This post will satisfy you if you are interested in peculiar espresso machines. Check out my review for Flair Pro 2 vs Gaggia Classic Pro, a very specially-designed espresso against a standard users’ favorite. After considering the design, I still have to go with the more conventional Gaggia Classic Pro.
Gaggia Classic Pro features a straightforward brewing process. It is a semi-automatic equipment that produces well-balanced and nutty espresso without adding unnecessary steps to the extraction procedure. I particularly like how easily the lovely steam wand creates creamy foam. If you enjoy lattes and flat whites as I do, I strongly suggest this equipment.
The Flair Pro 2 is one of the most unusual espresso machines I have used. It is an entirely manual device that surely will entertain users who have a major preference for “tavern”-style coffee brewing. It delivers delicious espresso. But that’s all it does. Besides this, there is no additional ergonomic feature to assist users’ experience, making its price tag a bit unworthy.
Flair Pro 2 vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-05-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Flair Pro 2 vs Gaggia Classic Pro: Differences
Gaggia Classic Pro wins 4-0 and ties once against Flair Pro 2. Both can extract rich espresso for a less tiring Monday, but Gaggia Classic Pro is clearly more convenient in all aspects. It has its own milk system and heating element, which Flair Pro 2 doesn’t have. You have to check out all the details because there are a lot.
Brewing convenience
Winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
Gaggia Classic Pro proves to be up to expectations with its semi-automatic brewing process and 15-bar pump pressure. I have to grind the beans with an external grinder beforehand because this model doesn’t feature one. And when I pluck the portafilter in place, I have to turn the switch, and the device will automatically apply pressure to extract espresso. Then, I turn the switch off to cut the dosing. So, it’s a very standard process.
As for Flair Pro 2, it’s purely manual and isn’t convenient at all:
- I have to brew hot water using my electric kettle and pregrind the beans.
- I have to preheat the cylinder that holds the water and help rush it through the coffee puck.
- After that, it’s time to put the coffee puck, the cylinder, and the metal film that helps separate the puck from the pressure lever.
- I have to pour hot water carefully into the mouth of the cylinder and apply pressure to the lever to extract the espresso. A pressure gauge also indicates if I’m applying enough pressure. Even though the machine can apply a maximum of 12 bars of pump pressure, the recommended pressure on the gauge is 7-9 bars. I indeed get more balanced espresso in that range. Anything more will result in a bitter cup.
It’s a hectic process that I don’t think is convenient, especially for users who are constantly moving from home to work.
Coffee Flavor
Tie
With Gaggia Classic Pro, I keep an eye on the quantity as I draw the shots and press the stop button to halt the brewing. The color of Classic Pro’s espressos is quite dark. But the flavor is balanced and nutty. Overall, I’m satisfied with Classic Pro’s flavor performance.
With Flair Pro 2, I cut the dosing by stopping pulling the lever so that hot water could no longer flow through the pucks due to the lack of pressure. And the result is a bold shot of espresso. Flavor-wise, I have nothing to complain about. But pulling the lever pressure requires a bit of strength here.
Heating system
Winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
While Flair Pro 2 has a tiny brew head that does not directly brew water, Gaggia Classic Pro features a single boiler heating system.
The brewing procedure on the Gaggia Classic Pro is simple. I gradually warm up the machine, and the heating components control the water’s temperature on their own. I’m not required to get involved in this procedure. The beverages are served hot, and the water has a very hot temperature as a result. I couldn’t ask for much better from a cheap espresso machine.
On the contrary, Flair Pro 2 doesn’t have a heating element and requires users to brew water with whatever appliances we have beforehand. Furthermore, the brew head mostly prevents water from cooling down rather than actually brewing it. As a result, when I’m pressed for time, the procedure appears more frantic than ever.
Using Gaggia Classic is faster and more effective. However, Flair Pro 2 doesn’t persuade me after using it for a month because it seems to target a very specific group of users.
Milk System
Winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
I can’t comment on Flair Pro 2’s milk system because it doesn’t have one. The Gaggia Classic Pro has a steam wand that is designed in the manner of a professional appliance. The wand can undoubtedly produce hot, creamy foam. I was able to create some basic latte art with it, and there’s no denying that the milk has a great texture for drinks like flat whites and mocha.
Microfoam is not its strength, though. Better versions may be available if you’re searching for an espresso machine that can froth dry foam, which is ideal for cappuccinos. However, I believe Gaggia Classic Pro has struck a great balance between value and affordability with its steam wand, given its extremely low pricing.
Utilities
Winner: Gaggia Classic Pro
The Gaggia Classic Pro’s decompression duct is great. It’s a really small function that some people could find unimportant, but it links to the 3-way solenoid valve that helps release pressure from the puck to keep it dry. Removing dry pucks from portafilters and cleaning the filter basket is considerably simpler, thanks to the valve.
Another crucial factor to take into account is the drip tray’s capacity. The Flair Pro 2 features an extremely tiny drip tray. Given that the machine is designed exclusively to extract single- or double-shot espressos, this is not surprising. However, I can unwind with the Gaggia Classic Pro because the drip tray doesn’t need to be cleaned frequently. I can still handle up to 16 ounces of water.
Quick Rundown of Gaggia Classic Pro
- 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 2024-05-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of Flair Pro 2
- HANDCRAFT SHOTS OF ESPRESSO - The Flair PRO 2 is a 100% human-powered, manual espresso press. With the Flair Espresso Maker, you have a complete manual espresso machine that can produce professional quality shots of espresso from your home, or wherever you are. Add 70ml of boiled water and a dose of up to 24 grams to yield up to a 56 ml shot with beautiful crema. A burr grinder is essential for use with this product.
- COMPLETE BREW CONTROL - The Flair PRO 2 features a custom pressure gauge with an Espresso Zone between 6-9 BAR, exactly that needed to create cafe-quality manual espresso extractions. The pressure gauge allows for immediate visual feedback while pulling shots with the Flair manual espresso press. Each Flair PRO 2 manual espresso maker is also capable of handling various brew ratios from 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1, ensuring that you can extract exactly the espresso you want, right from your home.
- MAJOR BREWING UPGRADES - The Flair PRO 2 features three upgrades over Flair’s other manual espresso makers including a removable stainless steel spout, an enhanced all-stainless steel bottomless portafilter with improved flow dynamics, and a silicone lever grip for better brewing ergonomics.
- EASY TO CLEAN & PORTABLE - The Flair Espresso Maker is the only manual espresso maker with a completely detachable brewing head. This patented design allows for users to completely remove the brewing head, separate the parts, and rinse under cool water. This design also means the Flair PRO 2 can pack into an included, precision cut carrying case, meaning you can take your espresso anywhere you’d like.
- BUILT TO LAST - Now with an upgraded, stronger base, post and lever! The Flair PRO 2 is made from durable materials like cast aluminum and stainless steel, so you can be sure your manual espresso maker, by Flair, is built to last. Both the aluminum press stand and the stainless steel brewing head are backed by a 5-year warranty.
Last update on 2024-05-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- Gaggia Classic Pro: https://www.gaggia-na.com/products/gaggia-classic-pro
- Flair Pro 2: https://flairespresso.com/product/pro-2/
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.