Overview
The Quick Mill Rubino 0981 is a compact single boiler with PID temperature control, offering Italian build quality at an accessible price. The thermoblock-assisted single boiler heats quickly and the PID provides stable brewing temperatures. It is ideal for espresso purists who primarily drink straight shots and occasional milk drinks.
The Quick Mill Rubino 0981 comes equipped with PID temperature control for precise brewing. It features a single boiler boiler system. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.
Priced at $849, the Quick Mill Rubino 0981 is designed for serious home baristas who want café-quality espresso. As a single boiler machine, it's best suited for those who primarily brew espresso or can work with the steam-then-brew workflow.
In terms of build quality, the Quick Mill Rubino 0981 is a substantial machine, weighing in at 11.0 kg, manufactured in Italy, drawing 1100W of power. With dimensions of 200 x 310 x 330 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 1800 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction temperature shot after shot
- Standard 58mm portafilter is compatible with a wide range of third-party baskets and accessories
- Manufactured in Italy, known for quality espresso machine engineering
Cons
- Single boiler requires waiting between brewing and steaming, slowing the milk drink workflow
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
- No pre-infusion feature, which is expected at this price point
Full Specifications
| Brand | Quick Mill |
|---|---|
| Model | Quick Mill Rubino 0981 |
| Category | Single Boiler |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Year Introduced | 2020 |
| Boiler Type | Single Boiler |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | Yes |
| Pre-Infusion | No |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Standard 58mm |
| Portafilter Diameter | 58 mm |
| Steam Wand | Commercial |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 1800 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 200 x 310 x 330 mm |
| Weight | 11.0 kg (24.3 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1100 W |
| Voltage | 120V |
| MSRP | $849 |
Our Verdict
The Quick Mill Rubino 0981 is a single boiler machine, which means you'll need to switch between brewing and steaming temperatures for milk drinks. This sounds limiting, but many experienced baristas prefer single boilers for straight espresso — they're simpler, more reliable, and often extract beautifully. If you primarily drink straight espresso or americanos, a single boiler with good temperature stability is all you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Quick Mill Rubino 0981 suitable for home baristas?
Absolutely. The Quick Mill Rubino 0981 at $849 is aimed at intermediate to advanced home baristas. It offers enough features to grow with your skills while being manageable for committed beginners willing to learn.
Can the Quick Mill Rubino 0981 make lattes and cappuccinos?
Yes, but as a single boiler machine, you'll need to switch between brewing and steaming modes, which adds time to your workflow. For occasional milk drinks it's fine. If you make milk drinks daily, consider a heat exchanger or dual boiler.
How often does the Quick Mill Rubino 0981 need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder pairs well with the Quick Mill Rubino 0981?
For a machine at this level, consider mid-range to premium grinders: Eureka Mignon Specialita ($400), Niche Zero ($600), or DF64 ($400-$500). These grinders will do justice to the machine's capabilities without being the bottleneck in your setup.
Is the Quick Mill Rubino 0981 worth $849?
The Quick Mill Rubino 0981's value depends on your commitment to espresso. If you drink espresso daily, a quality machine pays for itself vs. cafe purchases within 6-12 months. The Quick Mill Rubino 0981 offers PID temperature control at its price point, making it a sound investment for regular espresso drinkers.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Quick Mill Rubino 0981
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level: