Great for drip -- but may not be up to other applications.
Positive Product Points
Let's you grind on the go. Fun to crank, sometimes. Nice aroma
Negative Product Points
This is a great grinder for drip coffee. Just don’t ask it to do too much. I bought the Zass planning on using it for Vac pots and espresso. The burs, however, are not aligned properly. I had read numerous reviews about how wonderful this product was for these applications. I was shocked when it produced significant dust and even with coarse grinds would choke my espresso machine and some vac pots I have. I returned it to Sweet Maria’s and got one that was better but the burs were still off. Same result, although closer to working – close, however, doesn’t work with vac pots and espresso.
Recently, I seem to be reading more comments about the limitations of this grinder and wonder if the quality has slipped a bit. That is why I am writing this review, to raise this question.
Detailed Commentary
Like everything with coffee, there is a learning curve. I put a thin line on the screw thread as a reference point, so you can dial the grind you want. I leave mine in a given spot, however, since the only application I have is for drip/pour over coffee – works great for that. The DG169 is nice not only because of the aesthetics, but it allows you to grasp the hopper effectively with your non grinding hand.
I wouldn’t be without this grinder – absolutely love it, but disappointed that it won’t work for espresso, but especially for my stainless steel vac pot. I had visions of taking that pot camping and grinding manually for it – just won’t work – too much dust. So, I’ll settle for pour over – and for that this works great.
I’d suggest the Zass — although with the new ones – you might not want to get your expectations up.
