Bodum 1 EA Bistro Electric Burr Coffee Grinder : My Review and Recommendation

As a coffee enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for a good home burr grinder that can deliver consistent grinds for better flavor extraction. The Bodum 1 EA Bistro caught my eye with its sleek design and conical burr grinding mechanism. After taking it for a test run, I’m ready to share my in-depth review on whether this grinder is worth your money.

Overview

The Bodum 1 EA Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder is an electric burr coffee grinder made of borosilicate glass, steel, plastic, rubber and silicone. It has a 7.75oz bean hopper capacity and 12 adjustable grind settings suitable for everything from espresso to French Press. The conical stainless steel burrs crushed beans instead of chopping them, helping preserve aroma and flavor.

Design and Build Quality:

The Bodum 1 EA Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder features a stylish matte black rubber exterior with red accents on the buttons and logo. The grounds catcher is made of durable, thermal shock resistant borosilicate glass. The bean hopper lid and grounds catcher create a tight seal for minimal mess. Overall fit and finish is excellent with attention to ergonomics.

Ease of Set Up:

The Bodum 1 EA Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder comes fully assembled out of the box. Just add beans, plug it in, select grind size and press start - very straightforward. The manual provides clear guidance too.

Ease of Use:

With preset grind times and push button operation, the Bodum 1 EA Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder is simple to use. The grinding starts and stops automatically. Changing the timer or grind settings is intuitive. The non-slip base keeps it in place during use.

Conical Burr Grinding

Unlike blade grinders that chop beans unevenly, the Bodum Bistro uses conical burrs to crush them consistently. This results in a uniform grind size, which is essential for optimal flavor extraction during brewing. Whether you prefer a fine grind for espresso or a coarse grind for French press, the burrs deliver consistent results, ensuring your coffee tastes its best.

12 Adjustable Grind Settings:

With 12 grind settings, the Bodum Bistro offers versatility for various brewing methods. You can easily adjust the grind size from fine to coarse by twisting the bean hopper. This flexibility allows you to experiment and find the perfect setting for your preferred coffee drink, whether it’s a strong espresso, a smooth pour-over, or a full-bodied French press.

Preset Timer for Precise Dosing:

The Bodum Bistro features a preset timer that allows you to grind the exact amount of coffee you need. The timer can be set from 5 to 20 seconds, and it remembers your last setting for convenience. This feature ensures you won’t waste any beans and helps you achieve consistent results every time you brew.

Static-Free Glass Catcher:

The Bodum Bistro comes with a borosilicate glass catcher that reduces static cling, making it easier to transfer the coffee grounds to your brewing device. The glass is also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. This thoughtful design feature minimizes mess and ensures a smooth brewing experience.

Friction Clutch Protection:

The Bodum Bistro is equipped with a friction clutch that protects the grinding gear if small stones or debris get caught. This feature prevents damage to the grinder and ensures its longevity, giving you peace of mind and saving you from potential repair costs.

Generous 7.75 oz Capacity:

The Bodum Bistro has a bean hopper capacity of 7.75 ounces, which is enough to grind beans for multiple cups of coffee. This generous capacity is convenient for daily use and eliminates the need for frequent refilling.

Consistency:

The grind size remains very consistent between back to back cycles. Grounds evenly fill the catcher.

Cleaning Difficulty:

The bean hopper and grounds catcher detach easily for cleaning. A quick rinse or brushing keeps it fresh.

Durability:

Seems well-made but probably not as rugged as commercial grinders. The 1 year warranty provides some peace of mind.

Extra Features:

The built-in timer and multi-function hopper lid add convenience. The lid has fill lines for dosing.

Value Added:

The timed grinding and grounds catcher offer useful functionality beyond basic grinding.

Noise Level:

Much quieter than bladed grinders, it produces a low hum during grinding. You can hold a conversation next to it. The grounds catcher dampens noise.

Safety:

The short power cord prevents countertop hazards. All parts attach securely. Rubber feet hold it in place during use.

Power Rating:

The 160W motor provides sufficient grinding power. Unknown if it has an auto shut-off feature.

Maintenance and Cost:

No regular maintenance required beyond cleaning. No need for replacement filters or parts with normal use.

Brand Heritage:

Bodum is known for well-designed European coffee equipment. Founded in 1944, it has 70+ years of kitchenware expertise.

Ideal Use Cases:

The Bodum 1 EA Bistro burr grinder allows coffee aficionados to unlock fuller flavor and aroma from beans through uniform grinding. It’s perfect for use with drip coffee, pour over, French press, and espresso preparation. The precise grind size control lets you optimize extraction for any brew method. It’s compact enough for small kitchens yet delivers commercial-grade performance.

Value:

Given the impressive performance, stylish design and brand reputation, the Bodum 1 EA Bistro burr grinder represents an outstanding value. For under $100, it’s hard to find another electric burr grinder that can match its quality, precision and ease of use. The 5-year warranty provides great peace of mind. It’s a worthwhile investment for coffee lovers.

Conclusion

Overall the Bodum 1 EA Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder is an excellent burr grinder for home use. It delivers even grinds for great flavor with low fuss. The aesthetics, ease of use and quiet operation make this an appliance you’ll want to leave out. For the price, I don’t think you can find a better looking or performing electric burr grinder. I highly recommend the Bodum 1 EA Bistro to anyone looking to upgrade from bladed grinding. It makes a wonderful addition to any home coffee bar.