Gaggia RI9380/50 Classic Evo Pro Espresso Machine, Classic Blue, Small

I've been enjoying coffee for almost sixty years. I've worked as a barista in my early twenties. I know my way around coffee; particularly when selecting beans; the roast; how to get the best grind using the best grinder; how to achieve the best cup of coffee using almost every conceivable method and device. These days I am prefer a delicious, smooth-bodied, crema-rich cappuccino when I wake up. Unfortunately, health concerns have limited me to just one cup of coffee a day, so I make damn sure I enjoy the best tasting espresso or cappuccino every morning. Ordinarily, I would have been using my time-tested and still reliable 1968 La Pavoni espresso machine. This machine took me over a year to master and once I had it down, no other espresso machine even came close to pulling the finest tasting espresso or caps you could drink. But the La Pavoni is a bulky and intensively time-consuming machine to use; especially in the morning once you're out of bed and your brain still isn't operating at 100% until AFTER you've enjoyed your coffee. I needed to find and purchase an interim type of counter-type of espresso machine. Oh, I will still use my La Pavoni for that special occasion, because there still isn't, in my opinion, a machine that can produce a finer tasting espresso or cappuccino than the La Pavoni. After about a month of intensive research, which included reading and evaluating every review and recommendation I could find, the Gaggia Classic Pro is the model that kept coming up as the best in its price range EVERYWHERE. And then I started looking at the Youtube videos. Almost to a video, it was the Gaggia Classic Pro that was heralded as THE espresso machine to buy in its price range. And another surprise: the Gaggia Classic Pro had been receiving this endorsement going back decades. Another big plus: Gaggia is an Italian company that has the inside scoop on coffee...that's all they do. They make coffee machines. I decided to purchase the Gaggia Classic Pro...and man oh man was this ever the right choice. It did take a couple of tries, even from this seasoned user, to appreciate all the ins and outs of this machine. The machine is far more sophisticated than it looks. But can it produce a satisfying espresso or cappuccino? And can it steam or foam up milk like no one's business (providing you know what you're doing and you don't scald your milk...and especially if you have a talent making espresso art)? I only use bottled water so as not to build up sediment inside the machine. I like to keep my equipment cleaned, well maintained, and operational at all times. You need to understand how this machine is put together in order to master all of its secrets. My suggestion is: check out the HUGE volume of Gaggia Classic Pro Youtube videos online. They will teach you everything you need to know in order to get your Gaggia to produce the type of enjoyable espresso or cappuccino you like. But you do need to understand how the boiler and the rest of the components work together if you really want to achieve the finest results from the Gaggia Classic Pro. I have paired my Gaggia Classic Pro with the latest model of Baratza's burr grinders in order to affect the perfect grind of the whole beans I use. And, by the way, I grind only the amount of beans I need for that morning's coffee. The balance of my 1Lb once a month purchase of whole beans are kept in a sealed, but valved container in order to release the CO^2 that coffee beans give off. I set the burrs to the finest possible grind setting. I have found with the Gaggia Classic Pro, one of the secrets is to NOT tamp down the coffee to the point of a severe compression. Make sure the amount of coffee is evenly dispersed and then lightly tamp it down. Don't forget to run hot water through the group head in order to preheat it. I also recommend purchasing an inexpensive hand held timer. You'll need it. You'll understand why after viewing many of the Youtube videos featured about the Gaggia Classic Pro. When you're ready to make your cup, place a preheated cup under the group head and let 'er rip. When the light goes off, press the OFF button. Then follow the Youtube recommendations for using the steam wand, otherwise you will run out of pressure before you obtain the type of steamed or foamed milk you need. And make sure you clean off the steam wand IMMEDIATELY after use and then let a blast of steam go through the wand to unclog it on its inside. And always use bottled water. NEVER use tap water with a Gaggia Classic Pro. If you do, your machine will die an early death in a couple of years instead of lasting a couple of decades. I recommend the Gaggia Classic Pro with a full five star rating. It is, without any doubt, the finest espresso machine anyone can purchase in this price range. It offers superior workmanship made from superior components and materials; it is a remarkably well-engineered device; it is an attractive model to place on your kitchen counter; it is easy to clean and maintain; and it will produce for you the tastiest espressos and cappuccinos at home for you to enjoy.

This machine has completely elevated my at-home coffee setup. The build quality is excellent, the controls are straightforward, and once you dial in your grind, the espresso it produces is rich, smooth, and consistently flavorful. The steam wand is powerful and makes great microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. Cleanup is simple, the design looks beautiful on the counter, and it feels like a true upgrade from entry-level machines. If you're looking for a reliable, café-quality experience at home, this is an outstanding choice.

I love espresso. I had scheduled 3 weeks staycation to spend at home with my wife and she gave me her blessing to create my own barista station with anything I would like. My mission was to watch many videos and order from amazon all that was needed to accomplish this. I did manage to create a very functional setup. After many trials by ordering, trying and returning several items, I have concluded to the following listing, with categories as essential, nice to have and optional, along with my commentary. The reason of this review is to provide you my weeks of extensive research, review, testing and evaluation of several products and give you some options to consider. I'll not make any money out of this neither get any benefit besides the satisfaction that I am able to help you. Essential: Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Evo Pro, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel ~ $399 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RQ3NL76 No other espresso machine comes near to this most awesome qualifications for a home barista, reliability, longevity and quality than this little monster. If you can find it under $400, it is a steal. I appreciate the upgrades from the previous models and the excellent online resources that can guide you to the right direction. They are so many youtubers that can teach you how to use it properly. I am extremely happy with this purchase. Essential: CUISINART Coffee Grinder, Electric Burr One-Touch Automatic Grinder with18-Position Grind Selector, Stainless Steel, DBM-8P1 ~ $59.95 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00018RRRK I already owned this Grinder. It is working very well and with the following optional mod, you can make it to produce even finer grind. By accomplishing this, you can save $$$. Optional: Romeda Aluminum Tape, 2 inch x 65 Feet Foil Tape (3.9 mil), Insulation Adhesive Metal Tape, High Temperature Heavy Duty HVAC Tape, Silver Tape Aluminum Foil Tape for Ductwork, Dryer Vent, HVAC ~ $7.59 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BHWMSTD I found a way to mod my grinder (check online for a instructions of how to do that) using this Aluminum tape and produce finer espresso grind. Nice to have: 1LB – Patented Airtight Container | Multi-use Vacuum Container Works as Smell Proof Containers for Ground Coffee and Coffee Bean Containers. White Floral ~ $17.76 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RJZRMP8 When I open a big bag of coffee, I use this container to hold all the excess. Essential: Coffee Gator Coffee Canister, Stainless Steel Airtight Coffee Containers for Ground Coffee with Date-Tracker, CO2-Release Valve, Measuring Scoop & Travel Jar - Medium, 16 oz, Silver ~ $17.99 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014HG645M if you want to have fresh beans, you need a place to put them. Nice to have: Pyrex Prepware 1-Cup Measuring Cup, Clear with Red Measurements ~ $9.97 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000CFMZN You'll find out that is nice to have a container to collect the water before you pull a shot from your machine and not using the drip tray. It is very versatile and can also be used to fill the machine with filter water from your refrigerator. Essential: Milk Frothing Pitcher 350ml/600ml/900ml/1500ml (12oz/20oz/32oz/50oz) Steaming Pitchers Stainless Steel Milk/Coffee/Cappuccino/Latte Art Barista Steam Pitchers Milk Jug Cup with Art Pen,12oz ~ $9.58 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KFYXTRR You'll use it every single time you pull a shot to get the steam out of the single boiler and also when you ready to froth milk. Nice to have: Empty Amber Glass Spray Bottles - 2 Pack - Each Large 16oz Refillable Bottle is Great for Essential Oils, Plants, Cleaning Solutions, Hair Mister - Durable Nozzle w/Fine Mist and Stream Setting ~ $19.98 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G98Y1BA Before I place the coffee beans into the grinder, I spay them by using this bottle with water and eliminate all the static that can be produced during the grinding process. I owned these bottles and was able to use them for that purpose. Of Course you can get a much smaller one... Essential: Transparent Dosing Cup 58mm, Antistatic Plastic Barista Coffee Powder Espresso Dosing Cup Sniffing Mug Powder Feeder Compatible with all 58mm Portafilter Baskets 58mm US ~ $7.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BPSHY4GJ After the grinding is over, I use this cup to measure 16g of grinded espresso beans on the digital scale and then add them on the portafilter (I do add the 51mm paper filter first). Essential: Greater Goods Digital Espresso & Coffee Scale - 750 x 0.1g, Mini Scale with 6 Units for Jewelry, Coins, Herbs, Food and Small Precise Things ~ $14.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SJTXGN7 A perfect espresso shot is a measured espresso shot. The only way to know if you produce good coffee is by trying, adjusting, measuring and dialing your accessories. This little scale does everything that you needed for very well and is well worth it. Essential: 58mm Portafilter Funnel, Espresso Dosing Funnel with Magnetic, Lightweight Aluminum Espresso Funnel, 58mm Dosing Funnel ~ $8.97 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJJXPNQT After you place the grinded coffee from the measuring cup to the portafilter, you using this magnetic funnel to contain the coffee into the designated area. Essential: NEOUZA Coffee WDT Distribution Tool Accessories, Aluminum Handle, 0.4mm 6 Stainless Needles, Espresso Powder Stirrer ~ $9.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BW3R282H Everyone is using this little tool to distribute the coffee and avoid channeling. Nice to have: Francis King Home Barista Espresso Tamping Station - Portafilter Stand for Single or Double Spout - Raised Tamp Mat - Essential Espresso Accessories ~ $9.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B4VSBLZ2 I made a decision to go to this inexpensive tamping station for two reasons. One that is just helps me handling the portafilter on an elevated and secure location and two that is pretty simple to clean and use. And yes, it was cheaper and goes with the aluminum style with the rest of the units on my setup. Essential: Normcore 58.5mm Coffee Tamper V4 - Spring-loaded Tamper with 15lb / 25lb / 30lbs Replacement Springs - Anodized Aluminum Handle and Stand - Stainless Steel Flat Base ~ $43.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BTLP4P1 This is the final moment: The portafilter is on the tamping station after you have used all the prior tools and you ready to use your tamper. I have conteplated to use a distributor and never really appreciate what it does. I found that by tamping the portafilter left and right, it places the grind in position and by using this precise tamper it does the job fine. Yes, that tamper is very well made and it is no surpise that is #1 on sales and reviews. I insert the 58mm paper filter on the portafilter. I run for 4 sec the machine to get the water into the boiler and ready for extraction by wiping the head and then I insert the portafilter. Nice to have: Knock Box for Coffee Grounds - Innovative Barista Accessory with Improved Handling - Coffee Knock Box for Espresso Machine, Black ~ $19.95 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QTCXTK5 You can either use this or a trash can or the glass pitcher after you completed your espresso shot. I found this unit very well build, great quality. Essential: Magnetic Hooks 304 Stainless Steel Hooks Heavy Duty Magnets Hanging Hooks for Refrigerator Grill Toolbox Cabins Outdoor,Cruise Essentials Camper Accessories,4pack(Silver,1.3in-2) ~ $16.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRL582NP I personally, like when is over, to have my portafilter hanging on the side of my machine. It is personal preference and that hook allows me to do that. Essential (Cleaning): Aieve Coffee Cleaning Brush Set, 7 Pcs Espresso Coffee Brush Kit includes Cleaning Towel, Wooden Coffee Grinder Brush, Nylon Brush for Coffee Pot, Pasta Maker ~ $9.59 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CYGT9VVJ Will use when most of these brushes when is time for cleaning, either your grinder, or the table or the machine. Haven't use all of them yet. Essential (Cleaning): 58-Milimeter Backflush Insert, Metal ~ $5.97 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0016C8ZO4 Will use when is time for cleaning. Haven't done that yet. Essential (Cleaning): Urnex Espresso Machine Cleaning Powder - 566 grams - Cafiza Professional Espresso Machine Cleaner ~ $16.98 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001418KNS Will use when is time for cleaning. Haven't done that yet. Essential (Cleaning): Gaggia Decalcifier Descaler Solution 250ml (3 Bottles) ~ $16.95 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LIEI7TM Will use when is time for cleaning. Haven't done that yet. Nice to have: Aieve Coffee Paper Filter Compatible with Breville Barista Espresso Coffee Maker, 58 mm Espresso Filter Puck Screen Portafilter Paper (400 Pcs) ~ $8.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5DP647F Keeps the head of the machine clean and helps with the distribution of the water. I prefer to use a paper filter vs a metal and that way I don't have to chase it out of the puck bucket when is time for cleaning. Nice to have: Aieve Coffee Paper Filter Compatible with Breville Barista Espresso Coffee Maker, 400 Pcs 51 mm Espresso Filter Puck Screen Portafilter Paper ~ $7.99 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B5DPVDW7 For the bottom of the portafilter. Will help with the distribution of the water, a sweeter taste easier cleanup. Nice to have: European Style Tea Coffee Cup Set Black Gold Gradual Vintage Ceramic Cup Coffee Mug With Spoon&Saucer Set Used for Latte, Americano, Cappuccino, Tea, Beer (2 pack) ~ $29.99 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093GS6J6R After all this hard work, it is nice to have something to appreciate your good coffee. Nice to have: Hobnail Glass Tumbler with Bamboo Lids and Straws, Borosilicate Iced Coffee Cup 22 oz/ 650ML for Smoothie Juice Hot and Cold Drinks ~ $17.98 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CYGSWRHK When is time to make my fredo espresso or any other iced coffee style, that is my goto cup. Nice to have: Zulay Kitchen Executive Series Milk Frother Wand - Upgraded & Improved Stand - Ideal Coffee Gift - Coffee Frother Handheld Foam Maker For Lattes - Electric Milk Frother Handheld For Cappuccino ~ $19.99 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074ZL35DH To use when is time to make a cold froth. I use it in conjuction with my milk frothing pitcher (after is placed on the freezer for couple minutes to get even colder temperature) Optional: UPKOCH 2Pcs Boxes filter paper storage box coffee station organizer for countertop coffee filter organizer espresso filter paper coffee filter case filter basket Italian plastic white ~ $9.49 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNSNMPPG It is nice to have a place for the two 58 & 51 filters. The choice is yours if you want these boxes or another container. Optional: Flat Plug Power Strip, 6 Ft Ultra Thin Flat Extension Cord, 3 Outlets 3 USB Ports(2 USB C) Multi Plug Outlet Extender with No Surge Protector for Cruise Ship, Travel, Dorm Room Essentials ~ $9.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BM3K436M It is nice to have all your appliances connected without showing all the cables around. Optional: Mind Reader 6 Compartment Upright Breakroom Coffee Condiment and Cup Storage Organizer, Black ~ $16.49 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0169ZDUSI Very nice organizer for all your essentials when you ready to go to work. Optional: Dish Drying Mats for Kitchen Counter Coffee Mat Under Sink Mats for Kitchen Waterproof Dish Mat Drying Kitchen Mat Bar Mats for Countertop Coffee Bar Accessories (Black A, 12"*14.5") ~ $7.49 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B9B1NWH2 It keeps the counter clean and your wife happy. Optional: DK177 Coffee Mat Coffee Bar Mat Hide Stain Absorbent Drying Mat with Waterproof Rubber Backing Fit Under Coffee Maker Coffee Machine Coffee Pot Espresso Machine Coffee Bar Accessories-19"x12" ~ $7.98 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BW7L7DSX Like the one above, after you hand wash some of the units, you can let them dry on this Mat before you put them away. Optional: 3 Pieces Kitchen Towel Hooks Round Adhesive Dish Towel Hook Premium Chrome Finish & Easy Installation Wall Mount Hand Towel Hook Ideal as Bathroom, Shower or Outdoor Towel Holders ~ $6.98 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099S55BD9 Where do you want to have your towel placed? In your machine? In your counter? In the mat? or hanging? It is up to you. Optional: eufy by Anker, HomeVac H11,Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner,Ultra-Lightweight 1.2lbs,5500Pa Suction Power,USB Charging, for Home Cleaning ~ $59.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MQB9BF5 From time to time, I find myself using a wetted paper towel to pick up what is left from the coffee grinds on the mats. This little and handy vacuum allowed me to keep my area clean and also connected to the power strip that is already there with the other units. Remember that keeping your area clean before, during and after your shot is complete, is very important. Hope you find this extensive review of various items helpful. Despite what you hear from many people about the boiler issues or other minor complains, this machine is amazing, it has past the test of time and will be reliable for years to come if you take care of it. I can tell you that by using it every day, I found myself more comfortable and happy with the results and my learning experience is awesome and wish you the same. Have a nice cup of coffee and enjoy a blessed day. Update Aug 8 I have made some extra purchases and want to give you an update: Optional: Professional Espresso Distribution Tool - Adjustable Depth and Dual Head Coffee Tamper - Stainless Steel, Double-Sided Coffee Leveler - Espresso Machine Accessories (Gun Metal, 58.5mm) ~ $11.49 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM68DDYR I like this little unit that have a leveler and a heavy tamper all in one for an excellent price and didn't want to skip. One think I like is that without placing extra pressure, the weight of the unit itself it adjust the pressure of the portafilter. So far is an excellent choice 2 for 1 and highly recommended. Optional: IMS 55 mm Precision Group Head Screen - GA 200 IM ~ $13.93 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WWM6O40 Lots of reviews online recommended this screen for a better water flow. I did it but I cannot tell a difference so far. Optional: E&B Lab NT (NanoTech) Double Espresso Portafilter Basket 58mm Ridgeless (18) ~ $26.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BF7R2RXT Same like the previous item, i made the upgrade just because everyone says it is good filter. I haven't notice a difference yet. Nice to have: Group Gasket-E61 (Red), Silicone, E61 8mm, SYNCHKG060251 ~ $6.04 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OX59S5Q Recommended upgrade. It does make the installation of the portafilter on the head much easier and is a very cheap upgrade. Nice to have: Ibyx Elegant Sliding Tray for Your Coffee Maker & Heavy Kitchen Appliances - Patent Pending - Sturdy, Slides Easily from Under The Cabinet - Rolling Appliance Tray for Countertop with Wheels 16"x13" ~ $39.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C1KSG5Q5 Recommended upgrade. It places the unit under my cabinets and when I want to fill the water, I just pull them out. Nice to have: Espresso Cup with Handle, Stainless Steel Espresso Accessories, Double Spout Metal Measuring Cup with Dual Scale, Espresso Shot pitcher with V-Shaped Mouth, 3.4OZ/100ML ~ $8.99 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLP441W8 It is silver and a little cup that is nice to have when you make a cold coffee like a fredo espresso.

*UPDATE* PLEASE AVOID PURCHASING THIS MACHINE. Its constantly on a discount because they are probably trying to rid their stock. Google "Gaggia Boilergate" before purchasing. The EVO pro model uses teflon coating which flakes off after a month of use. I started getting flakes too. Gaggia should recall all the products instead of selling it with a little bit of discount!! Is the coating food grade? is it harmful? no one knows because Gaggia wouldnt speak up about it. I'm aware that this machine is not a "straight out of the box" types and I interpreted as requiring a learning curve before brewing. However, when I unboxed the product, it had different connotation; the styrofoam was shattered creating bunch of micro debris all over the product which also found its way to the interior since the steam screw has a gap. Also a loose screw was found dangling near the water cartridge which seems hazardous. After hours of cleaning, I noticed permanent scratches on the product surface as well so watch out for these if you ordered a full stainless steel model. As for the product goes, evo pro has 9 bars so spring mod is not required. It does not have PID so you can learn how to temperature surf to get a decent cup of coffee. The stock portafilter has a good weight and feels well made minus the plastic handle - it does not have a single dose basket which i didnt need anyway. I waited a week for customer service to respond so I just started using the machine anyway and still learning how to brew proper with the machine. Definitely not beginner friendly but worth the experiment if you are willing to get into the hobby. I still have a buyers remorse due to the fact that it took me such a long time to get the machine clean and running but yet to pull a good espresso. But i do like the fact that the machine has a good weight so that it doesnt wobble too much when locking the portafilter.

12 months review: I am fairly happy with my Gaggia Classic Pro. I make about 2 to 4 Lattes a day unless I am traveling. Overall I am fairly happy but there are a few issues. Issues: (1) My machine did not push water through the portafilter after 1 year. I had descaled the machine once, but I had not back-flushed the machine regularly (weekly?). Diagnosing this issue, I also learnt that I should have cleaned the group head probably every 2 or 3 months using Cafiza and a brush. The required cleaning seems to exceed my expectations. (2) My steam wand leaks when I heat up water. I have not diagnosed this issue yet, but that is a bit disappointing, I feel, after one year. The next two issues are minor, but still a bit of a mood killer: (3) When I lifted the machine off my kitchen counter, one of the 4 rubber stands popped off. Not a big deal as I simply popped it back in. But I was a bit surprised. (4) Another minor gripe: The Gaggia Classic Pro sign is not fixed but wiggles on the machine. Just a bit sad for any manufacturer that takes pride in their product. Overall, I am okay happy as the coffee tends to be tasty. I continue to believe the machine is probably one of the best in its price range. The machine is okay, but not exceeding my expectations. More maintenance and cleaning than I had expected.

I've had this machine for a few weeks now. The reason I chose this was because I was looking for a machine that would last me awhile, rather than breaking down every few months. With research, many say this machine with consistent maintenance will last me a few years. Now, first impressions? I'm a literal amateur at coffee. I started off from a Keurig, to Nespresso, to Mr. Coffee (big regret) to now this. So yes, the learning curve is HUGE. In the beginning pulling the portafilter across takes MANPOWER. Had to hug the machine to lock it in, but recently it's gotten easier to pull so maybe it's just about "breaking it in". This Gaggia pulls the best espressos I've ever had. With the Mr. Coffee Coffeehouse machine, I thought my beans were the problem as it was constantly bitter even after dousing cream and sugar but it turns out it was the machine itself. With this Gaggia, I drink the same beans WITHOUT sugar which for me is a big deal. The steaming took a few tries to get the hang of but I'm getting there. I had to watch a couple videos on how to use the machine properly as the instructions aren't entirely clear. UPDATE: 3 months later. Noticed a little slow extraction issue and decided it was time to decalcify, but other than that, no issues. My sentiment about this machine has remained the same. For its price point it does a great job pulling a shot of espresso. If you're a newbie like i was (and still am!) with this machine you'll need to take time to learn the nuances otherwise you WILL get frustrated with sour shots. Here's what I've noticed and recommend if you want to stick with this machine 1. This machine is "buildable". It's one of the attractive features where you have total control over the machine, and can add/remove things such as a better IMS shower screen, a PID, a lower OPV bar spring, etc. These things in total will cost you an additional $150 though. I did it because this machine is known to last so I personally think it's worth the investment. But if you don't feel comfortable buying a machine and spending more for additional parts maybe this one isn't for you. 2. Mentioned it in #1 BUT GET A PID!!! i hated temp surfing to find the optimal brew temperature, and a MrShades PID helped regulate not only brew temp, but the steam as well. No more losing steam power in the middle of steaming! Fair warning, if you're not tech savvy, you may end up taking a few hours to install the PID. It was a little confusing and I ended up taking about 2 days (6hours total) to install it. 3. For those that complain the shots are too slow, what's your definition of slow? There's so many factors you need to consider here when it comes to extraction time; grind size and consistency, tamping, beans, etc. A double shot should come out at about 20-30sec. Any slower/faster more often results in bitter coffee. Again if you're new to espresso please read some forums it will tremendously help you get better shots. There are subreddits and Facebook pages that have a Gaggia Classic community filled with helpful people. Overall, for the value of this machine, it's the best you're going to get. Obviously if you spend $1000, you'll get a thousand dollar quality machine. You're spending less than $500, you'll get $500 quality machine. The GCP is a very good product for $450 considering other brands at the same price range. I'll update this every now and then because I want to make sure this is a long-term commitment. Update: Over a year later 3/4/2022. Machine is still going strong! Regular maintenance is a must, but overall, extremely happy with my machine. Only downside is now that when I make coffee for guests it can be tedious to wait for the boiler to heat up/cool down, for several cups, but that's all just party tricks.

The first espresso machine I ever owned was the Starbucks barista that they sold in Starbucks stores years ago. That machine was similar to this in that it only brews coffee and steams milk, no grinding. The next one I got was a fully automatic fully automatic DeLonghi magnifica. I had two of those over the years, bought the second one after the first one broke. Then the most recent one is the breville semi automatic which will grind coffee but you tamp and manually pull the shot. Out of all those machines this one does the best shots. Not sure if it's the machine or the fact that that I bought a separate grinder which might be higher quality than the ones contained in the fully automatic machines or semi-automatic ones. Im always surprised a the shots I am able to get with this machine, great looking shot after great looking shot. It makes pulling a shot more than just making a cup of coffee. More like a hobby because it's so fun to get that perfect three layered shot, and getting that beautiful three layered shot actually means your coffee will taste better. When I first got the machine I went through about a pound or two of coffee over several hours just pulling shot after shot dialing in the grind and the time and the weight until now just about every time I brew, with what I've learned, it's a perfect shot. And as I already said when the espresso shot looks perfect the taste is absolutely better than when it doesn't look 'perfect'. The other reason I got this machine is the fact that it is repairable. Out of the machines that I mentioned owning in the past I've spent $3,000 or $4,000 over the years, The fully automatic ones are not cheap and also a lot of times are not repairable so when it breaks you toss it out, ouch! I kept my first broken DeLonghi fully automatic espresso machine out in the garage for about 5 years before I finally thought that it was time to fix it and upon taking it apart saw that it was never going to go back together. For one thing parts were not available and another thing even if I were it just would not have gone back together. Very cheap and unreliable on the inside. This espresso machineis easily serviceable by a professional or even a homeowner and very simple and high quality on the inside. I've read great reviews of people doing simple upgrades and fixes themselves. So for the price, this thing will last you a lifetime unlike the fully automatic things which cost about a grand or so, but will leave you high and dry in about 5 years.

It's not the cheapest way to make coffee, but it's an excellent machine for aficionados. We had owned a Gaggia machine for the last 20 years, which finally broke. This one has even better engineering, which makes coffee-making easy and gives an excellent cup of cappuccino or expresso every time. It operates with less noise. The "fluffer arm" has an innovative nozzle that results in perfect foam every time. Wow!