Description

Design & Build Quality

The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II Pour-Over Espresso Machine, model number Oscar, manages to strike a balance between professional-grade performance and a compact design that fits neatly into a kitchen or small café setup. Its stainless steel exterior screams durability and lends a retro charm that makes it a stylish addition to any countertop. At about 52 pounds, it’s hefty, which speaks to its robust build, though you might need help moving it around. While testing it, I placed it in my office kitchen, and it immediately became the centerpiece, drawing compliments from colleagues for its sleek appearance. The buttons and controls are intuitive, and the components feel sturdy, though the water tank mechanism could use a bit of refinement as it occasionally feels less snug than ideal.

Coffee Quality

Using this espresso machine feels like bringing a café into your home, and I mean that in the best way possible. Each shot I pulled was rich, with a crema so thick it almost felt like dessert. Over a couple of weeks, I experimented with various coffee blends, and the Oscar II consistently delivered. My brother, who considers himself a coffee connoisseur, was impressed enough to abandon his usual coffee shop routine and visit me instead. However, dialing in the perfect grind and tamping required some patience, so it’s not the most forgiving for beginners.

Water Tank & Capacity

With a 2-liter water reservoir, this espresso machine strikes a decent balance for both home and light commercial use. I tested it during a family gathering, making multiple cappuccinos in one go, and the tank held up without needing constant refills. The transparent design lets you monitor water levels easily, but the placement could be more user-friendly since it’s a bit tricky to remove and reinsert.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The built-in steaming wand is a standout feature. It produces microfoam with ease, whether you’re using dairy or alternatives like almond milk. I even managed to create some decent latte art with it, much to the amusement of my kids. The wand transitions smoothly from steaming to pulling shots, making it efficient for back-to-back use. However, the wand design could be slightly more flexible to allow easier maneuvering with larger milk pitchers.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning the Oscar II is straightforward but requires diligence. Regular backflushing is essential to keep it running smoothly, and the drip tray is large enough to avoid frequent emptying. After a week of use, I noticed some coffee residue building up around the group head, but a quick clean with a brush took care of it. My coworker, who borrowed the machine for a weekend, mentioned that descaling was manageable, though time-consuming.

Brewing Performance

The brewing unit is thermo-compensated, ensuring consistent temperature control for each shot. This feature really shines when you’re pulling multiple espressos in a row. On a busy morning, I tested its limits by making six shots back-to-back, and the last one was as good as the first. However, I did notice a slight delay in recovery time when transitioning from steaming milk to brewing coffee.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

While it’s not the quietest espresso machine I’ve used, the noise level is tolerable, even early in the morning when the house is asleep. The machine powers up relatively quickly, and the energy consumption seems reasonable for its performance. Over a month of daily use, I didn’t notice a significant spike in my electricity bill.

Warranty & Support

The one-year warranty offers some peace of mind, though I’ve read mixed reviews about customer support. While I haven’t had to reach out to them yet, others mentioned delays in getting replacement parts. My advice? Check if there’s a local Nuova Simonelli service center nearby.

Advantages

• Consistent espresso shots with a rich crema
• Excellent milk frother for café-quality microfoam
• Durable stainless steel build with a sleek, retro design
• Large drip tray reduces the frequency of emptying
• Compact size fits well in small spaces

Areas for Improvement

• Water tank mechanism feels less secure than expected
• Slight delay in recovery time when switching between steaming and brewing
• Not the quietest machine on the market

Competing Products

When comparing the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II to similar machines, the Breville Barista Express stands out as a strong contender. While the Barista Express includes a built-in grinder, it doesn’t quite match the steaming power of the Oscar II. The Gaggia Classic Pro, another competitor, offers a lower price point and a smaller footprint but lacks the robust build and professional-grade features of the Oscar II. If you’re looking for a machine that strikes a balance between home and light commercial use, the Oscar II edges ahead with its superior brewing consistency and steaming performance.

Smart Spending

For its performance and features, this espresso machine offers good value. While it may not be the cheapest option, its durability and professional-grade capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for serious coffee lovers. If you’re someone who values the art of espresso making, you’ll likely find the Oscar II to be worth every penny. However, if convenience is your priority, a super-automatic machine might be a better fit.

Additional information