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.