The Capresso 560 Infinity Conical Burr Grinder has become a staple in my kitchen, and after years of use, I’m ready to share my in-depth experience. This review delves into its strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if it’s the right grinder for your coffee journey.
For years, I struggled with inconsistent coffee grounds from a blade grinder, resulting in bitter, uneven brews. The thought of consistently delicious coffee seemed impossible until I considered a burr grinder. Not only would this upgrade solve my brew problems, but it would also elevate my daily coffee experience significantly, transforming my mornings.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Burr Grinder
Burr grinders excel at producing uniform coffee grounds, crucial for optimal flavour extraction. However, not everyone needs a burr grinder. If you’re a casual coffee drinker who prioritizes speed and simplicity over ultimate flavour, a simple blade grinder might suffice. Conversely, serious coffee enthusiasts who value precision and consistency will find a burr grinder indispensable. Before buying, consider your budget, desired grind size range (espresso requires finer grinds than French press), and the grinder’s capacity and ease of cleaning.
Introducing the Capresso 560 Infinity Conical Burr Grinder
The Capresso 560 Infinity boasts commercial-grade, solid steel conical burrs. It promises consistent grinding from ultrafine Turkish to coarse French press settings. The package includes the grinder, a cleaning brush, and two removable containers (one for beans, one for grounds). Compared to its predecessors, the 560 Infinity offers improved cleaning access thanks to a removable upper burr. While it’s not the market leader in terms of high-end features, it offers exceptional value for its price point. This grinder is ideal for those who value consistent grinds, ease of use, and want a step up from a blade grinder without breaking the bank. It’s not, however, ideal for high-volume use in commercial settings.
- Pros: Consistent grinds, wide grind range, durable construction, relatively quiet operation, easy cleaning (with some effort).
- Cons: Somewhat basic timer mechanism, plastic parts feel less premium than the metal burrs, static cling can be an issue.
Unpacking the Features and Benefits of the Capresso 560
Precision Conical Burr Grinding: The Heart of the Machine
The Capresso 560 Infinity’s core strength lies in its commercial-grade conical burrs. Unlike blade grinders that chop beans unevenly, these burrs crush beans consistently, producing uniform particle sizes. This evenness significantly impacts coffee flavour. The result is a more balanced cup with a cleaner taste, free from the bitterness often caused by overly fine or coarse grounds. The precision grind enhances extraction, allowing for a more complete release of coffee oils and flavour compounds.
Grind Size Adjustment: Tailoring Your Brew
The grinder offers a wide range of grind sizes, from the ultrafine needed for Turkish coffee to the coarse grind suitable for French press. The adjustment mechanism is simple to use, allowing for precise control over particle size. This versatility lets you perfect your coffee based on your preferred brewing method. I’ve experimented extensively with various settings and have consistently found it easy to dial in the perfect grind for any coffee type, regardless of bean type or roast level.
Gear Reduction Motor: Quiet & Cool Operation
The Capresso 560 Infinity employs a gear reduction motor, resulting in slower burr rotation. This design offers several significant advantages. Firstly, the grinder is surprisingly quiet, a welcome change from the noisy clatter of blade grinders. Secondly, the lower speed minimizes heat generation during grinding, thereby preserving the volatile aroma compounds within the coffee beans and contributing to a more flavourful cup.
Large Capacity: Handling Ample Beans
The 8.8-ounce bean hopper and 4-ounce ground coffee container are sizeable enough for multiple brews, minimizing the need for frequent refills. This is a great feature for larger households or those who enjoy brewing multiple pots of coffee daily. The removable containers also make cleaning easier and more thorough, preventing old coffee grounds from contaminating fresh beans.
Cleaning and Maintenance: A Closer Look
While cleaning isn’t overly difficult, it does require a bit of effort. The removable upper burr allows for easy access to the grinding chamber, but it requires careful cleaning with a brush to remove residual coffee grounds. I found that a stiffer brush than the one provided was helpful. Regular cleaning prevents grounds from building up and affecting the quality of future grinds. Removing the upper burr requires care to avoid accidentally putting it in upside down – a common mistake according to online forums.
Addressing the Downsides: Static & the Timer
The grinder does suffer from static cling, common among many burr grinders. However, this is easily mitigated by grounding the unit using a wire or applying conductive tape (as described in some user reviews). The spring-loaded timer is also a point of contention for some users; while functional, it’s less precise than an electronic timer. This hasn’t been a major issue for me, but it’s worth noting if you require absolute precision in grind timing.
What Other Coffee Lovers Are Saying
Online reviews consistently praise the Capresso 560 Infinity’s consistent grinding and wide grind range. Many users highlight the durability and quiet operation. However, some reviews mention challenges related to static and the basic timer mechanism. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive feedback validates its performance and value.
Final Verdict: Is the Capresso 560 Right for You?
If inconsistent coffee grounds and subpar flavour have plagued your coffee routine, the Capresso 560 Infinity Conical Burr Grinder offers a compelling solution. Its consistent grinding, wide grind size adjustment, quiet operation, and relatively easy cleaning make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an upgrade from a blade grinder. While some minor drawbacks exist (the timer and static cling), these are easily manageable. To experience the difference freshly ground beans make, click here to check out the Capresso 560 Infinity today. You won’t regret the upgrade!