I own the DF64 Gen 2. I set it at 55 for most pourovers and 14 for the average espresso. The DF54 is basically the same build at a 54mm burr size and smaller motor. Simple and effective machines.
What a great review! After that, you don‘t need to watch other YT videos of the DF54. There is all in! Have subscribed and I'm looking forward to seeing the other videos of this channel ! Thanks Liz!👍
I still think if you can, spend the extra money on the DF64 Gen 2. The existing burrs are good all-rounders but when you are ready to upgrade you just need a burr replacement instead of a whole new grinder. For my personal tastes DF64 + SSP Multipurpose are pretty "end game" for me.
Ufff, tough choice. They’re really different though. With Varia’s conical burrs against the DF54’s flat ones! I gotta say the VS3 is so so pretty and more aesthetically pleasing than the DF54! Buuut the DF54 gets the job done, it’s quiet and it’s got near zero retention… Bonus: it’s also a bit less expensive! (at least in Canada) Would love to know what you decide!
I’m waffling between these two as well. On the one hand, I understand the VS3 is (despite being conical) more of a clarity focused grinder in its flavour profiles. Especially with the Hypernova Ultra burrs. But at a $200CAD premium (with the Hypernovas). And the Varia still has a reputation for reliability issues. If I KNEW aftermarket burrs were coming for the ‘54, it would be a no brainer. The Varia IS prettier… Decisions, decisions.
Thanks for watching! Actually, in my experience, there’s no need! I merely passed some coffee through as a general measure to eliminate dust and that metallic taste of new burrs 😂
I own the grinder and love it. I have not seasoned it and noticed that it remains consisitent in grind size. I would say no need to season. Also notable is that it has a smaller engine so seasoning may overheat it. The added benefit of the smaller engine and the slower grind time is that the motor does not heat as much which may affect the grinds. I seriously recommend this grinder for anyone.
Nice review. FYI please have in mind espresso has nothing to do with express - it started as a misspelling by non Italian speaking people. Espresso means "pressed out" and describes the extraction method.
Uff, the Timemore Sculptor 078 is a fine, beautiful masterpiece! And since you only drink filter, most likely the best option for you right now! And I must say, I’ve really preferred the DF54 for espresso over anything else! Thank you for watching, I’ll see you around for more ☕️
It's way different class of the machine when comes to power, burrs, taste, grind speed, design. Df54 is fine for beginners to try being a home barista on a budget with some dedica, bambino.
Ive had the DF54 for a couple of months now and its great, but i am having problems with static, even after spraying (up to 4 sprays) with water. Ill put it down to the winter heating and dry air in the house.
That certainly plays a factor! I’ve noticed that even on rainy days the static is significantly reduced. Also, I’ve seen more static on coarser grind settings (from filter onwards) that I’ve seen when grinding for espresso.
I had the same. I have a couple things that have helped. Firstly cleaning the static probes up inside the shoot after most grinds. I just cut a paintbrush down for this. I take the dose cup out of the holder and wedge it under the holder and then give the bellows a good hard press (if you do this in the holder the air rush can effect the grinds in the dose cup and spread more static) and put the paint brush up the shoot. A new technique I've found which has allowed me to grind finer and a lot less static is a hot start and gradual dose. So I turn the grinder on and then slowly pour in the beans rather than dump them all in together. I also give the bellows a press occasionally between beans going in to help stop build up on the static probes in the chute. No idea why I can grind so much finer this way. But I like it.
I have had a Niche Zero for 2+ years and have a DF54 for 3 months, in comparison the DF54 is way better value for money if I was to buy only one grinder now I would buy the DF54 in a heartbeat. The workflow is very similar and both make great coffee in slightly different styles
Thank you so much for sharing! I’ve been testing so many grinders lately… a lot of things come and go in my coffee bar, but the DF54 has proven to be the only one that I use every single day since I got it. I love it a little bit more everyday.
Great review! Have you used the Baratza Encore ESP? If so, how do you think the DF54 compares? Would you recommend one over the other? I am looking to upgrade from my Capresso grinder. I would be looking to do both drip and espresso mostly. I am curious to get your take.
Thanks for your question! I haven't had a chance to use the Baratza Encore ESP yet, but I had the regular Encore. What I found was that filter coffee was delicious but it really couldn't grind fine enough for espresso, which really discouraged me and I ended up changing it pretty fast. I understand that you COULD get decent espresso with the ESP, but not sure that's the best bang for your buck given the current state of the coffee grinder market. Again, since I haven't used it or compared both side by side, my opinion is not firm. I do believe that for the price, the DF54 is a great option if you decide to pull the trigger on this one!
Thank you so much for subscribing and your super kind words! I admit that I ask myself this question frequently 😆 but I wanna believe that if I keep up the high quality content, the subs will follow 🙌 I hope your coffee is great today and everyday, see you around for more! ☕
Hello there! Just found your channel :) Great videos! I just ordered this grinder but my only concern is that I've seen some people talking about burr alignment right out of the box.. do you think that's something you should do it ?
Thank you for watching and welcome to my channel! Honestly, the alignment on this unit was spot on 👌🏼 So, in my experience, there’s no need to mess with it (at least with the unit I received there were no issues whatsoever). Grinds were consistent across the board in each method I tried. No need to season it either. I am so curious to take a look at what you’ve seen though! Feel free to email me or message me through Instagram. I’d love to check that out!
I'm just looking at this! One thing I'm torn at is apparently the V2's larger size means aftermarket burr's are more accessible? I'm thinking I go DF54 and then try to leap to a Niche maybe once I want to start experimenting with burrs... man too many choices! Thanks for the video.
I know! Way too many choices in the home grinder space right now! For what it’s worth, the DF54 is a gem for the price. I’d totally start here and if/when you outgrow it, you can go for something else… but I’d give it a shot!
Great video. I’m considering this grinder (D54) vs the Niche Zero. What are the key differences? I plan to use it for espresso and filter. I know there’s big price difference, but I’m just trying to weigh up the pros and cons against the price. Any help would much appreciated!
Truth is, those two grinders can’t be compared side by side necessarily. Aside from the big price difference, it’s conical vs flat burrs, 63mm vs 54mm… and at the end of the day, these differences will influence taste. If you could afford any of those, maybe it’d be a bit more fair to compare against the DF64?
I have both grinders and really the big difference is in body and clarity, the Niche produces thicker body as it has more fines for espresso and the DF54 is thinner in body, for pourover I notice again more body in the Niche output but much more clarity in the DF54 cup. I would say that if you like lots of brightness and acidity go for the DF54 if you prefer more balance and body but less clarity then the Niche is for you. The workflow ispretty much the same bar the bellows but Iuse the bellows to clear chaff after I take the coffee, the DF54 is definitely more a "zero" retention even without using the bellows it retains less than 0.2g every time (less than 1 bean). For the price the DF54 is a no brainer choice.
Nice review. Very useful for me who hasn't decided my first "decent" grinder. Still considering between DF54, DF64 gen 2 or even Baratza Encore ESP. Any suggestion from you? 😊
Well, that’s a tough comparison because they’re at different price points and meant for different purposes. If you can afford the DF64 gen 2, go for it! It may be the strongest option of the three. If you’re looking for an affordable grinder with great performance, go for the DF54 instead. The Baratza Encore ESP is a great grinder, but I’d only choose it if not planning to use it for espresso. Otherwise, I’d take this one out of the picture. Hope this helps! 🙏🏼
@@lizhappybeans Agreed! For me who just an ordinary coffee lover, maybe DF54 is the best option. How long have you been used the DF54? Is there any concerns regarding reliability, maintenance or any other things to consider? Many thanks 🙏
It really depends on your intended use! If you're planning to use it for espresso only, I'd go with the Eureka Mignon Zero. If you also want to do filter and other brewing methods, the versatility of the DF54 would most likely be a better fit!
I appreciate the review, though is it really necessary to mention the grind time? Seems like something necessary to mention if it's used in a commercial/professional environment.
You’re right! And it’s a great point why the speed of this grinder is just not relevant for the target buyer. But I had to test it out and mention it as it comes up frequently, and some people do care about it even if it’s for home use.
True that. I have this grinder being shipped to me now. But as far as grind time goes I'm down with whatever although my wife needs the process to go quickly. As it is even a 1 minute grind doesn't matter what is needed is the espresso machine to be quick. The breville barista pro is one we had for a while 3+ years now I just ordered the Bambino plus. No problem for time with these.
I mean Eureka Mignon Manuale is like 60€ cheaper, 50mm vs 54mm, Eureka has 1 year longer warranty and proven to be reliable. DF54 has no merit to its name yet. Also they are sold out/pre order and their webstore looks like from 2004 and 46€ shipping. 22% of the cost is shipping
@@lizhappybeans it's not about my needs it's about value per dollar. If you claim something is best for 300 you need to take everything in to account including warranty and reliability
Hi! My apologies but in any way I claimed that the DF was the best. I ask a question, and present my findings and opinions for the viewer to determine. I assign a score that’s totally based on my experience and recommendation to this grinder, as I found it to be a great option for beginners. I do agree that reliability and warranty are two important factors for many to buy a grinder. But it also depends on where you buy the tool, at least on this side of the world, as we don’t buy it directly from the manufacturer. A 100yo brand like Eureka will always have the prestige that a brand like Turin hasn’t earned, but I stand by my opinion that this is a great option and you’re getting a good tool for the cost. And again, this all depends on where you’re located. It was harder for me to get my Eureka Mignon in Canada, and it was more expensive than the DF54. Maybe in the future I’ll make a comparison if that’s what my audience wants to see. 🫶
cheap ass grinder with very small burrs, invest in a high quality grinder that will last, be nice to use, and get you better results. look at niche, option-o, etc.
It is hardly a "cheap ass grinder" as you say. I have a DF64 Gen 2 and it is basically a larger version of the DF54. The machines are built like a tank and get the job done.
Finding a used Zero for this price might be difficult but possible, but the 1zpresso? I think it’ll be pretty hard to convince someone to pay practically the same amount for a manual grinder with even smaller burrs. I would love to compare them tho! Thanks!
I own the DF64 Gen 2. I set it at 55 for most pourovers and 14 for the average espresso. The DF54 is basically the same build at a 54mm burr size and smaller motor. Simple and effective machines.
Can’t agree more!
Love your attitude and attention to detail. You are also very clear and distinct. Thanks.
Thank you so much for your positive feedback! I hope to see you around for more ☕️
What a great review! After that, you don‘t need to watch other YT videos of the DF54. There is all in! Have subscribed and I'm looking forward to seeing the other videos of this channel ! Thanks Liz!👍
Thank you so much for your support! I really appreciate it 🫶🏼💛
I still think if you can, spend the extra money on the DF64 Gen 2. The existing burrs are good all-rounders but when you are ready to upgrade you just need a burr replacement instead of a whole new grinder. For my personal tastes DF64 + SSP Multipurpose are pretty "end game" for me.
Great review !!👍
Thanks for watching! ☺️
Your content is so good! Thank you.
Thank you! ☺️☕️
I love your review. Very well created. (sorry about my English, i'm brazilian)
Thank you! ☺️
Fantastic review!
Thank you! Cheers!
Realpy great content thank you so much... i am tossing up between this and the Varia vs3 but keep coming back to this one...
Ufff, tough choice. They’re really different though. With Varia’s conical burrs against the DF54’s flat ones! I gotta say the VS3 is so so pretty and more aesthetically pleasing than the DF54! Buuut the DF54 gets the job done, it’s quiet and it’s got near zero retention… Bonus: it’s also a bit less expensive! (at least in Canada)
Would love to know what you decide!
I’m waffling between these two as well. On the one hand, I understand the VS3 is (despite being conical) more of a clarity focused grinder in its flavour profiles. Especially with the Hypernova Ultra burrs. But at a $200CAD premium (with the Hypernovas). And the Varia still has a reputation for reliability issues. If I KNEW aftermarket burrs were coming for the ‘54, it would be a no brainer. The Varia IS prettier…
Decisions, decisions.
It’s seems like such a cool grinder! Do you think it needs to be seasoned? Great video like always 😎👍🏽
Thanks for watching! Actually, in my experience, there’s no need! I merely passed some coffee through as a general measure to eliminate dust and that metallic taste of new burrs 😂
@@lizhappybeans Nice 👍🏽😂
I own the grinder and love it. I have not seasoned it and noticed that it remains consisitent in grind size. I would say no need to season. Also notable is that it has a smaller engine so seasoning may overheat it. The added benefit of the smaller engine and the slower grind time is that the motor does not heat as much which may affect the grinds. I seriously recommend this grinder for anyone.
@surfacepro5519 thank you for the super valuable input! I also didn’t notice significant variance in grind sizes, the performance is amazing!
Amazing video.
Nice review. FYI please have in mind espresso has nothing to do with express - it started as a misspelling by non Italian speaking people. Espresso means "pressed out" and describes the extraction method.
Thank you 🙏🏼
Another great review, If I didn't already have a Sculptor 078 (I only drink filter) I might consider this grinder, especially on a budget.
Uff, the Timemore Sculptor 078 is a fine, beautiful masterpiece! And since you only drink filter, most likely the best option for you right now!
And I must say, I’ve really preferred the DF54 for espresso over anything else!
Thank you for watching, I’ll see you around for more ☕️
It's way different class of the machine when comes to power, burrs, taste, grind speed, design. Df54 is fine for beginners to try being a home barista on a budget with some dedica, bambino.
Ive had the DF54 for a couple of months now and its great, but i am having problems with static, even after spraying (up to 4 sprays) with water. Ill put it down to the winter heating and dry air in the house.
That certainly plays a factor! I’ve noticed that even on rainy days the static is significantly reduced. Also, I’ve seen more static on coarser grind settings (from filter onwards) that I’ve seen when grinding for espresso.
I had the same. I have a couple things that have helped. Firstly cleaning the static probes up inside the shoot after most grinds. I just cut a paintbrush down for this. I take the dose cup out of the holder and wedge it under the holder and then give the bellows a good hard press (if you do this in the holder the air rush can effect the grinds in the dose cup and spread more static) and put the paint brush up the shoot.
A new technique I've found which has allowed me to grind finer and a lot less static is a hot start and gradual dose. So I turn the grinder on and then slowly pour in the beans rather than dump them all in together. I also give the bellows a press occasionally between beans going in to help stop build up on the static probes in the chute.
No idea why I can grind so much finer this way. But I like it.
I have had a Niche Zero for 2+ years and have a DF54 for 3 months, in comparison the DF54 is way better value for money if I was to buy only one grinder now I would buy the DF54 in a heartbeat. The workflow is very similar and both make great coffee in slightly different styles
Thank you so much for sharing!
I’ve been testing so many grinders lately… a lot of things come and go in my coffee bar, but the DF54 has proven to be the only one that I use every single day since I got it. I love it a little bit more everyday.
Great review! Have you used the Baratza Encore ESP? If so, how do you think the DF54 compares? Would you recommend one over the other? I am looking to upgrade from my Capresso grinder. I would be looking to do both drip and espresso mostly. I am curious to get your take.
Thanks for your question! I haven't had a chance to use the Baratza Encore ESP yet, but I had the regular Encore. What I found was that filter coffee was delicious but it really couldn't grind fine enough for espresso, which really discouraged me and I ended up changing it pretty fast. I understand that you COULD get decent espresso with the ESP, but not sure that's the best bang for your buck given the current state of the coffee grinder market. Again, since I haven't used it or compared both side by side, my opinion is not firm. I do believe that for the price, the DF54 is a great option if you decide to pull the trigger on this one!
How do you not have more subscribers? (I just did)
Your content is very high quality! And up there with much bigger channels.
Thank you so much for subscribing and your super kind words!
I admit that I ask myself this question frequently 😆 but I wanna believe that if I keep up the high quality content, the subs will follow 🙌
I hope your coffee is great today and everyday, see you around for more! ☕
Hello there! Just found your channel :) Great videos! I just ordered this grinder but my only concern is that I've seen some people talking about burr alignment right out of the box.. do you think that's something you should do it ?
Thank you for watching and welcome to my channel!
Honestly, the alignment on this unit was spot on 👌🏼 So, in my experience, there’s no need to mess with it (at least with the unit I received there were no issues whatsoever). Grinds were consistent across the board in each method I tried. No need to season it either. I am so curious to take a look at what you’ve seen though! Feel free to email me or message me through Instagram. I’d love to check that out!
I'm just looking at this! One thing I'm torn at is apparently the V2's larger size means aftermarket burr's are more accessible? I'm thinking I go DF54 and then try to leap to a Niche maybe once I want to start experimenting with burrs... man too many choices! Thanks for the video.
I know! Way too many choices in the home grinder space right now!
For what it’s worth, the DF54 is a gem for the price. I’d totally start here and if/when you outgrow it, you can go for something else… but I’d give it a shot!
I own the DF54 and my grinder is set at 35 is this normal,my zero point was at plus 4,only drinking latte
Sounds like a pretty high number for espresso.. are you using a very dark roast?
No, medium roast
The sunday review
Great video. I’m considering this grinder (D54) vs the Niche Zero. What are the key differences? I plan to use it for espresso and filter. I know there’s big price difference, but I’m just trying to weigh up the pros and cons against the price. Any help would much appreciated!
Truth is, those two grinders can’t be compared side by side necessarily.
Aside from the big price difference, it’s conical vs flat burrs, 63mm vs 54mm… and at the end of the day, these differences will influence taste.
If you could afford any of those, maybe it’d be a bit more fair to compare against the DF64?
@@lizhappybeans ah that’s fair. What would the key differences in taste be between the DF64 and the Niche Zero? I’m a bit of a novice
I have both grinders and really the big difference is in body and clarity, the Niche produces thicker body as it has more fines for espresso and the DF54 is thinner in body, for pourover I notice again more body in the Niche output but much more clarity in the DF54 cup. I would say that if you like lots of brightness and acidity go for the DF54 if you prefer more balance and body but less clarity then the Niche is for you. The workflow ispretty much the same bar the bellows but Iuse the bellows to clear chaff after I take the coffee, the DF54 is definitely more a "zero" retention even without using the bellows it retains less than 0.2g every time (less than 1 bean). For the price the DF54 is a no brainer choice.
@@Thetache massively helpful, thanks 🙏🏻
Nice review. Very useful for me who hasn't decided my first "decent" grinder. Still considering between DF54, DF64 gen 2 or even Baratza Encore ESP. Any suggestion from you? 😊
Well, that’s a tough comparison because they’re at different price points and meant for different purposes.
If you can afford the DF64 gen 2, go for it! It may be the strongest option of the three.
If you’re looking for an affordable grinder with great performance, go for the DF54 instead.
The Baratza Encore ESP is a great grinder, but I’d only choose it if not planning to use it for espresso. Otherwise, I’d take this one out of the picture.
Hope this helps! 🙏🏼
@@lizhappybeans Agreed! For me who just an ordinary coffee lover, maybe DF54 is the best option. How long have you been used the DF54? Is there any concerns regarding reliability, maintenance or any other things to consider? Many thanks 🙏
Is this better than the Eureka Mignon Zero? Thanks
It really depends on your intended use! If you're planning to use it for espresso only, I'd go with the Eureka Mignon Zero. If you also want to do filter and other brewing methods, the versatility of the DF54 would most likely be a better fit!
No medium roast
I appreciate the review, though is it really necessary to mention the grind time? Seems like something necessary to mention if it's used in a commercial/professional environment.
You’re right! And it’s a great point why the speed of this grinder is just not relevant for the target buyer. But I had to test it out and mention it as it comes up frequently, and some people do care about it even if it’s for home use.
True that. I have this grinder being shipped to me now. But as far as grind time goes I'm down with whatever although my wife needs the process to go quickly. As it is even a 1 minute grind doesn't matter what is needed is the espresso machine to be quick. The breville barista pro is one we had for a while 3+ years now I just ordered the Bambino plus. No problem for time with these.
I mean Eureka Mignon Manuale is like 60€ cheaper, 50mm vs 54mm, Eureka has 1 year longer warranty and proven to be reliable.
DF54 has no merit to its name yet. Also they are sold out/pre order and their webstore looks like from 2004 and 46€ shipping. 22% of the cost is shipping
If Eureka fits your needs better, absolutely go for it! Shipping costs will certainly vary depending on your location. Cheers!
@@lizhappybeans it's not about my needs it's about value per dollar.
If you claim something is best for 300 you need to take everything in to account including warranty and reliability
Hi! My apologies but in any way I claimed that the DF was the best. I ask a question, and present my findings and opinions for the viewer to determine. I assign a score that’s totally based on my experience and recommendation to this grinder, as I found it to be a great option for beginners.
I do agree that reliability and warranty are two important factors for many to buy a grinder. But it also depends on where you buy the tool, at least on this side of the world, as we don’t buy it directly from the manufacturer. A 100yo brand like Eureka will always have the prestige that a brand like Turin hasn’t earned, but I stand by my opinion that this is a great option and you’re getting a good tool for the cost.
And again, this all depends on where you’re located. It was harder for me to get my Eureka Mignon in Canada, and it was more expensive than the DF54.
Maybe in the future I’ll make a comparison if that’s what my audience wants to see. 🫶
cheap ass grinder with very small burrs, invest in a high quality grinder that will last, be nice to use, and get you better results. look at niche, option-o, etc.
Thanks for taking the time to comment! What would you recommend for someone who can’t afford a 500-1000+ grinder? 🤔🙏
@@lizhappybeans 1zpresso J-Ultra or used Niche Zero
Exactly.
It is hardly a "cheap ass grinder" as you say. I have a DF64 Gen 2 and it is basically a larger version of the DF54. The machines are built like a tank and get the job done.
Finding a used Zero for this price might be difficult but possible, but the 1zpresso? I think it’ll be pretty hard to convince someone to pay practically the same amount for a manual grinder with even smaller burrs. I would love to compare them tho! Thanks!