Description
While its boxy plastic housing might remind you of a childhood building block, don’t let appearances fool you – this compact machine has thoroughly impressed our testing team with its capabilities.
Key Specifications
- 1.2 L Side accessed water tank
- Thermoblock heater
- Panarello Steam wand with pro steam wand
- PID temperature controller
- 53mm portafilter
- Pre infusion
- Programmable shot button
- 25 second heat up time
When examining Gaggia’s more budget-friendly offerings in recent years, we’ve noticed a trend towards manufacturing outside Italy, with machines that shared more DNA with entry-level competitors than traditional Gaggia craftsmanship.
This wasn’t always the case – during the 1980s and 1990s, Gaggia’s entire range was proudly Italian-made. The original Gaggia Espresso, despite its plastic construction, demonstrated remarkable durability. We still spot these vintage models from the late 80s and early 90s at coffee fairs and in shops, pulling shots as reliably as ever (provided they’ve received proper maintenance).
While the new Gaggia Espresso has evolved from its predecessor, it maintains two crucial elements: Italian manufacturing at Gaggia’s primary facility and exceptional value for money.
What sets this machine apart from other options under £200? Two standout features: the temperature stability provided by its PID controller and a non-pressurised portafilter design.
For those seeking alternatives to the stock portafilter (though we find it quite capable), the Edesia Espresso 53mm portafilter fits perfectly. They also offer a 53mm bottomless portafilter for those interested in watching their extractions. If you’re satisfied with the portafilter but fancy upgrading just the basket, we recommend the 53mm standard basket.
The side-mounted water tank proves particularly practical – no awkward reaching under cabinets required. We’re also quite impressed with the versatile steam wand design. While it comes fitted with a panarello attachment for traditional frothy foam, removing this reveals a single-hole professional-style wand underneath, perfect for crafting silky microfoam.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.