At this price point, you simply can't find a better grinder.
Positive Product Points
Stepless micro grind adjustment Extremely low blade speed (300 rpm) Grinding burrs, 68mm conical :) Very little to no clumping Three different height hoppers available Due to its deep throat you can easily single dose/grind, without a hopper Produces very fluffy grinds Clean sweep doser doesn't require mods 1 hp motor doesn't stall
Negative Product Points
The chute holds a fair amount of grounds and needs to swept clean daily. In order to properly access the chute, you need to remove the finger guard and replace the bezel. Not a biggie but it has to be done, to properly gain access to the chute.
Detailed Commentary
I was looking for a big conical and conducted an extensive round of dd before selecting this particular grinder. After using it for a month I now know it was a simply brilliant purchase on my part. Of course I biased but this conical is everything I was expecting and more. Aside from the one negative, this beast has been happily producing the fluffiest grinds I've ever experienced. No more heavy tamping, as I've found that this grinder produces a nice centered pile, which I lightly nutate and then tamp very lightly.
Compared to my Vario, this grinder produces shots that are "creamier" and the flavors are much easier to pick out.
Was it worth the extra tariff over the Vario? As I said I'm biased but if I had it all over to do again, I wouldn't hesitate a second.
FYI, this review was on the Compak K10 WBC
Buying Experience
There is a very valid reason that Chris Coffee is so highly thought of on all the coffee boards. They go out of their way to insure that your happy. Before, but more importantly, after the sale. I can't say enough good things about all of those wonderful folks but if you've ever dealt with them, you know what I'm talking about