Mini Mill | Beginner's Model

 

Advantages

• Small, therefore suitable for travel
• Homogeneous grinding result with coarser settings
• Suitable for Aeropress, V60 and Chemex

Disadvantages

• Not suitable for espresso
• long grinding duration

This manual hand grinder from the Japanese company Hario is an affordable alternative to expensive electric coffee grinders. The grinders feature a modern yet timeless design and are designed to be user-friendly. The coffee beans are filled into the hopper and ground into a collecting container, which can be removed in the middle by turning it. Both grinders are space-saving and eye-catching in any kitchen due to its modern design.

Grinder

The heart of the mill is the ceramic cone grinder. The material ceramic is enormously wear-resistant and grinds very precisely. In terms of quality, ceramic can easily compete with the material often used for grinders, hardened steel, and basically has the advantage that it could be cleaned with water (we advise against it, however, as it must be ensured that the grinder is actually dry when reused).

Grind Settings

The grinding degree can be adjusted by turning a crank. This crank, located just below the grinder, increases or decreases the distance between the burrs and its counterpart, thus changing the degree of grinding. The greater the distance of the burr to the counterpart, the coarser the size of the grounds. In the Mini Mill, the axis of the grinding cone is stabilized by a spring, so the grind turns out very consistent even with a coarse setting. However, the degree of grinding cannot be fixed, as is the case with other grinders.

Processing

The mill is actually very sturdily made. The biggest difference is that the collection container on the Skerton is made of glass and fits better in the hand than the plastic-made container on the Mini Mill. Grinding works with little effort on both types, thanks to the long crank. At a medium grind setting, grinding 30 grams of coffee takes about 2 minutes (although, of course, this also depends on the speed).

The Mini Mill also comes with an attachment lid for the bean container, which prevents coffee beans from falling out. If you have small hands, try holding it between your legs to grind. 

Cleaning

We do not recommend cleaning a grinder with water - but rather regularly tapping it out, brushing it, and wiping it down to remove coffee oils.

Conclusion

The Mini-Mill is excellent for smaller quantities (up to 2 cups). The grind is easy to adjust and more consistent with a coarser setting. In addition, the Mini Mill's small size and lighter weight make it the ideal choice if you're looking for a travel grinder. For those just beginning to invest in Specialty Coffee equipment such with an AeroPress or V60, this grinder is super suitable before you get something of better quality. The grinder can then also be used as a spice grinder... but maybe buy a seperate one for that.