In a recent video, the host excitedly examined the KINGrinder P1, a hand grinder that’s caused quite a stir in the world of home coffee enthusiasts.
The story begins with comparisons to the Hario Slim, a popular hand grinder for beginners, priced around £30. Despite its affordability, the Hario Slim has its flaws. Its ceramic burr and wobbly shaft produce an inconsistent grind, amounting to mediocre coffee.
Hand grinders have significantly improved over the years, often with price tags that reflect this progress. The most premium options can set you back several hundred pounds. The host stumbled upon the KINGrinder P1, retailing at just £33, through a recommendation from Dmitriy Yurchenko on a Patreon-only Discord channel. Skeptical yet intrigued, they decided to give the P1 a thorough evaluation.
Upon arrival, the P1’s quality stood out immediately. Its metal burr and polycarbonate construction, complemented by a wooden handle, felt robust and well-designed. This first impression was positive, especially when considering its modest price. The excitement grew as it seemed to rival much more expensive models.
To objectively assess the P1, the host compared it to both the Hario Slim and a high-end Comandante grinder, which costs over £200. Using a particle size analyzer, they found that the P1 produced more fines compared to the Comandante but was still an improvement over the Hario. Despite initial disappointment with the particle distribution data, a blind taste test offered a pleasant surprise.
The taste test involved brewing three identical V60 cups using each grinder, then tasting them blind. Surprisingly, the cup produced by the P1 was far superior to the Hario and didn’t lag far behind the Comandante. It was noted for its balance, sweetness, and overall enjoyable flavor. This taste outcome was contrary to what the particle size data suggested.
Ergonomics and build quality were other areas where the P1 excelled. While the Hario Slim felt flimsy and required considerable effort, the P1 was easier to use, thanks to its metal burr and sturdier construction. Comparatively, the P1 is closer to the quality of higher-end grinders, making its low price even more impressive.
The video also explored the P1’s ability to grind for espresso. While the process proved challenging, the host managed to adjust the grind settings to achieve a decent espresso shot. The espresso wasn’t perfect, lacking some sweetness and texture, but it was surprisingly good for a £33 grinder.
Finally, the host reflected on the significance of the P1’s performance. They noted that for just a few pounds more than the Hario, coffee enthusiasts could access a far superior grinding experience. The P1 represents a promising option for those new to home grinding, offering a glimpse into high-quality coffee without a hefty investment.
The KINGrinder P1 may not match the elite Comandante, but its balance of price and quality is noteworthy. This discovery brings hope for more innovations at affordable price points, making specialty coffee accessible to a broader audience.
In summary, the KINGrinder P1 delivers remarkable quality for its price, making it a worthwhile option for both novices and seasoned coffee lovers. It stands as a testament to the potential for high-quality, affordable coffee gear.