After a year-long test of 13 coffee makers, the Gaggia model remains my top preference.
Updated Coffee Maker Review: The Gaggia Classic Pro is Still the Best
Hey there! After testing numerous coffee makers for the past year, I found myself coming back to one machine every single time—the Gaggia Classic Pro. This little guy is a powerhouse for those who love a good cup of joe.
Despite its quirks, the Gaggia Classic Pro is a must-have for coffee enthusiasts who aren't afraid to roll up their sleeves and tinker a bit. It's a moderately priced, good-looking machine that offers a tremendous amount of customization for a satisfying experience.
One issue with the Gaggia Classic Pro is the limited space between the portafilter and drip tray. I usually use a shot glass when brewing as it fits better, and it's challenging to use a scale under the tray to weigh the coffee. This machine also lacks a PID controller to maintain stable temperature like more premium machines, and the small boiler means you might run out of steam when preparing milk.
But don't let these minor inconveniences deter you! The Gaggia Classic Pro community is filled with hobbyists who share tips, advice, and mods to help you get the most out of your machine.
Check out the accessories available for this machine. Some popular options include longer drip trays that fit a scale, shallower trays for larger cups, devices that keep the boiler filled with water, colored lighting kits, and even kits to replace the original controls.
You can even take it a step further with projects like Gaggiuino, which lets you control pressure, temperature, and flow for each shot.
If you're looking for a new hobby, the Gaggia Classic Pro is definitely the coffee maker for you. Dive into the passion of coffee brewing and join the community on the Gaggia Classic Pro subreddit. Happy brewing!
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- A trained barista shares their top tips for choosing the perfect home coffee maker
- De'Longhi's compact espresso machine just got a major upgrade—and it's adorable
Enhance Your Gaggia Classic Pro Experience with These Accessories
Curious about additional ways to personalize and improve your Gaggia Classic Pro? Here's a roundup of popular modifications and accessories for better functionality and aesthetics:
- Bottomless (Naked) Portafilter - A high-quality 58mm bottomless portafilter for better shot consistency and easy cleaning.
- Precision Shower Screen and Filter Basket - Provides even water dispersion for improved extraction quality.
- Redistribution Tools (Blind Shaker) - Helps with even coffee ground distribution for more consistent espresso shots.
- Switchbank Replacement - Ensures reliable operation with new, quality parts.
- Shot Timers - Accurately times espresso shots for consistent results.
- TopBox Bundles - Incorporate PID, pressure gauge, and flow control to improve brewing precision.
- Steam Wand Tips - Single-hole tips for better milk frothing performance.
- Aesthetic and Ergonomic Upgrades - Premium wood accessories and kits for enhanced style and functionality.
These accessories and mods cater to both technical performance and user experience, helping you make the most of your Gaggia Classic Pro espresso machine.
The Gaggia Classic Pro community is not limited to coffee enthusiasts alone; it also welcomes those with an interest in technology and gadgets, who might find joy in modifying their machine for better functionality. With numerous accessories available such as precision shower screens, switchbank replacements, and steam wand tips, the Gaggia Classic Pro can be transformed into a personalized gaming gadget for the perfect espresso experience.
