Description
After weeks of hands-on testing in our coffee lab, we’re excited to share our detailed analysis of the latest Gaggia Classic E24. Building on the excellent foundation of the Evo Pro 2023, this machine introduces a brilliant brass boiler upgrade that coffee enthusiasts will appreciate. Let us walk you through the improvements and help you decide if this is your perfect espresso companion.
Features and Benefits
- Generous 2-litre water reservoir for extended brewing sessions
- Revolutionary 30% larger brass boiler for improved performance
- Premium all-stainless steel portafilter built for durability
- Professional-grade brass group with stainless steel surround
- Commercial-quality steam wand for perfect microfoam
- Intuitive rocker switch controls for straightforward operation
- Powerful 15 bar pump with OPV (factory set to 12 bar, easily adjustable to 6 or 9 bar)
- Professional 3-way solenoid valve for dry pucks
- Exceptional build quality for long-term reliability
- Space-saving dimensions: 38cm deep, 23cm wide, 39cm tall
- Industry-standard 58mm portafilter compatible with a wide range of accessories
All Stainless Steel Portafilter
The E24 retains the premium all-stainless steel portafilter introduced in the 2023 version. This marks a significant improvement over the 2019 Pro’s chromed brass version. During our testing, we found this upgrade particularly impressive – the stainless steel construction shows remarkable resistance to marks and dents, promising to maintain its pristine appearance far longer than its predecessor.
New Higher Capacity Brass Boiler
The latest brass boiler maintains the same external dimensions as the previous aluminium version, but cleverly maximises internal space. Thanks to brass’s superior thermal properties, the walls can be thinner while maintaining structural integrity, resulting in an increased capacity of approximately 110ml.
In our milk-steaming tests, this translated to noticeably improved steam power, particularly when working with larger quantities of milk. While the brass boiler does take marginally longer to reach steam temperature, we found this trade-off minimal compared to the benefits.
The brass construction also brings potential temperature stability improvements. In theory – and supported by our initial testing – this should mean less pronounced temperature fluctuations and reduced need for temperature surfing when operating without a PID.
All Brass Group
Continuing the premium metal construction, the E24 features a pure brass group (rather than chrome-plated brass) complemented by a stainless steel surround. This refinement, carried over from the Evo Pro 2023, enhances both durability and thermal performance.
Solid Stainless Steel Dispersion Plate
The E24 maintains the solid stainless steel dispersion plate introduced in the Evo Pro 2023, marking a notable upgrade from the aluminium plates found in earlier models.
Temperature Surfing?
For those new to manual temperature management, let’s demystify temperature surfing. This technique helps maintain consistent shot temperatures despite the machine’s basic thermostat system (versus a more sophisticated PID controller).
Our testing reveals interesting thermal characteristics: Aluminium conducts heat roughly four times faster than brass, which means the older aluminium boiler reached temperature more quickly but also lost heat more rapidly. The new brass boiler takes slightly longer to heat but maintains temperature significantly better.
The combination of a brass boiler directly coupled to a brass group should theoretically provide better temperature stability. While our daily use suggests this is indeed the case, we should note that we haven’t conducted controlled scientific testing to verify this definitively.
There’s So Much Choice! Should I Go For The Classic E24?
Based on our extensive testing, your decision should depend on your coffee-making style and preferences. The Classic E24 shines for those who enjoy:
- Modifying and personalising their equipment
- Learning machine maintenance and repair
- Investing in a durable device that can last decades with proper care
However, if modding seems daunting, consider these alternatives:
- The Sage Duo Temp Pro or Lelit Anna PID for similar capabilities without modification needs
- The Sage Bambino (or Bambino Plus with auto milk frothing) for a more modern, user-friendly approach
For a comprehensive look at all your options, check out our detailed guide to
The Best Home Espresso Machines
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