Espresso Machines Reviewed!

  

Best value espresso machine

Pros

• Simple controls
• Compact
• Durable
• Uses ground coffee or ESE pods

Cons

• Cheap plastic tamper and frothing wand
• Aluminum boiler susceptible to corrosion            
  

  Bottom line

  Comparable to top-priced machines. Reviewers say the Gaggia Classic produces a nearly perfect espresso at close to half the cost of high-end machines. However, if you want nothing but the best, experts recommend the Rancilio Silvia (*Est. $700), which has a brass boiler that's less susceptible to corrosion.
  

  Performance

  Powerful machine, flavorful espresso. Owners posting reviews at Amazon.com, CoffeeGeek.com and WholeLatteLove.com say the Gaggia Classic's performance is on par with the top-rated Rancilio Silvia for a much lower price. They say the Gaggia is good for pulling multiple shots in a row because the pressure is released instantly after a pull so the portafilter can be immediately refilled.
  Editors of Food & Wine magazine call the Classic a "powerful, industrial-caliber Italian machine," and say it "delivers perfectly extracted espresso." Editors of CNNMoney.com agree, saying it's "near perfect, with a robust, rich flavor and that subtly viscous consistency that distinguishes espresso from plain ol' joe." Editors at SweetMarias.com also praise the Gaggia Classic for its powerful 17-plus bars of pressure.
  

  Ease of use

  Easy to use, but a little slow. According to experts, the Gaggia offers the best of both worlds to users who like the convenience and consistent quality of pods but also want to learn the art of making espresso. That's because the Classic can use ground coffee or Easy Serving Espresso (ESE) pods. Users recommend it for newbies because it has simple, easy-to-use controls, although some say it takes practice to get the right grind and tamp. Several wish the Gaggia had a clear, calibrated water tank to better judge water levels.
  It takes longer for the Gaggia Classic to heat up than other espresso machines, say editors at Food & Wine magazine, although SweetMarias.com clocks it at less than five minutes. Charles Passy at CNNMoney.com finds the Classic "generally easy to operate, except that it lacks the calibrated water tank of some of the other semiautomatics we tried." He notes that removing the drip tray is a bit more complicated because there's a part in the way, adding an extra step to an otherwise simple cleaning process. The 72-ounce water reservoir is removable for easy cleaning.
  

  Durability

  Consistent daily performer. Several users who have owned their machines for years say the Gaggia Classic is very durable and holds up well to daily use. However, some owners complain about the cheap plastic frothing wand and aluminum boiler. SweetMarias.com editors say corrosion and calcification are mostly avoided thanks to the boiler parts being located outside the water reservoir.
  "It's called the 'Classic' and [has] been around for decades for a reason," says one owner posting feedback to CoffeeGeek.com. "It's a great espresso machine that can suit your espresso needs for years to come."
  

  Appearance

  Boxy but not unappealing. The Gaggia Classic has a sturdy, yet boxy, appearance. Owners don't mind its looks, but it won't win any style awards. Finished in stainless steel with black accents, its neutral design will blend in with most any décor. Moreover, editors at Food & Wine magazine say the Classic's compact size won't clutter countertops.Also for Direct Access To Brand Name Products&Services Like This Visit Our Website at   http://ebuys-onlineproducts-services.weebly.com    and Shop Smart and Save This Holiday Season!