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Reddit Reviews
Bond-as-in-JamesI 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¢
_cfmscWell, 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.
desuemeryYeah 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!
douchecanooI 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.
hamleyn248Thanks. I ended up calling an audible and getting a VS4 in the end. Bigger burrs, variable RPM, same build quality, will have upgradable burrs soon and isn't that much more expensive.
MangoAtrocityAnother vote for VS4. I’ve had a fantastic experience so far.
I’m absolutely loving my Varia VS4 at $499
I have a regular baratza encore for pour over and a Varia VS4 for espresso. Yes, it’s worth it.
New_Air3713Varia vs4 is great for being a budget grinder . it does espresso very well and decent pour over. Maintenance on the unit is so quick and easy without needing tools to remove burrs .But vs6 for sure if your budget really does extend into the 800 dollar range. Larger burrs with plenty of upgrade options and you can swap between flat and conical.
rkzhaoIf you have Niche Zero money, you can also look at the DF64V Gen3. Specifically **V** not the regular DF64, and specifically Gen3 for the new servo motor, flickable declumper flap, and external ionizer. As far as clogging DF54s, part of me feels like it is exacerbated by the number of units sold to complete beginners to coffee, rather than any “QC issue”. I can’t think of any manufacturing variance that changes things that much. The machines are also generally tested before shipping as far as I know, (they just clean them unlike something like the Philos so it’s not as obvious unless you take off the burrs and check the screw holes). In anycase, the DF64V won’t have that same problem. But you could always go with a Eureka if you don’t want to take the risk and just want a solid grinder. Less features, more retention, and proprietary burrs for the same price, but peace of mind has value too. The new Varia VS4 should also be a fun option with its variable RPM and more durable build than VS3.
What kind of espresso do you like? If you’re into classic full bodied espresso and want easy to dial in with a forgiving margin for error, but everything ends up tasting kind of the similar, you’d want a good conical burr grinder like: - Niche Zero - Lagom Casa - maybe Varia VS4 or VS3 if your budget is lower If you want more clarity (but requiring more precise dial in) for drinking more single origin coffees or want the flexibility of swapping out different burrs for different grind profiles, you’d want to look at a 64mm flat burr grinder. Good options here are pretty much all Chinese grinders. - Timemore 064S - Gevi Grindmaster - [white labeled] CF64V - [white labeled] DF64V, gen3 specifically since it has a lot of good upgrades The Eureka Mignon grinders are also popular flat burr options but they use 55mm and 65mm burrs so you can’t really just throw third party burrs in there as easily. They’re good but don’t have the best retention. I see absolutely no reason to still be buying a regular old DF64, especially when the CF64V is only $400 USD (for now), much better specs across the board, and made by the same factory. People naturally have concerns about the long term after sales support of the white labeled Chinese 64mm grinders, but they do offer a lot of value and they sell well within China as well (under the brands Creyke and Ranccea). Timemore seems to be the only brand that’s really taken off internationally, but the price is inflated more as a result.
Rankings by Use Case
Top recommendations from others in the same boat
Best for Entry-level espresso
Top pick
Multiple Brands - DF54 Series
Best for Light roast espresso
Top pick
Multiple Brands - DF54 Series
Best for Multiple brew methods
Top pick
Baratza - Encore ESP
Best for Pour-over clarity
Top pick
Fellow - Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2 Series
