You’re looking for a new espresso machine, but you don’t know which one to buy. Gaggia vs Breville – which one is the best?
Gaggia machines always feature high-quality, durable construction and consistently excellent results. But the Breville line offers a range of innovative features that make it a great choice for serious espresso enthusiasts.
To know which machine is right for you, it’s important to take a close look at the features and specs of both the Gaggia and Breville espresso machines. Which one comes out on top? Read on to find out!
At A Glance
An espresso machine is a great investment for any coffee lover. Not only does it produce a delicious, rich cup of espresso, but it also saves you money in the long run by allowing you to make your coffee at home.
Gaggia is a brand of espresso machines that are known for their quality and durability. The company was founded in Italy in 1947 and has been manufacturing espresso machines since then. Their machines are used by professionals all over the world and are considered to be some of the best on the market.
- Solid Steel Housing, Made in Italy
- 9 Bar Espresso Extractions
- Solid Steel Housing, Made in Italy
- 9 Bar Espresso Extractions
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
- Made in Italy: The Gaggia Espresso Evolution is made and designed in Italy
- PID Controlled Boiler: Brewing temperature is regulated with a PID to ensure consistent extractions with every shot pulled
- 14 Pre-Programmed Beverages|Build your home barista menu with 14 pre-programmed beverages including a ristretto, espresso, espresso lungo, coffee, americano, cappuccino, cappuccino XL, café au lait, café cortado, latte macchiato, latte macchiato XL, flat white, frothed milk, and hot water for tea, hot cocoa, or infusions.
- Integrated Milk Carafe|An integrated milk carafe creates the perfect temperature and texture of milk foam to make a beautifully layered milk based beverage. It runs through an automatic rinse cycle to get rid of any residual milk so you won’t have to worry about a messy clean-up process.
Breville is an Australian home appliances brand that is well-known for its espresso machines. The brand has a wide range of espresso machines that are perfect for coffee lovers of all levels of experience. Whether you’re a beginner who is just starting or an experienced coffee lover, Breville has the perfect machine for you.
- Item Package Dimension: 19.49L x 16.39W x 9.99H inches
- Item Package Weight - 14.90 Pounds
- The Breville Grind Control creates third wave specialty coffee by capturing freshness and essential oils from beans by grinding before you brew with Steep and Release technology; Choose to brew directly into a carafe, tall cup or travel mug for on the go
- PROGRAMMABLE AUTO START: Set the time you'd like your coffee and the Grind Control will start the brewing process automatically; Delivers brew water at the right temperature from the start to the finish of the brewing process
- Earn up to 200 cashback with a Beanz coffee subscription when you purchase a selected Breville espresso machine. Visit earn-cashback.breville.com purchase to claim. Valid Aug 1, 2023 until Jun 30, 2024
- The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is part of the Barista Series that offers all in one espresso machines with integrated grinder to go from beans to espresso in under one minute, helping you make the perfect cup of Cappuccino or Latte
- Item Package Dimension: 17.39L x 16.19W x 16.19H inches
- Item Package Weight - 28.25 Pounds
- Item Package Dimension: 19.59L x 16.44W x 10.19H inches
- Item Package Weight - 13.90 Pounds
Gaggia espresso machines are known for their classic design and quality espresso shots. However, Breville espresso machines are becoming more popular because they are more expensive but have features that make them smarter, such as an automatic milk frother.
Ultimately, the choice between these two types of espresso machines comes down to your personal preferences.
If you are looking for a high-quality machine that will give you consistently delicious espresso shots and don’t mind spending a bit more money, then Breville is the better option. However, for those on a budget who want a machine that is reliable and durable, Gaggia is the way to go.
Gaggia Vs Breville Comparison
Gaggia espresso machines and Breville espresso machines are two of the most popular brands on the market. They both have their pros and cons, but which one is the best for you?
In this side-by-side comparison, we will take a look at some of the key features of each machine to help you make your decision.
Capacity
The capacity of a coffee maker refers to the amount of coffee it can brew per batch.
The basic model from Gaggia tends to have a smaller capacity than the most basic Breville machine. This is partly because Gaggia machines typically use pressurized portafilters, which require less ground coffee per shot of espresso.
In contrast, some of Breville’s higher-end models feature larger water reservoirs and steam wands, allowing you to brew larger quantities of coffee at once.
Gaggia machines tend to suit those who regularly brew single or double shots of espresso, while models from Breville are best suited for home baristas who need the flexibility to make both small and large batches of coffee.
Design
One of the key differences between Gaggia and Breville espresso machines is their size. Gaggia models are generally smaller, making them a good choice for those with limited counter space or who want to save on storage space. However, this can also mean that they may be less powerful than some of the larger Breville models.
In terms of aesthetics, both brands offer clean and attractive designs that are sure to look great in any kitchen. Gaggia models often feature stainless steel finishes and sleek, minimalistic lines, while Breville machines tend to be more classic or industrial-style, with bold colors and metal accents.
When it comes to functionality, both brands offer innovative features like custom shot settings and magnetic portafilters. However, Gaggia models often have fewer customizable options and can be a bit more difficult to use than Breville machines.
Both Gaggia and Breville are great choices when it comes to design, and the best choice will depend on your individual preferences and needs.
Ease Of Use
With its intuitive controls and simple operation, a Gaggia espresso machine is the perfect choice for those looking for a hassle-free brewing experience. These machines are designed to be easy to use, even for beginners, with simple controls and straightforward instructions that make it quick and simple to get started.
In contrast, Breville espresso machines can be a little more complex and may require some trial and error to get perfect results.
Brewing Technology
It is generally agreed that the Gaggia brand of espresso machines is inferior to the Breville brand. This is primarily due to the brewing techniques used in each machine.
The Breville machines use a Thermoblock system which heats the water quickly and consistently, resulting in better extraction of flavor from the coffee beans. The Gaggia machines use a boiler system that takes longer to heat up and can result in an inconsistent brew.
The Breville machines also offer superior temperature control, allowing users to brew at the perfect temperature for their specific needs. The Gaggia machines lack this important feature and can often produce coffee that is either too hot or too cold.
Price
Both Gaggia and Breville espresso machines offer a wide range of prices to fit any budget.
Entry-level machines can be purchased for as little as a hundred dollars, while more high-end models can cost several thousand dollars. However, there are some significant differences in the prices of different models within each brand.
Gaggia offers a greater variety of lower-priced machines, while Breville has a few more expensive options. This may be due, in part, to the fact that Breville is a more established brand name.
Gaggia Vs Breville: The Overall Winner
There is no definitive answer when it comes to choosing the best espresso machine between Gaggia vs Breville. Both machines offer a high-quality espresso experience, but there are some key differences between the two.
Gaggia is a classic Italian brand that has been making espresso machines for over 70 years. Their machines are known for their durability and high-quality performance. Breville is an Australian brand that has become popular in recent years for its innovative designs and user-friendly features.
When it comes to overall performance, both brands are comparable. However, Gaggia does have a slight edge when it comes to quality and taste. Breville machines are known for their versatility, with many models featuring built-in milk frothers and other special functions. So if you’re looking for a machine that can do it all, a Breville might be the better option.
Ultimately, the best choice for an espresso machine depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a classic Italian experience, Gaggia is the way to go. If you want a machine with more bells and whistles, Breville is the better choice.
Our Picks
Gaggia and Breville espresso machines are two of the most popular brands on the market. They both have their pros and cons, but which one is the best for you? We’ve compiled a list of our four favorite picks from each brand to help you decide.
Gaggia Babila RI9700/64 Espresso Machine
- One touch brewing and frothing: bean-to-cup feature. Milk carafe includes automatic milk frothing for cappuccinos, and milk froth. Manual steam wand doubles as a hot water dispenser
- ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: 1 bottle of Gaggia Descaler, 1 AquaClean Water Filter, 1 Water Hardness Test Strip, 1 Tube of Brew Group Lubricant, 1 Brew Group Brush, 1 Coffee Scoop/Grinder Key
For those who love the ritual of making a perfectly brewed and frothed cup of espresso, the Gaggia Babila RI9700/64 Espresso Machine is a dream come true.
This powerful and fully automated bean-to-cup machine features 8 programmable brewing options. It can effortlessly brew everything from espressos and ristrettos to cappuccinos, macchiatos, lattes, and flat whites.
The milk carafe even has an automated dairy frothing function for creating rich and creamy foam every time. Additionally, the machine features a manual steam wand that lets you control the pressure and texture of your frothed milk.
And with a top-loading, detachable 50.7oz water reservoir, the machine is easy to fill and maintain. So if you are looking for a high-quality, fast and efficient machine that makes brewing your favorite espresso drinks a breeze, look no further than the Gaggia Babila RI9700/64 Espresso Machine.
Pros:
- Powerful and fully automated
- Features 8 programmable brewing options
- Makes espressos, ristrettos, cappuccinos, macchiatos, lattes, and flat whites with ease
- Automated dairy frothing for creamy foam
- Comes with a top-loading water reservoir for easy filling and maintenance
Cons:
- Some users may find the machine to be a bit noisy
- The frothing wand can be difficult to master at first
Gaggia Cadorna Prestige Super-Automatic Espresso Machine
- 14 Pre-Programmed Beverages|Build your home barista menu with 14 pre-programmed beverages including a ristretto, espresso, espresso lungo, coffee, americano, cappuccino, cappuccino XL, café au lait, café cortado, latte macchiato, latte macchiato XL, flat white, frothed milk, and hot water for tea, hot cocoa, or infusions.
- Integrated Milk Carafe|An integrated milk carafe creates the perfect temperature and texture of milk foam to make a beautifully layered milk based beverage. It runs through an automatic rinse cycle to get rid of any residual milk so you won’t have to worry about a messy clean-up process.
The Gaggia Cadorna Prestige Super-Automatic Espresso Machine is a top-of-the-line machine that has many features to make your espresso experience perfect. The machine has a color TFT display with backlit buttons which lets you cycle among 14 specialty beverages.
You can also play with a variety of customizable parameters to create your preferred barista-style beverage. There are 4 user profiles that you can save with your favorite beverages for easy access.
The machine has an integrated milk carafe that produces the ideal temperature and quality of milk foam for a beautifully layered milk-based beverage. It goes through an automated rinse cycle to remove any remaining milk, so you don’t have to fear a messy clean-up.
The machine also comes with a group lubricant, milk carafe, water filter, grinder adjustment key/scoop, and water tensile testing strip.
Gaggia handles the 1-year warranty directly, making the process easier for you. Gaggia Cadorna Prestige Super-Automatic Espresso Machine is a great choice for those who want the perfect espresso experience.
Pros:
- TFT color display with backlit buttons
- Customizable parameters for creating your preferred beverage
- 4 user profiles for easy access to your favorite beverages
- Integrated milk carafe for optimal temperature and quality of the foam
- Automated rinse cycle to remove any remaining milk residue
- Group lubricant, water filter, grinder adjustment key/scoop, and water tensile testing strip included
Cons:
- Relatively high price tag compared to other espresso machines
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance to function properly
Breville Oracle Touch Espresso Machine
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use.Grind Settings : 45 precision grind settings. Portafilter : Commercial grade 58mm portafilter.Portafilter : Commercial grade 58mm portafilter
The Breville Oracle Touchscreen Espresso Machine is a high-quality machine that automates many of the tasks necessary for making specialty coffee drinks like espresso, cappuccino, and latte.
The dose control feature ensures that each drink is made with the correct amount of ground coffee, and the PID temperature control ensures that the coffee is brewed at the perfect temperature for maximum flavor.
Additionally, the Over Pressure Valve prevents bitterness in the espresso shot, while the real low-pressure pre-infusion gradually raises the pressure to create an even extraction. The steam wand automatically textures milk to your liking and optimum temperature, resulting in barista-grade microfoam that improves the taste of coffee.
Altogether, these features make the Breville Oracle Touchscreen Espresso Machine a great choice for anyone looking to make delicious specialty coffee drinks at home.
Pros:
- Automated dose control, temperature control, and steam production for maximum flavor and texture
- Prevents bitterness and ensures optimal extraction of espresso
- Produces barista-grade microfoam for great-tasting specialty coffee drinks
Cons:
- Some parts may require frequent cleaning or maintenance to prevent unwanted buildup or damage
- Can be a bit pricey
Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso Machine
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
When it comes to making delicious, high-quality espresso at home, the Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso Machine is truly the gold standard. Featuring a professional double boiler design that provides unparalleled temperature control and simultaneous extraction, this machine makes it easy to achieve excellent results every time.
Other key features of the Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso Machine include dose control grinding, optimal water pressure, precise extraction, and manual microfoam texturing.
Additionally, this machine includes a user-friendly LCD with an espresso shot clock to help you achieve the perfect cup of espresso each time.
So if you’re serious about coffee, don’t hesitate to get your hands on this amazing espresso machine. You won’t be disappointed!
Pros:
- Double boiler design offers unparalleled temperature control and simultaneous extraction
- Easy to achieve excellent results with dose control grinding, optimal water pressure, precise extraction, and manual microfoam texturing
- User-friendly LCD and espresso shot clock make it simple to get the perfect cup of espresso
- High-quality construction that is built to last
Cons:
- Some users may find the price a bit high compared to other espresso machines on the market
- May require some practice and skill to get the most out of this machine for optimal results
Factors To Consider When Choosing An Espresso Machine
When it comes to espresso machines, there are a lot of options on the market these days. It can be hard to know which one is the best for your needs. Here are some tips on how to choose the right machine for you.
Consider How Much You Will Use The Machine
If you are going to be making espresso regularly, then it is important to get a high-quality machine that can deliver great results each time. On the other hand, if you aren’t going to be using your machine very often or just want something for occasional use, there are more budget-friendly options available as well.
Think About Your Budget
There is a wide range of different espresso machines on the market, so it is important to consider what you can afford before you start shopping around. You don’t want to end up with a machine that is too expensive for your budget and you won’t be able to use it as often as you would like.
Consider The Size And Portability Of The Machine
For many people, the size and portability of their espresso machine are important considerations. When you are shopping around, think about where you will be using the machine most often and choose one that is suitable for that space.
Look At The Different Features Available With Each Machine
As you start comparing different espresso machines, it is a good idea to consider the features they offer as well. These can include things like programmable settings, built-in grinders, and more.
Choosing the right espresso machine can take some time, but by considering these key factors, you can find the one that is best for your needs.
FAQs
What Are The Features Of A Breville Espresso Machine?
Some of the features of a Breville espresso machine include:
- A built-in grinder that grinds your beans fresh for each cup
- An automatic milk frother that creates cafe-quality froth for lattes and cappuccinos
- Pre-infusion technology that saturates your grounds with just the right amount of water before brewing begins for a richer, fuller flavor
- 15 bar Italian pump pressure for a perfectly crema-topped cup of espresso every time
Where Can I Buy A Breville Espresso Machine?
Breville espresso machines are available for purchase from a variety of retailers, both in-store and online.
Prices for Breville espresso machines vary depending on the model but typically range from around some hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand dollars for more advanced machines.
Can I Use Whole Beans In My Gaggia Espresso Machine?
Gaggia offers a few different product lines, each of which is designed to be used with different types of coffee beans. Before making your purchase, be sure to read the owner’s manual carefully to determine which type of bean is recommended. If you’re not sure, contact Gaggia customer service for more information.
What Is The Best Way To Descale My Gaggia Espresso Machine?
The best way to descale your Gaggia espresso machine is to use a descaling solution specifically designed for espresso machines. You can find these solutions at most major retailers. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them exactly, as incorrect descaling can damage your machine.
My Coffee Isn’t Coming Out Frothy, What Can I Do?
There are a few things you can do to make your coffee frothy. One is to use a milk frother. Another is to use a blender. And yet another is to pour your coffee into a container with some air bubbles and then quickly pour it back into the pot.
What’s The Difference Between A Manual And An Automatic Espresso Machine?
The main difference between a manual and an automatic espresso machine is that a manual machine requires you to apply pressure to the coffee grinds to extract the espresso, while an automatic machine applies pressure for you. This means that with a manual machine, you have more control over the final product – how strong or weak it is, for example – but it also takes more time and effort.
With an automatic machine, the espresso will be more consistent each time, but you may not have as much control over the final product.
How Often Should I Replace The Filters In My Espresso Machine?
It is recommended that you replace the filters in your espresso machine every two months. However, if you are using a reusable filter, you may need to clean it more often. If the water tastes bad or your espresso machine is leaking, it’s time to replace the filters.
Conclusion
When it comes down to it, there is no clear-cut answer as to which brand makes the best espresso machine. Both Gaggia vs Breville have their pros and cons, so it depends on what you’re looking for in a home espresso maker.
If you want something that is easy to use and produces great results with minimal effort, then Breville may be a better option for you. However, if you are looking for more customization options and a machine that can handle heavier usage, then the Gaggia may be a better choice.
Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference. So, whichever brand you choose, make sure to do your research first and read reviews from other customers before making a final decision.