Inconsistent, small capacity. Only buy it if you just really can't afford a better machine.
Positive Product Points
Very inexpensive, simple.
Negative Product Points
Hard to dial in just the right time and be consistent. Sensitive to environmental temperature. Hot/fast roasting and very smoky. Small capacity.
Detailed Commentary
This was my first roaster, and I bought it due to the low price. After owning it for about 10 months, it has died. I will replace it with something a little better, which I'm still shopping for.
I found the capacity to be way too small. Not even enough for our daily drinking of two doubles for two people. It is sensitive to air temperature, and you HAVE to use it outside due to the large amount of smoke. It roasts fast and hot, so smoke output is high and the difference between "dark" and "burnt" is a fine line.
While I love home roasting and we made great coffee with this, I could never be sure that the next batch would be done right.
Overall I'd say you should buy this only if you just absolutely can't afford another $70 or so for an i-Roast or some other better machine. It would be alright if you don't have smoke detectors and can roast inside, or vent it somehow.
Compared to other machines in this price, it's probably the best one. However, I would spend the money and buy something in the $150-up range.
Buying Experience
Coffeewholesalers.com provides good customer service, prices, and delivery. Good assortment of coffees and other accessories.
