Peugeot Hand Mill, Gaggia MDF, Rancilio Sylvia, Aeropress, Bodum Cafetiere
Bottom Line:
BODUM TAKES TOO LONG TO RESPOND BUT THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE IS SUPERB AND COMPASSIONATE. Thin bitter espressos are the norm for this non performer. Box states otherwise.
Positive Product Points
Grinds well for French press, pour over filter, and drip with little dust or static as long as you keep it clean.
Negative Product Points
Out take path clogs easily, burrs and lower part of unit need constant cleaning. Useless for espresso with 12 second extractions the shortest I have managed on my Sylvia. My totally messy Gaggia MDF which I have had for centuries still does the fine grind under $1000.
Detailed Commentary
I am growing rather tired of big name companies who do not deliver on product claims. The box clearly states that it grinds to an expresso like powder, no way. I have tried the Cuisinart, the Breville (see below), the Saeco, the Bodum, and the Baratza. Excepting the Baratza Virtuoso and Vario, none of the products deliver the espresso grind they claim their product will give. Personally, I am ready to launch a fair trading complaint under the laws in my province in Canada.
This unit is good only for filter or French press - or percolator if that's your thing. That is does perfectly.
I WROTE TO BODUM ASKING TO CLARIFY THEIR ESPRESSO GRIND CLAIM, NO RESPONSE. BODUM ONLY WANTS YOUR MONEY. (UPDATE - IT TOOK ALMOST A MONTH TO RESPOND BUT I HEARD FROM THE OPERATIONS MANAGER AND SHE STOOD BEHIND THE PRODUCT LIKE NO OTHER). BODUM DOES CARE IT JUST TAKES TOO LONG FOR THEM TO SHOW IT.
Regardless of whether or not Bodum stands behind their product is not the issue, it that department I am now satisfied completely. The issue is that they still are marketing a product that does not deliver as claimed. It simply will not grind fine enough for a properly extracted espresso. BODUM, CHANGE YOUR PRODUCT LABELLING.
Buying Experience
Dealer does not give refunds, otherwise I would return it. Bodum offered to refund my money directly. Amazingly they do not want the unit returned.
