Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2 vs Rocket Appartamento Blog Image

February 15, 2024 Jason Diep

Ascaso Steel Duo PID vs Rocket Appartamento

In this meticulously crafted article, we embark on a journey to dissect and compare two titans in the semi-automatic espresso machine realm: the Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2 and the Rocket Appartamento. Our mission is to illuminate the distinctive features, functionalities, and aesthetic appeals of each model, providing a clear, engaging, and comprehensive comparison tailored for coffee enthusiasts of varying preferences and expertise levels.

We will explore which machine might best suit different consumer profiles, delve into notable features of each, and pinpoint key differences, aiming to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision in your quest for the perfect espresso machine.

Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2

The Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2 emerges as a beacon of innovation and design in the espresso machine landscape. With its sleek, modern exterior, it not only complements the aesthetic of any kitchen but also packs a punch with its advanced technological features. The machine’s PID temperature control system allows for precise temperature adjustments, ensuring that each espresso shot is brewed to perfection, reflecting the true essence and depth of the coffee beans.

Moreover, the Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2 stands out with its dual thermoblock system, a feature that guarantees an immediate transition from brewing to steaming without the wait. This not only enhances efficiency but also preserves the integrity of the coffee’s flavour, making it a dream machine for those who refuse to compromise on the quality and speed of their brew.

Ascaso Steel Duo PID Digital Display View

Best Suited For

Design Enthusiasts: The Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2, with its impeccable construction and stylish appearance, is perfect for those who value aesthetics as much as performance. It serves as a statement piece that elevates the kitchen’s decor.

Precision Seekers: Individuals who delight in the art of crafting the perfect espresso will appreciate the PID temperature control, which allows for meticulous adjustments to achieve the ideal extraction temperature.

Busy Coffee Lovers: The dual thermoblock system caters to those with a fast-paced lifestyle, offering quick and efficient brewing and steaming capabilities without compromising on the coffee's quality.

Ascaso Steel Duo PID Oblique Under View of Portafilter in Machine

Key Features

PID Temperature Control: Ensures precise temperature settings for optimal flavour extraction.

Dual Thermoblock System: Allows for seamless switching between brewing and steaming, enhancing efficiency.

Adjustable Over-Pressure Valve (OPV): Customises extraction pressure for the perfect espresso shot.

Pre-Infusion Function: Gently soaks the coffee grounds before extraction, enriching the coffee's aroma and body.

Quality Construction: Crafted from high-grade materials for durability and a sleek design.

Powerful Steam Wand: Designed cool to touch and for creating velvety milk foam, ideal for latte art enthusiasts.

Programmable Dosing: Easy single and double programmable shots.

User-Friendly Interface: Offers easy navigation and control for a seamless brewing experience.

Rocket Appartamento

The Rocket Appartamento stands as a testament to Italian craftsmanship and the traditional espresso brewing culture. Its compact design does not sacrifice power or performance, making it an ideal choice for espresso aficionados with limited kitchen space but an uncompromising taste for quality. The machine features a heat exchange boiler, enabling simultaneous coffee brewing and milk steaming, thus reducing preparation time while maintaining a high standard of espresso.

Aesthetically, the Rocket Appartamento is a visual delight, featuring classic Italian styling with circular side panel cutouts that not only serve as a unique design element but also aid in ventilation. This machine combines form and function, offering a tactile and engaging brewing experience that resonates with the ritualistic nature of traditional espresso preparation.

Rocket Appartamento Coffee Shot

Best Suited For

Traditionalists: Espresso enthusiasts who cherish the ritual and artistry of traditional espresso making will be drawn to the Rocket Appartamento’s classic design and manual operation.

Space-Conscious Users: Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for individuals with limited countertop space who are unwilling to compromise on the quality of their espresso.

Social Brewers: The ability to brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously makes this machine perfect for those who enjoy hosting and sharing the coffee experience with friends and family.

Rocket Appartamento Steam Wand Close Up

Key Features

Heat Exchange Boiler: Allows for brewing espresso and steaming milk concurrently, saving time.

Italian Craftsmanship: Combines durability with a timeless design, reflecting a deep espresso culture.

Circular Side Panel Cutouts: Not only enhance the machine's aesthetics but also improve ventilation.

Professional-Grade Components: Ensures longevity and reliability, mirroring commercial espresso machines.

Manual Control: Offers an intimate and hands-on brewing experience, appealing to purists. Also allows for mechanical pre-infusion.

Compact Design: Ideal for small kitchens, without sacrificing performance.

Powerful Steaming: Equipped with a high-quality cool too touch steam wand for creamy and rich milk texture.

Easy Maintenance: Designed for straightforward cleaning and upkeep, ensuring lasting performance.

Key Differences Between the Machines

Temperature Control: The Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2 features a PID controller for precise temperature adjustments, whereas the Rocket Appartamento relies on a heat exchange system, prioritising traditional brewing methods.

Design Philosophy: The Ascaso embraces a modern, technology-driven approach, while the Rocket Appartamento celebrates traditional Italian espresso machine design and manual operation.

Grouphead: Both feature a 58mm grouphead, but the Appartamento has the legendary E61 from the famous Faema design. This provides idea temperature stability for consistent brews day-to-day.

Display: The Appartamento has a single display of the boiler pressure, whereas the Duo PID has two manometers for brew pressure and a digital display for temperature and a shot timer.

Workflow: With a shot timer, the Duo PID has programmable single, double shots and pre-infusion for a smooth and efficient workflow.

Control: For those coffee enthusiasts who love tinkering with their brew, the Duo PID allows adjustable pressure, temperature of the brew and steam. The Appartamento only allows for a boiler pressure change through the internal pressure stat meter. Higher boiler pressure converts to increased boiler temperature.

Specifications

	Ascaso Steel Duo PID	Rocket Appartamento
RRP	$3,199	$3,499
Boiler	Dual Thermoblock	1.8L Heat Exchanger
Pump	Vibratory	Vibratory
Water Reservoir (Litres)	2	2
Tank/Plumbed	Tank	Tank
Pump Pressure (Bar)	20	12
Pump Pressure Adjustable	Yes via OPV	No
PID (Temperature Control)	Yes - Brew & Steam	No
Pre-Infusion	Yes	Yes - mechanical
Power	2100W	1200W
Grouphead	58mm	58mm E61
Display	Dual Manometer - brew pressure and brew temp/shot timer.	Single manometer - boiler pressure
Dimensions (W x H x D cm)	27 x 36 x 31.5	27.4 x 36 x42.5
Weight (kg)	15	20

Conclusion

Deciding between the Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2 and the Rocket Appartamento boils down to personal preference, space availability, and the value placed on the coffee brewing process. The Ascaso Steel Duo PID V2, with its advanced features, precision control, and sleek design, is ideal for those who embrace modernity and efficiency in their coffee ritual. In contrast, the Rocket Appartamento appeals to traditionalists and those with limited space, offering a compact, manually operated machine that celebrates the art of espresso making without compromising on quality.

Both machines represent the pinnacle of semi-automatic espresso machine design, catering to distinct niches within the coffee-loving community. Whether your priority is the technological sophistication and precision of the Ascaso or the classic design and manual control of the Rocket, both machines promise to deliver high-quality espresso, enriching your coffee experience. As you weigh your options, consider not just the specifications, but also how each machine aligns with your coffee brewing philosophy and lifestyle, ensuring that your choice becomes a cherished part of your daily routine.