There Are Pandas, and Then There Are Pandas.
And this isn't either of them! The Pandas we're talking about here, are watches, not bears. And what got me thinking about them (again) was a link posted this morning by @cm.rook who pointed a few of us to the very attractive (and not terribly priced) Yema "Rallygraph" Panda which, in it's most traditional arrangement, looks like the one on the left, but can also be had in the version on the right: The model on the left is a true Panda, while the model on the right is called a reverse Panda. The reason for that distinction is clear--Panda bears, only come in the first arrangement. Now at this point, everyone should be thinking about the most well-know Panda, The Rolex Panda, which is actually a Daytona, and among Rolex Daytonas, the most famous of which is the Paul Newman Daytona, which was famous first, because it was Paul's, and second because it sold at auction for $17.8 million (US Dollars). The story of that auction is well-known so I'll only...
Nov 8, 2019
I last asked about picking a grinder to upgrade to from my Capresso Infinity. I've made the choice between the Baratza Sette 270, Baratza Sette 30 AP and the Breville Smart Grinder Pro.
My reasoning for the 270 was because of its grind quality, metal (and more durable) burr housing and its preset capabilities. However, it has me questioning whether its worth the price over the 30 AP or the Breville.
For the 30 AP, it was because it was a huge upgrade over the Capresso - only concern I have is the plastic burr housing. Why isn't much really much of an issue, just a concern. Since this Baratza is capable of making consistent grinds good for mid range espresso. Regardless of my concern, it was recommended by another member and a worthy consideration of those around its price point.
For the Breville, I liked its design, interface and reviews I've seen around. Its capability to produce grinds on the coarse side of the spectrum, allowing me to grind beans suited for French Press made it a worthy consideration. Its versatility lets me try different brew methods and its programmable and (seemingly) easy to use interface had me consider it.
My budget changed since, but if the 30 AP or Breville is worth more in its price to performance (and usability) then I might just pick between those two and scrap the idea of the 270. Any thoughts community?
Thanks for your insight!
I don't personally have much experience with the Smart Grinder, and I've heard mostly positive things. I think Baratza's grind quality generally outshines it, but for the price it's not too bad at all.