Rocket Appartamento vs Nuova Simonelli Oscar II
Side-by-side comparison of two espresso machines
| Specification | Rocket Appartamento | Nuova Simonelli Oscar II |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Rocket Espresso | Nuova Simonelli |
| Price (MSRP) | $1,599 | $1,500 |
| Category | Heat Exchanger | Heat Exchanger |
| Boiler Type | Heat Exchanger | Heat Exchanger |
| Boiler Material | Copper | Copper |
| Boiler Capacity | 1800 ml | 2200 ml |
| Pump Type | Vibratory | Vibratory |
| PID Control | No | No |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes | No |
| Pressure Profiling | No | No |
| Flow Control | No | No |
| Group Head | E61 | Standard 58mm |
| Portafilter | 58 mm | 58 mm |
| Steam Wand | Commercial | Commercial |
| Water Source | Reservoir | Both |
| Reservoir | 2500 ml | 2300 ml |
| Cup Warmer | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | 270 x 420 x 360 mm | 280 x 420 x 380 mm |
| Weight | 20.0 kg (44.1 lbs) | 20.0 kg (44.1 lbs) |
| Power | 1200W | 1400W |
| Made In | Italy | Italy |
Expert Analysis
The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II ($1500) and Rocket Appartamento ($1599) are both heat exchanger machines with commercial DNA. The Oscar II uses Nuova Simonelli's soft infusion system with a 58mm group at 20 kg and 1400W. The Appartamento uses an E61 group at 20 kg and 1200W. Neither has PID control. The Oscar II's group head design is based on Nuova Simonelli's commercial machines (the company makes the Victoria Arduino and Aurelia for top cafes). The Appartamento's E61 group is the industry standard for prosumer machines. The Oscar II has a slightly more powerful pump and heating element for faster recovery. The Appartamento's copper side panels and Italian design give it superior aesthetics. Both produce excellent steam for milk drinks. The Oscar II's soft infusion system gently ramps up pressure, similar to pre-infusion. The Appartamento's E61 provides a brief mechanical pre-infusion. Verdict: The Oscar II offers genuine commercial heritage and slightly better thermal management. The Appartamento wins on design and the E61 accessory ecosystem. Both are excellent first prosumer machines.
Features: The Rocket Appartamento additionally features Pre-Infusion.
Our Verdict
Choosing between the Rocket Appartamento and the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II depends on your priorities. If budget is your primary concern, the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II offers excellent value. However, if you're willing to invest more for additional features and build quality, the Rocket Appartamento delivers a premium experience. Both are capable machines that can produce excellent espresso in the right hands.