When we bought our ECM Synchronika espresso machine in 2021, we wanted a single dose grinder so we could enjoy freshly ground espresso beans each morning.
At the time, we had to choose between the funky $2K+ conversions from professional grade grinders with bellows and tons of retention, or a conical burr grinder with minimal retention like the Baratza Sette 270. We went with the Baratza.
We spent the next 4 years struggling to dial down the grind size small enough to make a decent espresso. What a waste! Thankfully, our Baratza grinder stopped working a few months ago and so we needed a new grinder.
2025 is a great year to buy a grinder! It was wonderful to see several top quality grinders built from the ground up to be single dose grinders. Grinders that don't require the hated bellows. Grinders with virtually zero retention. We spent weeks researching. The choice came down to either the Mazzer Philos or the Zerno Z1.
We chose the Mazzer Philos with the I189D burrs. Mainly because we just want a grinder that works, not one to tinker with endlessly.
Now my wife can easily dial in the grind size for a perfect espresso. I love the sound this machine makes when grinding espresso beans. So soothing!
This machine is incredible and incredibly well built. I am confident it will last a lifetime.
I can't recommend this grinder highly enough!!
by incurable-wanderlust
9 Comments
How do you find having to change the grind setting on the back of the machine (or does that work some other way)?
Great to hear the Philos has been such a solid upgrade! I wish more manufactures gave more attention to the sound. The sound of a machine is such an underlooked part of its operation. Dialing in easily and having a machine that feels built to last is a joy unto its own.
Looks beautiful too
It looks so nice! Enjoy it and let us know if you have questions.
Congratulations! I love mine too. It’s a great piece of gear.
I’ve had the exact same one for the better part of a year now, and I still smile whenever I use it. It is just such a solid and efficient machine. Also very easy to switch from v60 to espresso with the clicked settings, which are still fine enough to dial in with precision. It is my first coffee grinder, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it is my last as well. It feels like it will outlive me.
If I could criticize anything about it, it would be the plastic power switch. It’s solid enough, but it feels a bit, well, plasticky compared to all the rest. One of those nice toggle swiches like they have on the Ascaso espresso machines would’ve been a nicer option I think.
What tinkering did you see with the Z1 vs the Philos?
Just ordered mine a few days ago after a ton of research. Can’t wait to use it!
Curious why you went with those burrs and what kind of shots you are getting? I prefer lighter roast and juicy fruity shots – curious how this would perform-had someone else recco this to me – sounds like a great machine