Gaggia Classic Pro E24 vs De'Longhi ECP3630 Espresso Machine

Buy the Gaggia Classic Pro E24 if you want real espresso and plan to learn. Its brass boiler, 58mm commercial portafilter, 3-way solenoid valve and steel frame put it in a different class from the De'Longhi ECP3630, and owners rate it 4.9 out of 5. The De'Longhi is a small, light, plastic machine with a 15-bar pump and pressurized baskets that makes drinkable espresso with almost no skill, but it cannot match the Gaggia's build, temperature stability or upgrade path. Choose the Gaggia for a lifetime machine; choose the De'Longhi for low effort and a small counter footprint.

• Choose the Gaggia Classic Pro E24 if you want cafe-style espresso, are willing to learn to dial in a grind, and want a machine you can upgrade and keep for years.
• Choose the De'Longhi ECP3630 if you want simple espresso and cappuccino from pre-ground coffee or pods with little fuss and a small footprint.