Review of the Niche Zero - Is it Still Worth it in 2024?

In the past year, I have had the pleasure of trying out many coffee grinders. From commercial grinders to high-end single-dosing grinders. Recently, I had the chance to test a grinder that has been on the market for a few years now, the Niche Zero. While on paper the grinder has some impressive features, it has a few drawbacks.

In this article, I will be reviewing the Niche Zero. We'll go over its features, pros, and cons, and answer some frequently asked questions about the grinder. Right now the question on everyone's minds is - Is the Niche Zero still worth it in 2024?

Overview

The Niche Zero - A Grinder with a Reputation

The Niche Zero is a unique coffee grinder that has gained popularity among coffee enthusiasts. It has been specifically designed for coffee lovers who demand the best in terms of grind quality, consistency, and efficiency. However, despite its reputation, I have some concerns about the Niche Zero since new grinders have entered the game.

Features of the Niche Zero

• Mazzer 63mm conical burrs
• Stepless grind adjustment
• Minimal grind retention
• Quiet operation
• Compact design

Grind Consistency

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a coffee grinder is consistency. When it comes to grinding consistency, the Niche Zero is a bit of a mixed bag. The particle size distribution is slightly wide, making it a great choice for medium roast coffee and making it easy to dial in. I did get great results using a the CF WDT and a Weber espresso paper filter.

These same feature makes it less favorable to pour over coffee, as the particle size distribution may result in poor extraction and an unsatisfying cup of coffee.

Grind Retention

Grind retention is one of the biggest problems with home coffee grinders. This is when coffee grounds stay in the grinder which can throw off your adjustments. On the Niche Zero, it's less of an issue. It has been designed to reduce grind retention. This means that you get the most out of your coffee beans.

Niche Zero Mods

With a big community behind the Niche Zero, mods were about to pop up. If you want to take your grinder to the next level, there are tons of great mods available. I made a list of a few mods that I like and that improve what I disliked about the grinder. While these are not essential, they can make a big difference for pour-over. Most of the mods available are from S Works Design.

Bellows

One of the most popular mods for the Niche Zero is the Bellows. This mod helps your get zero retention, even more important with the flat burr mod.

Flat burrs for Niche Zero

This mod is great for those who want to achieve a better grind consistency. It replaces the conical burrs with flat burrs, allowing you to get the profile you want.

Spring Loaded Portafilter Holder Set

This mod is great for those who want to make espresso with the Niche Zero. It make grinding into the portafilter easy.

Metal Base Cover and Legs

Purely aesthetic, this mod adds a nice elegant touch to your Niche Zero.

The Pros and Cons of the Niche Zero

Pros:

• Stepless grind adjustment
• Minimal grind retention
• Quiet operation
• Compact design
• Large modding scene

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other grinders
• Grind size distribution

FAQ

Answers to Your Most Common Questions About the Niche Zero

Is the Niche Zero easy to use?

Yes, the Niche Zero is easy to use. The stepless grind adjustment makes it simple to find your perfect grind, and the wider grind distribution means that there is a lot of room for great-tasting coffee.

How much does the Niche Zero cost?

The Niche Zero is more expensive than other coffee grinders, but its quality and consistency make it worth the investment. It usually retails for around $675, depending on the retailer and any promotions they may have.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Maintaining and cleaning your coffee grinder is essential to ensure that it continues to work well. Accessing the burrs is quick and you can remove all those coffee oils. It is recommended to clean your grinder regularly to prevent any buildup of coffee oils, which can affect the taste of your coffee. The manufacturer provides detailed instructions on how to do so.

The Final Verdict - Is the Niche Zero Still Worth it in 2024?

The Niche Zero is a well-known coffee grinder with some impressive features, but it also has some drawbacks. While its stepless grind adjustment, and compact design are appealing, the wide particle size distribution, and high cost make it a less favorable option. Despite its drawbacks, the Niche Zero is still a good investment for coffee enthusiasts who prefer body over clarity in espresso.

Before buying the Niche Zero, I would recommend considering all of the pros and cons. The Niche Zero is great if you like medium roast coffees or if you like to mod your grinders. I would think about other options like the DF64 Gen 2  for an all-around grinder. If it's worth the investment or not depends on your personal preferences and requirements. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether the Niche Zero is still worth the hype in 2024.