Recommendations for a coffee grinder

TRAPASARMY

Hello,

Definitely a thread at some point, but looking for advice on purchasing a coffee grinder. Just after deciding on the reliable Gaggia classic as my new coffee machine.

Best grinder within reason, price ~€100 or lower.

Thanks in advance for your help guys

wannabecraig

Dont think you'll get a decent new one for that... Maybe try done deal?
http://www.donedeal.ie/kitchenappliances-for-sale/super-jolly-mini-mazzer-grinder-coffee/5483614

livingthedream

Hi,

I was in the same boat as you for quite a while, I too have a Gaggia classic and wanted a decent grinder to go with it. Unfortunately what people say about spending good money on a grinder for good coffee is true, you really do get what you pay for!

I opted to wait until I had the cash and got a Gaggia MDF grinder which is still considered 'entry level' in the serious coffee drinkers world but at 175 euros didn't feel very entry level!!

However it is solid and has commercial burrs in it which do an excellent job. Unfortunately if you really value your coffee experience and you spend sub 100 euros now, you will probably opt for a better grinder in the future anyway so it might be a waste of money in the long run. You could try a hand grinder for now (depending on the volumes you are drinking) and save up for the good burr grinder...

Cheers,

LTD

Sam the Sham

I can't afford a good grinder (would like a Mahlkonig Vario). Until I can, I'm making do with a Hario Minimill. Yes, you have to grind it yourself and it won't do more than about 24g at a time, but it has ceramic burrs and will grind fine enough for turkish coffee, if that's your thing. I use it about 3 clicks from the most fine setting to make espresso.

Doodee

wannabecraig wrote: »

Dont think you'll get a decent new one for that... Maybe try done deal?
http://www.donedeal.ie/kitchenappliances-for-sale/super-jolly-mini-mazzer-grinder-coffee/5483614

That was some price for a Mazzer!

The_Pretender

Sorry to revive this thread, didn't want to open a new one

I've decided to buy a new grinder and I'm stuck between two. To be honest, I'm leaning towards the Super Jolly because of the larger burrs, but I have a question about the different options it comes in. It's for home use, and will rarely be grinding more than 2-3 shots at a time.

http://www.coffeeitalia.ie/mazzer-coffee-grinder-doser-super-jolly.html

Which would be be the best option to choose? Manual switch, time switch or automatic?

Also in the running is the Mahlkonig Vario. I'd prefer the Vario, but it probably wouldn't be as great as the SJ?

If anyone had any other suggestions I'd be glad to hear them.

donnacha

The_Pretender wrote: »

Sorry to revive this thread, didn't want to open a new one

I've decided to buy a new grinder and I'm stuck between two. To be honest, I'm leaning towards the Super Jolly because of the larger burrs, but I have a question about the different options it comes in. It's for home use, and will rarely be grinding more than 2-3 shots at a time.

http://www.coffeeitalia.ie/mazzer-coffee-grinder-doser-super-jolly.html

Which would be be the best option to choose? Manual switch, time switch or automatic?

Also in the running is the Mahlkonig Vario. I'd prefer the Vario, but it probably wouldn't be as great as the SJ?

If anyone had any other suggestions I'd be glad to hear them.

Pretty sure you want to avoid that seller. Do a search here for previous issues with them.

The_Pretender

Ah dammit I completely forgot about the issues with them Thanks

Still, would the difference between a Vario and a SJ be very nnoticeable?

donnacha

If you have the counterspace and only care for espresso then not much out there that can beat a SJ. Mind you I've never used one. One thing I'd be wary of with the automatic is that I think its set-up to pre-grind a bunch of beans for you - thats the last thing you want if its for use at home.

There are so many factors though to consider other than the burrs such as ground retention, single dosing, easy of cleaning burrs, maintenance etc. Its hard to say whether the average home user would spot the differences between the grind from the burrs on both the machines you've shortlisted.

I used a Vario for espresso for around 2 years and was very happy with it. I did recently relegate the Vario to filter duties (though I'm still yet to upgrade the burr set as planned) and purchase a K3 touch for espresso. It was on sale over on Bailies at the time and I just couldn't resist the price.

mraie

I think if you are going to stick with the Gaggia classic then would go for the smaller vario model you mentioned, however as you get more into coffee I think you will want to upgrade and then I think you would end up going for the SJ. If you have the space would go for SJ and with the view of upgrading your espresso machine in the future, can be got from adverts and donedeal and retain value well.