About this Video

• Video Title: One Year with the Zerno Z1 Grinder! Still Worth It??
• Channel: Daddy Got Coffee
• Speakers: Justin (implied)
• Duration: 00:27:33

Introduction

This video reviews the Zerno Z1 coffee grinder after one year of use. The speaker discusses its features, suitability for different users, updates, critiques, and whether it remains worthwhile considering its price and the release of the Z2 model.

Key Takeaways

• Zerno Z1 Target Audience: Ideal for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy tweaking variables and optimizing their brewing process. May be overwhelming for casual users.
• Modular Design and Configurability: The Z1 allows for various configurations through burr set and pre-breaker options, offering a level of customization uncommon in other grinders.
• Exceptional Alignment: The Z1 demonstrates superior burr alignment compared to other grinders, maintaining precision even after burr swaps. This alignment is consistently maintained throughout disassembly and reassembly.
• Blind Burr System: The Z1's unique blind burr mount system facilitates incredibly quick burr changes compared to traditional screw-mounted burrs.
• Price and Alternatives: The Z1's price varies greatly depending on configuration, starting around $1300 USD and escalating with additional burr sets and accessories. The Mazzer Pholus is presented as a more affordable, readily available alternative.
• Retention: While some retention occurs, it primarily builds up in specific areas and is manageable with periodic cleaning. The amount of retention is considered low for this type of grinder.
• Z2 Comparison: The speaker advises choosing between the Z1 and Z2 based on preferred burr size (64mm or 80mm) rather than overall grinder performance. The Z2 offers variable RPM and minor drivetrain improvements.
• Updates: Zerno has released several updates, including a new funnel and lid, improved dosing cups, a solid grind chute (replacing a 3D-printed version), and removal of the ionizer. All are backwards compatible.

The speaker lists the following cons and considerations for the Zerno Z1:

• Positioning and Availability: The Z1's high price point and limited availability make it less suitable for casual users who may not fully utilize its customization features. The speaker notes that Zerno is working on improving availability.

• Static: Though improved, static can still be an issue, requiring the use of RDT (a little spritz of water) before grinding to mitigate it.

• Chute Safety: The magnetically-attached chute can be removed, allowing the burrs to be exposed while the grinder is running, presenting a safety hazard.

• Sound: The grinder's higher-pitched sound, due to its internal gearbox, may be off-putting to some users.

• Occasional Bean Sticking: The speaker mentions that occasionally, a single bean can get stuck in the chute, particularly with the slow augur pre-breaker, requiring manual intervention. Larger beans may also cause similar issues.

• Power Cable: The removable power cable, while convenient for some, may be a point of concern for others.