just what you need for each brewing session.
For those who don’t prioritise a compact design, it’s worth considering other Gaggia models at similar price points, such as the entry-level Anima. This model offers some notable advantages, including a larger water tank with convenient top-fill access (perfect for quick refills mid-brew), expanded strength settings (5 versus 3), and customisable water hardness settings for more precise descaling notifications.
The Velasca represents Gaggia’s newer generation of coffee machines, featuring double the grind adjustment range compared to its siblings. While we’re always keen on having more grind settings, we should note that the jump from 5 to 10 settings might not revolutionise your coffee experience.
From our extensive conversations with bean-to-cup machine owners, we’ve observed that many users tend to stick with the factory settings. However, we strongly encourage experimenting with grind size – in our experience, the finest setting often yields the best results with most bean-to-cup machines.
For those who really want to perfect their grind settings (a process known as “dialing in”), we’d actually suggest considering a semi-automatic manual espresso machine, which we’ll cover in detail later.
The Velasca essentially offers a similar compact footprint to the Brera and Naviglio while packing in additional features like expanded grind and strength settings.
One notable point about the Naviglio: unlike the Besana, it doesn’t include a bypass chute for pre-ground coffee. While this won’t affect most users, it’s worth considering if you occasionally want to brew decaf. Our professional recommendation is to keep decaf coffee beans whole and store them in an airtight container. When you need a decaf coffee, simply measure out the precise amount needed for your drink. Pre-ground coffee loses freshness much more rapidly than whole beans due to increased surface area exposure to air.
After extensive testing in our coffee lab, we’ve found the Gaggia Anima strikes an impressive balance between cost and capability in the bean-to-cup machine market.
While it sits at a slightly higher price point than basic models, the additional features more than justify the investment.
The generous 1.8-litre water tank and expanded grounds container capacity significantly reduce maintenance frequency – a practical advantage we’ve come to appreciate during busy morning coffee sessions.
What truly sets this machine apart is its thoughtful design features. The ability to top up water mid-brew has saved countless shots from interruption, while the customisable water hardness settings ensure descaling prompts match your local water quality. We were particularly impressed by the adjustable brew temperature – a premium feature rarely found at this price point.
Breaking news in the Gaggia lineup: The new Anima Plus model maintains all the trusted features of the original but upgrades to a professional-grade steam wand, matching the one found on the Magenta Plus. For those passionate about crafting silky microfoam for their lattes, cortados and flat whites, this upgrade deserves serious consideration.
As we noted in our best bean to cup coffee machines post, the Magenta Plus stands out as our top choice for daily use, primarily because of its professional-grade steam wand.
While this machine boasts numerous compelling features, the inclusion of a professional steam wand on a bean-to-cup machine is remarkably rare, making it particularly special.
For those who don’t regularly prepare milk-based drinks, this feature might not seem significant. However, if you’re passionate about lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites, we strongly recommend considering the Magenta Plus. Unlike other Gaggia semi-automatic machines that use Panarello wands (perfect for traditional, thick-foamed cappuccinos), this professional wand allows for creating the silky microfoam essential for contemporary coffee art and texture.
Through our testing, we’ve found that standard one-touch machines and Panarello wands simply can’t achieve the velvety consistency needed for modern milk drinks. While it’s possible to modify other machines by removing the Panarello attachment, the shorter steam pipe makes this a challenging workaround.
We should mention that if budget isn’t a constraint, the Sage Oracle or Sage Oracle Touch offer outstanding automated microfoam creation with their professional wands. However, at three to four times the Magenta Plus’s price, they’re often beyond reach for many coffee enthusiasts.
Beyond its stellar milk-steaming capabilities, the Magenta Plus impresses with its intuitive interface. The one-touch selections for espresso, lungo, and Americano, combined with the straightforward settings memory prompt, provide excellent value at this price point. These features complement an already robust set of capabilities shared with the Anima model.
Considering its complete feature set and the professional steam wand, we’ve found the Magenta Plus offers unmatched value in its price category.
After thoroughly testing countless Gaggia machines in our coffee lab, we’ve discovered something special about the Cadorna series. While Gaggia’s extensive range might seem overwhelming at first, the Cadorna fills a unique niche that we believe many coffee lovers will appreciate.
What sets this machine apart is its brilliant multi-user design. We’ve tested the entire Cadorna range (including their fully automatic models, which we’ll explore shortly), and it’s clear these machines were built with shared spaces in mind. The standout feature? Up to four users can create and customise their perfect coffee profiles.
During our testing, we found the customisation process wonderfully straightforward, matching the user-friendly approach we loved in the Magenta series. Adjusting strength, volume, and temperature is remarkably intuitive, and saving these preferences to individual profiles takes seconds.
There’s just one small quirk worth mentioning – the profiles are colour-coded rather than password-protected. In our shared office tests, we noticed this occasionally led to accidental profile changes. While not a deal-breaker, it’s something to keep in mind for households where coffee preferences are taken seriously!
For those interested in a more advanced setup, there’s the Cadorna Barista Plus variant. It shares many features with the Magenta Plus, including the professional steam wand, while adding those brilliant user profiles and a rather special ristretto option.
Speaking of ristretto – we were particularly excited to see this feature included. It’s surprisingly rare in bean-to-cup machines, yet it’s a crucial option for coffee enthusiasts. For those new to coffee, a ristretto is essentially a more concentrated espresso shot, using less water but the same amount of coffee.
During our milk-based drink tests, we found the ristretto option opens up fascinating flavour possibilities. Through extensive testing, we’ve found that some drinks, like flat whites, can taste remarkably different when made with ristretto instead of standard espresso. While some coffee shops insist on using ristretto for flat whites, we believe the beauty of having your own machine is experimenting to find your perfect match.
As we explore Gaggia’s range, you’ll notice most models come in both semi-automatic and fully automatic (“one-touch”) versions. These typically follow two main configurations: the cappuccinatore versions (usually labelled “deluxe” or “milk”) and the carafe versions (typically branded as “prestige” or “one-touch”).
For those new to automatic coffee machines, let’s start with a quick explanation: the cappuccinatore is the automatic milk frothing system found on many bean-to-cup machines. Unlike models with integrated milk carafes, this component consists of just the frother unit with a tube that pulls milk directly from your container of choice.
After extensive testing in our workshop, we found the Naviglio Deluxe offers excellent value for coffee lovers seeking automatic milk frothing. The key upgrade from the standard Naviglio is its cappuccinatore system – simply position your cup, dip the milk tube into your milk container, and press a button. No manual steaming or pouring required.
The Naviglio Milk represents the next generation of Gaggia’s automatic frothing technology. Our team was particularly impressed by the innovative cyclonic chamber cappuccinatore and its clever “milk slide” feature. This directs frothed milk straight into your cup on the drip tray, eliminating the need to reposition your cup between brewing and frothing.
During our testing sessions, we noticed the Anima Deluxe builds nicely on the semi-automatic base model’s capabilities. While keeping all the core features we love, it adds the convenience of automatic milk frothing through its integrated cappuccinatore system.
The Anima Class introduces true one-touch convenience to the Anima range with its integrated milk carafe system. Rather than using a cappuccinatore or steam wand, you simply fill the carafe with milk and slot it into place. The machine handles everything else automatically. It’s worth noting that while this model offers excellent functionality, it features a plastic body construction – the premium Anima Prestige adds brushed stainless steel panels to the front and top.
Finding your perfect bean to cup coffee machine doesn’t need to be complicated. We’ve spent countless hours testing dozens of machines to bring you this comprehensive guide. Our team of certified baristas and coffee experts has analysed every aspect – from grind quality to milk frothing – to help you make an informed choice.
Let’s start with the essentials before diving into our detailed recommendations. Understanding the fundamentals will ensure you choose a machine that perfectly matches your coffee preferences and lifestyle.
During our hands-on testing, we found that this machine shares all the brilliant capabilities of the Anima Class, with one significant upgrade: premium stainless steel finishing on the front and top panels. This enhancement adds a touch of sophistication that many of our team members appreciated, particularly in modern kitchen settings.
In our extensive testing sessions, we discovered this model brings serious one-touch convenience to the table. While it’s technically the cappuccinatore version, it matches the Prestige carafe model’s capabilities stride for stride. The key distinction? Rather than using an integrated carafe, it draws milk through a pipe from your container.
We particularly appreciated that Gaggia includes a dedicated milk container with this machine. This thoughtful addition means you’re essentially getting the functionality of the Prestige version, just configured slightly differently. Instead of an all-in-one unit, your milk sits alongside, drawn up through the pipe system.
Matches all Magenta Milk specifications, with these variations:
Through our comparison testing, we found the Magenta Prestige to be essentially a redesigned version of the Milk model. The primary distinction lies in its integrated carafe system, which creates a more streamlined look on your countertop. The milk frothing happens within the carafe itself, rather than through an external pipe system. Beyond these aesthetic and practical differences, you’re getting the same reliable performance we’ve come to expect from the Magenta line.
(Key differences from base model highlighted in bold)
The Velasca comes in just two variants: the standard semi-automatic and this Prestige version with its milk carafe. We particularly valued the quick clean button during our testing – it’s a brilliant addition for busy households where maintaining milk system hygiene is crucial.
The special drinks button might seem like a minor feature, but we found it surprisingly useful. While hot water dispensing is fairly standard, the smaller cappuccino option provides welcome flexibility for different serving sizes.
A standout feature that impressed our team was the rubber-sealed hopper lid. This isn’t just about keeping beans fresh (though we still recommend storing beans separately) – it notably reduces grinding noise, something our early-morning coffee enthusiasts particularly appreciated.
Our testing revealed the Cadorna Milk to be a fascinating addition to Gaggia’s lineup. Like the Magenta Milk, it uses a cappuccinatore system (which Gaggia now calls ‘capp in cup’) but maintains one-touch functionality similar to the carafe version.
One feature that caught our attention was the café au lait option – somewhat unique in the one-touch machine market. However, we should note that, just like with flat whites, there’s considerable debate among coffee professionals about the exact definition of a café au lait. Your perception of this drink might vary based on your coffee background and preferences.
All as per Cadorna Milk, above, except:
Having extensively tested the Cadorna Prestige alongside its sibling model, we’ve found several distinctive features worth highlighting.
While it shares many capabilities with the Cadorna Milk, this premium model introduces additional one-touch drink options.
The standout addition is the flat white function, though we should note that achieving authentic flat white texture remains challenging for automatic machines.
Through our testing, we’ve found that while these drinks are enjoyable, they don’t quite match the microfoam consistency you’d expect from a skilled barista using traditional equipment.
The XL options for cappuccino and latte macchiato are welcome additions for those who prefer larger drinks.
The refreshed Accademia represents a significant step forward in home coffee automation.
Our testing team was immediately struck by its stunning glass front design, which not only looks brilliant but proves remarkably practical for cleaning.
The touch interface, integrated seamlessly into the glass panel, offers the most responsive control system we’ve encountered in a domestic machine.
While we typically approach touch screens with healthy scepticism, this implementation truly impressed us.
The thoughtful addition of a metal dial provides welcome flexibility in how you interact with the machine.
In terms of capabilities, this machine stands head and shoulders above its competitors.
After extensive testing, we’re confident in calling it the most versatile true bean-to-cup machine available for home use.
The one-touch drink menu is comprehensive, featuring:
What truly sets this machine apart is its dual approach to milk preparation.
Unlike most competitors that force you to choose between automatic or manual milk texturing, the Accademia excels at both.
The automatic system features excellent self-cleaning, while the professional steam wand includes convenient purge functionality through the interface.
The espresso crafting capabilities are equally impressive.
Our testing revealed outstanding features including:
Building on its predecessor’s reputation for reliability, this model maintains the robust internal engineering that made the original a favourite in demanding environments.
However, we did identify two minor drawbacks:
The drip tray capacity seems undersized for a machine of this calibre.
Given this was a common critique of the previous model, we’re surprised it wasn’t addressed in this update.
Additionally, the steam wand interface could be more streamlined.
While the purge function is conveniently accessible, activating steam requires navigating through drink options rather than having a dedicated control.
These small issues aside, our extensive testing confirms this as an exceptional machine for serious home coffee enthusiasts.
After extensive testing in our workshop, we can confidently say the Gaggia Classic Pro stands as a remarkable testament to Italian engineering.
This machine has been the starting point for countless coffee enthusiasts over its impressive 30-year history, and for good reason.
When Philips acquired the Gaggia brand in 2009, some changes raised eyebrows among coffee purists. However, we’re pleased to report that the latest Classic Pro returns to its roots, incorporating the crucial 3-way solenoid valve and professional-grade steam wand that made the original so beloved.
At around £430, it faces stiff competition, particularly from the Sage Bambino Plus. Yet, we’ve found nothing quite matches the Classic’s unique combination of quality and value. The nearest rival might be the Rancilio Silvia E, but with a £100 price premium, it sits in a different bracket.
What sets the Classic Pro apart, in our experience, is its serviceability. Unlike many modern machines, it follows the traditional Italian approach to engineering. With basic DIY skills, you can maintain and repair this machine for decades. We’ve worked with Classics that are pushing 20 years and still pulling perfect shots.
Speaking of maintenance, we’re impressed with Gaggia Direct’s service support. Our team recently sent in an older Classic for routine maintenance – new seal, valve replacement, general tune-up – and the turnaround was just a week.
For an in-depth look at this machine, check out our comprehensive:
In our view, the Acrobat edition represents something special in the Classic Pro line-up. This numbered, limited-edition variant showcases distinctive barista-inspired artwork, making each machine unique. At its current discounted price, we believe it’s the smarter choice over the standard Classic Pro.
From our market analysis, the Gaggia Classic has shown remarkable value retention. We’ve tracked prices over two decades, and it’s one of the few kitchen appliances that often appreciates in value. The limited-run Acrobat edition, commemorating the 30th anniversary, looks particularly promising as an investment piece.
See the Acrobat in action:
In this comprehensive guide, we’re focusing on domestic espresso machines, specifically traditional pump-driven models designed for home use. These machines strike an excellent balance between professional capabilities and user-friendly features, making quality espresso accessible without requiring extensive barista training.
After extensive testing in our coffee lab, this latest addition to Gaggia’s lineup has thoroughly impressed our team.
While sharing its name with the iconic 1980s Gaggia Espresso (a compact, mostly plastic machine with an aluminium boiler that preceded the Classic), this new generation brings significant improvements to the table.
The range offers two variants: the Style, featuring an all-plastic construction, and the Deluxe, which boasts premium touches like a metal cup warmer, metal rails, and a metal drip tray cover. British customers should note that while an Evolution version exists, it’s not currently available in the UK market.
Initially, we approached this machine with some scepticism, expecting another basic 15-bar pressurised system. However, our hands-on testing revealed something remarkable: this is genuinely the finest espresso machine available under £200.
What sets this machine apart is its versatility. Whether you’re using supermarket beans or beginning your journey into specialty coffee, it delivers consistently impressive results. For anyone with a £200 budget, we believe this represents outstanding value.
Despite its ABS plastic construction (the same material used in LEGO), the build quality impressed us. The Italian craftsmanship shines through in both design and durability.
Key highlights from our testing include:
The only minor criticism? We’d prefer metal splitter spouts, but that’s a small compromise given the overall package.
For detailed insights and testing results, read our comprehensive review:
Read our detailed review:
The Carezza stands out in Gaggia’s lineup with its unique design philosophy. Through our testing, we’ve identified two major distinctions: the thermoblock heating system and front-loading water tank.
Unlike most Gaggia machines (except their bean-to-cup range) that use traditional brew boilers, the Carezza employs a thermoblock system – similar to what you’d find in other sub-£200 machines. Think of it as the difference between a combi boiler and a traditional tank system in home heating.
The front-loading water tank design, typically found in Gaggia’s bean-to-cup machines, adds a distinctive touch to this traditional espresso maker. Currently, only the Deluxe model remains available, featuring a thermometer and upgraded portafilter weight.
Through our extensive testing and analysis, we’ve gained deep insight into Gaggia’s diverse range. For home baristas, Gaggia offers one standout option: the Classic Pro. While they manufacture several commercial machines, these larger, more expensive models target cafes and restaurants. View Gaggia’s commercial range here.
Finding your perfect Gaggia machine isn’t about choosing the ‘best’ model – it’s about matching the right machine to your coffee preferences and lifestyle.
After testing dozens of models in our specialised coffee lab, we’ve discovered that the key is first determining which category suits your needs.
Are you looking for a semi-automatic bean-to-cup with milk frothing capabilities?
Perhaps a fully automatic one-touch system that does everything at the press of a button?
Or maybe you’re ready to dive into the world of home barista espresso machines for complete control over your coffee?
Once you’ve identified your ideal machine type, selecting the right Gaggia becomes much more straightforward.
Based on our extensive experience in the coffee industry, we highly recommend Gaggia Direct in Elland, Halifax, for UK customers.
There’s an interesting story here – when Philips acquired Gaggia and closed their UK operations, the former Managing Director of Gaggia UK established Gaggia Direct (Caffe Shop Ltd), becoming the exclusive UK distributor for Gaggia Milan.
What sets them apart is their unmatched product knowledge and customer support.
Need immediate expert advice?
Their team is just a phone call away.
Prefer a face-to-face consultation?
They offer convenient Zoom meetings to address your questions or concerns.
While other retailers do sell Gaggia machines, we strongly advise checking whether you’re buying UK stock.
Many online sellers ship directly from Italy or elsewhere in Europe, which can lead to warranty issues and other complications.
Through our research and direct contact with Gaggia, we can confirm that their manufacturing locations are split between Italy and China:
Bologna, Northern Italy produces:
The Gaggia Viva range and Gran Gaggia range are manufactured in China.
As coffee experts who’ve extensively tested both brands, we find this comparison fascinating.
Both Gaggia and DeLonghi have earned their stellar reputations in the coffee machine market, but they come from different backgrounds.
Gaggia’s heritage lies purely in coffee – they actually invented modern espresso.
DeLonghi, on the other hand, began with portable heaters and air conditioners, diversifying into coffee machines in 1990 as part of their broader home appliance range.
Despite these different origins, both manufacturers now produce excellent coffee machines.
Based on our testing experience, determining which is ‘better’ requires a model-by-model comparison, as both brands offer impressive features across their ranges.
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