Semi-automatic and prosumer machines

How Different Are the Gaggia Classic E24, Rancilio Silvia, and Profitec GO?

Published · By the Espresso Shortlist editors · Prices and specs as of that date, from the pages under Sources

Summary

All three brew and steam from a single boiler, so the real split is in the controls. The Gaggia Classic E24 and the Rancilio Silvia run on switches with no pressure gauge, and Rancilio lists a thermostat for the Silvia's temperature. The Profitec GO adds PID control for both brew and steam temperature, a shot timer in its display, a pump pressure gauge, and a valve for adjusting brew pressure. The Gaggia is also by far the lightest, at 8.1 kg against 12.9 kg for the GO and 14 kg for the Silvia.

Side by side

Gaggia Classic E24Rancilio SilviaProfitec GO
BoilerLead-free brass, size not listed0.3 L brass0.4 L brass, insulated
Temperature controlNo PID listedThermostatPID for brew and steam
Pressure gaugeNot listedNone on the coffee boilerPump pressure gauge
Portafilter58 mm stainless steel58 mm chrome-plated brass, holds up to 21 gSize not given on Profitec's page
Pre-infusionNoNot listedNot listed
Water tank2.1 L2 L2.8 L
US power120 V, 1,350 W120 V, 950 to 1,000 W115 V, 900 W
Weight8.1 kg14 kg12.9 kg
W x H x D20 x 35.5 x 27 cm23.5 x 34 x 29 cm21 x 38.1 x 36.2 cm (41 cm deep with the portafilter in)

What the GO's display and valve change

Profitec's PID lets you set the temperature for brewing and, separately, for steam. The display counts the shot in seconds, and the gauge shows pump pressure while it runs, so a shot that ran 22 seconds at a pressure lower than the last one shows up on the machine itself. The expansion valve is what adjusts that pressure. A programmable ECO mode can switch the boiler off on a timer, and in Fast Heat-Up mode the GO takes 5 to 7 minutes to heat.

What comes with the Gaggia and the Silvia

Gaggia ships the E24 with three filters: a pressurized one for one or two cups and traditional baskets, though on the 120 V US version the traditional single is for one cup only. A plastic tamper is included. The E24 also has a 3-way solenoid valve, which Gaggia says keeps water pressure inside the filter holder under control. Gaggia recommends manual descaling every 2 months, or sooner if the water flow drops, and says the steam light comes on 15 to 20 seconds after switching to steam.

Rancilio lists 8/16 g and 14/18 g basket sets for the Silvia. The machine has four switches with indicator lights for power, brewing, hot water, and steam, plus a knob that opens the steam valve.

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Sources

  1. Gaggia — Classic E24
  2. Rancilio Group North America — Silvia
  3. Rancilio Group — Silvia technical specifications
  4. Profitec — GO

We have not tested these products. Specs, prices, stock and terms are as published on these pages on the date above and can change; check the manufacturer or retailer before you buy.

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