Flair 58 Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Detailed Comparing to Find The Better One

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Pound for pound, the Classic Pro is better in the debate of Flair 58 vs Gaggia Classic Pro.

Gaggia Classic Pro offers excellent brewing and frothing thanks to its commercial steam wand. It is not only a great machine for drinkers who just got their hands on semi-automatic espresso machines for the first time but also a budget-oriented option for expert espresso brewers.

Flair 58, the runner-up, sets out to be the perfect manual coffee maker with a gorgeous new design that addresses all complaints about previous Flair models. Its espresso quality is exceptional, but it loses some advantages like portability, simplicity, and affordability. 

Flair 58 vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Comparison Chart

Image
THE WINNER (#1)
Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Evo Pro, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Model
Gaggia Classic Pro
Flair 58
Dimensions (LxWxH)
9.5 x 8 x 14.2 inches
14 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches
Weight
20 Pounds
8 Pounds
Color/ Material
Silver / Stainless Steel
Black/ Aluminum, stainless steel, wood
Water Reservoir Capacity
71 oz
Not specified
Level of Automation
Semi-automatic
Fully manual
Power / Voltage
1425W / 110V-120V
Not specified
Noise-free Operation
Visible water level
Fast Heat Up
Decompression duct
Water tank position
Frontal
External
Interface
Buttons
Lever
Bar Pump System
15 bars
Max 12 bars
Heating System
Single boiler
Brew head (boiler)
Milk system
Steam wand
None
What I Like
Price
$449.00
$575.00 – $591.00
THE WINNER (#1)
Image
Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Evo Pro, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel
Model
Gaggia Classic Pro
Dimensions (LxWxH)
9.5 x 8 x 14.2 inches
Weight
20 Pounds
Color/ Material
Silver / Stainless Steel
Water Reservoir Capacity
71 oz
Level of Automation
Semi-automatic
Power / Voltage
1425W / 110V-120V
Noise-free Operation
Visible water level
Fast Heat Up
Decompression duct
Water tank position
Frontal
Interface
Buttons
Bar Pump System
15 bars
Heating System
Single boiler
Milk system
Steam wand
What I Like
Price
$449.00
More Info
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Image
Model
Flair 58
Dimensions (LxWxH)
14 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches
Weight
8 Pounds
Color/ Material
Black/ Aluminum, stainless steel, wood
Water Reservoir Capacity
Not specified
Level of Automation
Fully manual
Power / Voltage
Not specified
Noise-free Operation
Visible water level
Fast Heat Up
Decompression duct
Water tank position
External
Interface
Lever
Bar Pump System
Max 12 bars
Heating System
Brew head (boiler)
Milk system
None
What I Like
Price
$575.00 – $591.00

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Flair 58 vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Differences

Gaggia Classic Pro wins 3-1 against Flair 58. The former has 15-bar pump pressure to create robust and delicious espresso flavors, along with a commercial steam wand to help you get the most out of your milk. Cleaning it is a breeze, but descaling it is more or less complicated.

ESPRESSO FLAVOR

The Winner: Tie

Dosing and Tamping

Both machines involve manual dosing and tamping, but there a little difference in how to do the steps.

With the Flair 58, the pressure must be applied manually based on the lever’s function. While testing, I had to pull the lever and keep an eye on the pressure gauge to ensure it was between 8 and 10 bars. Regarding flavor, it was balanced and nutty.

As for the Gaggia Classic Pro, its pump pressure system worked automatically to begin extracting coffee. When I found the dose sufficient, I manually switched off the extraction process. This machine is equipped with 15-bar pump pressure, which has a reputation for producing robust and nuanced espresso flavors.

Heating System 

I guess that both gadgets heat water with a single boiler system. Why do I say, “I guess?” I will explain right here. 

With the Flair 58, I could not pinpoint its brewing element as the part isn’t removable, and the manufacturer didn’t specify the information.

But, as for the Classic Pro, the brand confirmed it has a single boiler. This boiler helped me extract hot and steaming espresso, which many heating elements could not. Generally, the overall temperature performance is impressive. But it is a single-boiler machine means you must decide whether you want to steam the milk first or brew your espresso first.

MILK SYSTEM

the commercial milk wand of the gaggia classic pro
The commercial milk wand of the Gaggia Classic Pro

The Winner: Gaggia Classic Pro

Flair 58 has no milk system, so there is no doubt that the Classic Pro will win this round. But even if it is put into another head-to-head comparison, I believe it is still a formidable opponent thanks to its commercial milk wand, which can easily froth from creamy to microfoam.

I think its name includes “Pro” because it has a commercial steam wand, which sets it apart from its predecessor. So if you are used to the traditional steam wands, get ready for a new level.

The Gaggia Classic, like many other cheap machines, has a Paranello steam wand, which is excellent for maximizing foam production from undersized boilers but isn’t ideal for creating a lot of microfoam for latte art. The Classic Pro is equipped with an upgraded steam wand, which means it may have a learning curve. But once you’ve mastered it, you’ll be able to get the most out of your milk.

CLEANING AND MAINTAINING

The Winner: Gaggia Classic Pro

Compared with typical semi-automatic prosumer coffee makers, it is a breeze to clean or maintain the Flair 58. This model has a simple design, so you will find yourself cleaning it up less frequently. Cleaning it after each use is effortless, especially when using a grounds screen to keep coffee grounds away from the brew cylinder.

There will be a little excess water in its brew chamber after extraction, so prepare an additional cup to catch this. Then, all you need to do is remove the coffee puck and wash the portafilter as you would with an espresso machine. Worrying about descaling the boiler is unnecessary since this machine has no boiler.

The Classic Pro is typically easy to keep clean as well. Its drip tray is easy to remove for emptying, and its 3-way solenoid valve lets you knock out coffee grounds easily.

Regarding descaling, the Classic Pro loses some points because the process can be time-consuming and involves complex disassembly. Gaggia’s decalcifying guide includes twenty steps involving removing screws and may require using needle-nose pliers.

Flair 58 Vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Similarities

DESIGN AND MATERIAL

flair 58 mainly made from stainless steel
Flair 58 is mainly made from stainless steel

When it comes to material, these devices are mainly crafted from stainless steel, which has a reputation for being durable and rust-free.

In terms of aesthetics, both machines are beautiful and can be paired well with everything else on your kitchen countertop or coffee bar. So which is nicer depends mainly on each user’s preference.

Last but not least, both Flair 58 and Gaggia Classic Pro are compact machines with dimensions of 14 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches and 9.5 x 8 x 14.2 inches, respectively. They can be placed anywhere in your kitchen or office without any hassle. But remember that the former can get significantly taller (up to about 24.25 inches) when its lever is fully upright. So ensure you place it in an appropriate place. 

NOISE-FREE OPERATION

Both devices can brew espressos without being too noisy, which is common in most espresso makers without a grinder. They are ideal for people who loathe the screeching and grumbling sound generated by an espresso machine during grinding, extracting, and frothing.

Quick Rundown of Gaggia Classic Pro

Sale
Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Evo Pro, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel
  • Solid Steel Housing, Made in Italy
  • 9 Bar Espresso Extractions
  • Stainless Steel 58mm Commercial Portafilter
  • Commercial Three Way Solenoid Valve
  • Commercial Steam Wand

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Has a professional steam wand.
  • Easy to use, beginner-friendly.
  • Made from stainless steel.
  • Consistent espresso extraction.
  • Has a giant water tank, suitable for big families and offices.
Cons
  • Rather heavy.
  • Difficult to maintain.
  • Awkward water container design.

Quick Rundown of Flair 58

Pros
  • Quiet operation.
  • Amazing espresso quality.
  • Sturdy design, great for commercial use.
  • Better control with the new level.
  • Eye-catching design with wooden accents.
Cons
  • Pricey.
  • Lack of mobility.

Product Videos

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