As a luxury appliance brand, Gaggenau needs no introduction. While the brand offers a number of different appliances, most of them are subdivided into the 200 and 400 series, which can often be confusing for new customers. In our opinion, it is all a matter of personal taste and preference as both series offer different features, styles and, in some cases, different colours. To make the process easy for you, we talked to the Gaggenau experts at our showroom for a clearer understanding of the similarities and differences between the two series, and we’ll be discussing our findings in detail below.
Gaggenau offers three series of refrigeration units, the Vario 400, Vario 200 and 200 series, all of which share some standard features like glare-free lighting and multiple climate zones. Additionally, the fresh cooling drawers in these units are designed to keep items fresh for longer, with some models capable of maintaining temperatures at or below 0 ºC.
Some differences between them are mentioned in the table below:
ELEMENT
|
200 SERIES
|
VARIO 200 SERIES
|
Vario 400 SERIES
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Design
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- Free-standing or built-in
- Durable aluminium light bronze shelf profiles and door bins, softly illuminated by warm white, glare-free LED lighting
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- Free-standing and built-in
- Overall design aesthetics are similar to the 200 series
|
- Fully integrated, built-in and modular.
- The exterior can be customised in the kitchen furniture material, or it can be stainless steel, with or without handles. The interior is a mix of stainless steel and anthracite aluminium
|
Main features
|
- Distinct climate zones
- Fresh cooling drawers
- 4-Star freezer compartment
- Adjustable shelving
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- Adjustable humidity levels
- Two solid maple wood bottle holders
- Light bronze profile on clear glass shelving
- Door opening assistance (voice controlled)
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- Professional grade stainless steel interiors
- Can be combined with a wine climate cabinet
- Available with and without handles
- Door opening assistance
- Independent climate zones
- Climate fresh drawers
|
Gaggenau ovens are highly regarded for their exceptional craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and elegant aesthetics that perfectly complement contemporary kitchens.
They offer a wide variety of ovens to suit various cooking styles and requirements. These ovens come equipped with a range of innovative features and technologies, such as advanced heating systems, precise temperature control, and intuitive user interfaces. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, Gaggenau is a brand that provides a wide variety of ovens to suit various cooking styles and requirements.
Both the 200 and 400 series ovens are equipped with a range of advanced features and technologies, including:
- Sleek, minimalist and modern designs
- Multiple modes for cooking, baking, grilling, roasting, broiling and more
- Advanced technologies for increased precision and efficiency
- User-friendly controls
- Multiple customisation options
Below, we look at the main differences between the ovens of the two series:
ELEMENT
|
200 SERIES
|
400 SERIES
|
Design
|
Simple design that blends well with contemporary kitchens
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Sculptural and statement-making design that stands out
|
Size
|
60 cm wide ovens
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Available as 60 and 76 cm wide ovens
|
Purpose
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Designed for culinary connoisseurs
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Designed for professionals but can be used at homes as well
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Temperature control
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Up to 300C
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Up to 485C
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Handles
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Stainless steel handles
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Handle-free doors
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Number of heating methods
|
13
|
17
|
Variations
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Available in three colours: Anthracite, Metallic and Silver
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Available in two colours: Stainless Steel and Anthracite
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Options
|
- 200 Series Oven
- 200 Series Combi-Steam Oven
- 200 Series Steam Oven
- 200 Series Combi-Microwave Oven
- 200 Series Microwave
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- 400 Series Oven
- 400 Series Double Oven
- 400 Series Combi-Steam Oven
- 400 Series Combi-Microwave
|
Gaggenau coffee machines combine elegant design, advanced technologies, and precise craftsmanship to deliver delicious coffee with customisable options. Here are some key features and technologies commonly found in all Gaggenau coffee machines:
- Contemporary designs that seamlessly integrate into upscale kitchens.
- A wide range of brewing options to cater to individual preferences. Users can customize parameters such as coffee strength, water temperature, brewing time, and coffee quantity. This level of control allows for the creation of a personalised cup of coffee tailored to specific tastes.
- Built-in coffee grinders to ensure the freshest and most flavourful coffee. These grinders often offer adjustable settings to achieve the desired grind size for different brewing methods, such as espresso or drip coffee.
- A variety of specialty drink options beyond traditional coffee, such as espresso, cappuccino, latte, and macchiato. Integrated milk frothers or steam wands enable the creation of creamy and frothy milk for delicious coffee-based beverages.
- Multiple features to simplify cleaning and maintenance. Removable components, such as drip trays and milk frothers, are designed for easy cleaning. Some models also have self-cleaning programs or automatic descaling functions to keep the machine in optimal condition.
- Intuitive interfaces, often with touchscreens or digital displays. These interfaces allow users to select brewing options, adjust settings, monitor brewing progress, and access additional functions effortlessly. Some models may also offer connectivity options, allowing control and monitoring through smartphone apps.
The main difference between the 200 and the 400 series is in the design and colour options:
ELEMENT
|
200 SERIES
|
400 SERIES
|
Design
|
Cushioned closing doors
in three colours: Gaggenau Anthracite, Gaggenau
Metallic and Gaggenau Silver.
|
Stainless steel-backed glass door with automatic door
opening
|
After ovens, Gaggenau’s cooktops are perhaps one of their most popular appliances, especially amongst professional chefs. These cooktops are renowned for their exceptional performance, innovative features, and sleek designs that elevate the cooking experience in modern kitchens.
Here are some distinct aspects and technologies often found in most Gaggenau cooktops:
- Both the 200 and 400 series cooktops feature a separate and modular Vario series, which are the more advanced and versatile cooking areas that can be adapted to accommodate different pot and pan sizes.
- Gaggenau is known for its advanced induction cooktops. Induction technology utilises electromagnetic fields to directly heat the cookware while the cooktop surface remains cool. This ensures rapid and precise heating, responsive temperature control, and improved energy efficiency. Induction cooktops also offer safety features such as automatic pan recognition and residual heat indicators.
- Some Gaggenau cooktops feature full-surface cooking, which means the entire cooktop surface is a cooking zone. This innovative design allows for maximum flexibility, enabling users to place pots and pans anywhere on the surface and adjust the heat accordingly. It offers a seamless and uninterrupted cooking experience, especially when working with large or multiple cookware items simultaneously.
- These cooktops often come with a variety of control panel options, including touch controls and twist-pad knobs. Touch controls offer a sleek and modern interface, allowing precise temperature adjustments and convenient access to various cooking functions. Twist-pad knobs provide tactile feedback and allow users to intuitively control the heat levels with a simple twist.
- Gaggenau cooktops may include specialised cooking functions designed to enhance specific cooking techniques. For example, some models feature a griddle plate for perfect searing and browning, or a teppanyaki plate for Japanese-style grilling. These additional cooking options expand the culinary possibilities and cater to diverse cooking preferences.
- Gaggenau’s gas cooktops combine precise flame control with stylish design, featuring burners that deliver consistent heat distribution. They often include features such as simmer burners, wok burners, and automatic reignition for added convenience and versatility.
- In terms of design, these cooktops are designed for seamless integration into kitchen countertops. They feature sleek and flush-mount installation options, allowing them to blend harmoniously with surrounding surfaces. This design aesthetic creates a streamlined and sophisticated look in the kitchen.
Now, coming towards the main differences between the 200 and the 400 series:
ELEMENT
|
200 SERIES
|
400 SERIES
|
Number of mechanical levels for flame control
|
9
|
12
|
Design of the control knobs
|
80cm twist pad that is part of the cooktop but can be removed for cleaning or when not in use
|
90 cm solid black stainless steel knobs, placed on the drawer front
|
Size of the cooktops
|
28cm to 90cm
|
38cm to 1 meter
|
Gas cooktop
|
Five brass burners capable of generating 17,800 W of heat
|
Five brass burners capable of generating 18,000 W of heat
|
Gaggenau extractors, also known as range hoods or ventilation systems, are designed to effectively remove cooking odours, smoke, and grease from the kitchen while adding a touch of style to the cooking space. Here are some key aspects and technologies that are commonly found in these extractors:
- They are equipped with the most advanced and powerful motors, along with high airflow rates to effectively capture and remove cooking vapours.
- They provide multiple extraction modes to match specific cooking needs. These modes may include standard extraction, intensive extraction for heavy-duty cooking, and a silent mode for quiet operation during low-volume cooking. Some models also offer a recirculation mode, which purifies the air through filters and redistributes it back into the kitchen.
- They employ advanced filtration systems to ensure optimal air purification. They often feature multi-layered metal or charcoal filters that efficiently capture grease particles, odors, and impurities. These filters can be easily removed and cleaned or replaced, maintaining the extractor's performance over time.
- Understanding the importance of a quiet cooking environment. Many extractors are equipped with noise-reduction technologies, including insulated motor housings, optimized airflow designs, and sound-absorbing materials. This allows for quieter operation even at higher extraction power levels.
- They often incorporate lighting features to enhance visibility and ambience in the kitchen. Built-in LED lights provide ample illumination over the cooking area, ensuring better visibility while preparing meals. Some models may offer adjustable lighting intensity or colour temperature options for personalized lighting preferences.
- The sleek and minimalist designs seamlessly integrate into various kitchen styles. They are available in different widths and configurations to suit different kitchen layouts and cabinetry. These extractors can be installed as wall-mounted units or integrated into overhead cabinets, maintaining a cohesive and elegant look in the kitchen.
- Gaggenau extractors typically come with user-friendly control panels, often featuring touch controls or buttons. These controls allow users to adjust extraction power levels, lighting settings, and activate different operating modes with ease. Some models may also offer remote control options or connectivity features for convenient operation.
ELEMENT
|
200 SERIES
|
400 SERIES
|
Size
|
80 or 90 cm
|
90 or 120 cm
|
Controls
|
Twist pad controls
|
Illuminated knob controls
|
Wall mounted hoods
|
Two different styles, both 90cm wide
|
160, 120 and 90cm wide
|
Island hoods
|
90 cm
|
160, 120 and 100 cm wide
|
Summing Up
With a legacy that spans more than 300 years, Gaggenau has cemented its position as a dominant player in the luxury appliance industry. Most of the Gaggenau appliance categories and subdivided into the 200 and 400 series. While the difference between the two series lies in the details, we can generally say that the 200 series are designed for homes while the 400 series are more professional in terms of their functionality and aesthetics. However, many Gaggenau enthusiasts who prefer advanced features and the full Gaggenau experience often choose the 400 series for their homes.
If you’re still unsure about which series to choose for yourself, we recommend visiting our showroom to see these appliances in person. Or you can always book an appointment and one of our Gaggenau experts will be in touch with you.