Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Grinder Review: Porlex Mini Stainless Steel Coffee Grinder

This is my fourth grind - got it in August of 2014, to keep at work (it replaced the Hario Mini that I sent to a friend).  This thing is exactly like the bigger Porlex, but shorter (and has a black silicone band), so the review will sound familiar.

Pros:
  • Like the Hario Mini, this is small enough to grind directly into an Aeropress.
  • Fits nicely in your hand, but this thing is TINY. It holds no more than about 2 TBSP of beans, and really is meant to make a single cup.  
  • Nice crank arm length.
  • Black silicone band includes a little loop to hold the handle when it's not in use, but I found it a hassle.
  • Outer body is all stainless steel, making it a durable choice for travel or everyday use.
  • Easy-to-adjust grind mechanism (see below) - you twist a little clicky bolt on the bottom of the top chamber.  
  • Slightly better-than-average grind consistency

Cons:
  • Crank arm flies off for some people, though I never found it a problem.
  • Like many small grinders, it is a little awkward to grind with it. It's short body makes it more awkward than the bigger Porlex.
  • No way to "remember" your settings for different grinds, other than by counting clicks. Not a big deal if you don't plan to adjust it.
  • Only slightly-better-than average grind consistency, and given it's price point ($35-$65 depending on the direction the wind is blowing, but usually around $45 or $50), I'd really like it to be better. 

This is my current work grinder, except that since I'm currently working from home, it's sitting unused in a box of office supplies.  

It really is a great little grinder (with an emphasis on little).

Oh, and Amazon carries some replacement parts.





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