How do I choose?
This is a question we are frequently asked by purchasers considering a Rocket Espresso machine. Here are some pointers to help you choose the right machine for you:
- Do you plan on plumbing your machine to mains water now or in the future?
If so, the Appartamento is out for you as you will require a machine with a rotary pump. Your options are then limited to the Giotto Evoluzione R Cronometro and Mozzafiato Evoluzione R Cronometro or R58. - I want the quietest machine possible.
In general, rotary pump machines are quieter than those with vibration pumps. That would suggest that the rotary pump variants would be the quietest models. In the Rocket Espresso world, we have observed remarkable levels of quietness in the Tipo V variants of Giotto and Mozzafiato. Both models offer very quiet operation which is of similar volume to the rotary pump variants. The only reason to choose an Evoluzione model is a requirement for plumb-in operation at some point. Our observation is that the vibration pump variant employed in the Appartamento is significantly noisier than the pumps of all Giotto and Mozzafiato variants- be they rotary or vibration pump. - Giotto or Mozzafiato?
It really is a personal choice. Same machine, different dinner suit.
FWIW, we feel that the Mozzafiato is a more contemporary look. The Giotto is possibly better suited to period style kitchens. - I think I need a PID.
Whilst the Mozzafiato and Giotto models employ a PID, the Appartamento uses a cheaper conventional domestic pressurestat. In the real world of heat exchanger machines (which these are), it really makes little if any difference as water flowing to the group is merely flash heated in a tube which passes through the boiler. In the few seconds that water takes to move through that tube, a change of a degree or two in boiler temperature won’t make much difference, so we wouldn’t be choosing on this basis alone. Our buyers guide will show you some diagrams which explain the operation of heat exchanger boilers. PIDs are more expensive to replace but will probably have greater longevity in operation. We call no significant benefit here. If you want a PID so you can play with temperature, you will need to purchase a dual boiler R Cinquantotto. - I’d like a shot timer
This rules the Appartamento out. Giotto and Mozzafiato models both include the Crono shot timer as does the R Cinquantotto. - I think I need dual boiler so I can texture milk whilst pulling my shot
Many people think this. All Rocket espresso machines will do this. The benefit of of the dual boiler R Cinquantotto is that you gain shot temperature control. - So what do I get by spending more to purchase a Giotto/Mozzafiato/R58 over an Appartamento?
1. Better external finish in Giotto/Mozzafiato/R Cinquantotto as the external panels are more expensive to manufacture
2. System pressure gauge in addition to the steam pressure gauge available on all models
3. Boiler insulation in Giotto/Mozzafiato/R Cinquantotto is not present in Appartamento which will possibly consume a little more power to operate over the course of a year. We don’t see the savings as being significant.
4. Rotary pump models are only available in Giotto/Mozzafiato/R Cinquantotto
5. Shot timer on the Cronometro versions of the Giotto and Mozzafiato and R Cinquantotto
6. The coffee will be the same! The R Cinquantotto will however give those into light, fruity roasts an advantage with its superior ability to dial in to the coffee being used. Under milk, it’s all pretty much irrelevant.
Download the Rocket Espresso Technical Specification Sheet
Download the Rocket Espresso domestic machine range brochure