If you’re wondering which is superior between the Delonghi Magnifica XS vs Gaggia Brera, look no further. And after comparing their features, my winner is Delonghi Magnifica XS. But read my evaluation if you want to make the most of your upcoming few hundred dollars.
The winning Magnifica XS model includes a 60.8oz water tank that can supply a whole workplace. Amazing espresso flavor quality and adjustability in terms of strength are both available. Expect to also froth milk foam for latte art. Every beginner should get this super-automatic machine.
The runner-up, Gaggia Brera, can likewise produce excellent, flavorful espresso shots. Also noteworthy is the heat-up time, which is under 30 seconds. But it’s not as good as XS, especially with its unstable grinder that produces quite a loud sound whenever I put it to work.
Delonghi Magnifica XS vs Gaggia Brera: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Delonghi Magnifica XS vs Gaggia Brera: Differences
Delonghi Magnifica XS wins 2-0 and ties 3 times against Gaggia Brera. The truth is that both models are quite straightforward to operate. But Magnifica XS excels thanks to its quieter grinder and efficient single boiler. You will find it interesting about Magnifica XS’s particular boiler.
Espresso extraction
Tie
Delonghi Magnifica XS and Gaggia Brera use 15-bar pump pressure to extract rich, aromatic espresso. Delonghi offers more control over the coffee strength with 5 customizable levels, whereas Gaggia Brera only allows 3 levels. Therefore, Magnifica XS is more versatile when customizing an espresso shot to perfect potency according to each user’s need.
Flavor-wise, there isn’t anything bad about the pair to complain about. They give me very delicious espresso with good crema layers on top. So if you are looking forward to brewing delicious cups of coffee in the morning, this pair shall suffice.
Grinder
Winner: Delonghi Magnifica XS
Conical burr grinders and adjustable grinder settings are features of both machines, although Magnifica XS provides additional choices for adjusting the size of the ground material.
Magnifica XS has 13 different grinding levels, which you may select and modify. On the other hand, we may alternate between the 5 settings with Delonghi’s Brera line. 5 grinding levels are not horrible. However, the utilization of 13 separate options may make things difficult for new users.
Let me now explain how these grinders actually work. Regarding the one on the Magnifica XS, it is reliable and free of serious flaws or jams. The grinds are consistently level, and I seldom discover remnants in the grinding wheel. I have nothing negative to say about the procedure in this regard because it is likewise silent.
I’ve had some problems with the Gaggia Brera grinder in the past. The grinder worked well for the first month I used this device, and I consistently obtained level grinds. However, the grinder began to produce louder noises after that and occasionally stopped grinding.
Heating system
Winner: Delonghi Magnifica XS
Because Brera and Magnifica XS only have a single boiler as the main heating system. However, Delonghi Magnifica XS proves to be more agile for being able to brew and froth consecutively without suffering a huge temperature loss. This feature isn’t present with the Gaggia Brera. Getting Delonghi Magnifica XS is a good idea if you are looking forward to serving various cups of espresso right away. The no-wait characteristic also makes this machine’s price reasonable.
Magnifica XS starts brewing between 60 and 1.5 minutes, whereas Brera needs under 30 seconds. However, remember that while the Brera has a 40.5oz water tank and can brew around 110ml at a time, the XS model has a massive 60.8oz water tank and can brew about 120ml at a time. Magnifica XS’s water reservoir will thus last longer.
Milk system
Tie
To begin with, these devices include a traditional Pannarello wand that can steam and froth milk to a creamy consistency. They are pretty simple milk systems overall. Since these machines only have one boiler, as I’ve already explained, you should anticipate that the brew and froth will happen separately instead of at the same time.
In my experience, both may produce milk with a creamy, thick texture that is perfect for creating beautiful lattes and cappuccinos. Fill the milk jug, set it beneath the wand, and let the wand do the work. But if you want the milk to have a foamier or airier quality, I advise manually swirling the jug while the wand adds the steam and air.
So that you know, the steam wands can also deliver hot water. So remember that the Delonghi Magnifica XS and Gaggia Brera can be used to make tea if you want to do it occasionally for a change.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Tie
Overall, it is quite easy to maintain these devices. Whipping the steam wand after each usage is crucial. I advise purchasing specialized cleaning agents for coffee makers, adding them to the water tank, and letting the combination run through the milk and coffee paths for 30 minutes to clean them thoroughly. Rinse once more solely with clean water after that.
I want to draw attention to the fact that each machine has a dreg drawer for discarded coffee pucks utilized after each brewing session. Since it is front-loaded, it should be simple to keep an eye on it at all times. Additionally, whether the coffee puck is dry or wet, I suggest you empty and wash this particular container daily. Doing this can prevent mold from growing inside it and moving up to the grinder.
Another point I want to mention is that both machines have an indicator system that notifies users when they need to rinse, clean, or descale the brew path. The indicator lights will shine when there is something about the devices that need upkeep. Very convenient!
Quick Rundown Of Delonghi Magnifica XS
- Fresh Espresso for every cup: the professional burr grinder with 13 adjustable settings grinds fresh beans every time to ensure maximum freshness. You can also use pre-ground in the second chamber. Your choice of regular, specialty or decaf. The rapid cappuccino system maintains the optimal temperature so you can brew cup After cup instantly.
- Delicious cappuccino and latte: the adjustable manual cappuccino system mixes steam and milk to create the thickest, longest-lasting foam for your cappuccino. And it’s easy to adjust the levels to prepare a creamy latte, macchiato or flat white.
- Customized Espresso drinks: design your ideal Espresso and Cappuccino experience by programming in your preferences. The machine “remembers” the details, from the strength of your espresso to your preferred size Beverage and much more. Large 60oz water tank
- Warranties may not apply to purchases from an unauthorized retailer
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of Gaggia Brera
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- FROTHING FOR MILK BEVERAGES: Pannarello wand frothing for cappuccinos & lattes. Wand doubles as a hot water dispenser for americanos & tea.
- EASY ACCESS: The dregs drawer, drip tray, and water tank are all within reach and accessible from the front of the machine for quick and easy cleaning and maintenance.Volts:110V-120V
- USER-FRIENDLY DISPLAY: Push-button controls and an LED display with illuminated icons make for an easy and intuitive experience.Watts:1250 W
- RAPID STEAM TECHNOLOGY: Quick heat up times and robust brewing and steaming operations. Coffee bean capacity : 250 gr
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- Delonghi Magnifica XS: https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/magnifica-xs-automatic-espresso-machine-cappuccino-maker-ecam22110sb/p/ECAM22110SB
- Gaggia Brera: https://gaggia.com/automatic-machines/brera/
I’m Floyd J. Alcock, an experienced barista with a deep love for coffee. I curate personalized coffee experiences, guiding customers through diverse flavor profiles and suggesting ideal brewing methods. My extensive knowledge of espresso machines enables me to recommend the best equipment to match specific needs and budgets. Sharing my expertise and passion with coffee enthusiasts brings immense satisfaction. I look forward to continuing my journey of coffee discovery with every customer I serve, fostering connections over a shared love for this magical beverage.