Vario-W 986

Gaggia Classic off of FB Market place - $300 Baratza 230 - off of FB Market $150 50 bucks a good 2lb bean from local roaster. $100 for wdt, tamper and pitcher and other odds and ends.

I have a Mignon XL which is a timer based on-demand grinder and I find it works quite well. I replaced a Vario-W that I used for 10 years with it and while I honestly don’t notice much difference in the cup, the Eureka is faster, quieter, and more consistent….the speed and noise can’t be overstated, it’s not even close. It was a bit of a step backwards in terms of usability with going from GBW to timed dosing, but the Vario grinds into a catch bin so in some ways the Eureka was an improvement. I’ve since added a large adjustment dial to it, and an olive wood hopper lid. I use a scale to weigh the portafilter before and after I grind and I find the timer works quite well at achieving consistent output.

I own 5. I have a. Vario W+. A Eureka ORO XL. 1Zpresso JX pro, Outin Fino and a Cera +. I do most things with the ORO which single doses and with the Argo wheel will move between Espresso and everything else very easily, reliably and accurately. I do hand grind for my flair FP3 with the JX pro because it’s set up for that. At work I use the Outin Fino for everything from Outin Nano to Aeropress, Clever and V60. I bought the ORO new and it has been bullet proof for almost 5 years. It replaced the Vario, which is in my basement. I have been drinking home espresso since 2003ish. I do upgrade but it’s pretty intentional and functionally driven. I’m on my 5th machine (Lelit Victoria bought new 5 years ago) and it is perfect for my use case. The ORO was some serious coin, but it is pretty amazing. Low retention (almost zero with rdt) and infinitely adjustable with the Argo wheel. I grind V60 at 60 and Yirgachaffe for espresso at 6. It returns to the setting. I am interested in the Mahlkoenig X64 SD. I love their grinders. If the ORO ever breaks, it’ll be on my short list.

A burr grinder is far superior to a blade grinder without question. And don't cheap out. A good burr grinder will last you for many years. I purchased my Baratza Vario-W(built-in scale for consistent grind and weight) over 15 years ago and it is still going strong. It wasn't a cheap date, but I have absolutely no regrets. HTH

Look into the Baratza vario W. Amazing grinder from a super reliable brand. Goes from espresso to French press. Service is excellent