Gaggia Velasca vs Saeco Intelia has been a fun debate due to the shocking similarities between the 2 devices. But with a bit of consideration only, I have decided that Velasca is the worthy winner.
A superb and performance-driven option is the Gaggia Velasca. It is great for someone with little room who wants something simple to create superb espresso from fresh beans. The steam wand is efficient and can froth fluffy milk foam for even the pickiest cappuccino lovers. And there is a good set of 5 levels of aroma strength to choose from. Also, its price point is much better than Intelia.
As for Saeco Intelia, it boasts a very potent steam pressure that delivers rich espresso and airy milk foam. The machine allows users to adjust the aroma strength with 3 standard levels. Also, the interface is so straightforward that even beginners can start using the device after only an hour or less of learning. Unfortunately, the model is quite old, and the price is too high for the value.
Gaggia Velasca vs Saeco Intelia: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gaggia Velasca vs Saeco Intelia: Differences
Gaggia Velasca wins 2-1 against Saeco Intelia thanks to its more variable strength settings and better price for value. I will get into the details below!
Espresso extraction
Winner: Gaggia Velasca
Gaggia Velasca wins the round thanks to its more variable aroma settings and grind levels. However, regarding flavor performance in general, both devices do a great job. With the 15-bar pump pressure, they efficiently apply force to extract espresso with thick coffee crema. And judging from how thoroughly moist yet not soaked pucks are, I can tell that the pressure work is at the top of its game.
What makes me favor Gaggia Velasca more is that its single boiler is designed with quick heat technology, making it possible to start extracting espresso after under 1 minute, contrary to Saeco Intelia’s 2-3 minutes of heat up time.
Also, Gaggia Velasca offers 5 aroma settings, and Saeco Intelia offers 3 levels only. So, with Gaggia Velasca, there is more freedom and control over flavor choices.
Milk frother
Winner: Saeco Intelia
Unfortunately, the compact plastic steam wand of Gaggia Velasca doesn’t convince me as much as Saeco Intelia’s powerful steam wand. The steam pressure of Gaggia Velasca is very impressive. I can get a cup of fluffy milk foam in about 35-45 seconds. Any more than that, the foam will get very dry and cake-life. This isn’t the goal.
As for milk temperature, the machines do a good job. Paired with espresso for milk-based recipes, the drinks’ temperature still varies around 150°F. I understand that users may want hotter cups, but this is a standard temp for a latte, cappuccino, or any other beverage that involves steamed milk or milk foam.
Price and value
Winner: Gaggia Velasca
Gaggia Velasca is more affordable than Saeco Intelia, even though they are almost identical. Furthermore, Velasca even has some minor, more advanced features than Intelia, like the aroma and grinder settings. Therefore, in terms of price and value, the former device is a much better deal than the latter.
Gaggia Velasca vs Saeco Intelia: Similarities
Don’t miss the important similarities between Gaggia Velasca and Saeco Intelia.
Grinder
Gaggia Velasca and Saeco Intelia use the same ceramic burr grinder to grind even bean grounds. However, there are 5 settings to choose from with Intelia, while there are 10 with Velasca. The lower number represents the coarser grinder level. The higher the setting, the finer the coffee ground. So, choose a larger grind size if you like stronger espresso with more bitter notes. On the opposite, pick a lower grinder level for mellower shots of espresso.
Compartments’ capacity
They share the same water tank and bean hopper capacity, and their sizes and weights are identical. With these models’ 50.7oz water tank, you can share the machine with a maximum of 2 more users and enjoy a comfortable brewing experience with quick daily refilling. For example, if each of you only brews once per day (with milk frothing involved), the tanks will last 2 days.
Quick Rundown Of Gaggia Velasca
- Manual frothing for milk-based drinks: Pannarello steam wand for frothing milk
- Programmable: programmable brewing options for Espresso and Espresso Lungo with 3 different temperature settings
- Ceramic burr grinder and brew unit: ceramic burr grinder with 10 fineness settings, 5 brew strength settings, and bean hopper with 10.5oz capacity
- Front loaded water reservoir: features a 54oz capacity and pulls out from the front of the machine, ideal for low hanging cabinets
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Saeco Intelia
Product Video
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- Gaggia Velasca Vs Brera: Which Is Better for the Budget-Oriented Coffee Lover?
- Gaggia Anima vs Velasca: Top Differences Between 2 Mid-range Espresso Machines From Gaggia
References:
- Gaggia Velasca: https://www.gaggia.com/automatic-machines/velasca/
- Saeco Intelia: https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/HD8752_87/saeco-intelia-super-automatic-espresso-machine
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.