KINGrinder K2

What it does well

It is easy to dial in. Pub Palaver says the K2 dialed in within a shot or two of espresso using relative internal adjustments, and judged its six-point burrs more consistent and easier to dial in than the K6's seven-point burr, writing that for espresso the six-pointed burrs "are just better."

It is comfortable. Pub Palaver says all K-series grinders have an offset handle that puts less strain on the wrist than the P-series straight handle, and describes the K2's wide rubber grip. Complete Home Barista, summarizing a reviewer's comparison, says the main gain over the P-series was daily comfort rather than the cup.

The burr is large for the money. Sigma Coffee says the K2 has the 48 mm set against the K0's 38 mm, and says the larger burr makes coarser grinding easier. KINGrinder's page lists a stainless steel burr set and an aluminum body, described as more robust.

It reaches espresso. Pub Palaver found about three clicks produced balanced shots, and lists the K2 as consistent, easy to dial in and comfortable. It says the K2 and K6 both take about 40 seconds to grind 18 g.

It can be powered. Sigma Coffee says the shaft accepts a drill, which helps for larger doses.

Where it falls short

Espresso takes effort. Complete Home Barista puts hand turning at roughly 40 to 60 seconds for an 18 g dose and says effort rises at espresso settings, so it suits one or two doubles a day rather than a busy household. It says users with hand or wrist pain may be better served by an electric grinder.

Capacity is limited. KINGrinder lists 20 to 25 g, and Pub Palaver names the 25 g catch cup as a con. Complete Home Barista adds that two doubles need two grinds.

Pub Palaver also lists the round knob and the extra effort of shaving, noting its K2 was six months old and bearing wear might play a part.

Adjustment is internal. You reach it through the catch cup rather than an external dial, which Pub Palaver contrasts with the K6's top ring. That makes it fast to set once, but less convenient for switching between methods each day.

Stock may be an issue: KINGrinder's store page said all options were out of stock when checked.

Who should buy it, and who shouldn't

Buy it if you brew pour-over, AeroPress or drip most days and pull an occasional espresso. Pub Palaver found it worth the step up from the P-series mainly for comfort.

Skip it if you need to grind for several cups at once, if you want a dial you can change on the fly, or if you plan to make espresso every day with limited hand strength. A larger-capacity grinder or an electric model will suit those jobs.

How it compares

The KINGrinder K0 and K1 share the 18-micron adjustment but have the smaller 38 mm burr, per KINGrinder's comparison page.

The KINGrinder K6 moves to an external ring and a 35 g catch cup. Pub Palaver reports its espresso shots leaned acidic and were harder to dial in than the K2's, and that the ring adds wrist strain.

The KINGrinder K4 is KINGrinder's espresso pick on its comparison page. The KINGrinder P1 has a smaller burr and a straight handle; Pub Palaver says it works for espresso but takes more effort.

Owning it

Because adjustment is internal, set your zero when you first assemble it. Our calibration guide explains the zero point, and the guide to dialing in a new grinder helps you build settings.

Clean it with a brush, as KINGrinder describes, following our guide to cleaning a hand grinder. Pub Palaver raised bearing wear as a possible factor on its six-month-old unit. If wear ever shows, see replacing grinder burrs.