This unit is very inexpensive. Most of the powder produced sticks to the plastic collection cups sides making it somewhat easier to discard.
Negative Product Points
Will not grind fine enough for espresso. Produces excessive powder. Grind is quite inconsistent.
Detailed Commentary
I purchased this grinder as an interim replacement of a Krups blade grinder that I had been using for years. I say interim because my intentions are to purchase a grinder better suited to fine coffee. This upgrade may be sooner than later.
The grinder is easy to use. I place the amount of beans to be fully used each time into the hopper. Set the grinder setting by rotating the hopper left or right. Turn the dial on the side of the machine and let it grind until complete. It is possible to fill the hopper with beans and set the dial to a predetermined time for a dose. This poses a problem in that the machine starts grinding as soon as you turn the dial, not when you release it. Better to pre-measure your beans especially if you use many different varieties.
The machine is noisy. Not wake up the dead noisy, but enough to be bothersome. Nearly as loud as the blade grinder but a lower pitch.
The ground coffee the Delonghi produces is not all that consistent. The grinds are noticeably different size granules. Powder is visible throughout the grinds but most of it will collect onto the sides of the collection canister. I usually take the canister and, as careful as possible, poor the grinds into my press pot hoping to not disturb the powder that collects onto one side of the collection cup. I then take the collection cup and lid over to the sink and rap them on the side of the basin dislodging the powder. No pleasant sound in itself considering the stainless steel sink.
Its said that all this sticking is static. I'm not so sure that some of it isn't just from the oils in the coffee causing a residue, and the fine powder is so light that the oils are causing them to stick together? I'll try some experiments with an anti-static band and holding the machine and/or dryer sheets:-)
I bought this grinder knowing that I was going to replace it. This is going to happen sooner than later (If the wife lets me). I have a Rancilio Silvia on the way and know that this grinder will not be up to the task. It does not grind very fine at all. I am a big guy and could easily do 100lb tamps, but I don't see this doing good things for the espresso or the portafilter :-p. I haven't seen a reply from anyone who's used one with a Silvia so I'll post my results.
It is with some regret that I purchased this machine but we learn from mistakes.
