VS4 Grinder

I would recommend Varia VS4 or a Timemore sculptor 064s on sale.

I would take another look at the Varia VS4! But I think in close second, probably the timemore 064s or as a budget option, CF 64v. Why do I say this? VS4 is very good in full grind range, and has low retention of coffee grounds. The timemore is probably slightly better, but in terms of workflow requires an extra step and is more messy (fines catcher, uses static electricity to catch fines and chaff, dosing cup needs to be cleaned out due to static cling every time). If you want to just enjoy your coffee. I feel like the VS4 is the ideal option, at $500. But the timemore, if you can get it for under $500, is a great choice. I wouldn’t get the DF64, just my 2¢

Well, first of all, regardless of your budget, start training some empathy man... Did you consider I wrote this to you while going through some other stuff and didn't get your requirements exactly? Then, I'm from Europe, where you can indeed get a pop up for 700 on sale. Sorry if I miss that you are US based. Third, your title says espresso machine, so I didn't know you are looking for a grinder also. I'm that case, my recommendation is bambino plus + df54 OR delonghi dedica + varia vs4.

Yeah it’s certainly better than a blade grinder and it is really versatile for the price, just stops short of proper espresso unfortunately. Personally I’ve been looking at upgrading to the niche zero or varia vs4

From what I’ve researched the zero is a classic for the last few years, with the vs4 being the new kid on the block with adjustable rpm and effortless access to the burrset. But I love the look, the workflow simplicity, and specifically the low noise of the zero. But I hear it is mostly best at espresso and mid at everything else, you will have more flexibility with the varia for sure. Hope my research helps you pick!

I just upgraded from an OXO to a Varia VS4, never looking back. The OXO was fine for Aeropress or pourover but still inconsistent. And if you want to use it for espresso you need to use a pressurized basket. Only downside is that these kinds of grinders are usually single dose, so if you need to grind a large amount (e.g. for cold brew) it will take a while. That was the nice thing about the OXO, just fill up the hopper and run it for 30 seconds over and over.

For one example, Varia VS4.