Product Review: Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine

Gaggia Classic Pro

Personal Experience

Having this as my primary espresso machine for the last five years, I can confidently say that this little powerhouse has become an indispensable element in my daily coffee ritual. Be it my morning ritual or that late-afternoon pick-me-up, this machine has delivered café-quality espresso right on my kitchen counter.

Design & Build Quality (9/10)

One of the things that initially attracted me to the Gaggia Classic Pro was its no-nonsense, rugged design. Five years in, and it looks every bit as sleek as it did the day I pulled it out of the box. Thousands of espresso sessions have passed since then, without a scratch on its stainless-steel body, still feeling solid as the day I received it. I grew up loving the simplicity behind its operation-just something satisfying about flipping those retro rocker switches each morning.
I still love the 58mm commercial-grade portafilter. It's so integral to pulling consistent shots, and over time, I've realized how much the portafilter's heft and quality contribute to the stability and taste of my espresso. This machine has aged very gracefully both in appearance and performance, though I really do wish it were easier to monitor the water reservoir without having to take it out.

Ease of Use: 8/10

I first tried using the Gaggia Classic Pro, and it took a few tries to get the grind size and tamp pressure dialed in, but it soon became second nature. It's a rather forgiving machine for the beginner, especially with pressurized baskets, but now that I've gotten more serious with my espresso, the non-pressurized basket is all that I use for more control over my shots.
If I am being completely honest, the lack of a PID controller did not grate on my nerves at first, but as I have become more of a perfectionist over these years, temperature fluctuations have gradually started annoying me more. If you are one of those people who like actually fiddling with the 'behind-the-scenes' of pulling espresso shots, eventually you will join the bandwagon wanting a PID installed. The result has been that I have learned to work around it, but it still pulls a mean shot today. It's not dead yet.

Quality of Espresso: 9/10

Consistency is everything, and the Gaggia Classic Pro has delivered over the years. Paired with the right grinder, a little bit of practice, and it continues to pull shots that will rival some café espresso. There is such richness and balance in the crema that I look forward to every morning. It doesn't have some of the fancy features of pricier machines, but it does what it's supposed to-and does it well.
But what has really kept me loyal is how well it's responded to different beans and roast levels. Whether I'm trying to see how well a new blend works or am sticking with a favorite, I have found the Gaggia Classic Pro to be incredibly adaptable-which is why it has stayed my main machine for so long.

Steam Wand & Milk Frothing (8/10)

A steam wand upgrade on this model is still greatly appreciated by me even to this day-five years later. That provides me with the necessary control to whip up some beautiful microfoam for cappuccinos and lattes. It's not the quickest, but that's a compromise I've come to accept with a machine this compact-if you're steaming milk for more than one person, you may find yourself waiting for the boiler to catch up. For solo drinks or a couple of cappuccinos, though, it's sufficient.

Maintenance & Durability - 7/10

One thing you learn quickly about owning a Gaggia Classic Pro-or any espresso machine-is that upkeep is crucial to longevity. I do not neglect to descale regularly, and I will make sure the portafilter and steam wand are always clean after each use. The drip tray does fill up rather quickly, so I am always emptying it out, but that is a minimal gripe considering the grand scheme of things.
In five years, I have never had a big problem with the machine. I have replaced the group head gasket a couple of times, which is pretty normal wear-and-tear, and kept it in good condition by proactive cleaning.

Final Verdict: 8.5/10

As I sit down to reflect on the last five years of using the Gaggia Classic Pro, it surely is conspicuous why I've used it this long. It's become a staple in my home coffee routine, underpinned by great espresso quality, solidly built, and hands-on. I would say it's not without its limitations, most notably the lack of a PID; considering value and function, though, it's rather hard to beat. It's a machine that grows on you, and every step of the way has been so well-received.
The Gaggia Classic Pro is still a very good choice if you want to step up your home espresso setup without breaking your bank. Whether you're an absolute beginner or an old hat at espresso making, it's got something to offer. What's more, it's easy to modify if you do feel like tinkering, since there's plenty of room for improvement.

What's Next?

Stay tuned for my next post, as that goes in-depth with the perfect grinder to pair with the Gaggia Classic Pro. One thing is sure, a great espresso machine demands a grinder to match. I have got some pretty solid recommendations that take it to another level.