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I’d say the factory is a beautiful thing, capable of making really good coffee but potentially a bit of a faff, while the classic is a bit more modern, capable of making good coffee too and just more convenient.
There's definitely some additional faff in terms of dialling in grind, with the additional variable of pressure. But I'd also argue that they're much more resilient and straightforward to maintain than a modern pump-driven machine.
Granted, this is all based on my experience with the Europiccola and Classic. I'm assuming those pros carry over to the Gaggia Factory
mmccarthy-
Oh for sure, by faff I just mean physically pulling the shot, and maybe having to pay a bit more attention compared to just switching on, and banging a shot out at the press of a button (a difference that counts when you’re trying to time trial your morning routine like I do).
As I say, you’ll get great shots out of both, it’s more a case of which method you’re likely to prefer. I’d love the factory and kinu for a Sunday morning espresso, I’d probably get a bit impatient with it Monday to Friday while I try and dash out the door at 530am.
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My 60 year old Europiccola is boringly reliable and consistent. It’s quick too, aside from the heat up. Not sure I could be bothered with a manual grinder every morning.
Nef
Jung
Personally I’d definitely want an electric grinder for daily use. And that grinder looks pretty pro, although I’m not actually familiar with them. That being said, the kinu is far beyond any hand grinder I’ve ever used.
The lever machine vs the classic is a bit like comparing a really nice old steel bike with an average aluminium one. I’d say the factory is a beautiful thing, capable of making really good coffee but potentially a bit of a faff, while the classic is a bit more modern, capable of making good coffee too and just more convenient.
Depends how you make your coffee. If you’re like me, and it’s about having a rapid hit of nice coffee that is quick to make and drink before you’re out the door, maybe the classic will suit you better. But if your espresso drinking and making is about the enjoyment of the entire experience, the classic might feel a bit dull by comparison. The two options - kinu and factory vs classic and MDX - seem like quite natural pairs. Neither is necessarily better, but each will suit the needs of the certain individuals better.