For those who bought the bambino on this deal (https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/879629) and are now in the market for a grinder.
This grinder has been on my radar for a while due to generally positive reviews and this price is pretty good compared to last year’s Black Friday offer.
However I’m still tossing up between this or df54. Help.
I have this Mignon and I've tried several different methods. I can't taste a difference between a timed and weighed dose. So timed it is for convenience with an occasional dose weigh for calibration. I do have a bottomless portafilter and watch the extraction and will make small adjustments on the grinder for the next brew if required.
Generally you’ll with the dose and use the timing to get it into the ballpark. I prefer this method over weighing my beans beforehand.
Both grinders will hold up for a long time. I believe the df54 is a conical burr which will have a slightly different taste profile.
I’d suggest watching James Hoffman’s recent video on grinders under $250 to learn more about the df54.
DF54 is a flat burr grinder
Ironically, in that very video you referenced, the DF54 is the only flat burr grinder in the line up :-P
This is my flow exactly. I normally have to go a little bit finer the older the beans get, then re-adjust again on new bag. I weigh the occasional one and then adjust from there.
Having the pressable button and a dosing funnel made my life so much easier. Press button, fill portafilter, wdt/tamp, done. No mess, no weighing and moving around. Big fan.
My dad has this at home and I have a Niche Zero. Besides the slightly different flavour profiles they both make great coffee, and tbh the timed dose is very nice to have and saves a bit of time with every coffee, which adds up
The Niche Zero wins in ease of dialing in, while the Mignon falls short in this aspect.
Mignon can do single dosing if you get the aftermarket hopper.
i believe they also make one themselves
Mignon is geared towards traditional espresso, df54 more towards light medium. If you watched lance's df54 video you can swap in other burrs to make it even better. Depends on your taste preference.
Typically we use medium-dark roast for milky coffees. Sounds like the Mignon might be better for us?
Probably, especially for workflow, if a whole household is using it single dosing might be too much hassle for some.
@ozlurker: yeah that's the thing. I'm happy to get nerdy with scales, etc., but my partner uses the machine too, and she just wants to be able to quickly and easily make herself a coffee
@beltdrive: If you want to go single does for the family, i would recommend buying "single dose bean storage"
https://www.amazon.com.au/Coffee-Cellars-Storage-Display-Con…
just a rough guide on what to buy. I am sure you can buy cheaper. Depending on how much coffee you go through a week and how often you like to buy coffee, buy 24+ canisters and just weigh a batch at a time, so it is quick to go for your partner or other members who cant be bothered weighing the beans or if you are making multiple coffees if you are entertaining.
@emrifusion: If you want to do it cheap buy centrifuge tube in bulk, I use those to store single dose in freezer. Grind straight from frozen
@emrifusion: Secretly, this is what I'd like to do. However, I was thoughtfully gifted an Airscape canister, so I don't want to change bean storage solutions just yet :)
@beltdrive: i use the airscape canister also and its bean great :D i found in my kitchen with a window splashback and the standard clear hopper the beans were degrading very quickly (having to adjust grinder daily). Moved to single dosing and proper bean storage has fixed this issue for me.
I put a link below but don't get the df54. Instead consider the timemore sculptor 064s.
Far superior style of grinder with 64mm discs which can be interchanged.. and no annoying bellows
And twice the price…
No its not…. did you see the link below like i mentioned?
I find it surprising that these responses are made but no one actually looks…
In what way is $660 double $505. it would have taken you a few seconds to have just looked at the link instead of posting that comment
Yeah I am in the same boat as OP wondering which to go with. Right now I can get by with a hand grinder but it would be nice to have a proper machine able to grind consistent fine quality so my B+ and bottomless portafilter produces a clean syrupy drip vs explosive diarrhea
You can single dose with the Mignon. Just put bellows on top. Honestly, it doesn't retain much and I do wonder if the dedicated single-dose grinders do discernibly better anyway.
Strong motor…even if you don't service/clean it as much as you should, it will probably last forever. Bullet-proof build.
Great unit. I use it with a single dose hopper and just chuck in 20gm of beans every time. The knob is a little annoying to dial in but you get the hang of it with practice.
The knob is a little annoying
twss :(
I grabbed a larger dial 3D printed accessory (look it up) off Etsy, and it’s now much better.
The knob doesn't need to be precise, it's relative to the last brew.
I use a dice as a reminder for next time, 3, 2, 1= coarser, 4, 5, 6 = finer.
Put away the dice when just right.
great idea. Now to find a dice….
Grind or die?
Great grinder. Solid built unit as it looks/feels like it will last an age.
3Dprint a little tray to catch loose grinds and it's perfect.
Which STL did you use? Are you completely happy with it?
It was a couple years ago but fairly sure it was this one: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3053292
It's been good. I printed it in black and fits perfect. Don't usually have many grinds to catch as I use a dosing cup but works well and looks the part.
Cheers
3D printed tilted base & finecoar grind setting dial work well also
Had mine for 5+ years but lately it is jamming a lot. Think the burrs might be damaged or motor is not as strong as it once was. Great when it works though.
Have you cleaned it? There's a great youtube video explaining how to take out the burrs, they get filthy after a while.
Long video but it's really quick once you know what to do.
I had mine for about 4 years and it also started jamming a lot. I'd take it apart and do a full clean, but it would eventually clog again. I didn't have a regular cleaning regime, but it did get to the point that it was super annoying. I think it has something to do with the 'anti static' bars that hang down over the exit chute.
I ended up going for for the DF64 Gen 2 and haven't looked back (at least yet). I was also using the mignon for single doing, but find the DF64 is designed for that and seems to give me more consistent weights than that Mignon. Having said that, your mileage may vary for individual machines.
Yes this is my problem. I clean it, then about two weeks later it’s jammed again. Absolute PITA. Think I might try replacing the burrs. The chute was completely clogged with fines and even after cleaning it’s not working, only on a super coarse setting. Go down to fine and it doesn’t spin.
@nubzy: i am no expert on this, but i try to not use beans until they around 2 weeks after roasting. i think i read something somewhere that 2 weeks is the sweet spot, and there can be issues grinding beans too soon after roasting, maybe something about them being too oily, can clog up the grinder.
with this approach, i've never clogged up my specialita in the 3 years I had it (maybe about 60kg of coffee through it), though i do notice some grinds caking around the chute when i clean it, but they never build up too bad.
Based on yr experience cleaning, would using a bellows be a likely method to prevent build up? I'm thinking of getting on and basically looking for a good reason to spend the money.
What kind of plug does it come with?
A UK plug with Aus adapter (you do need to ask in the notes if I remember correctly). But it's quite bulky.
It's a good adapter, one of the screw down type. Have had no issues with mine. It's not THAT bulky.
Just go to Bunnings and get an Au plug. Cut the cable and install it.
Only if you're a licensed electrician of course.
I checked the prices for all the colours, so you don't have to. Prices in Euro.
275
Black
White
Ferrari Red
Blue
294
Tifanny Blue
Yellow
Orange
Anthracite
Pale Blue
301
Chrome
327
Dubai Gold
Pink Gold
I’ve had mine for years and I love it. Built like a tank and works really nicely.
It looks like a tank too :p
what kind of tanks have you seen???
LOL, he is probably thinking about those siege towers from medieval era.
The build is great. Except for the bean hopper. That thing is trash.
100%. Reminds me of a Ferrero Rocher box. Pretty much the only let down.
lol …yes…this.
If it ever breaks, you can probably mod a Ferrero Rocher box to fit!
I was tossing up between this and the DF54 too. I ended up with the DF54 because local stock, dual adjuster and the plasma generator also got it around $400. If you going with imports I would get the DF64 can be had for around same price..
I am on the fence choosing between DF54 vs DF64, I am curios why you prefer the DF64 over the DF54.
The main addressable factors that cause degradation in the grinding process are heat and regrinding. Larger burrs grind cooler because of their increased surface area.
The biggest selling point for 64mm over 54 is the ever increasing number of aftermarket burr options as 64mm had been the hobbyist sweetspot for a long time, though that may be starting to change with even larger burrs starting to gain a following primarily thanks to the DF83.
Where did you get the DF54 for 400 if you dont mind me asking? im looking to buy a grinder as well thanks!
I've had it in my cart for a while, was hoping black Friday would see some specials on it but that hasn't happened
From this local supplier on eBay with a coupon code. Also Amazon doing it for 400. https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/335267675369?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mk…
I have a Mignon, as others have said: either buy or 3d print the expanded dial scale and also the adjusted base that tilts it forward about 15degrees. Tilting it forward helps reduce retention a lot.
The expanded dial increments make small adjustments a lot easier.
There are heaps of free 3D print files for mods to this grinder that work really well if you have a printer.
https://www.reddit.com/r/espresso/comments/peir1j/eureka_mig…
https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/1683534651/eureka-mci-set-wi…
Still very happy with this grinder after 2 years of use. Also bought from Espresso Coffee Shop.
To keep it looking new, I completely remove and empty the clear plastic bean hopper and wash off the residue in hot soapy water with a gentle sponge twice a year. Comes back clean, clear and shiny with no yellowing so far.
I contemplated the myriad 3D printed mods but only did this simple one: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5338329
If it were me it'd be an easy DF54. Unless one happens to be a particularly particular aesthete you are better off getting one of the Chinese price performance juggernauts or looking for local secondhand options.
Haha, not sure many people who spent on Bambino coffee machine are willing to spend on a more expensive coffee grinder like this.
However having said that, I have owned the cheaper manual setting Silenzio model for a few years and it is working great.
Haha, not sure many people who spent on Bambino coffee machine are willing to spend on a more expensive coffee grinder like this.
Bambino owner here. I'm tempted to get one at this price, but I think I'll get a second hand one instead
Say $502.00 before GST if applied on entry. Even with GST applied cheaper than buying Aus.
Replacing what has been the last of a couple of Brevilles over many years (when it is good I am OK with it but the dose can be variable).
I do not want a single dose. What do the grinder experts recommend?
GST only added on entry if >$1000.
I've had the Mignon for quite some time (2+years) and sold it just recently due to it having too much retention.
I always had the trouble of getting too much coffee getting stuck in it and therefore not getting consistent amounts of ground coffee.
I swapped to a Varia vs3 which works much better for me.
Someone above (links) said there's a 3d printer mod that tilts the machine forward slightly. Also bellows are available. Apparently helps with this problem
This has been keeping me awake at night for the last few days, I want it and the only thing keeping me from buying it is really the dial/knob. I switch between beans, dark roasts, medium, Single origin a lot and the vary significantly in level of coarseness., With my Breville Smart grinder there is a digital display and I can easily change and set it to the correct level depending on the beans i.e. 8 for Storehouse's SO, 13 for St Ali and Campos etc. and with the Specialita I think I will struggle and potentially wasting beans each time i switch between roasts. How is everyone's experience?
I own this grinder. You can buy small mods (see comments in this thread) to make the re-adjustments easier. But in general, it is a pain in the ass. I'm not swapping beans often so it doesn't bother me but I'm not sure I can recommend it to someone who knows they are going to swap coffee beans a lot.
Thank you. That is really my concern. I still have a few days to decide and might just get it locally, cheapest is $699 versus $520 from this deal.
You can definitely make it work if you really want to but be prepared to put on some extra work after the purchase.
Yeah…swapping is a pain. I tend to find half way between the stock indicators is enough to change the grind discernibly. Trying to come back to the same setting after grinding something else though…it's only ballpark.
So…I stick to a roast until I finish it.
My little 1Zpresso hand grinder is spot on every time. You can go from espresso to french press and back, and still hit the same mark (if you count carefully)! I get it that it's easier to build precision into a CNC machined hand grinder though.
Smart grinder is not even a stepless grinder, of course it'd be easier to dial with a few limited steps.
I went from a Breville to the Specialita and the difference is massive.
I mentioned it in another comment, but there’s 3D printed dials you can get that make adjustments way easier.
This one? https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/1538894239/eureka-mignon-gri…
I think i can work with that!
I’ve got one like it. They work really well, and I’m surprised they’re not standard by now.
Oh it’s not fun and you do waste a lot of coffee. And after a few years the machine starts jamming. I’m having a hell of a time with mine lately. Love it when it’s working and it looks good but the retention of grinds and adjusting for different beans is a hassle.
I've had my eye on the DF54, hoping the Black Friday deals would bring the price down, but it's still sitting at $399.
Guess I'll hold off for a few more days and see if it drops.
I think people are forgetting the mignon is quiet as. The df64 is known to be loud, so if that's a concern. Go with the mignon.
I've had a Eureka Atom for years and it's brilliant. I can only think that this grinder would be just as good and a great bargain!
These are great. Been using one for a couple of years with another ozb fav the Breville DB. Now it's making friends with an ECM (had to dial the grind up a fair bit haha).
I've got the Sette 270 and want something a bit quieter.
I single dose each time. Is this worth the change?
2 people in the house, maybe total of 3-4 coffees a day all up
Yes, I had the sette and it was unbearably loud after a while.
Sold it and bought the mignon specialita from ECM and it’s definitely quieter, feels solid, large hopper but can still do single dose with minimal (0.1g) retention.
Also ECM were great to do business with - quick communication, and delivery within a week.
Really happy with the service, grinder and price.
I’ve since added the tilted base, single dose hopper and blower. Usually grind into a dosing cup.
A few 3d printed parts and this goes well as a single dose grinder
https://imgur.com/a/mNXbLqH
Would recommend funnel, dial and tilted base
Cant stand the mess lol
https://vi.aliexpress.com/item/1005007218403264.html
I'd get the timemore sculptor 064s for $690 delivered
Got me excited. $715 after delivery
Did you use the aubf90 code?
Didn’t know ooh thanks. Is this an atl price (other than kickstarter)?
Found one for $648 after code as well but I don’t know how to paste it without the affiliate link
@EnergicAU: Pretty much!
I found another one for $660 delivered with code aubf90
https://vi.aliexpress.com/item/1005007139970627.html
@maverickjohn: Are the Burrs that come with this any good? I see you can also option Flat or Vortex.
@david6509: Don't get the 064.. these have the vortex burr.
Get the 064s
064s goes fine enough for espresso. The other one is mainly for pour over, also yes they are good enough, but if you ever want to upgrade you can get 64mm SSP high uniformity
@maverickjohn: i see, ordered the 064S for espresso. Ended up costing $663.23 and has already tracked $38.47 through shopback. Interested to see how this compares to my Specialita
@david6509: You won't regret it. I convinced my mate to get this and have used it it on his Breville oracle.
For a machine that makes horrible coffee. This grinder elevated the experienced dramatically.
@maverickjohn: nice ill be using this on a breville dual boiler, was also considering upgrading this but cant really get much improvement without throwing a few thousands $ into a new machine
@david6509: Don't need to the dual boiler is great. This grinder just made your dual boiler next level.
Have you got a scale?
If not
Here is one for $44 https://vi.aliexpress.com/item/1005004983617928.html
@maverickjohn: I just got one too. Replacing my eureka Mignon and pairing it with my oracle until my meticulous comes.
Don’t think the jump will be as much as when I went to the eureka from the oracle.
Guess I need to sell my eureka mignon now …
@EnergicAU: Lol probably not but it's still a step in the right direction. If we can all afford the Weber eg-1 we would all be at our endgame
Hopefully someone has an educated answer, but I'm leaning toward the Mignon personally because I suspect we're too lazy in my household to commit to the the single dose workflow. A timed dose isn't as accurate, but it'll do the job for me