Rancilio Classe 5: Espresso Art In Your Cup
Rancilio Classe 5 is a versatile series of Italian-made commercial espresso machines. All share a base design but have options for automation, number of group heads, and brew group height. One model is perfect for you whether you’re a keen home barista, operate a simple espresso cart, or manage a busy cafe.
Summary: The Rancilio Classe 5
- Commercial espresso machine available with 1, 2, or 3 groups
- Independent heat exchangers at each group
- Optional semi-automatic or automatic operation
Incredible temperature stability, better than any heat exchanger I’ve used in the past.
– Customer Review
The Full Rancilio Classe 5 Review
Let’s first clarify the various models of Rancilio Classe 5. The machine has two main iterations: the USB is an automatic espresso machine with volumetric dosing control, and the S is a semi-automatic version.
How We Rated It
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Brewing Capacity
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User-Friendliness
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Milk Frothing
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Build Quality
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Cleaning And Maintenance
Is the Classe 5 ST 1 espresso machine made for commercial use?
The ST 1-group is the only model with a built-in water reservoir, making it an appealing choice for home users. However, it is still certified for professional use and you can compare it with the best espresso machines for commercial use.
How To Buy A Rancilio Classe 5 ST Commercial Espresso Machine
Rancilio is a well-established Italian brand that has been making espresso machines for over 70 years. You can find their wares from a number of trusted dealers. We’ve happily worked with all the companies below.
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Seattle coffee gear (USB model) |
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Seattle coffee gear (S model) |
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Seattle coffee gear (ST model) |
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1st in Coffee (USB) |
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1st in Coffee (S) |
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1st in Coffee (ST) |
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Brewing Capacity – 4/5
Rancilio’s Classe 5 is a heat-exchanger espresso machine with a brass boiler and electrical heating. The boiler capacity varies from 4 liters for a single group to 16 liters for a 3-group machine.
Unlike most multi-group commercial machines, the groups don’t share a single large boiler; each draws from its own heat exchanger.
This makes it easy to achieve different brew temperatures simultaneously and allows for faster heating and recovery between shots – perfect for busy specialty coffee shops.
The group heads feature Rancilio’s patented Steady Brew technology, an update to older thermosiphon designs. Steady Brew improves temperature accuracy and keeps water temperature stable during extraction (1).
We found that this is more accurate than a lot of double boilers that are on the market. A heat exchanger is really driven by physics, so it’s going to do the same thing every time.
The USB and S are both available in “tall” versions with raised group heads. The USB Tall accommodates mugs up to 5.7” under the group, a helpful feature in a cafe with many to-go customers.
User-Friendliness – 4/5
The version of Classe 5 you choose greatly impacts its user-friendliness. Of course, every commercial espresso machine requires user skill in preparing the coffee puck.
The USB with automatic dosing is more straightforward. Each group has an LED-backlit soft-touch keypad with four programmable buttons. Once desired shot volumes are programmed, pulling a shot is as simple as pushing a button. A USB slot makes it easy to update settings and firmware.
Classe 5 S is a semi-automatic espresso machine. The barista uses a rocker switch to start and stop each shot. This requires more skill and limits efficiency in busy environments. But just like with a manual transmission car, many prefer the more hands-on feel. Plus, it’s more affordable.
Both models have convenience features like ergonomically designed portafilters, a pump pressure control gauge, and an electronic cup warmer on top. Does the USB model have a water reservoir? No, the built-in volumetric pump allows for direct plumbing, eliminating the need to refill a water reservoir.
Milk Frothing – 4.5/5
The Rancilio Classe 5 espresso machine is equipped with professional-grade stainless steel steam wands. The larger models have two manual steam wands, while the smaller models have one.
Classe 5 USB can be upgraded with Rancilio’s patented iSteam automatic milk frothing, a worthwhile option in a high-volume coffee shop.
There is a dedicated hot water outlet for making tea or an Americano, though it lacks a mixing valve to control water temperature.
The steam wands use an ergonomic C-Lever for steam control. Flick it down for shorter bursts of steam or up for extended steaming. Baristas working long hours in busy coffee shops will appreciate that this design spares them the dreaded “barista wrist (2).”
Build Quality – 4.5/5
Every Classe 5 is handmade in Italy by skilled craftsmen. It is available with 1, 2, or 3 groups, but even the 1-group model is primarily a commercial espresso machine. These machines are built tough for the rigors of a commercial environment.
The aesthetics are best described as functional minimalism – not overly showy but with a sleek appeal. Most of the front and back is brushed stainless steel, which hides dirt and scratches better than a mirror finish. The side panels are ABS plastic, which is a practical and affordable choice, though not as premium as steel.
These aren’t small espresso machines, measuring 21” tall by 22” deep. The width depends on the number of groups, varying from 16” to 40”.
Cleaning And Maintenance – 3.5/5
Rancilio Espresso Machine Classe 5 lacks the automated cleaning cycles of higher-end machines. But the care and maintenance are typical for any commercial espresso machine.
Keep the group head pristine by backflushing and cleaning the brew gasket on a daily basis – or weekly for home users. Clean the stainless steel drip tray and filter baskets with a cleaning solution every few days.
Purge and wipe down steam wands after each use. Because they aren’t cool-touch, it’s easy for milk to adhere to the hot exterior.
Maintenance is best performed by a skilled technician. But if you have the know-how to work on Classe 5 yourself, you’ll find the inside roomy and well-organized.
Frequently Requested Comparisons
Rancilio Classe 8 vs Classe 5
Rancilio Classe 8 is an older model that has been upgraded to Classe 9. Classe 9 is more advanced and expensive than Classe 5, which is evident from its sleeker, more high-tech look.
Classe 9 is designed for higher-volume coffee shops than Classe 5 and is only available with 2, 3, or 4 groups. The biggest difference is it includes ABM technology, proprietary software that automatically adjusts pressure and temperature settings to improve machine performance during heavy use. Other useful features for busy cafes not found in Classe 5 include no-burn steam wands, programmable hot water temperature and dosage, and an auto-ON function.
Rancilio Classe 5 ST 1 vs Nuova Simonelli Oscar 2 Professional?
The Classe 5 ST1 espresso machine is the model most suitable for home use thanks to its built-in 2-liter water reservoir. However, it’s still far from your average home machine with a 4-liter steam boiler and over $4000 price tag. It’s in the same realm as upper-level prosumer models like the La Marzocco Linea Mini. The Oscar 2 is much closer to a true domestic machine, with a smaller footprint, 2-liter boiler, and far lower price.
What We Liked:
- Complete versatile range of machines
- Steady Brew technology guarantees stable brew temperature
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
- Ergonomic steam wand controls
What We Didn’t Like:
- Plastic side panels
- No hot water temperature control
Do Not Buy Rancilio Classe 5 If…
- You want a home espresso machine: While Classe 5 ST1 could fit the bill, it’s still overkill for average domestic use. Keen home baristas should consider prosumer models like Dalla Corte Studio or Nuova Simonelli Oscar 2.
- You prefer E61 group heads: If you like the iconic look, easy-to-service design, and lever control of the E61 group, go right to the source and check out Faema E61 espresso machine (3). It pairs modern technology with stunning retro design.
- You want a hands-off espresso machine: If coffee isn’t the focus of your business, a user-operated super-automatic machine is a practical option. Several Brasilia commercial espresso machines will meet your needs.
The Verdict
Rancilio’s Classe 5 walks a nice line between features and price, with a sleek design that gives it a premium look and feel. Coupled with the series’ wide-ranging versatility in terms of mode of operation, number of groups, and group head height, you’ve got an espresso machine line with something for everyone!
References
- Bryman, H. (2022, April 25). Rancilio Expands Specialty Line with the New Rancilio Invicta. Retrieved from https://dailycoffeenews.com/2022/04/25/rancilio-expands-specialty-line-with-the-new-rancilio-invicta/
- Cadwalader, Z. (2019, January 23). Barista Wrist Leads All Restaurant-Related Injuries In Time Lost. Retrieved from https://sprudge.com/barista-wrist-leads-all-restaurant-related-injuries-in-time-lost-139783.html
- Morris, J. (2020, December 23). The Faema E61 Espresso Machine. Retrieved from https://www.historians.org/research-and-publications/perspectives-on-history/january-2021/the-faema-e61-espresso-machine
