Fellow Opus Grinder Review: An Affordable All-in-One Coffee Solution
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Are you tired of settling for mediocre coffee because you can't justify splurging on a high-end grinder? Well, the Fellow Opus might just be the thing you've been waiting for. This $195 grinder claims to be the one stop shop for your brew bar, tackling everything from cold brew to espresso.
But does it live up to the hype? I spent a month putting it through its paces, and this is my review.
It's beautiful, isn't it?
Design and Aesthetics: A Counter-Top Showstopper
We eat (or in this case, drink) with our eyes first. The Fellow Opus doesn't disappoint in the looks department. It's a sleek, modern piece of coffee gear that'll have your kitchen looking like a hip cafe in no time.
With 41 grind settings, you have precise control over your grind size. And for those of you who geek out over the minutiae, there's a micro-adjustment feature hidden under the hopper. I want you to know that using that micro-adjustment is a bit confusing, but Fellow has a video for that. Don’t let that deter you.
Speaking of the hopper, its lid doubles as a weighing vessel. And let's not forget the magnetic dosing cup – a small touch that'll save you from some whoopsies, but really is just fun to use.
Functionality and Features: More Than Just a Pretty Face
The Opus isn't just about looks – it's got brains too. Fellow has incorporated anti-static technology, which means your grounds actually end up in the cup, not all over your counter.
The 3-way grind start button gives you options for 30-, 60-, and 90-second grinds. Whether you're brewing for one or entertaining a crowd, you're covered. And here's a bonus: it's surprisingly quiet. In fact, a Forbes review of the Opus clocked it in a 38 decibel — that’s like library level sounds. Your roommates or early-rising spouse will thank you.
Now, full disclosure: there is a bit of retention within the grinder. But a quick bellow of the of the lid, and those stubborn grounds come tumbling out. It's not ideal, but it's a small price to pay for an otherwise stellar performance.
Grinding Performance: From Drip to Espresso
Here's where the where the burr meets the bean. For V60 (my method), French Press (and another), and Aeropress, the Opus shines. The grind consistency is impressive, resulting in some great cups of coffee.
But what about espresso? Well, that's where things get interesting.
The Espresso Dilemma: A Mixed Bag
I'll be honest – my first attempt at pulling a great espresso shot with the Opus was a bit of a disappointment. Even at the finest setting, I couldn't dial in a good shot with my go-to blend. But hold up. I’m not defeated that easily, and neither is the Fellow Opus.
I switched to a different coffee, and voila! A perfectly pulled shot that would make any barista proud. The takeaway? The Opus can do espresso, but it might be a bit picky about its preferred espresso. It’s a very minor convenience, just make sure you have your espresso flow down. My step-by-step espresso video can help with that.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Opus Experience
Pros:
Versatile grind range
Attractive design
User-friendly features
Good value for money
Cons:
Confusing micro-adjustment process
Inconsistent espresso performance
Some grind retention
The Verdict: Is the Fellow Opus Worth It?
After a month of daily use, I'm giving the Fellow Opus a solid “HECK YEAH”. It's not perfect, but it's pretty darn close, especially considering its price point. The aesthetics are on point, the features are thoughtful, and the performance is generally excellent.
If you're looking to upgrade your grinding game without taking out a second mortgage, the Opus is a fantastic choice. It's versatile enough for most home brewers and will significantly up your coffee game. Just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve with the micro-adjustments, and don't expect it to replace a dedicated espresso grinder if that's your primary focus.
So, are you ready to take your coffee journey to the next level? The Fellow Opus might just be your ticket.
Until next time… Peace. ✌️
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