Turin DF64E V2

What it does well

Dosing is flexible. Turin designed it for someone who mostly single doses but sometimes wants a hopper. The timed buttons are programmable, and the hopper swaps out for a bellows and lid.

The adjustment is stable. Turin says the dial moves the bottom, spinning burr, which keeps the burr gap steady while grinding. You can also clean the burr chamber without losing your setting.

Espresso Outlet's reviewer liked it for espresso. He found the dial easy to read and fine enough for dialling shots.

With the bellows, he says his unit "retains almost zero," though the hopper retains a little more. He also liked the wood accents and that it grinds into a dosing cup or straight into a portafilter.

Where it falls short

It is not a multipurpose grinder. Espresso Outlet says it is "not a full range multipurpose grinder like the DF64 is," and lists limited range as its main con. Turin's own page says the same.

Noise and burr upgrades are weaker points. Espresso Outlet notes some people find it louder than the DF64. Turin itself recommended the original DF64 to anyone planning SSP burrs, because installation and calibration are easier there.

Using the hopper means removing the bellows, Espresso Outlet notes. Being discontinued, it also carries no warranty when bought used.

Who should buy it, and who shouldn't

Buy one used if you make espresso only and like the option of a hopper with timed doses. It suits a small kitchen, given its narrow footprint.

Skip it if you brew pour-over, French press or cold brew, since its range is limited. Skip it too if you want SSP burrs or a warranty.

How it compares

The DF64 Gen 2 is the clearest alternative and the easiest to confuse with it. The Gen 2 is a single-dose grinder with a top collar and full range for espresso and filter. The DF64E adds timed dosing and a hopper, adjusts from below, and Turin limits it to espresso.

DF64 Gen 2 vs Turin DF64E V2 shows their dials side by side.

The DF64 V2 is a revision of the first-generation DF64 the E was based on. Turin's DF64E page describes that original as the one for a wide range of coffees.

For a stepless espresso grinder still sold new, look at the Eureka Mignon Specialità. Mahlkönig EK43 vs Turin DF64E V2 sets it against a café reference grinder.

Owning it

Cleaning is simpler than on the original DF64. Espresso Outlet says the clump breakers are two thin plastic layers, easier to reach than the DF64's.

Because adjustment is on the bottom burr, the top burr comes out without changing your setting. The burr grinder cleaning guide covers the routine.

Turin still sells DF64E control panels, screens, upper burr carrier screws and declumpers. That makes a used unit repairable. Use the settings chart on this page as a starting point, then dial in by taste.