The world of coffee grinders is ever-evolving, with new contenders entering the market to challenge established brands. One such newcomer is the Normcore V2, a manual coffee grinder that aims to provide a high-quality grinding experience without breaking the bank.
In this comprehensive review, I’ll delve into the Normcore V2’s design, build quality, grind performance, and more to determine if it lives up to the hype. So, is the Normcore V2 a hidden gem in the crowded grinder market, or does it fall short of expectations? Let’s find out.
Summary: Normcore V2 Grinder
- Matte black finish for a sleek and modern aesthetic
- Increased height allows for greater bean capacity
- 24-point grind setting for finer adjustments
- Non-slip silicone ring for added grip and handle storage
- Far superior to the original Normcore v1 grinder
Normcore v2 Aesthetics and Construction
The Normcore V2 manual coffee grinder exudes a sense of premium craftsmanship. Its full matte black design is both sleek and modern, fitting seamlessly into any kitchen or travel setup. At a height of 152mm (182mm with the crank arm) and a diameter of 50mm, it has an 8mm taller body and powder cup compared to its predecessor, the V1.1, a grinder I used extensively when it was first released.
This increased height allows for a larger hopper capacity, maxing out at 35g depending on the bean type. Weighing in at 423g (497g with the crank arm), the grinder feels substantial without being too heavy in the hand.
The materials used — aluminum, high-hardness HRC58 stainless steel, walnut wood, and silicone – give the grinder a feeling of durability and quality that belies it’s price. The grinder is cut from a single block of aluminum alloy, showcasing a two-segment unibody design that provides a widened chamber for easier bean loading.
I like that the Normcore v2 comes with a variety of accessories, including a silicone rubber band, an air blower for easy cleaning, a cleaning brush, a grinding presets card and an Eva carrying case.
UX and Workflow
The Normcore V2 features an internal stepped adjustment mechanism, which is quite user-friendly. With 24 clicks per rotation, the grinder offers a fine level of control over the grind size. Although the exact micron adjustment per click is not specified, the fine 0.5 mm thread pitch suggests a high level of precision.
One aspect of the adjustment mechanism I dislike is the fact it doesn’t use numbers. There are markings, but you need to remember the number of clicks you’ve used.
The grinder is designed for ease of use, with features like a fixed thumb silicone band that allows for a more relaxed grip and less pressure during grinding. Stainless steel rolling bearings ensure a smooth and stable grinding experience, contributing to a more consistent grind.
In terms of speed, I found the Normcore V2 to be slow. On setting 13 for espresso, it took me about 90 seconds to grind 18g of an Ethiopian light roast coffee. This is equivalent to 1 gram per 5 seconds which is far slower than my top rated manual grinders.
Grinding for pour over was a lot faster. It took me roughly 35 seconds to grind 15 grams of the same coffee.
Of course the exact grinding time can vary depending on the coarseness setting and the type of coffee beans used. I tested some darker roasts and they were slightly quicker, but not by much.
One other minor UX frustration I had was the handle. When I was grinding it loosened or came off entirely on a regular basis.
Normcore v2 Burr Options
The Normcore V2 comes with two burr set options: a 38mm contemporary burr and a 44mm contemporary burr, both made of high-hardness HRC58 stainless steel.
Both burrs are available in titanium that is more durable and longer lasting. These burrs are CNC-machined for high precision, making them particularly effective at finer grind settings.
When it comes to grind evenness, the Normcore does a reasonable job for a grinder at this price point, especially in the fine to medium grind range. I found at coarser ranges it produced quite a lot of fines which really impacts the final cup.
How Does Coffee Made With The Normcore V2 Taste?
After spending some quality time with the Normcore V2, I’ve brewed my fair share of cups using both espresso and pour-over methods. Let’s get straight to the point: the body in the espresso shots is just ok. It looks good and I did get that velvety texture that makes a shot of espresso so satisfying. However, I found the complexity to be lacking. The shots leaned towards the bitter side, even when I felt I had it dialed in perfectly. The espresso was by no means bad, just not amazing.
I found the Normcore v2 for pour over was similarly frustrating. The grinder performed efficiently, but the cup left something to be desired. The flavors felt muted, lacking the vibrant tasting notes I usually look for in a pour-over. This could be due to the grind setting or perhaps some inconsistency in the grind size, leading to under-extraction. The clarity and acidity, which are the hallmarks of a great pour-over, were not as pronounced as I would have liked. Like the espresso, the coffee tasted ok, but not amazing.
Normcore V2 vs Timemore Chestnut C2
The Normcore V2 vs Timemore Chestnut C2 comparison happens frequently due to their similar price points. To me, the Normcore feels slightly more premium. However, that’s about the only area where I think it outperforms the Timemore C2 grinder.
For espresso, both grinders are too slow and neither produces great cups. For pour over, I think the Timemore does a far better job than the Normcore. It can produce sweet and balanced cups with high clarity, something I struggled to do with the Normcore v2.
Is The Normcore V2 Worth It?
The Normcore V2 is a commendable entry-level grinder that offers a really good performance for its price point. While it may not reach the heights of my personal favorites like the Timemore C2 and C3 or the Kingrinder K4, it’s certainly in the same league when it comes to overall grinding performance.
If you’re just dipping your toes into the world of specialty coffee and are hesitant about making a large investment, the Normcore V2 is a great place to start. While it may not deliver the most outstanding cup of coffee, it does a solid job and can grind for filter coffee and espresso, although the latter does require a bit more work.
So, would I recommend the Normcore V2 hand grinder? Yes, but with reservations. It’s a good first grinder for someone who doesn’t want to invest a fortune right off the bat. It’s in the same ballpark as its competitors, and it will introduce you to the nuances of specialty coffee grinding without breaking the bank.
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.
