About this Video

• Video Title: The Best Espresso Grinder Under £500
• Channel: James Hoffmann
• Speakers: James Hoffmann, Ben (from Square Mile's Training)
• Duration: 40:51

Introduction

This video reviews and compares several espresso grinders priced under £500 (approximately $620 USD), aiming to help viewers choose the best grinder for their needs. Hoffmann emphasizes that many of these grinders are viable "end-game" options, capable of producing espresso comparable to that of a café, despite the existence of more expensive models. The review includes various tests, including grind quality, sound, taste tests, filter coffee performance, particle size analysis, grind speed, and power consumption.

Key Takeaways

• Variety of Grinders Tested: The video comprehensively reviews several popular espresso grinders, including the Baratza Sette 270, Timemore 064S, Niche Zero, Eureka Mignon ORO, DF64 Gen 2, Lagom Mini, and Mahlkönig X54.
• Grind Quality and Taste Differences: While all grinders produced excellent espresso, subtle differences in taste and texture were noted through blind taste testing. These differences were linked to variations in particle size distribution.
• Dialing In Experience: Each grinder's ease of use ("dialing in") was assessed, highlighting differences in user interface (UI) and user experience (UX).
• Particle Size Analysis: A particle size analyzer was used to objectively compare the grind consistency of the grinders, revealing differences in the distribution of particle sizes between conical and flat burr grinders.
• Additional Factors: Grind speed, power consumption, and noise levels were also measured and discussed as factors to consider in choosing a grinder. Hoffmann expressed a strong dislike for bellows mechanisms found in some grinders.
• Overall Recommendation: While all grinders performed well, Hoffmann ultimately favored the DF64 Gen 2 due to its superior features and improved usability over its predecessor.

While James Hoffmann stated that he would be happy with the espresso from any of the grinders, he ultimately favored the DF64 Gen 2 due to its flexibility (64 mm burrs allowing for different burr options), smaller size, lower price point compared to the Timemore 064S, and improved usability over its predecessor. He noted that the DF64 Gen 2 was slightly less frustrating from a UX perspective than the Timemore.