What is the difference between the Classic Gaggia and the Gaggia Classic Pro? Both of these machines are often recommended as a great machine with a lower price point, that can still brew high quality espresso. The price point makes this a great beginner espresso machine, and the ability to mod and upgrade it ensures that the quality of your espresso still has room to grow. These machines are made of high quality parts, and as a result there are still lots of older used machines on the market which can make the price even more attractive for someone on a budget. The problem people face when looking at used options is that the machine has evolved, and people may not realize what the differences may be. We’re here to help clear that up!
Gaggia Classic Version 1
- Serial Number: RI8161, RI9303
- Date Manufactured: 1991 to 2014
This is the first version of the Gaggia Classic, and many people have the opinion that this machine is superior to version 2. If you’re reading this page, you already know why this is a great machine, so I don’t need to dive into all of specific features. The three big differences with this version, that were changed for version 2 was that it is Made in Italy, has an aluminum boiler and a 3-way solenoid valve.
In 2009, the body of the machine changed slightly, switching from Gaggia Classic written in black text on the body, to the raised badge of silver text.
Differences:
- Has the 3 way solenoid valve, and accompanying metal decompression pipe on the back left corner of the drip tray
- Rocker switches on the front
- Labelled as “Classic Gaggia” on the bottom right hand corner
- Made in Italy
- Aluminum Boiler
Gaggia Classic Version 2
- Serial Number: RI9403/11, RI9403/18
- Date Manufactured: 2015 to 2018
Version 2 of the Gaggia Classic came with one big change, Gaggia decided to remove the 3 way solonid valve in the machine. This valve allowed the pressure to be released from the portafilter after the shot was done, resulting in a drier puck. Many people prefer to avoid version 2 because this important feature is missing.
Differences:
- No three way solonoid
- “Push in” switches on the front
- Labelled as “Gaggia Classic” on the bottom right hand corner
- Made in Romaina
- Stainless Steel Boiler
Gaggia Classic Pro (Version 3)
- Serial Number: RI9480/11-18, RI9380/03-06, RI9380/40-46
- Date Manufactured: 2019+
In 2019, Gaggia realized that they needed to take another look at their classic machine and make some improvements in order to stay competitive. They reversed their previous decision on the 3 way solenoid valve, and added that back in, bringing back the much desired decompression. They improved the steaming for coffee enthusiasts by replacing the Panarello steam wand with a more professional 2 hole steam wand. They reverted the boiler materials from Stainless Steel, back to Alumium and switched from push button switches, back to rocker switches. They also improved the preheat times from the previous model. The Pro version is very close to the original classic, except for the one big improvement with the steam want upgrade.
Differences:
- 3 way solenoid valve added back along with accompanying metal decompression pipe on the back left corner of the drip tray
- Professional steam want
- Rocker buttons
- Gaggia Classic labelled bottom center
- Made in Italy
- Aluminum Boiler
A Note on Versions
The dates listed above are guidelines and how the different versions are commonly referenced, but they do not always dictate which version that you have. It’s possible to have a machine, built in Romaina in 2018, and it still be a version one (trust me, I have one of these!). Your best bet when trying to determine your version is to double check the model number, the branding on the frame and the buttons, as well as to check if the steel decompression pipe is in the back left corner.
Which Version Is Best?
The Gaggia Classic Pro (version 3) is likely the best of the 3 versions here. Gaggia looked at the feedback to their previous changes and learned form their mistakes, reverting many of the changes from version 2, while making some additional improvements as well.
If you are looking to buy an older version on the used market to save some money, you will have to decide which version is best for you, but the majority of the community prefers version 1, even though it’s an older machine. The benefits of the 3 way solenoid will swing most people over towards that version.
Either way, you’re getting great value for your money on the used market, and hopefully the information here will help you to narrow down your choices to make sure you get the best machine for you!
