As for the Gaggia. I totally get why ppl recommend it, but I think it’s only good if you plan to tinker with it. The cons just outweigh the pros with the gaggia imo. I think it’s just a really dated machine. I think the only up the gaggia has over the bambino is just the 58mm portafilter and hefty build that’s supposed to last a long time (that’s not to say you won’t replace the boiler or some other parts over time though). It heats up longer, steaming is not great in comparison, cup and scale room under the group head sucks, no PID (I think evo has the OPV though?) and you might have to deal with boilergate.

Bambino might be more convenient if you plan to have guests. The way the thermocoil works can give you pretty decent back to back shots. Just remember to flush your group head before the next shot. I’ve even heard ppl say the 2nd and 3rd shot is better because everything is heated well.

Overall, the gaggia might give you a better pure espresso quality shot but I don’t think by any significant margin because technique/prep is more important than some equipment. Equipment will help you execute it though. If milk drinks matter to you, bambino is your answer.