Which is more affordable, the Breville Infuser BES840 or the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019)?

The Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) is priced at $450, which is $130 less than the Breville Infuser BES840 at $580. However, price alone shouldn't determine your choice — consider the features each machine offers for the money.

What is the difference between the Breville Infuser BES840's Thermoblock and the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019)'s Single Boiler?

The Breville Infuser BES840 uses a Thermoblock system while the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) has a Single Boiler system. Dual boilers allow simultaneous brewing and steaming. Heat exchangers offer steam on demand with a single boiler. Single boilers require switching between brew and steam modes. This difference significantly affects your workflow, especially for milk-based drinks.

Should I buy the Breville Infuser BES840 or the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019)?

Choose the Breville Infuser BES840 if you value affordability, precise temperature control. Choose the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) if you prioritize affordability. Both are capable espresso machines — the best choice depends on your specific workflow needs, budget, and counter space.

What features does the Breville Infuser BES840 have that the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) doesn't (and vice versa)?

The Breville Infuser BES840 has PID temperature control that the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) lacks. These features affect shot quality and workflow flexibility.

Is the Breville Infuser BES840 or Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) better for beginners?

For beginners, the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) at $450 is generally the safer choice — it's less financial risk while you learn. Remember that a good grinder matters at least as much as the machine, so budget accordingly.

Breville Infuser BES840 vs Gaggia Classic Pro (2019)

Side-by-side comparison of two espresso machines

Specification	Breville Infuser BES840	Gaggia Classic Pro (2019)
Brand	Breville	Gaggia
Price (MSRP)	$580	$450
Category	Semi-Auto	Semi-Auto
Boiler Type	Thermoblock	Single Boiler
Boiler Material	Stainless Steel	Aluminum
Boiler Capacity	N/A	100 ml
Pump Type	Vibratory	Vibratory
PID Control	Yes	No
Pre-Infusion	Yes	No
Pressure Profiling	No	No
Flow Control	No	No
Group Head	54mm Breville	Standard 58mm
Portafilter	54 mm	58 mm
Steam Wand	Commercial	Commercial
Water Source	Reservoir	Reservoir
Reservoir	1900 ml	2100 ml
Cup Warmer	Yes	Yes
Dimensions	305 x 320 x 380 mm	230 x 240 x 380 mm
Weight	8.0 kg (17.6 lbs)	8.0 kg (17.6 lbs)
Power	1600W	1300W
Made In	Australia	Italy

Expert Analysis

The Breville Infuser BES840 and Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) are both popular entry-to-mid-range espresso machines without integrated grinders, requiring a separate grinding investment. Both sit around $400-500 and attract the enthusiast who wants to pair their machine with a dedicated grinder for maximum espresso quality.

The Breville Infuser ($500) uses a thermoblock heating system with PID control, a 54mm portafilter, a volumetric shot control with programmable buttons, and a low-pressure pre-infusion system that saturates the puck before full pressure. The pre-infusion is the Infuser's headline feature — it helps produce more even extractions, especially with lighter roasts. The built-in pressure gauge provides visual extraction feedback.

The Gaggia Classic Pro ($449) uses a traditional aluminum boiler with brass liner, a 58mm commercial portafilter, a vibratory pump, and no PID or pre-infusion from the factory. It's a stripped-down, modification-friendly platform that the espresso community has embraced for its simplicity and upgrade potential. The OPV spring swap ($5), PID kit ($50-100), and 9-bar spring mod transform it into a capable machine.

Stock versus stock, the Breville Infuser is the more capable machine — PID temperature control, pre-infusion, and the pressure gauge produce better, more consistent espresso out of the box. The Gaggia requires temperature surfing without a PID mod.

However, the Gaggia's 58mm portafilter is a significant advantage for accessories and baskets. The entire commercial espresso ecosystem uses 58mm — IMS, VST, and Pullman baskets all fit. The Breville's 54mm limits your aftermarket options.

Steam performance is a draw — both single-boiler machines require the brew-to-steam transition. The Gaggia's boiler produces marginally more powerful steam once it reaches temperature.

**Verdict:** The Breville Infuser is better out of the box — PID, pre-infusion, and consistency without modifications. The Gaggia Classic Pro is better long-term — 58mm compatibility, mod-friendly design, and a higher ceiling once upgraded. If you want great espresso immediately, choose the Infuser. If you enjoy tinkering and want the industry-standard platform, choose the Gaggia.

Price: The Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) comes in at $450, which is $130 less than the Breville Infuser BES840 at $580. That's a 22% price difference that could be significant depending on your budget.

Features: The Breville Infuser BES840 additionally features PID Temperature Control, Pre-Infusion.

Boiler Design: The Breville Infuser BES840 uses a thermoblock system while the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) employs a single boiler configuration. This is a fundamental difference that affects workflow, steaming capability, and temperature stability.

Our Verdict

Choosing between the Breville Infuser BES840 and the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) depends on your priorities. If budget is your primary concern, the Gaggia Classic Pro (2019) offers excellent value. However, if you're willing to invest more for additional features and build quality, the Breville Infuser BES840 delivers a premium experience. Both are capable machines that can produce excellent espresso in the right hands.

Pros & Cons