Is the Rancilio Rocky any good?
How does it compare to the Solis (Starbucks Barista)?
If I can get a used Rocky for $200 is it worth it or should I just invest the $150 extra and get a Mazzer

I've been sniffing around for a first grinder myself and although the Rocky isn't well-loved like the big guns (i.e. Mazzer, Macap, etc), I haven't seen one for $200 and it's not a bad grinder... I guess it depends on the age and wear, new rockys can be had for about 50% more but they're not in the same class as a $400 grinder... It doesn't have to be your last grinder either, and I'd guess that in the future it'd make a great drip, decaf or press grinder for your next, bigger grinder if you ever upgrade...

The Rocky is OK. The threads for the top burr carrier are low tolerance so they wobble. DO a search for "Rocky Teflon Tape Mod". The biggest problem is that it is not stepless. You will get a choice of two, or maybe three setting for espresso. Probably two. One click is worth about 4 seconds of extraction time from that grinder.

For the Oscar, look for a used grinder at a local restaurant supply store or from a reputable seller on eBay. For about $350, and at worst the additional cost of a new burr set, you will have a professional quality grinder that will last for a decade or three in home use.

My first grinder was a Rancilio Rocky. It's a solid machine that will give years of service. Easy to operate, nothing digital to program, very easy to clean and maintain. I used mine for less than 2 years and upgraded to a Macap M4 stepless with doser. I miss the simplicity of the Rocky.

I bought a Rocky and got rid of it after 6 months for a super jolly. Glad I did

I had Rocky for almost a year now and I just realised it is getting harder and harder to grind the coffee. When Rocky was new, I had it set to -2 to -3 for espresso and I could choke Silvia with it. Now (depending on the roast and dosing) I have to use -4 at least and 16g to portafilter to get the first drip after 4/5sec. I am not afraid to turn the settings down but it worries me a bit. When you dial -5 and the grinder is clean, motor have difficulties to turn the burr at all (obviously I do not hold the button for any period of time). I have on average one cup a day so wear and tear is negligible. My question would be: is there a better way to use Rocky or should I look for the replacement? I am willing to pay an extra money but unfortunately, I have only 40cm space under the kitchen cupboards.

I have no means to check the roasting date on present batch but the beans looks very good. They are oozing the oil so much they are almost sticking together. I only reached this conclusion after knowing the roast date on previous coffee I had before. I know there is a huge difference between old and fresh beans.

Thank you for the video! That was very educational. Now, I have a doubts. I will contact the shop for more info but it looks like you are right.