For coffee enthusiasts, the quest for the perfect cup of java often leads to the debate of which coffee grinder to choose.
In this post, we’ll delve into a comparison between two popular contenders: the Niche Zero and the Eureka Mignon Specialita.
These grinders have gained a strong following in the coffee community, each with its own set of unique features and advantages.
If you’re torn between these two options or simply want to learn more about high-quality coffee grinders, read on as we break down their key characteristics, performance, and more.
| Specification | Niche Zero | Eureka Mignon Specialita |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 122mm | 120mm |
| Length | 211mm | 180mm |
| Height | 311mm | 350mm |
| Weight | 4.1kg / 9lb | 5.6kg / 12.34lbs |
| Burr size | 63mm conical burrs | 55mm flat steel burrs |
| Grind speed | 1-2 grams/ second | 1.2 to 1.8 grams/ second |
| Dose consistency | Timed dose | Timed-based electronic dosing |
| Materials | Aluminium body, Hardened steel burrs, Real oak trim | Hardened Steel |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A (Single dosing) | 300g |
| Retention | Virtually zero | N/A |
| Noise level | 72dB during grinding | Around 40 dB on average |
| Grind adjustment | Infinite dial (Stepless) | Stepless micrometric system |
| Display | No Touchscreen | Touch screen with 2 programmable doses |
| Price | Slightly Cheaper | Slightly more expensive |
Who Are Eureka?
Eureka is an Italian brand known for its exceptional coffee grinders and espresso-related equipment.
Established in 1920 by its founder, Aurelio Conti, the Eureka brand has remained a prominent player in the world of coffee equipment for well over a century.
With its origins deeply rooted in Florence, Italy, Eureka has consistently upheld a tradition of crafting premium espresso grinders that are entirely hand-assembled, ensuring impeccable quality and precision.
Over the years, Eureka has diversified its offerings, providing a diverse selection of espresso grinders tailored for both home enthusiasts and commercial use.
In addition to grinders, Eureka’s product line also extends to a variety of essential accessories, including dosing cups, precision scales, and expertly designed-tampers.
This commitment to excellence and attention to every coffee detail has firmly established Eureka as a top choice for coffee connoisseurs and professionals alike.
Eureka Mignon Specialita Overview
The Eureka Mignon Specialita is designed with simplicity and the espresso lover in mind.
This grinder features 55mm flat burrs and a handy time-based dosing function, which means it grinds your coffee beans precisely to your liking without any fuss.
What sets this grinder apart is its programmable touch screen, which allows you to set timed dosing for a hands-free grinding experience.
It’s easy to use and has an elegant compact design, with a unique square-shaped bean hopper that catches the eye.
The Eureka Mignon Specialita isn’t just one grinder; it’s a family of grinders.
There are 13 different models in this series, each tailored to meet specific needs.
Some are great for filter coffee, some excel at espresso, while others prioritize user-friendliness or affordability.
For most espresso enthusiasts, the Eureka Mignon Specialita is a top choice.
It’s not only quiet but built like a tank, and it doesn’t hold onto your coffee grounds, so you get consistent results every time.
Plus, it boasts a wider chute design with Eureka’s anti-clumping system, ensuring fluffy grounds.
One of its standout features is the sound-proof casing, made with thick metal, rubber mounts, and gaskets.
This means your morning grind won’t wake the entire household; it’s as quiet as a whisper.
However, it’s important to note that this grinder is stepless, offering infinite flexibility in adjusting your grind settings.
This is perfect for espresso aficionados who like to fine-tune their shots.
But, if you’re someone who enjoys various coffee brewing methods, be aware that constant adjustments can be a tad tricky.
However, the trade-off is a consistent grind that leads to exceptional shots, minimal static, excellent build quality, and a quieter coffee-grinding experience.
Pros
- Very quiet
- Low retention for easy coffee-type switching
- Stepless grind adjustment for precision
- Stylish and compact design
- Minimizes heat and static buildup
- User-friendly interface
- Consistently fluffy grinds
Cons
- Not suitable for single dosing with espresso
- Not the fastest grinder
- Specialized for espresso use
Who Should Buy the Eureka Mignon Specialita?
If you’re a dedicated espresso enthusiast, the Eureka Mignon Specialita should be on your radar.
Its quiet operation, low retention, and stepless grind adjustment make it a dream come true for those who appreciate the art of pulling the perfect shot.
This grinder is perfect for those who want to savor every nuance of their espresso, from the flavor to the aroma, and are willing to invest in the right equipment to achieve that.
Its intuitive interface ensures that both experienced baristas and newcomers can extract greatness from their coffee beans.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Eureka Mignon Specialita?
On the flip side, if you’re an all-purpose coffee drinker who enjoys various brewing methods beyond espresso, the Eureka Mignon Specialita may not be your best choice.
This grinder is a specialist, purpose-built for espresso, and that’s by design.
It excels at its intended task, but if you’re frequently switching between different coffee types or prefer single dosing for espresso, you might find it less convenient.
Speed demons who prioritize a lightning-fast grind may also look elsewhere.
For the espresso lover, it’s a gem, but if you’re not committed to the art of espresso, there are more versatile options to consider.
Who Are Niche Coffee?
Niche Coffee is all about coffee grinders.
They started back in 2013 and call Portsmouth, Hampshire, their home.
Their grinders are on a mission to make your coffee experience exceptional.
What sets them apart? Well, besides doing the job superbly, they look fantastic and feel like a joy to use.
It’s like a perfect blend of beauty and technology.
While they may not have the same coffee world fame as Eureka, Niche Coffee’s grinders have won hearts in recent years.
In particular, the Niche Zero and Niche Duo have made the big brands take notice.
Niche Zero Overview
The Niche Zero coffee grinder is all about quality.
It’s a top-tier, single-dosing grinder that lives up to its name – “Zero” grind retention.
Instead of a big hopper, you add just the right amount of beans for each brew.
It’s not your run-of-the-mill grinder. With premium 63mm conical Mazzer burrs usually found on pricier models, it’s a steal.
This grinder is for coffee lovers who demand the best.
It may cost more than some, but the quality and consistency it delivers make it a smart investment.
Another thing we love about this grinder is how compact and quiet it is, so if you’re tight on space then this grinder is a great option.
And like the Eureka, it has stepless grind adjustment so the grind settings that it offers are pretty much endless.
Adjusting the stepless dial is a breeze, allowing you to transition swiftly and smoothly from fine to coarse grinds.
Thanks to its patented straight-through design, almost no coffee gets stuck in the grinder.
The Niche Zero handles both espresso and filter brewing like a champ, giving you rich, full-bodied brews.
The low grind speed might sound like a drawback, but it’s a plus, reducing uneven coffee and making it a breeze to dial in.
It’s a well-built, stylish machine with no bells and whistles, that does exactly what it’s meant to do, and does it well.
The Niche Zero suits those who prefer body over clarity in their espresso and generally works best with medium roast coffee.
It’s often called a “prosumer” grinder because it boasts professional-quality components, delivering pro-level results, but it’s designed for home use.
Pros
- Large 63mm professional-quality burrs
- Excellent value, remarkable consistency, and repeatability
- Stepless dial for versatile grinding
- Minimal grind retention for freshness
- Sleek and compact design
- Ideal for single-dosing and method flexibility
Cons
- Specialized for single-dosing
- Availability challenges due to high demand
- May not suit all brew methods
Who Should Buy the Niche Zero?
If you’re a discerning coffee enthusiast seeking precision and quality in every cup, the Niche Zero is your go-to grinder.
Its professional-quality 63mm burrs ensure you have the tools for top-notch coffee.
The stepless dial caters to a wide range of brewing methods, from espresso to French Press, making it a versatile choice for those who explore different coffee styles.
Its compact and stylish design adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen counter, and its minimal grind retention guarantees freshness in every brew.
The Niche Zero is also a favorite among single-dose enthusiasts who appreciate the freedom to switch between coffee types and methods with ease.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Niche Zero?
On the other hand, if you need a grinder for high-volume coffee production, the Niche Zero may not be your best bet.
It’s designed with single-dosing in mind and may not suit those who require large quantities of ground coffee.
Additionally, due to its immense popularity, it can be challenging to purchase one, as high demand often leads to limited availability.
Some users have reported that it might not be their top choice for pour-over or other specific brew methods, so if that’s your preference, you might want to explore other grinder options better suited to those techniques.
Niche Zero vs Eureka Mignon Specialita: Key Differences
Burr Type
One of the fundamental distinctions between the Niche Zero and the Eureka Mignon Specialita lies in their burr types.
The Niche Zero is equipped with 63mm conical burrs, while the Eureka Mignon Specialita features 55mm flat steel burrs.
These burr types offer unique advantages, and the choice between them can significantly impact your coffee experience.
Grind Type and Consistency
If you’re looking for a grinder versatile enough to accommodate a variety of brewing methods beyond espresso, the Eureka Mignon Specialita may be the better choice.
It excels in consistently bringing out the flavors and notes of coffee beans when brewing methods like French press or pour-over are in play.
The Niche Zero, while exceptional for espresso, may exhibit slightly less consistency when transitioning to coarser grinds.
Workflow and Adjustment
The Niche Zero offers a user-friendly and agile workflow.
It’s easy to use, tune, and adjust, making it a practical choice for those who frequently switch between different beans.
In contrast, the Eureka Mignon Specialita may present a challenge when it comes to dialing in the grind size for various brewing methods or rotating between different coffee beans.
Electronic Dosing vs. Single Dosing
The Eureka Mignon Specialita features electronic dosing, denoted by its LED screen, allowing you to program precise grinding profiles based on time to 0.01 seconds.
This is particularly handy for those who need consistent dosing for single and double shots.
On the other hand, the Niche Zero is primarily a single-dosing grinder, designed for the meticulous coffee lover who prefers switching between beans without the need for electronic dosing.
Price and Availability
While price and availability can be significant factors in your decision, it’s important to note that the Eureka Mignon Specialita is generally slightly more expensive than the Niche Zero.
Availability can also sway your choice, with the Niche Zero sometimes experiencing backorder issues due to increasing demand.
Ordering a Niche Zero may require patience, with delivery times potentially extending a month or two after placing your order.
In contrast, the Eureka Mignon Specialita tends to be more readily available in the USA, making it an accessible choice.
Prices for the Niche Zero can also fluctuate based on its availability.
Company History
Consider the comfort of a well-established brand like Eureka versus the appeal of Niche Zero’s success and simplicity.
Some users may prefer the reliability and history associated with a larger brand like Eureka, while others may appreciate the innovative approach and rapid ascent of the Niche Zero in the coffee world.
Your choice may reflect your trust in a brand’s history or your enthusiasm for a newer, emerging player.
Verdict: Choosing Between Niche Zero vs Eureka Mignon Specialita
Now let’s give you the final verdict of which coffee grinder would be the most suitable choice for you.
Niche Zero: For the Discerning Espresso Enthusiast
If you’re a coffee enthusiast who prizes precision and consistency in your espresso shots, the Niche Zero is an excellent choice.
It’s conical burrs and minimal grind retention guarantee a top-tier espresso experience.
The stepless dial provides versatility, making it perfect for single-dosing and method flexibility. Its compact design and aesthetics are sure to complement your kitchen.
Patience may be required due to demand, but for those who appreciate quality over quantity, it’s worth the wait.
Eureka Mignon Specialita: Versatility and Electronic Precision
For those seeking a versatile grinder that can handle a range of brewing methods beyond espresso, the Eureka Mignon Specialita shines.
With its electronic dosing capabilities, it’s ideal for consistent dosing for both single and double shots.
While its flat steel burrs excel in delivering rich flavors, it may be less agile when adjusting grind sizes for different methods.
The Eureka Mignon Specialita is readily available in the USA, making it a practical choice for those who need reliability and accessibility.
FAQ’s
Why is Niche Zero good?
The Niche Zero is highly regarded for its exceptional grind quality, minimal grind retention, and user-friendly design.
Its conical burrs and stepless grind adjustment make it an excellent choice for espresso enthusiasts who value precision and consistency in their shots.
Its compact design and single-dosing feature add to its appeal, allowing you to switch between coffee types and methods with ease.
Where is Eureka Mignon made?
Eureka Mignon grinders are proudly made in Florence, Italy.
The brand has a rich history of Italian craftsmanship, and its products are renowned for their quality and attention to detail.
How long do Eureka Mignon burrs last?
The longevity of Eureka Mignon burrs depends on usage and maintenance.
Generally, with regular use and proper care, you can expect the burrs to last for several years.
It’s advisable to monitor the burrs for signs of wear and replace them when necessary to maintain the grinder’s performance.
Can Niche Zero grind for pour-over?
While the Niche Zero is primarily designed for espresso, it can also be used for pour-over brewing.
However, some users have reported slightly less consistency in coarser grinds for methods like French press or pour-over when compared to espresso.
Is Niche Zero good for espresso?
Yes, the Niche Zero is highly regarded for its performance in espresso grinding.
Its 63mm conical burrs and stepless grind adjustment allow for precise and consistent espresso grinds.
It’s a top choice for espresso enthusiasts who seek quality and repeatability in their shots.
How heavy is Niche Zero?
The Niche Zero is relatively lightweight compared to some other grinders.
It weighs approximately 4.1 kilograms (9 pounds), making it reasonably portable and easy to move or store on your countertop.
How long does it take to get Niche Zero?
The availability of the Niche Zero can vary due to high demand.
Ordering a Niche Zero may require some patience, as delivery times can extend to at least a month or two after placing your order.
It’s advisable to check with the manufacturer or a trusted distributor for the most up-to-date information on availability and delivery times.
Is Niche Zero made in China?
Yes, the Niche Zero grinder is made in China.
Initially, the first 1000 grinders were built in the UK by the Niche team to show that they could do it, but now the grinder is completely made in China.
