After a simple no-brainer modification, this grinder is great for espresso!!
Positive Product Points
LOW COST, attractive stainless steel styling, nice even grind, the timer is consistent in delivered grind volume.
Negative Product Points
Has to be modified to give a fine enough grind for espresso which could possibly decrease the life of the machine... only time will tell.
Detailed Commentary
This is my first real grinder, and I spent many hours reading reviews before I settled on buying the Breville. I use it exclusively for espresso, so I knew I was taking a bit of a gamble buying a machine for under $100, however I must say that paired with my Gaggia Carezza and a nice bag of beans, I'm pulling amazing shots as a complete newbie to home espresso! I performed the simple modification cited in many other reviews, and I could not be happier. The Cost to value ratio for this modified grinder is great and if you can buy one refurbished like I did, then it will go up even more. If you are not going to use it for espresso then you will not need to worry about modification. I have not experienced any of the static problems some other reviewers have mentioned (even in the dryness of winter.) I'm sure that a more expensive grinder will last longer and measure out a more precise volume of grounds, but if you are looking for a cheap machine that does a great job, then don't hesitate on the Breville. Lastly, I have no real reason to believe that the modification will decrease the life of this machine, but it should always be considered when you modify a machine to run outside of its normal service envelope.
Buying Experience
Bought from an Amazon associated refurbished dealer. No complaints, and still under it's 30 day warranty.
