A bit late on this, but there's an app for the Opus now, called Beanie, that does the grind size adjustment math for you. You set the desired grind size, and it gives you the macro and micro settings, so you don't have to fiddle with all the calculations. Important, 'cause the micro-adjustment is a bit complicated, based on two-third-steps rather than simple fractional steps, so it can be a bit non-intuitive unless you're good at doing math in your head. Or, if you don't mind voiding your warranty, it's pretty simple to make it stepless by removing a follower on the macro adjustment ring.
Not late at all, just got this grinder in the mail and this was extremely helpful. Specially because I honestly have no clue what I’m doing. Noob here haha. Thanks 👍🏽
@@Alfita_uwu It has nothing to do with dialing in specific coffees, it's just for doing the math on the Opus grinder. You have to decide what approximate grind size you want, and the Beanie app will tell you what setting on the Opus to use to get that size. You can go to the various coffee forums and find people sharing recipes for many coffees, including recommendations on grind size.
Just got mine today. Can’t wait to get it going. It would be great if you could show how the dosing compartments on the lid work and the micro adjusting you mentioned.
A grinder like this one would be a a great acquisition since I am not consistent with my brewing methods and everyday I wake up craving something different 😂. I would love to see a video about the micro adjustment!
Thanks for the review! I used a friend’s ode gen 1 and while it was pretty, its limitations were obvious. Gen 2 is in a price range where there are many other options and upgrading burrs can really jack the cost up further. I ended up finding a lightly used opus online for $100 (!!) and am so impressed with its capabilities. The plastic doesn’t look that cheap on the counter either. It’s not like I’m carrying the grinder around with me like and accessory. Really lovely user experience and incredible value for what it can do!
I was trying to decide between the Fellow Opus and the Baratza Encore ESP. I mainly wanted a drip coffee grinder but wanted the capability to do espresso grind. In ended up buying the Baratza Encore ESP mainly due to the brand track record, sturdiness and parts availability. I liked the looks of the Fellow but honestly this is only their second model and Baratza has been going for a lot longer. I’ve also had more luck with Taiwan produced items which Baratza is vs mainland China where the Fellow is produced. My brother in law has the regular Encore and it’s been going strong for 6-7yrs
Thanks for making the points about plastic not necessarily being a bad thing. It seems like a lot of people are making a big point about how it _feels_ like much lower quality than the Ode, as in literally the feel of it in the hand. But who is holding the grinder while they use it? It always seemed like a strange point to bring up for a product like this. Anyway, great review, great channel, I certainly subbed.
Right??? Too funny. People be like “WTF! This feels cheaper compared to this other grinder that’s almost twice the price?!” Umm.. that’s because it’s cheaper. 😂 who cares?? 😂 Thank you!!
I saw on another channel that the 1 -2 setting for espresso is way off because they make the range wider for longevity as the burrs wear. I just got mine and had to move to 4-5 for anything close to a decent shot. Would love a video on dialing it in from box opens
Thank you for the review! I've watched 3 other reviews now and I'm still leaning towards this grinder because I typically do filter brews with my V60, Aeropress, and Origami. Plus I find the aesthetic more appealing than the ESP. This price point is about as much as I want to spend right now, and it would still be an upgrade from my previous grinder that was $100. Also, your IG content is great! Thank you!
I have this grinder and an Ascaso duo PID plus. I cannot dial in the grind size however. Based on the Fellow recommendation, I should set size to somewhere between 1 and 2. For me, anything below 3.5 causes the OPV to open. When get close to 4, I get channeling without getting the pressure lower than the default 11 bar. Is there something wrong with the grinder or my Ascaso machine? What settings did you use with this grinder and your Ascaso machine? I appreciate any help.
great video . looking for my first grinder . thinking of between the opus or the 1zepresso zp6 .. any recomendations be more than welcome thank u in advance
Hi Justin, Great review my man! I just had a couple of questions for ya. What setting number did you use for the espresso grind? also, what was your perfect setting number for a espresso using medium roast beans. Thank you in advanced!
You could keep several shots worth in there but it’s really designed as a single doser. The time settings are locked so getting it to grind the perfect amount for a shot and then stop is pretty much impossible unless you do it manually
Yes pleaseeee do a full video tutorial on this grinder!! Also love your barista set up. I’m working on getting my husband a set up like yours for Father’s Day!
Love your work. I would love a video on how to better use this grinder. Specifically, I struggle to get good espresso between 1 and 2 on this grinder. If you have an existing video, let me know.
This looked like an ideal first time espresso grinder, until Baratza released the ESP a week later and instantly silenced the buzz around this. This does look better though.
The baratza esp is definitely a strong contender in this price bracket. IMO it makes it even more exciting that there are TWO new grinders in a market segment that basically didn’t exist before and was sorely needed! The ESP has some strong advantages with dialing in and I’m trying to get one to review. The Opus is still a very strong option. I think I prefer the overall workflow and looks of the opus - those are big factors for me as well. Hit me with any questions!
@@DaddyGotCoffee Daddy with respect, how can you prefer the overall workflow and looks of the Opus over the ESP? The dialling-in workflow for the outer & inner micro adjustment is definitely more work with the Opus compared to the simple & clever adjustment on the ESP and in my opinion the design of the ESP is honest and not mutton dressed up as lamb like with the Opus. I've never owned an Encore however I reckon an ESP would be a good thing overall and definitely my pick over the Opus. Of course this is just my opinion and it's great to see these reviews coming through to get everybody's comments. Many thanks & cheers.
@@steph8408 Fair question. I've not used an ESP but I do have one on the way - so you can expect a proper review, and then a comparison once I have used it. As for workflow, I was able to dial in reasonable shots (for most entry level users) using only the macro steps. And the micro adjustment is really not that complicated to use in real world use, I'd be fine to make this adjustment once per bag. Would I want to switch coffees daily with this grinder? No. But I was usually dialed on on any bag (I tried many) within 3 shots. More than that though, from what I have seen of the ESP catch bin configuration the opus has a much better system here, especially once you account for the ionizer. The ESP was also designed as a hopper style ginder first, and this is not my preference for workflow. As for looks, this one is totally subjective and I can transparently say I much prefer the design of the Opus as an appliance. This is not going to be a big factor for everyone and some might disagree - however, the reality is a grinder spends more time on your counter idle than it does running, so you better like looking at it. I reserve the right to change my mind after using both! This is just based on watching other reviews of the ESP:)
@@steph8408esp is loud, has a lot of retention you can't get out and builds static. Opus downside is the adjustment system. But it's not a rocket science
I own eureka mignon specialita dedicated for espresso grinder. Now looking for dedicated pour over grinder , is opus worth to get ? Or must odes gen 2 which double the price from where I come from.
@@DaddyGotCoffee Cool thanks for the prompt reply! I checked it out and really like the inclusion of using the decibel meter which gives me an idea of loudness but would have loved to hear the actual grinder in action with beans being ground. Hope I don't come off as nit-picky but I bought a Silenzio grinder because of how quiet it is but it's not great for switching between espresso and filter so I'm considering the Opus. Appreciate the hard work!
How is the noise? I was reading that it's very quiet compared to other. I live in an apartment and wake up early. I could grind the night before, but I like the option to grind in the AM if I forget? ADHD...
Thanks for this video! I really want to get this grinder. I already have a Baratza Encore that is several years old, do you think it's worth getting the Opus? I do pour over, French Press, and Aeropress coffee, not too much espresso.
Hi - I already have a DF64 for my espresso. I make cold brew every week and sometimes a drip machine. I don't want to keep changing my DF64 so am looking for a decent grinder around $200. I was looking at either an Ode Gen 1 or Opus. I have seen mixed comments on which is better for this purpose. I understand the opus is better for espresso, but that would only be a temporary backup if my DF64 breaks. Any insights would be much appreciated. Thanks
Very interesting review. I was looking for a cheaper grinder for when I'm traveling in RV without my big Rocket. I must say that I will consider this one in my options.
There's a mod for Opus to make the adjustment stepless. You can find the instruction on youtube. It might be a huge improvement. Though no one really commented how it's in use.
Nice video. I brew coffee at home in my Techivorm Mochamaster. Was looking at getting a Gen 2 Ode, but thinking this will keep my options open if I ever get into espresso. My current grinder is a Bodem burr grinder that I have had for many years (10-15ish). It still works, but I'm tired of the mess. So Opus or Ode gen 2?
Either grinder is going to be a big step up from that bodum. The ode is a higher quality grinder both in terms of build and brew quality on filter, the opus comes in at almost half the price though. Maybe I should make that comparison video!
@@DaddyGotCoffee I purchased the Opus because it was less expensive and does have the ability to do the finer grinds in case I do move into espresso in the future. It's scheduled to arrive Tuesday.
@@dahveed284 Did you get the Opus? If so, what setting are you using for the moccamaster? Just got mines in today. Trying to find a good starting point so i don't waste coffee.
Hi Daddy!! I bought a budget grinder in India that is on the same base, gives me a consistent on bottomless espresso and the only thing missing in it is a micro adjustment piece like the blue one below. Can you help me get this? The article is a stepped Conical Burr Grinder made by a brand called Budan.
Btw I’m on a 51 mm portafilter with Normcore but for budget espresso freaks like myself, this maybe ground breaking in the coffee market. Big fan of your content and would love a deep dive on the micro adjustment piece that I would probably get 3-D printed if my manufacturer comes up dry.
I looked up to see if I could find a step less mod for this grinder and unfortunately I couldn’t find anything! I would check with your retailer/dealer!
@@DaddyGotCoffee tried already. looks like they are incorporating it on the next version. Thanks for trying and if you are doing a giveaway, your boi ready out here. D-Town, New Delhi represent
I love my grinder fellow made a great product here. I do not regrets buying this at all. Got it for cheap . Its branded from black rifle coffee with theree labrl but brand new for 97.00$ cannoy beat it.
I would be hesitant to recommend any home/consumer grinder for commercial use, including this one. Typically in a setup like that you would want one grinder dedicated for espresso so you didn’t need to re-dial in every time. However, this grinder is so cheap that if you are looking to get started on a shoestring budget, it might be a little slow but it might be able to get you by.
@minikyo5150 As a general rule, never use an appliance specifically made for home use in a commercial setting (the instructions that come with it will say so). There are several reasons for that, but when it comes to electrical appliances one of the reasons often overlooked is the lack of active/passive cooling. Grinders for home use are not built for the use you would expect in a commercial setting. Have a look at commercial grinders used in coffee bars: ever noticed the electrical fans typically built into the back of the casing? Grinding produces quite a bit of heat, and grinding one dose after another during a typical work day at a café produces a lot of heat that needs to be *actively* removed from inside the grinder to prevent overheating and damage. This grinder, since its structural parts and casing are mostly made from plastic, is even worse: there is not even going to be any significant *passive* cooling going on. If you use it in a commercial setting, and it overheats and maybe even causes damage to other equipment or your shop, no product warranty or insurance will cover any losses.
Please make a video about dialing in using the inner burr. I've almost every video and still confused. Even the video made by nick. Would like to see one flowing fast, then adjustment in the inner to get sweet spot. And then adjusting to get a lungo. Something like thay
Hey there! I just bought the Opus but I wish I had watched this video and done more research first! I don’t have an Expresso maker yet and am currently addicted to French Press brewing. Can you do a video on using this grinder for French Press? I’m really a burr grinder beginner! Thanks!
This one is easy! French press is very forgiving, just move the outer dial to the range indicated inside the cap for French press (I don’t have it in front of me) - any setting there should be fine!
@@DaddyGotCoffee I’ve figured it all out, thanks to your video insights! This grinder is so much better than my older Capresso! It’s quiet, fast, and easy to clean and operate! 😊
Any chance we will see review on other entry level (or rather, affordable) grinders? Particularly lesser reviewed units like the Turin SK40. As an aside, I'd love to see shots pulled and timed one click away from being dialed in on either side. So, like, 14 clicks = 20 seconds, 15 = 25 and 16 = 30 (ideally). Or maybe 14 = 20 but 15 = 35. That way we know just how well we can dial in without having to mess with dose. Because sometimes a 27 second shot tastes better than a 25 or 30. I know, I know, budget grinders. Anyway, looking forward to when you get the ESP.
I bought an ascasso Steel dúo pid and the fellow opus grinder. But I didnt get the perfect ratio. Could u help me? In which scale i have to set the opus ?
I watched a video where someone used the Opus and ground close to the finest setting and it choked their espresso pull. So yes, it can go finer than you need for good espresso.
Hello, I have a gaggia classic pro and I want to buy a grinder for 200 dollars. I am between these 3- opus, encore ESP, and smart grinder pro from breville. which one do you recommend me to buy?
This would definitely be a risk when using commercial volumes. I’d say the same for any consumer grinder. But… it’s so cheap it almost feels like taking a chance on. Just be aware (depending on your volume) you might be replacing it in a couple weeks
Well you are correct but volumes might not that much because there is little bit coffee culture over here . Maximum grinding will 100-200 grams a day imo Will it give me consistent grind or should I go with fellow ode gen 1?
Thank you for the Review. Ich hatte mir die Baratza ESP bestellt . Mit dieser ( Baratza ) bin ich leider überhaupt nicht klar gekommen . Hat in jeder Einstellung extrem grob gemahlen ( ich denke jedoch das diese Mühle einen Defekt hatte ) Dann die Lautstärke der Baratza - ooooh - hier wird man dann ganz schnell wach - denn die Mühle ist laut . Andererseits ist jedoch sehr schnell . Naja ich habe die Mühle dann zurück gegeben. Und bestellt habe ich mir schnell dann die FELLOW OPUS . und ich muss wirklich sagen ein Unterschied fast!! Wie Tag und Nacht . Also die Opus ist im Vergleich zur Baratza esp : Wesentlich leiser Fast kein Totraum Einstellung für Espresso passte fast sofort ( etwa bei 3,5 - 4,00 ) Microeinstellung habe ich noch nicht gebraucht. Statische Aufladung - gleich 0 Optik - naja ist Geschmacksache Also insgesamt bin ich mit der FELLOW OPUS sehr zufrieden . Sorry only in German.
Just buy a hand grinder. Really. These "entry level" electric grinders are very frustrating because they don't quite deliver and the retention wastes so much coffee. People shouldn't care that much about plastic on food, but it's not for me to say that. I bought this thinking "Electric is gonna automate the grinding process and save me some time" and i was wrong
@@DaddyGotCoffee Well, I am moving from a manual grinder which I love, but is very difficult with lighter roast which I find myself moving toward. So I don't have a good comparison. Quite a while ago, I used a very very loud grinder that I got rid of due to its noise level. So if it is not too loud, it may be a good addition to the kit.
Great video. Sadly I'm returning ours before we even received it. Poor customer service and business decisions. Plus after all the reviews I've watched today, kinda glad I did. The purpose of getting the Opus was to add another budget grinder to the coffee station and it seems like the ESP edges it out just slightly. I think anyone would call it sad that we made two other coffee gear purchases one and two days later from Asia and we already received those. Fellow is just two states down from us. So sad.
k but how do you think the longevity will be with it? and can it make a cleaner french press than my old Capresso? does it outcompete my Capresso is what i need to know..? i mostly just do french press at home and my Capresso is like 10 years old and falling apart. and i want a more uniform grind
Great questions, first, this will definitely outperform a capresso. As for longevity, fellow is really pushing/promoting the quality of the drivetrain and in my month or so of use the grinder really delivers in this regard. I could not get it to stall out and internally they did simulated 5 years of use without failures. So, we’ll need to see how that translates into real world use but I would say it’s a reasonable bet that this will be a sturdy little grinder over the long term
@@DaddyGotCoffee would the Ode 2 burrs would give me a better more uniform coarse grind than the Opus ? sounds like ppl r saying the Opus doesnt give as good uniformity in grinds..? im not concerned about espresso right now
@@WeAreBullets I’d have to run some more thorough comparison tests but I would guess that yes, you would get higher uniformity. I find the opus gives a really nice body on filter and the ode is a little clearer. The ode also has a sturdier build and price point to match! The anti-static on the gen 2 ode and the new burrs are game changing compared against v1!
I mean... seems good at $200, but... Breville Smart Grinder Pro seems to blow it away. We've had ours for like 4 years now - you need to tap it once in a while if the beans get stuck, but otherwise, it can be fine-tuned right onscreen. Very consistent output & can easily be tuned by by time (.2 second increments), a full range of grind size, 1 or 2 shots... I like the way the opus looks, but couldn't see it replacing the equally-priced Breville for us.
@@androidfarmer8863yes, there's definitely no static issue with the Smartgrinder Pro. But the Smartgrinder Pro is not a single dosing grinder. Especially if you grind darker roasts, there's a lot of retention, and I really mean a lot. After deep-cleaning it several times since I got it, I'm also convinced the way the burr chamber is shaped is a design flaw that makes retention a lot worse.
At this stage I just can't get past the cheap plastic look of this grinder although I know it fits into the lower price bracket however even if I could get past the plastic (and general use scratching of plastic as described in Lance Hendriks review) there's the complicated micro adjustment. Espresso would seem to be a lot simpler using the Encore ESP. Cheers & thanks for the vid.
I watched lances review on the micro adjustment and honestly found it to be very over-complicated against real world use. I get if you are into know the burr gap by microns etc it can be a bit of a mind bender. In practice, I could almost always get a decent shot on a macro step and a drinkable (were I a little less experienced) across several. Typically I’d just dial into the the best macro step then bump the micro one way or the other and be perfectly dialed in. Removing the hopper really isn’t a big deal because it’s a single dosing grinder anyway. But I get that if you’re used to a Comandante red clix or much nicer powered grinder this could seem tedious. I will say the plastic isn’t fellows usual vibe and yes it’s due to the price. It seems like fellow has made the right choices around the gear train unlike the VS3 where I have seen several failures. And yes the ESP is a strong contender. Great to see more grinders in this bracket!
@@DaddyGotCoffee Thanks Daddy for your response. I was really looking forward to an Ode build quality for the new Opus but obviously the price would be higher. Also any closer to reviewing the latest upgraded steam model of the Ascaso Steel Duo PID? Cheers.
@@steph8408I’ve got a unit on it’s way to me but I don’t have it quite yet! Once I do the review will be pretty quick. The major downsides are the 20a power requirement which may or may not be a huge issue for you. Apparently it will run on 15a but the steaming takes longer. Also, more flex on preinfusion programming which is great! Not as much steam power as a big boiler still but much better on electricity, which I like! Thank you for the encouragement! Always chime in with what you want to see, it helps me prioritize my content calendar. I’m working toward higher release cadence as well!
@@DaddyGotCoffee Thanks again Daddy for your prompt reply. I've been hanging in there for several months now regarding whether or not to purchase this machine which just seems to makes a lot of sense to me with the high quality stainless steel water circuits within the thermoblocks so no metal contamination like with brass or copper boilers, no stored boiler water being repeatedly reheated, power savings and very fast heat up time. The upgraded steam model I think has also got PID for both brew & steam however the steam power on the old model you reviewed several months ago was underwhelming so I'm hoping the new model has addressed this. Regarding the 20a power, I live in Australia 230v so not sure whether the AU models need 20a? Looking forward to your thorough review of the latest model Ascaso Steel Duo PID or would you have an alternative choice of machine in mind. Cheers.
Good presentation BUT "plastic has come a long way"? Yes, true, a long way into our cells. If you want to step up the channel (although I haven't researched your channel), be plastic aware and conscious. It is difficult going plastic free but the mere perception that you're interested in a plastic free environment, plus anything having to do with plastic in the coffee world, will draw more attention to you and the why behind what you do. I'm on a journey to eliminate plastic in my life and I need a decent grinder that's reasonably priced. Thanks for your hard work.
dont buy it for espresso you would regret - messy grind size settings which are not granular enough to dial in, lots or retention and thou needs constant maintenance, yes it looks sleek and pretty quiet but those are all the positive moments. For filter maybe, just to grind some beans with no single dosing also maybe but definitely not for espresso
Honestly, the adjustment mechanism is insanely complicated for what it is. I am sure there is a better way. I mean, just look at the description on the Fellow website: Enable micro adjustments on the outer ring. By adjusting the inner ring by one notch, you shift the range of the outer ring by 2/3 (.667) of a notch. Because the outer ring is measured by increments of 1/4 (0.25), utilizing the inner ring enables Opus to get between those increments by 1/6 of a measure. If you really want to geek out: One outer ring adjustment is equivalent to 50 microns of burr height movement. With the inner ring design, you can split those outer adjustments into 3rds, allowing for 16.7 microns of burr adjustment throughout the range. To expand the grind range on Opus. By adjusting the inner ring all the way to the one end or the other, you enable the outer ring to reach setting “0” (1 full setting finer than 1) and “12” (1 full setting coarser than 11). This is because there are a maximum of 6 notches on the inner ring, and 6 inner notches is equivalent to 1 full outer setting.
Solid grinder. Very exciting to see several great options in this price bracket where previously there were none! That being said, while some people will prefer the esp I don’t think that diminishes the value of the opus. Would love to review one though!
Amazing how his eyebrows fits the glases!
Have you done the video on micro adjustments? Would love to watch it. Love your videos and the way you explain things.
A bit late on this, but there's an app for the Opus now, called Beanie, that does the grind size adjustment math for you. You set the desired grind size, and it gives you the macro and micro settings, so you don't have to fiddle with all the calculations. Important, 'cause the micro-adjustment is a bit complicated, based on two-third-steps rather than simple fractional steps, so it can be a bit non-intuitive unless you're good at doing math in your head. Or, if you don't mind voiding your warranty, it's pretty simple to make it stepless by removing a follower on the macro adjustment ring.
Not late at all, just got this grinder in the mail and this was extremely helpful. Specially because I honestly have no clue what I’m doing. Noob here haha. Thanks 👍🏽
But how it works? because each coffee bean have differents grind options, even if it is only for espresso
@@Alfita_uwu It has nothing to do with dialing in specific coffees, it's just for doing the math on the Opus grinder. You have to decide what approximate grind size you want, and the Beanie app will tell you what setting on the Opus to use to get that size. You can go to the various coffee forums and find people sharing recipes for many coffees, including recommendations on grind size.
@@EphemeralTao Thanks you too much for the information!
This video has probably the best FTC disclosure I have ever seen in a video. 👏👏
Thank you!!
Is the video on micro adjustment out ? Cant figure it out at all!
you left out: it's quiet. if early-morning grinding is waking the fam, this can resolve that. also, the espresso catch works for Moka pots!
Just got mine today. Can’t wait to get it going. It would be great if you could show how the dosing compartments on the lid work and the micro adjusting you mentioned.
A grinder like this one would be a a great acquisition since I am not consistent with my brewing methods and everyday I wake up craving something different 😂. I would love to see a video about the micro adjustment!
It would be great for that! Thanks for saying so! I will put it on the list!
The Baratza Preciso did this years ago with the same size burrs. Happy to see more companies enter the market!
Have you seen baratzas latest offering, the ESP? 👀
Great informative video.. would love an in depth video on the micro adjustments
Noted! Thank you!
Well done !
Thank you bro!!
Thanks for the review! I used a friend’s ode gen 1 and while it was pretty, its limitations were obvious. Gen 2 is in a price range where there are many other options and upgrading burrs can really jack the cost up further.
I ended up finding a lightly used opus online for $100 (!!) and am so impressed with its capabilities. The plastic doesn’t look that cheap on the counter either. It’s not like I’m carrying the grinder around with me like and accessory. Really lovely user experience and incredible value for what it can do!
Totally agreed! Great find at that price!!
I just bought one. I'm happy to have it. I'll let you know how it goes.
I was trying to decide between the Fellow Opus and the Baratza Encore ESP. I mainly wanted a drip coffee grinder but wanted the capability to do espresso grind. In ended up buying the Baratza Encore ESP mainly due to the brand track record, sturdiness and parts availability. I liked the looks of the Fellow but honestly this is only their second model and Baratza has been going for a lot longer. I’ve also had more luck with Taiwan produced items which Baratza is vs mainland China where the Fellow is produced. My brother in law has the regular Encore and it’s been going strong for 6-7yrs
Thanks for making the points about plastic not necessarily being a bad thing. It seems like a lot of people are making a big point about how it _feels_ like much lower quality than the Ode, as in literally the feel of it in the hand. But who is holding the grinder while they use it? It always seemed like a strange point to bring up for a product like this.
Anyway, great review, great channel, I certainly subbed.
Right??? Too funny. People be like “WTF! This feels cheaper compared to this other grinder that’s almost twice the price?!”
Umm.. that’s because it’s cheaper. 😂 who cares?? 😂
Thank you!!
I saw on another channel that the 1 -2 setting for espresso is way off because they make the range wider for longevity as the burrs wear. I just got mine and had to move to 4-5 for anything close to a decent shot. Would love a video on dialing it in from box opens
I'm with you - I'm around 5 straight out of the box.
Brilliant. Thank you!
Thank you for the review! I've watched 3 other reviews now and I'm still leaning towards this grinder because I typically do filter brews with my V60, Aeropress, and Origami. Plus I find the aesthetic more appealing than the ESP. This price point is about as much as I want to spend right now, and it would still be an upgrade from my previous grinder that was $100. Also, your IG content is great! Thank you!
You’re welcome! And thank you!!
I have this grinder and an Ascaso duo PID plus. I cannot dial in the grind size however. Based on the Fellow recommendation, I should set size to somewhere between 1 and 2. For me, anything below 3.5 causes the OPV to open. When get close to 4, I get channeling without getting the pressure lower than the default 11 bar.
Is there something wrong with the grinder or my Ascaso machine? What settings did you use with this grinder and your Ascaso machine? I appreciate any help.
Yes a specific video on how to use the dialing on the Opus would be wonderful.
great video . looking for my first grinder . thinking of between the opus or the 1zepresso zp6 .. any recomendations be more than welcome thank u in advance
would love an in depth video on the micro adjustments
It’s on the list ☺️
Hi Justin,
Great review my man!
I just had a couple of questions for ya. What setting number did you use for the espresso grind? also, what was your perfect setting number for a espresso using medium roast beans. Thank you in advanced!
I was around 2 for most of my medium roast espressos!
Great video! I can't tell, is there a hopper where you can keep several shots worth of beans....or must I put one shot's worth at a time?
You could keep several shots worth in there but it’s really designed as a single doser. The time settings are locked so getting it to grind the perfect amount for a shot and then stop is pretty much impossible unless you do it manually
Would love a video on making micro adjustments!
This one is on my list!!
Please do! I need one from someone who isn't prejudiced against it right out of the box.
Great review. Would love to also see mico adjustments video!
Thank you!
Wil you do a video on the micro dosing?
Super helpful review! It helped me with my decision to replace my lagom mini.
Yes pleaseeee do a full video tutorial on this grinder!! Also love your barista set up. I’m working on getting my husband a set up like yours for Father’s Day!
Nice review Justin! I always appreciate your thorough coverage.
You’re always such an encouragement! Thank you!
Love your work. I would love a video on how to better use this grinder. Specifically, I struggle to get good espresso between 1 and 2 on this grinder. If you have an existing video, let me know.
Thank you for the review! Does it grind fine enough for Turkish/ibrik coffee?
I haven’t tried it but I did see another reviewer who said it would go that fine
Thanks for the review. Would you say this was as quiet as the Ode when grinding?
Let me double check this, but based on memory I would say they are close in volume.
This video has made my mind up. i am going to purchase this!
Great review! I'm definitely interested now. Love the concerns you raised but it's hard to hold em since as you said, it's price point
Thank you justin!!
How do you clean the burrs? I haven’t been able to get the inner ring out to clean them.
You should just be able to lift the wire handle on the outer burr, twist, and lift the burr out
Humm. I’ve tried that several times. The wire gate just comes completely off.
Lovely review! Would really like that micro-adjustment video too!! :)
Ok noted! I saw some other videos that really made it super complicated - it’s actually pretty easy - I’ll put this one on the list!
I'd love to see the micro adjustments video too.
This looked like an ideal first time espresso grinder, until Baratza released the ESP a week later and instantly silenced the buzz around this. This does look better though.
The baratza esp is definitely a strong contender in this price bracket. IMO it makes it even more exciting that there are TWO new grinders in a market segment that basically didn’t exist before and was sorely needed!
The ESP has some strong advantages with dialing in and I’m trying to get one to review. The Opus is still a very strong option. I think I prefer the overall workflow and looks of the opus - those are big factors for me as well.
Hit me with any questions!
@@DaddyGotCoffee Daddy with respect, how can you prefer the overall workflow and looks of the Opus over the ESP? The dialling-in workflow for the outer & inner micro adjustment is definitely more work with the Opus compared to the simple & clever adjustment on the ESP and in my opinion the design of the ESP is honest and not mutton dressed up as lamb like with the Opus. I've never owned an Encore however I reckon an ESP would be a good thing overall and definitely my pick over the Opus. Of course this is just my opinion and it's great to see these reviews coming through to get everybody's comments. Many thanks & cheers.
@@steph8408 Fair question. I've not used an ESP but I do have one on the way - so you can expect a proper review, and then a comparison once I have used it. As for workflow, I was able to dial in reasonable shots (for most entry level users) using only the macro steps. And the micro adjustment is really not that complicated to use in real world use, I'd be fine to make this adjustment once per bag. Would I want to switch coffees daily with this grinder? No. But I was usually dialed on on any bag (I tried many) within 3 shots.
More than that though, from what I have seen of the ESP catch bin configuration the opus has a much better system here, especially once you account for the ionizer. The ESP was also designed as a hopper style ginder first, and this is not my preference for workflow. As for looks, this one is totally subjective and I can transparently say I much prefer the design of the Opus as an appliance. This is not going to be a big factor for everyone and some might disagree - however, the reality is a grinder spends more time on your counter idle than it does running, so you better like looking at it.
I reserve the right to change my mind after using both! This is just based on watching other reviews of the ESP:)
@@DaddyGotCoffee Thanks for your reply Daddy. Look forward to your ESP review comparison.
@@steph8408esp is loud, has a lot of retention you can't get out and builds static.
Opus downside is the adjustment system. But it's not a rocket science
Any recommendations on what number to start for medium roasts using a Technivorm Moccamaster?
I would probably start at 8 and see how that does with your coffee!
@@DaddyGotCoffee I tried 6... definitely seemed too fine lol. I will give 8 a shot. thank you!
@@MrCg006 no problem! Happy to help!!
I own eureka mignon specialita dedicated for espresso grinder. Now looking for dedicated pour over grinder , is opus worth to get ? Or must odes gen 2 which double the price from where I come from.
Great review but would've liked to hear comments on noise level or loudness of the grinder while in use
I did this in my recent ESP/Opus comparison 💪
@@DaddyGotCoffee Cool thanks for the prompt reply! I checked it out and really like the inclusion of using the decibel meter which gives me an idea of loudness but would have loved to hear the actual grinder in action with beans being ground. Hope I don't come off as nit-picky but I bought a Silenzio grinder because of how quiet it is but it's not great for switching between espresso and filter so I'm considering the Opus. Appreciate the hard work!
How about which press settings to use ?!
How is the noise? I was reading that it's very quiet compared to other. I live in an apartment and wake up early. I could grind the night before, but I like the option to grind in the AM if I forget? ADHD...
Thanks for this video! I really want to get this grinder. I already have a Baratza Encore that is several years old, do you think it's worth getting the Opus? I do pour over, French Press, and Aeropress coffee, not too much espresso.
could you please do a video on the Opus?
Hi - I already have a DF64 for my espresso. I make cold brew every week and sometimes a drip machine. I don't want to keep changing my DF64 so am looking for a decent grinder around $200. I was looking at either an Ode Gen 1 or Opus. I have seen mixed comments on which is better for this purpose. I understand the opus is better for espresso, but that would only be a temporary backup if my DF64 breaks. Any insights would be much appreciated. Thanks
Very interesting review. I was looking for a cheaper grinder for when I'm traveling in RV without my big Rocket. I must say that I will consider this one in my options.
There's a mod for Opus to make the adjustment stepless. You can find the instruction on youtube.
It might be a huge improvement. Though no one really commented how it's in use.
Nice video. I brew coffee at home in my Techivorm Mochamaster. Was looking at getting a Gen 2 Ode, but thinking this will keep my options open if I ever get into espresso. My current grinder is a Bodem burr grinder that I have had for many years (10-15ish). It still works, but I'm tired of the mess.
So Opus or Ode gen 2?
Either grinder is going to be a big step up from that bodum. The ode is a higher quality grinder both in terms of build and brew quality on filter, the opus comes in at almost half the price though. Maybe I should make that comparison video!
@@DaddyGotCoffee I purchased the Opus because it was less expensive and does have the ability to do the finer grinds in case I do move into espresso in the future. It's scheduled to arrive Tuesday.
@@dahveed284 Did you get the Opus? If so, what setting are you using for the moccamaster? Just got mines in today. Trying to find a good starting point so i don't waste coffee.
@@MrCg006I also have the Mocha master! What settings are you typically using? Thanks!
Hi Daddy!! I bought a budget grinder in India that is on the same base, gives me a consistent on bottomless espresso and the only thing missing in it is a micro adjustment piece like the blue one below. Can you help me get this? The article is a stepped Conical Burr Grinder made by a brand called Budan.
Btw I’m on a 51 mm portafilter with Normcore but for budget espresso freaks like myself, this maybe ground breaking in the coffee market. Big fan of your content and would love a deep dive on the micro adjustment piece that I would probably get 3-D printed if my manufacturer comes up dry.
I looked up to see if I could find a step less mod for this grinder and unfortunately I couldn’t find anything! I would check with your retailer/dealer!
@@DaddyGotCoffee tried already. looks like they are incorporating it on the next version. Thanks for trying and if you are doing a giveaway, your boi ready out here. D-Town, New Delhi represent
I love my grinder fellow made a great product here. I do not regrets buying this at all. Got it for cheap . Its branded from black rifle coffee with theree labrl but brand new for 97.00$ cannoy beat it.
It’s astonishing to me that a 10:39 video exists without grinding a single coffee bean to test it
hi, may i please ask if this grinder will be the best/optimal grinder for a takeaway/pick-up only coffee shop that sells espresso & filter?
I would be hesitant to recommend any home/consumer grinder for commercial use, including this one. Typically in a setup like that you would want one grinder dedicated for espresso so you didn’t need to re-dial in every time. However, this grinder is so cheap that if you are looking to get started on a shoestring budget, it might be a little slow but it might be able to get you by.
@minikyo5150 As a general rule, never use an appliance specifically made for home use in a commercial setting (the instructions that come with it will say so). There are several reasons for that, but when it comes to electrical appliances one of the reasons often overlooked is the lack of active/passive cooling. Grinders for home use are not built for the use you would expect in a commercial setting. Have a look at commercial grinders used in coffee bars: ever noticed the electrical fans typically built into the back of the casing? Grinding produces quite a bit of heat, and grinding one dose after another during a typical work day at a café produces a lot of heat that needs to be *actively* removed from inside the grinder to prevent overheating and damage. This grinder, since its structural parts and casing are mostly made from plastic, is even worse: there is not even going to be any significant *passive* cooling going on. If you use it in a commercial setting, and it overheats and maybe even causes damage to other equipment or your shop, no product warranty or insurance will cover any losses.
micro adjustment video please! :)
Can you do a video showing how you dial in espresso with the fellow opus and ascaso? My shots take way to long.
I paid 670 after tax for my DF 83 and I'm loving it! This fellow opus looks a lot like my Breville smart grinder pro in it's design? 🤔
Yup they do go on sale for about that! Solid deal!
Please make a video about dialing in using the inner burr. I've almost every video and still confused. Even the video made by nick. Would like to see one flowing fast, then adjustment in the inner to get sweet spot. And then adjusting to get a lungo. Something like thay
I saw Emilee Bryant released a short showing this. I saw it on Instagram, not sure if it’s on here
@@DaddyGotCoffee thanks for the lead will check this one
Hey there! I just bought the Opus but I wish I had watched this video and done more research first!
I don’t have an Expresso maker yet and am currently addicted to French Press brewing.
Can you do a video on using this grinder for French Press?
I’m really a burr grinder beginner!
Thanks!
This one is easy! French press is very forgiving, just move the outer dial to the range indicated inside the cap for French press (I don’t have it in front of me) - any setting there should be fine!
@@DaddyGotCoffee I’ve figured it all out, thanks to your video insights! This grinder is so much better than my older Capresso!
It’s quiet, fast, and easy to clean and operate! 😊
@@alifewithhorses-meryllynn I’m so glad!
Did you ever make the video for using it for espresso?
Which is better, this one or baratza?
idk man . I got my eureka mingnon manuale for 200$ and it`s amazing in both espresso and brew :)
I have to ask, where did you get one for 200 bucks? 👀 I haven’t used one yet!
Any chance we will see review on other entry level (or rather, affordable) grinders? Particularly lesser reviewed units like the Turin SK40.
As an aside, I'd love to see shots pulled and timed one click away from being dialed in on either side. So, like, 14 clicks = 20 seconds, 15 = 25 and 16 = 30 (ideally). Or maybe 14 = 20 but 15 = 35. That way we know just how well we can dial in without having to mess with dose. Because sometimes a 27 second shot tastes better than a 25 or 30. I know, I know, budget grinders.
Anyway, looking forward to when you get the ESP.
How much coffee does it hold?
I bought an ascasso Steel dúo pid and the fellow opus grinder. But I didnt get the perfect ratio. Could u help me? In which scale i have to set the opus ?
Would nice if got video for dialing
Awesome video!
Thank you!
I watched a video where someone used the Opus and ground close to the finest setting and it choked their espresso pull. So yes, it can go finer than you need for good espresso.
Totally! Mine chokes out when I push it as fine as it will go. Definitely more than capable - crazy to see grinders like this coming out now!!
Hello, I have a gaggia classic pro and I want to buy a grinder for 200 dollars. I am between these 3- opus, encore ESP, and smart grinder pro from breville. which one do you recommend me to buy?
did he ever make the video on how to get the grinder to an espresso grind?
Hey there
I am starting coldbrew business
Will it be good enough to start with?
This would definitely be a risk when using commercial volumes. I’d say the same for any consumer grinder. But… it’s so cheap it almost feels like taking a chance on. Just be aware (depending on your volume) you might be replacing it in a couple weeks
Well you are correct but volumes might not that much because there is little bit coffee culture over here .
Maximum grinding will 100-200 grams a day imo
Will it give me consistent grind or should I go with fellow ode gen 1?
Thank you for the Review.
Ich hatte mir die Baratza ESP bestellt . Mit dieser ( Baratza ) bin ich leider überhaupt nicht klar gekommen . Hat in jeder Einstellung extrem grob gemahlen ( ich denke jedoch das diese Mühle einen Defekt hatte )
Dann die Lautstärke der Baratza - ooooh - hier wird man dann ganz schnell wach - denn die Mühle ist laut .
Andererseits ist jedoch sehr schnell . Naja ich habe die Mühle dann zurück gegeben.
Und bestellt habe ich mir schnell dann die FELLOW OPUS .
und ich muss wirklich sagen ein Unterschied fast!! Wie Tag und Nacht .
Also die Opus ist im Vergleich zur Baratza esp :
Wesentlich leiser
Fast kein Totraum
Einstellung für Espresso passte fast sofort ( etwa bei 3,5 - 4,00 ) Microeinstellung habe ich noch nicht gebraucht.
Statische Aufladung - gleich 0
Optik - naja ist Geschmacksache
Also insgesamt bin ich mit der FELLOW OPUS sehr zufrieden .
Sorry only in German.
Does anyone know of a good grinder that doesn't let the beans or grinds contact plastic and isn't $1500?
Just buy a hand grinder. Really. These "entry level" electric grinders are very frustrating because they don't quite deliver and the retention wastes so much coffee. People shouldn't care that much about plastic on food, but it's not for me to say that.
I bought this thinking "Electric is gonna automate the grinding process and save me some time" and i was wrong
you should do rdt regardless of static . it has been proven ti help with more than just static
That paper wasn't actually released when I recorded this video - but yes, there has been some research around this since then
Hoffmann's glasses give you instatnt +10 credibility
If you can make a video using it, I would really appreciate it very much!
Fellow opus vs MiiCoffee DF54???
Came for the review, stayed for the Shorty’s hat. 🤙🏼
Still waiting on that micro adjustment dial in
I didn’t hear anything about the noise level of the grinder. I’m looking for one that is quieter than average
I would say this one is reasonably quiet but I’ve also used some very loud grinders. What are you comparing to?
@@DaddyGotCoffee Well, I am moving from a manual grinder which I love, but is very difficult with lighter roast which I find myself moving toward. So I don't have a good comparison. Quite a while ago, I used a very very loud grinder that I got rid of due to its noise level. So if it is not too loud, it may be a good addition to the kit.
Great video. Sadly I'm returning ours before we even received it. Poor customer service and business decisions. Plus after all the reviews I've watched today, kinda glad I did. The purpose of getting the Opus was to add another budget grinder to the coffee station and it seems like the ESP edges it out just slightly. I think anyone would call it sad that we made two other coffee gear purchases one and two days later from Asia and we already received those. Fellow is just two states down from us. So sad.
so sorry to hear that!
k but how do you think the longevity will be with it? and can it make a cleaner french press than my old Capresso? does it outcompete my Capresso is what i need to know..? i mostly just do french press at home and my Capresso is like 10 years old and falling apart. and i want a more uniform grind
Great questions, first, this will definitely outperform a capresso. As for longevity, fellow is really pushing/promoting the quality of the drivetrain and in my month or so of use the grinder really delivers in this regard. I could not get it to stall out and internally they did simulated 5 years of use without failures.
So, we’ll need to see how that translates into real world use but I would say it’s a reasonable bet that this will be a sturdy little grinder over the long term
@@DaddyGotCoffee would the Ode 2 burrs would give me a better more uniform coarse grind than the Opus ? sounds like ppl r saying the Opus doesnt give as good uniformity in grinds..? im not concerned about espresso right now
@@WeAreBullets I’d have to run some more thorough comparison tests but I would guess that yes, you would get higher uniformity. I find the opus gives a really nice body on filter and the ode is a little clearer. The ode also has a sturdier build and price point to match! The anti-static on the gen 2 ode and the new burrs are game changing compared against v1!
Did you make the micro adjustments video? I'm having a hard time here :/
i think im going to get this
I mean... seems good at $200, but... Breville Smart Grinder Pro seems to blow it away. We've had ours for like 4 years now - you need to tap it once in a while if the beans get stuck, but otherwise, it can be fine-tuned right onscreen. Very consistent output & can easily be tuned by by time (.2 second increments), a full range of grind size, 1 or 2 shots... I like the way the opus looks, but couldn't see it replacing the equally-priced Breville for us.
I only see horrible long term reviews on the Breville grinder lineup. Typical lifespan 2-3 years.
@@guest00791 luckily, we’ve had ours for over 4, daily use. Fingers crossed. No static ;)
@@androidfarmer8863yes, there's definitely no static issue with the Smartgrinder Pro. But the Smartgrinder Pro is not a single dosing grinder. Especially if you grind darker roasts, there's a lot of retention, and I really mean a lot. After deep-cleaning it several times since I got it, I'm also convinced the way the burr chamber is shaped is a design flaw that makes retention a lot worse.
My Encore is basically all plastic. It's over ten years old.
PLEASE DO A MICRO ADJUSTING/DIAL IN VIDEO
At this stage I just can't get past the cheap plastic look of this grinder although I know it fits into the lower price bracket however even if I could get past the plastic (and general use scratching of plastic as described in Lance Hendriks review) there's the complicated micro adjustment. Espresso would seem to be a lot simpler using the Encore ESP. Cheers & thanks for the vid.
I watched lances review on the micro adjustment and honestly found it to be very over-complicated against real world use. I get if you are into know the burr gap by microns etc it can be a bit of a mind bender. In practice, I could almost always get a decent shot on a macro step and a drinkable (were I a little less experienced) across several. Typically I’d just dial into the the best macro step then bump the micro one way or the other and be perfectly dialed in. Removing the hopper really isn’t a big deal because it’s a single dosing grinder anyway.
But I get that if you’re used to a Comandante red clix or much nicer powered grinder this could seem tedious.
I will say the plastic isn’t fellows usual vibe and yes it’s due to the price. It seems like fellow has made the right choices around the gear train unlike the VS3 where I have seen several failures. And yes the ESP is a strong contender. Great to see more grinders in this bracket!
@@DaddyGotCoffee Thanks Daddy for your response. I was really looking forward to an Ode build quality for the new Opus but obviously the price would be higher. Also any closer to reviewing the latest upgraded steam model of the Ascaso Steel Duo PID? Cheers.
@@steph8408I’ve got a unit on it’s way to me but I don’t have it quite yet! Once I do the review will be pretty quick. The major downsides are the 20a power requirement which may or may not be a huge issue for you. Apparently it will run on 15a but the steaming takes longer. Also, more flex on preinfusion programming which is great! Not as much steam power as a big boiler still but much better on electricity, which I like!
Thank you for the encouragement! Always chime in with what you want to see, it helps me prioritize my content calendar. I’m working toward higher release cadence as well!
@@DaddyGotCoffee Thanks again Daddy for your prompt reply. I've been hanging in there for several months now regarding whether or not to purchase this machine which just seems to makes a lot of sense to me with the high quality stainless steel water circuits within the thermoblocks so no metal contamination like with brass or copper boilers, no stored boiler water being repeatedly reheated, power savings and very fast heat up time. The upgraded steam model I think has also got PID for both brew & steam however the steam power on the old model you reviewed several months ago was underwhelming so I'm hoping the new model has addressed this. Regarding the 20a power, I live in Australia 230v so not sure whether the AU models need 20a? Looking forward to your thorough review of the latest model Ascaso Steel Duo PID or would you have an alternative choice of machine in mind. Cheers.
@@steph8408 that’s a great question! I will reach out to the Ascaso team and find out prior to filming!
According to chart espresso is between 1 and 3, pay attention to markup on the lid
Good presentation BUT "plastic has come a long way"? Yes, true, a long way into our cells. If you want to step up the channel (although I haven't researched your channel), be plastic aware and conscious. It is difficult going plastic free but the mere perception that you're interested in a plastic free environment, plus anything having to do with plastic in the coffee world, will draw more attention to you and the why behind what you do. I'm on a journey to eliminate plastic in my life and I need a decent grinder that's reasonably priced. Thanks for your hard work.
Sweeet~❤
Thank you!
dont buy it for espresso you would regret - messy grind size settings which are not granular enough to dial in, lots or retention and thou needs constant maintenance, yes it looks sleek and pretty quiet but those are all the positive moments. For filter maybe, just to grind some beans with no single dosing also maybe but definitely not for espresso
Honestly, the adjustment mechanism is insanely complicated for what it is. I am sure there is a better way. I mean, just look at the description on the Fellow website:
Enable micro adjustments on the outer ring.
By adjusting the inner ring by one notch, you shift the range of the outer ring by 2/3 (.667) of a notch. Because the outer ring is measured by increments of 1/4 (0.25), utilizing the inner ring enables Opus to get between those increments by 1/6 of a measure.
If you really want to geek out: One outer ring adjustment is equivalent to 50 microns of burr height movement. With the inner ring design, you can split those outer adjustments into 3rds, allowing for 16.7 microns of burr adjustment throughout the range.
To expand the grind range on Opus.
By adjusting the inner ring all the way to the one end or the other, you enable the outer ring to reach setting “0” (1 full setting finer than 1) and “12” (1 full setting coarser than 11). This is because there are a maximum of 6 notches on the inner ring, and 6 inner notches is equivalent to 1 full outer setting.
Baratza ESP
Solid grinder. Very exciting to see several great options in this price bracket where previously there were none! That being said, while some people will prefer the esp I don’t think that diminishes the value of the opus. Would love to review one though!
Who the hell is this Hoffman lookalike ripoff lmao
What a pack of influencer lies. 500 gets you a great do it all grinder now.
Can’t grind into the portafilter. No thanks
Durability? It’s all plastic. 1and 2 not that great. Nope nope nope 👎
JUNK DO NOT BUY, REVIEW IS FULL OF BS
LOL u r using coffee machine for 2.5K bucks and demosntrating a chinese plastic grinder which will die in 1/2y after every day use
Lol. How would you prefer I demonstrate it? Also, to date I have not heard of one Opus failure.