With a multitude of brands, models, shapes, sizes, and features, there is a dizzying array of options in the hand grinder market. This complexity is further amplified by 1Zpresso’s expansive lineup, making the selection of the ideal grinder an even more daunting task.
The K-Max is not just another grinder; it’s part of 1Zpresso’s K-series, a line specifically billed as all-rounders capable of tackling the full gamut of grind sizes. But with so many choices, even within 1Zpresso’s own range, is the K-Max the versatile champion it claims to be, and more importantly, is it worth the investment?
Read the rest of this 1Zpresso K-Max grinder review to find out.
Summary: 1Zpresso K-Max
- External dial allows quick and easy grind adjustments
- Large 48mm stainless steel burrs ensure fast and efficient grinding
- Ergonomic handle folds for easy storage and portability
- Triple-bearing design guarantees grind consistency and stability
- Versatile all-rounder within the 1Zpresso lineup
Build Quality And Aesthetics
The 1Zpresso K-Max manual coffee grinder is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and design ingenuity. Right from the moment I unboxed it, I was greeted with a solid, protective cylindrical case that speaks volumes about the premium experience that awaited. While the case is somewhat oversized, it ensures that the grinder is well-protected and it’s easy to put in a rucksack or suitcase.
Like most 1Zpresso coffee grinders, the K-Max feels substantial and well-balanced, thanks to its all-metal construction. The body is made from a high-grade aluminum alloy, offering both durability and a luxurious tactile experience. The weight is just right — neither too light nor too heavy.
Like it’s successor the 1zpresso K-Ultra, the K-Max is available in two color options: iron gray and silver. Both come with a gunmetal finish that adds a modern touch to your coffee setup. The grind setting markings are recessed, a subtle yet functional design element, and the central section of the grinder features a grippy texture to ensure a secure hold during use.
As for accessories, the K-Max doesn’t skimp. It comes with a cleaning blower, a brush, and an anti-slip rubber band. The natural wood knob on the handle adds a touch of rustic elegance, and the frosted lid feels robust and durable, contributing to the overall premium feel of the grinder.
The grinding action is remarkably smooth, a result of high-quality bearings and tight manufacturing tolerances. The catch cup, which attaches magnetically, holds firmly in place during grinding and has a capacity of 35 to 40 grams, depending on the grind setting and the roast profile of the beans you’re using.
1Zpresso K-Max Burrs
When it comes to the heart of any grinder, the burrs are where the magic happens, and the 1Zpresso K-Max is no exception. The K-Max features a large 48mm stainless steel conical burr set, designed exclusively for the K-series grinders. Known as the K-Burr, this burr set is a game-changer in terms of speed and efficiency.
The geometry of the K-Burr is distinct, extending all the way to the bean-crushing area. This unique design allows for faster grinding, even when you’re dialing in fine for espresso. The burrs are clearly manufactured with tight tolerances, ensuring that wobbling, a common issue that can affect grind consistency, is virtually eliminated.
Inside the grinder, the K-Max employs three ball bearings within the drive system, along with two 3-strut support brackets that securely position the central shaft. This intricate internal design ensures smooth and reliable grinding, leading to consistent results across various grind sizes. Whether you’re grinding for a Turkish coffee or a French press, the K-Burr design offers a level of grind consistency that rivals some far pricier electric grinders.
The burrs also season over time, which means the grinding action becomes even smoother as you use it more. This is particularly noticeable when grinding lighter roasts or when you’re at the finer end of the filter range.
1Zpresso K-Max Grind Adjustment System
The 1Zpresso K-Max takes grind adjustment to a new level of precision and ease, thanks to its external adjustment dial. Unlike many hand grinders that feature an internal adjustment mechanism requiring disassembly, the K-Max offers a far more user-friendly approach.
The external dial is marked with 9 numbers, and between each number, there are 10 clicks, giving you a total of 90 clicks per rotation. This means you can access all the grind sizes you need for each brewing method within a single rotation of the dial.
Aligning the red dot to the number you need is all it takes to change the grind setting. For example, if you’re grinding for pour-over and require 76 clicks, you simply turn the dial ring to 7.5 and then add one more click. This intuitive system makes it incredibly easy to replicate your perfect grind size for a specific recipe, whether you’re fine-tuning for espresso or switching to a coarser grind for French press.
The K-Max’s grind adjustment mechanism is not just about ease; it’s also about precision. Each click corresponds to a 22-micron change in grind size, allowing for highly accurate dialing in. This is particularly beneficial for espresso brewing, where even a small change can significantly impact the flavor profile of your shot.
1Zpresso K-Max Grind Settings
These are the recommended K-Max grind settings from 1Zpresso.
In practise, I found the settings were slightly off. These are the settings I use. I’ve found the results are much better compared to the default manufacturer recommendations. Note that when brewing filter coffee, I use less clicks for lighter roasted beans.
- Cold brew and French press: Setting 9-10 (90 to 100 clicks)
- Siphon coffee makers: Setting 8-9 (80 to 90 clicks)
- Pour-over (medium and dark roasts): Setting 7-8.5 (70 to 85 clicks)
- Pour-over (light roast): Setting 5.5-7 (55 to 70 clicks)
- Drip coffee makers, stovetop moka pots and AeroPress: Setting 5-6 (50 to 60 clicks)
- Espresso: Setting 3-4.5 (30 to 45 clicks)
- Turkish coffee: Setting 2-3.5 (20 to 35 clicks)
1Zpresso K-Max Coffee Flavor And Tasting
The 1Zpresso K-Max excels in delivering a coffee experience that’s both nuanced and satisfying across a range of brewing methods. When dialed in for espresso, the grinder produces a shot with a balanced interplay of acidity and sweetness. The texture is creamy, and the flavor profile lingers, indicating a well-extracted shot.
For pour-over, especially with light roasts, the K-Max offers exceptional clarity and sweetness. The grind consistency allows for even extraction, resulting in a cup that’s bright and clean. When used with medium to dark roasts, the grinder still maintains a good level of complexity, offering a cup that’s rich yet not muddled.
With my French press, the K-Max provides a grind that yields a full-bodied cup with a robust flavor profile. The coarser settings produce fewer fines, ensuring that the cup is not over-extracted or bitter.
Unlike many grinders in the 1Zpresso catalog, the K-Max isn’t better at espresso or filter coffee; it does a stellar job at both.
Coffee expert and industry insider, I’ve dedicated years to mastering the art and science of coffee making. From scrutinizing particle fineness to evaluating burr shapes, I delve into the minutiae that elevate coffee from good to exceptional. Whether it’s a complex pour-over or a robust espresso, my insights cater to those who don’t just drink coffee, but experience it.
