La Marzocco GS3 AV or GS3 MP? Technically, both machines have a lot in common: large separate boilers, a saturated brew group, PID, a rotary pump, and professional components. The key difference is not in the basic quality, but in how the espresso is started, controlled, and stopped.
The Key Difference
The GS3 AV prioritizes programmable volumetrics and repeatability. The GS3 MP gives you direct control over pressure and flow via the manual paddle.
| Criterion | GS3 AV | GS3 MP |
|---|---|---|
| Extraction | programmed volumetrics | manual paddle |
| Focus | repeatability | profiling |
| Brew boiler | 1.5 l | 1.5 l |
| Steam boiler | 3.5 l | 3.5 l |
| Brew group | saturated | saturated |
| Pump | rotary pump | rotary pump |
GS3 AV: Focus on Repeatable Processes
You program a shot volume, and the machine stops the shot automatically. This is practical when preparing several identical drinks or when you take on other tasks during the extraction.
GS3 MP: Focus on the Extraction Process
With the paddle, you can deliberately shape the preinfusion and pressure curve. This makes the machine more interesting for users who want to test different roasts with different profiles.
Which one is easier to use?
The AV is more straightforward for daily batch preparation. The MP can also be used simply, but its real added value emerges when you use the paddle deliberately.
Which one is better for milk drinks?
Both share the large steam platform. The difference lies less in milk performance than in how much attention the espresso requires during extraction. With the AV, you can focus more on the milk after starting the shot.
Which one is better for light roasts?
That depends on the recipe you want. The MP offers more freedom for longer preinfusions and individually shaped pressure curves. The AV can also produce excellent light-roast espresso, but it relies more heavily on a defined standard process.
Plumbed-in Operation and Water Quality
Both models can be operated as plumbed-in machines. Water treatment is essential for a machine in this class. Unsuitable water threatens not only flavor, but also long-term reliability.
Grinder and Scale
The AV benefits greatly from a consistent dose because volumetrics automate only one component of the recipe. Reproducibility is just as important with the MP so that changes to the paddle can be evaluated meaningfully.
Which Type of User Is the AV Suited To?
- You want repeatable shots.
- You often prepare several drinks.
- You want fewer manual variables.
- You want to focus on milk preparation at the same time.
Which Type of User Is the MP Suited To?
- You love profiling and experimentation.
- You frequently switch coffees and roast levels.
- You want to actively shape the shot.
- The extraction itself is part of the hobby for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MP automatically more demanding?
Only if you actively use profiling. It can also be operated in a relatively traditional way.
Is AV the same as Brew by Weight?
No. AV works volumetrically based on the amount of water, while Brew by Weight uses the beverage weight in the cup.
Which one is “better”?
There is no universal answer. AV and MP solve different workflow problems.
Conclusion
The GS3 AV is the more logical choice for programmed repeatability. The GS3 MP is the more exciting platform for manual profiling. Decide based on how you want to prepare espresso - not which abbreviation sounds more exclusive.
Products from this article
