Gaggia Brera vs DeLonghi Magnifica S

Q: Is the Brera better than the Magnifica S?

It depends on your priorities. The Gaggia Brera excels for users who want classic front-loading access and ceramic grinding, while the DeLonghi Magnifica S is the better choice if you prioritize legendary durability and manual control.

Q: How do the grinders compare?

The Brera uses a Ceramic Flat, whereas the Magnifica S features a Steel Conical. While both are high-quality internal systems, they are sealed components. To prevent clogging and avoid expensive repairs, we strongly recommend using non-oily, medium-roast beans in both machines.

Q: Which machine is easier to clean?

The Brera uses a Removable brew group, while the Magnifica S uses a Removable system. Generally, removable groups (like DeLonghi) allow for manual rinsing under a tap, while fixed groups (like Jura) rely on automated tablet cleaning cycles.

Buy the Brera if you:

Want classic front-loading access for water and dregs.
Want a compact machine with ceramic grinding.
Value a machine with a proven, long-standing design.

Buy the Magnifica S if you:

Want legendary durability and manual control.
Want a machine that is easy to repair and maintain.
Appreciate the durability of a steel conical grinder.

Expert Verdict

"Choose the Brera if you prioritize classic front-loading access and ceramic grinding. Pick the Magnifica S if legendary durability and manual control matters more to you."

Tale of the Tape

Feature	Brera	Magnifica S
Why Buy This?	classic front-loading access and ceramic grinding	legendary durability and manual control
Interface	LED & Buttons	Dial & Buttons
Milk System	Manual Wand	Manual Wand
Drink Variety	3 Drinks	4 Drinks
User Profiles	0	0
Grinder	Ceramic Flat	Steel Conical
Water Tank	40 oz	60 oz
Bean Hopper	8.8 oz	8.8 oz
Brew Group	Removable	Removable
Dimensions	10x17.5x12.4	9.4x17x13.8
Connectivity	No	No
Special Feature	Front Access	Durability

Critical Maintenance Warning

Don't Ruin Your New Investment

Regardless of which machine you choose, both rely on internal grinders that are sensitive to oily beans. To keep your Gaggia or DeLonghi out of the repair shop, stick to these non-oily selections.

Balanced medium roast with an intense, earthy flavour and long lasting crema.

Lavazza Crema E Aroma

40% Arabica and 60% Robusta.

Check Price (CA)Check Price (US)

The wake-up call. Because it has Robusta beans mixed in, it has way more caffeine than the others. Great for milk drinks, but can be a bit harsh for straight espresso.

Lavazza Qualita Rossa

A blend of Arabica and Robusta. Rich, chocolatey, and full-bodied.

Check Price (CA)Check Price (US)

The sweetest of the bunch. If you find espresso too bitter, switch to this. It has a very smooth, non-aggressive finish.

Lavazza Qualita Oro

Sweet and aromatic with floral notes. 100% Arabica.

Check Price (CA)Check Price (US)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Brera better than the Magnifica S? ▼

It depends on your priorities. The Gaggia Brera excels for users who want classic front-loading access and ceramic grinding, while the DeLonghi Magnifica S is the better choice if you prioritize legendary durability and manual control.

How do the grinders compare? ▼

The Brera uses a Ceramic Flat, whereas the Magnifica S features a Steel Conical. While both are high-quality internal systems, they are sealed components. To prevent clogging and avoid expensive repairs, we strongly recommend using non-oily, medium-roast beans in both machines.

Which machine is easier to clean? ▼

The Brera uses a Removable brew group, while the Magnifica S uses a Removable system. Generally, removable groups (like DeLonghi) allow for manual rinsing under a tap, while fixed groups (like Jura) rely on automated tablet cleaning cycles.