After a Month with the Gaggia Classic E24, I’m Ready to Join the Cult
▼ Summary
– The Gaggia Classic E24 Evo Pro is a single-boiler espresso machine with a larger brass boiler and group head, improving thermal stability and producing excellent espresso.
– It features a powerful steam wand, quick heat-up time, and a durable build designed to last over a decade with proper maintenance.
– The machine lacks a PID controller, requiring temperature surfing for consistent results, and includes minimal accessories like a low-quality plastic tamp.
– Priced at $499, it is aimed at espresso enthusiasts who prioritize durability and are willing to invest additional time and money in modifications and accessories.
– While it excels in espresso quality and longevity, it is not ideal for making multiple milk drinks quickly or for users seeking an out-of-the-box complete setup.
After spending a full month with the Gaggia Classic E24 Evo Pro, it’s clear why this machine has such a devoted following. As the latest version of Gaggia’s iconic home espresso maker, it brings meaningful upgrades like a larger brass boiler and brass group head, both of which contribute to better heat retention and more consistent performance. The machine heats up quickly, steams milk with impressive power, and feels built to last, a decade or more with proper care isn’t out of the question. Still, it’s not without its quirks. The lack of a PID means temperature stability isn’t perfect, and for a machine at this price, the included plastic tamper feels like a real letdown.
Let’s get one thing straight: the Gaggia Classic makes excellent espresso. There’s no debating that. It’s also famously durable, with many users reporting machines still going strong after 15 years. But those aren’t the only things that matter when you’re investing in a serious home setup. As much as I’ve come to appreciate this machine, it’s far from perfect.
The improvements in this iteration are tangible. The enlarged brass boiler and group head do a better job maintaining temperature than earlier models, and the steam wand delivers plenty of force for texturing milk. Build quality is robust, with a solid metal exterior that hints at the machine’s longevity. Still, some design choices are puzzling. Even with the brass upgrades, temperature fluctuations can occur, leading many enthusiasts to install an aftermarket PID. And at $500, the near-total absence of worthwhile accessories is hard to excuse.
So who is this machine really for? If you’re someone who enjoys tinkering, doesn’t mind a learning curve, and plans to stick with espresso for the long haul, the Gaggia Classic could be a perfect fit. It rewards patience and practice with rich, full-bodied shots and reliable steam performance. But if you prefer something more plug-and-play, with features like PID control, pre-infusion, and a proper tamper included, you might find better value elsewhere.
Design-wise, the Gaggia Classic E24 Evo Pro oozes Italian charm. It’s compact, stylish, and surprisingly sturdy. Measuring just 9 by 15 by 9.5 inches, it fits neatly into smaller kitchens without dominating the counter. Inside, the construction is service-friendly, with metal components and a layout that makes mods and repairs straightforward. That’s a big reason why this machine has such a passionate modding community.
The single boiler design means you can’t brew and steam simultaneously, so it’s best suited for solo drinkers or those willing to wait between beverages. Heat-up time is impressively short, ready in under two minutes, which makes morning routines manageable. The water tank holds 2.1 liters, more than many competitors, and refilling is easy thanks to a top-access panel. The drip tray is spacious, though its height can make fitting a scale and cup underneath a tight squeeze.
Where Gaggia really drops the ball is with accessories. You get a plastic tamper, a few baskets, and a scoop, that’s it. No heavy tamper, no cleaning tools, no milk pitcher. For a machine at this price, that feels stingy. Thankfully, the 58mm portafilter is industry standard, so aftermarket options are plentiful. But you’ll need to budget extra for those basics.
When it comes to pulling shots, the Gaggia delivers. Once you learn to manage its temperature quirks, through a process called temperature surfing, you’re rewarded with complex, crema-topped espresso. I tested a variety of beans, from light roasts to dark, and the machine handled them all with grace. The triple-solenoid system ensures dry, easy-to-dispose pucks, a small but appreciated touch.
Steaming performance is strong for smaller drinks. I textured milk for cortados and cappuccinos with ease, achieving silky microfoam in seconds. Larger drinks, like big lattes, are more challenging as the boiler can run out of steam. You’ll also need to wait about 30 seconds after pulling a shot before steaming, as the boiler must heat back up. It’s a workflow that demands a bit of rhythm.
Maintenance is straightforward, and the machine’s reputation for reliability is well-earned. Regular cleaning and occasional descaling will keep it running smoothly. Just be aware that you’ll need to buy a backflush disc and cleaning brush separately, another added cost.
In the end, the Gaggia Classic E24 Evo Pro isn’t for everyone. If you want convenience and included features, the Breville Bambino Plus offers more out of the box. But if you value build quality, modding potential, and the ritual of crafting espresso, the Gaggia is a deeply satisfying machine. It asks for a little extra, in time, money, and attention, but gives back plenty in return.
(Source: Tom’s Guide)