Perfect grinder, now better (IMO) thanks to being doserless
Positive Product Points
The reviews are true, Mazzer is a solid choice. Works well, not too noisey.
Negative Product Points
The bean hopper is beautiful plastic - not that glass is practical, but the plastic sure looks cheap. The tray to catch stray grinds is better than nothing, but you can still get them on the bench etc.
Detailed Commentary
Our Issomac Grandthingy is a great grinder (conical) but I bought it at a time when the Mazzer Mini was not available in a doserless model - despite the Mazzer being my "dream machine." So, when I found out Mazzer had made this model I didn't hesitate.
The electronic settings are easy to adjust and with a little trial and error you soon have the timer delivering the required dose to order. There is a manual function too, but I prefer to get the auto time function time right.
With the Issomac being a stepped grinder, I sometimes felt the best setting was between steps (after all, there is only a small range of settings we need to use on any given day - maybe only 2 or 3 click stops on the Issomac, so what's missing between those clicks can be an issue). The Mazzer simply doesn't have this problem given that you can turn the grind setting anywhere - despite still only needing subtle changes, you're no longer making step-changes and therefore have more control.
Wiggling the portafilter a little during the grind can even up distribution.
The whole doserless thing really appeals to me for home use. Grind to order and no grounds going stale in the doser. Sure it takes a little longer, but it's mere seconds longer so not a drama.
Buying Experience
From www.coffeecompany.com.au - Alex was helpful on email and phone, and arranged easy delivery etc.
Three Month Followup
OK as other reviews have noted, the timer is mighty fine - but can't guarantee a consistent weight as various adjustments to the grind settings will deliver varying quantities of ground coffee. The manual button allows for an easy top up, but consistent weight of ground coffee is not possible with normal operations. Hardly matters though, it's close enough and the manual top up is effective for most needs - and this variance still seems a non-issue to me compared to wasting coffee (or having it go off) with a doser model. A heavy user would find a doser more accurate, but for home use this is a fantastic solution - and a real upgrade from my previous grinder (yes, a taste upgrade, which is the measurement that I want to focus on)
One Year Followup
Nothing new to add to my earlier comments. It continues to get a good workout and hasn't missed a beat. I can confidently recommend this grinder.
