Bravo Verdict
Head to head

Breville Barista Express vs Gaggia Classic Pro

Side by side comparison of two of the best espresso machines on the market. Same category, different priorities.

Breville Barista Express
Breville

Breville Barista Express

4.5 (12,483)
$599

The best all around home espresso machine for beginners who want to grow.

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Gaggia Classic Pro
Gaggia

Gaggia Classic Pro

4.4 (3,211)
$449

A modding legend. Simple, durable and endlessly upgradable.

Check price on Amazon

How do the Breville Barista Express and Gaggia Classic Pro compare, spec for spec?

Spec
Breville
Breville Barista Express
Gaggia
Gaggia Classic Pro
Price$599$449
Rating
4.5 (12,483)
4.4 (3,211)
Boiler typeSingle (thermocoil)Single (aluminum)
Built in grinderYesNo
PID temp controlYesNo
Wattage1,600 W1,200 W
Water tank2L removable2.1L removable
Pros
  • Built in conical burr grinder
  • PID temperature control
  • 54mm commercial style portafilter
  • Easy to service
  • Commercial 58mm portafilter
  • Genuine steam wand
  • Legendary modding community
  • Built like a tank
Cons
  • Single boiler, can't brew and steam at once
  • Plastic drip tray feels cheap
  • Grinder can clog with oily beans
  • No PID out of the box
  • Requires a separate grinder
  • Steep learning curve

Should you buy the Breville Barista Express or the Gaggia Classic Pro?

Both are strong picks in the espresso machines category. Here's how to decide:

Get the Breville Barista Express if...

Integrated conical burr grinder, PID temperature control and a manual steam wand. Everything a beginner needs and everything an intermediate barista still uses.

Get the Gaggia Classic Pro if...

The cheapest way into real espresso. Solid brass group head, commercial steam wand and a modding community that has documented every possible upgrade.