Cheap, simple, and substantial. Easy enough to clean for a while.
Negative Product Points
One weak link and parts are not replaceable. Noise and static are annoying, but it's a coffee grinder not a telephone.
Detailed Commentary
I wanted a grinder to last a LONG time, and I thought I had a special deal on this one. It worked as well as I could want for a long time
Over time, the grind gradually became inconsistent until recently the coffee just wouldn't flow anymore. I dismantled it to clean it thoroughly, but that didn't fix it. I was puzzled because I couldn't see anything wrong.
The third time I took it apart for cleaning I saw the problem. It was the remains of (apparently) a paddlewheel that's mounted below the inner burr. There was nothing left of it, except some threads of plastic trailing from a plastic hub. It is supposed to usher the coffee out of the horizontal chamber below the burrs. Not having any paddles left, it allowed the grind to pack in. This explains it all, including the gradual deterioration in grind consistency.
I contacted Bodum for parts, but they apparently offer only the bowl, the bin, and the knob. If you have one of these grinders, try to send it for repair before the 2-year warranty expires; then you can maybe get four good years out of your purchase, and maybe they'll consider doing something about that weakness.
Personally, I am disgusted that I might be throwing away a hefty piece of equipment because one pitiful plastic part wears down. If I could pay double and count on it to last, I would be much happier. Probably I will take my chances on a slightly more expensive grinder.
Buying Experience
Hopefully people who sell these things will consider the long-term satisfaction of their long-term customers and play a role in the availability of more durable equipment.
