Flair Classic vs Flair 49 Pro
Quick take: The Flair Classic costs $159 less.
| Spec | Flair Classic | Flair 49 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $200 | $359 |
| Rating | 4.4★ (1,500) | 4.7★ (210) |
| Type | Manual/Lever | Manual/Lever |
| Boiler | None | None |
| Built-in grinder | No | No |
| Pump pressure | 9 bar | — |
| Water capacity | 60 ml per shot | 90 ml per shot |
| Warm-up time | 0 seconds | 0 seconds |
| Steam wand | — | — |
| Basket type | Unpressurized | Pressurized & Unpressurized |
| Best for | Manual Brewing | Manual Brewing |
| Dimensions | 6 x 13 x 12 in | 13.5 x 7.5 x 11 in |
| Weight | 5 lbs | 7 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 5 years |
Pros & cons
Flair Classic
- ✓Cheapest path to real 9-bar espresso
- ✓No electronics to break
- ✓Fully portable - take camping
- ✓Beautiful tactile pulling experience
- ✓Easy to clean
- ✗Need a separate kettle
- ✗No steam wand for milk
- ✗Manual effort each shot
- ✗Single-shot only
- ✗Slower workflow than electric
Flair 49 Pro
- ✓Pressure gauge makes hitting and profiling 6-9 bar repeatable
- ✓Includes bottomless and pressurized baskets - grows with your skill
- ✓All-stainless 90ml brew cylinder holds heat better than the Classic
- ✓5-year warranty on a machine with almost nothing to break
- ✗49mm baskets limit dose size and accessory options versus the Flair 58
- ✗Boiling water and preheating the cylinder is a ritual every shot
- ✗No milk steaming of any kind
- ✗Single-shot workflow is slow for guests