Key Takeaways

Feature	Benefit
64mm burrs	Grind for both espresso and filter coffee
Automatic cleaning purge	Reduces grind retention
Acaia technology	Precise control via app
0.75mm thread pitch	Fine tuning of grind size
Single-dose workflow	Freshness and flexibility

The Acaia Orbit Coffee Grinder has quickly become one of the most sought-after grinders for home coffee enthusiasts. As someone who has been using the Orbit for several months now, I can confidently say it lives up to the hype. In this comprehensive user review, I'll share my experiences with the Orbit and why it stands out from other grinders I've owned.

Burr and Grind Quality

The Acaia Orbit comes with 64mm flat burrs - either the standard Mazzer 33M burrs or the optional SSP Red Speed coated burrs. I opted for the standard burrs and have been very impressed with the grind quality. The burrs produce a consistent and even grind, resulting in balanced and flavorful extractions for both espresso and filter coffee.

Coming from other grinders like the Wilfa Svart and the Niche Zero, the Orbit's grind quality is noticeably superior. The large flat burrs seem to bring out more clarity and sweetness in the cup compared to conical burrs.

Single Dose Grinding

As a dedicated single-dose grinder, the Orbit excels at minimizing grind retention. I can consistently grind 18-20g doses for espresso with virtually no waste. The included dosing cup and funnel make it easy to transfer ground coffee to your portafilter or brewing device.

I love the single-dose workflow for its flexibility and freshness. I can switch between different coffees without any purging or contamination from previous grinds. It's a bit more hands-on than using a hopper grinder, but the results are worth it.

Automatic Cleaning Purge

One of my favorite features of the Orbit is its automatic cleaning purge. After each grind, the burrs spin for an extra second to expel any remaining grounds. Combined with the straight-through grind path, this keeps retention extremely low - I'm averaging around 0.1g retention based on my measurements.

The auto-purge feature is a game-changer for single dosing. It means I can confidently switch between different roast levels or origins without any flavor carryover. It's a small detail but makes a big difference in day-to-day use.

Stepless Grind Adjustment

The Orbit's stepless grind adjustment with 0.75mm thread pitch allows for incredibly precise tuning. I can easily dial in espresso recipes by making small micro-adjustments. The adjustment ring has a nice resistance that prevents accidental movement but is still smooth to turn.

Compared to my previous stepped grinders, the Orbit's stepless adjustment offers much more flexibility for honing in on the perfect grind size. It can handle everything from Turkish coffee to cold brew with its wide adjustment range.

App Connectivity and Acaia Technology

The Orbit integrates seamlessly with the Acaia app, allowing you to create custom grind settings, log doses, and access guided recipes. As an owner of the Acaia Pearl Model S scale, I appreciate how the two devices work together for a streamlined workflow.

The Orbit's base can also hold the Acaia Lunar scale, although I haven't felt the need to use that feature yet. The built-in LED light is a nice touch for checking grind consistency and cleanliness.

Build Quality and Design

From the moment I unboxed the Orbit, I was impressed by its build quality. The fit and finish are top-notch, with high-quality materials and precise tolerances. It feels like a substantial, durable machine that will last for many years.

I love the sleek, minimalist design of the Orbit. It looks great on my coffee bar next to my other equipment like my espresso machine and Fellow Stagg EKG. The matte black finish of the Eclipse edition is especially striking.

Orbit vs Competitors

Having owned several popular single-dose grinders, I can confidently say the Acaia Orbit is a top performer in its class. Here's how it compares to some key rivals:

Grinder	Burr Size	Recommended Use
Acaia Orbit	64mm flat	Espresso & Filter
Niche Zero	63mm conical	Espresso & Filter
Lagom Mini	38mm conical	Filter & Micro Espresso
Weber Key	83mm flat	Light-Roast Espresso

The Orbit's 64mm flat burrs give it an edge over the Niche Zero for light-roast, high-extraction espresso. It also has lower retention and more precise grind adjustment compared to the Wilfa Uniform.

While the Weber Key has larger 83mm burrs that excel for light-roast espresso, the Orbit is a more versatile all-rounder that can handle both espresso and filter brewing. The Orbit's compact size also makes it a better fit for most home kitchens.

The Verdict

After several months of daily use, I can wholeheartedly recommend the Acaia Orbit grinder. It has elevated my homemade espresso and pour overs to new heights with its excellent grind quality, low retention, and user-friendly features.

While it comes at a premium price, I believe the Orbit's performance and build quality justify the cost for passionate home baristas. If you're looking for a top-tier single dose grinder that can handle any brewing method, the Acaia Orbit should be at the top of your list.