Rocket Appartamento vs Nuova Simonelli Oscar II

Side-by-side comparison of two espresso machines

Specification Rocket Appartamento Nuova Simonelli Oscar II
BrandRocket EspressoNuova Simonelli
Price (MSRP)$1,599$1,500
CategoryHeat ExchangerHeat Exchanger
Boiler TypeHeat ExchangerHeat Exchanger
Boiler MaterialCopperCopper
Boiler Capacity1800 ml2200 ml
Pump TypeVibratoryVibratory
PID ControlNoNo
Pre-InfusionYesNo
Pressure ProfilingNoNo
Flow ControlNoNo
Group HeadE61Standard 58mm
Portafilter58 mm58 mm
Steam WandCommercialCommercial
Water SourceReservoirBoth
Reservoir2500 ml2300 ml
Cup WarmerYesYes
Dimensions270 x 420 x 360 mm280 x 420 x 380 mm
Weight20.0 kg (44.1 lbs)20.0 kg (44.1 lbs)
Power1200W1400W
Made InItalyItaly

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.