Hario's got two hand grinders on the market now - the much-talked-about Hario Skerton (around $40ish), and this one - the Hario Mini Slim model.
Functionally they are almost identical, and the burr groups are the same. Where the differences are is that the Skerton comes with a glass jar base, and this one is polycarbonate and smaller. It makes this one the better travel companion by a long stretch.
People like the Skerton because it can more or less directly fit onto an Aeropress while grinding. But we like this model because it is lighter overall, works just as well, and is smaller and more compact for travel use. It also does a full range of grinding, from press pot and drip, all the way to espresso, albeit without much control over the super fine adjustments you need to brew great espresso. A great gift for the coffee lover who travels a lot!
Column Description Whether it's up to the minute, happening this day, this week, or in the recent past, this column's goal is to present coffee and attempts to make the experience truly culinary. You'll find short reviews about past events, interesting coffees coming on the market, new and different ways to enjoy espresso and other brewing methods, and give an insight into efforts around the globe to make coffee a truly culinary thing. Column written by Mark Prince.