Our Verdict
Gaggia Classic Evo Pro Wins

Its consistent 9.0 bar pump pressure and standard 58.0mm portafilter offer superior espresso extraction. Choose De'Longhi for a compact all-in-one setup with a built-in grinder and cold brew option.
Bottom Line: Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is the better choice. Its consistent 9.
Key Differences
The most significant spec differences at a glance
Pump Pressure
67% moreAdvantages
Where each product wins
De'Longhi
- Pump Pressure: 67% higher (15 vs 9.0)
Who Should Buy Which?
Find the right product for your needs
Buy De'Longhi if...
De'Longhi La Specialista Arte
Ideal for aspiring home baristas seeking convenience and versatility. If you value an all-in-one solution, the De'Longhi is perfect, offering a built-in burr grinder with 8 settings, active temperature control, and even a quick cold brew feature. It suits those wanting to explore various coffee styles, including iced drinks, without investing in separate equipment. The barista kit helps with tamping consistency, making it user-friendly for beginners learning manual frothing.
Buy Gaggia if...
Gaggia RI9380/51 Classic Evo
This machine is for the coffee enthusiast prioritizing authentic, high-quality traditional espresso shots and seeking a durable, upgradeable foundation. If you already own a good grinder or plan to invest in one, the Gaggia's consistent 9.0-bar extraction and standard 58mm commercial portafilter are invaluable. Its solid steel housing and three-way valve appeal to those who appreciate robust build quality and a classic, hands-on espresso experience, even with the need for warm-up time.
Spec Comparison
7 specs compared
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $500 | $530 |
| Rating | 4.1(1.1k) | 4.1(3.0k) |
| Boiler Type | thermoblock | Single |
| Pump Pressure Bars | 15 | 9 |
| Portafilter Size mm | — | 58 |
| Steam Wand | Yes | Yes |
| Model Number | EC9255M | RI9380/51 |
| Grinder Included | Yes | — |
| PID Temperature Control | Yes | — |
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Pros & Cons
Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses
De'Longhi La Specialista
- Built-in burr grinder offers 8 grind settings.
- Brews single cold brew in under 5 minutes.
- Steam wand produces consistent micro-foam.
- Active temp control with 3 infusion settings.
- Manual milk frothing requires user skill.
- Single thermoblock may not permit simultaneous brew/steam.
Gaggia RI9380/51 Classic
- Consistent 9-bar extraction pressure.
- Durable solid steel housing.
- Standard 58mm commercial portafilter.
- Commercial three-way valve dries puck.
- Single boiler prevents simultaneous brew/steam.
- Warm-up time required for temperature changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this comparison
Which machine is better for beginners new to home espresso?
The De'Longhi is better for beginners, offering convenience with its built-in grinder and barista kit. The Gaggia, with its 9-bar extraction and 58mm portafilter, is suited for those who want more control and traditional espresso quality.
What is the main difference in pump pressure between the two machines?
The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro uses a consistent 9.0 bar pump pressure, which is ideal for optimal espresso extraction. The De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo has a 15-bar pump, which often requires adjustments for ideal brewing pressure.
What's the main difference in portafilter size and its impact?
The Gaggia features a commercial 58.0mm portafilter, offering broader compatibility with accessories and potentially better extraction. The De'Longhi's portafilter size is not specified but its compact design suggests it might be smaller, limiting accessory options.
Does either machine allow simultaneous brewing and steaming?
Neither machine allows simultaneous brewing and steaming. Both the De'Longhi's thermoblock and the Gaggia's single boiler require a brief waiting period for temperature changes when switching between brewing espresso and frothing milk.
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