Ascaso I-Mini Review: Can This Espresso Grinder Compete?

In this initial Ascaso I-Mini review I’ll be taking a first look at one of the Spanish manufacturer’s most popular offerings. I know that more and more of you are becoming more serious about espresso preparation, and that means you’re on the lookout for a suitable grinder.

With that in mind, I can tell you right away that the Ascaso I-Mini is definitely worth considering. In this review I’ll examine the grinder’s design, functions and effectiveness. Plus, I’ll take a look at how it compares to another legendary espresso grinder. So, let’s get right to it!

An affordable and effective espresso grinder

Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder

Compact footprint

High-quality materials

Near infinite grind settings

Straightforward operation

Flimsy plastic hopper

CHECK PRICE

All specifications

Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder
Current price on Amazon
All specifications

Overview: Ascaso I-Mini Review

Coffeeness Medium Roast Espresso

Well-balanced with chocolate & hazelnut notes

Freshly roasted in Brooklyn

Very low acidity

To the Coffeeness Shop

As I mentioned in my Ascaso Steel Duo review, this Spanish manufacturer isn’t very well known here in North America. That’s a pity, because Ascaso produces some truly awesome coffee gear, including the pint-sized Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder. Still, I’m convinced that Ascaso won’t be flying under the radar for too much longer.

So, why might you be interested in the Ascaso I-Mini? Well, if you’re looking to get more serious about espresso preparation, you’re going to need the best espresso grinder possible. And for those on a limited budget, it can be difficult to find something that’ll deliver the goods.

Here’s some good news: the Ascaso I-Mini costs just $495.00. Now, I know that’s still a lot to spend on an espresso grinder. However, it’s actually very reasonable given the fact that some models will set you back closer to $1,000.00. Besides, the Ascaso I-Mini has everything you’ll need to really improve your espresso shots.

For starters, the I-Mini features very high-end construction and an impressively compact footprint. So, it’s going to last for a long time and won’t take up much space. What’s more, this baby is equipped with oversized hardened steel flat burrs, a powerful motor and a stepless grind adjustment system. In other words, it has everything you need when you’re dialing in your shots to perfection.

From where I’m sitting, the Ascaso I-Mini is a real mid-range competitor. It’s going to be a whole lot more versatile than a budget-friendly model like the Breville Smart Grinder Pro. And it punches way above its weight when compared with more expensive models.

Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder Features

Now that we know what we’re dealing with, let’s continue this Ascaso I-Mini review by looking at the grinder’s standout features.

Size and Design

As I’ve already pointed out in this Ascaso I-Mini review, we’re looking at a very diminutive grinder. Rising to just 13 inches (33 centimeters) and with a width of 4.75 inches (12 centimeters), the I-Mini is, well, mini. That’ll certainly be a big plus for those with smaller kitchens, especially given the fact that espresso machines take up quite a bit of counter space.

With all that said, the I-Mini definitely looks the part. I happen to love its minimalist, low-key design; to me, the Ascaso I-Mini is the definition of understated cool. Plus, the manufacturer has gone all out on the I-Mini’s construction. Seriously, apart from the bean hopper, everything is made from high-quality metal.

Thanks to its cast aluminum housing, the grinder is solid and durable. Heck, even the housing for the burr assembly is made from solid stainless steel. All in all, it’s this kind of attention to detail that helps set the Ascaso I-Mini apart from the competition.

Ascaso I-Mini Grinder Controls

Seeing as this is such a no-frills burr coffee grinder, you won’t find a timer function, let alone a digital user interface. Rather, Ascaso has kept things simple, which is actually very refreshing.

Still, I should pay special attention to the I-Mini’s stepless grind adjustment mechanism. It’s this feature that makes the grinder so darn versatile, seeing as you’ll be able to precisely dial in your espresso shots. From what I can gather, you’ll have access to a near infinite number of grind settings by turning the adjustment dial. And we all know that having access to this level of control is a game changer.

Elsewhere, there’s a simple on/off switch located on the bottom-left side of the grinder body as well as an activation switch behind the portafilter forks. And that’s all there is to it. Then again, what else do you really need?

Stainless Steel Flat Burrs

The Ascaso I-Mini may be small, but the manufacturer has found a way to load it up with beefy 54mm stainless steel flat burrs. These are held in place by a solid brass burr holder, which provides further evidence of how premium this grinder is. Finally, the grinder is equipped with a powerful 700 rpm motor, meaning the I-Mini will grind quickly and efficiently.

As you probably know, the conical vs flat burr grinder debate still rages among coffee purists. And you also know that I don’t like to take sides, especially seeing as you can make beautiful espresso with either type of burr set. Still, I will say that thanks to its large flat burrs and high-end motor, the Ascaso I-Mini will be capable of producing exceptional grinds with impressive particle uniformity for espresso.

Grind Settings

At this point in my Ascaso I-Mini review, you will have cottoned onto the fact that this is very much intended as a dedicated espresso grinder. In fact, the I-Mini has been precisely calibrated for espresso, and thanks to the stepless adjustment mechanism, you can make tiny changes to your grind size.

With all that said, I’m sure the Ascaso I-Mini will be suitable if you want to grind for pour-over, AeroPress and moka pot. Plus, you can probably get away with using the thing with a Chemex Coffeemaker. Still, you’ll find that the grind consistency will begin to suffer at coarser settings.

Incidentally, I should mention that the Ascaso I-Mini has a stopper function to prevent the burrs from coming too far apart at coarser settings. That’s a really thoughtful feature, and it’ll prevent you from damaging the grinder by mistake.

Bean Hopper

Seeing as the Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder doesn’t have a timer function, I’m surprised to see that it comes with a bulk grinding hopper. Sure, the bean hopper’s capacity is only 8 ounces (230 grams). However, seeing as precision is so vital in espresso preparation, you can’t just eyeball your dose while grinding.

Personally, I’d recommend weighing your dose with a coffee scale and using the I-Mini as a single dose grinder. Besides, the hopper is made from clear plastic, so it’ll offer no protection from damaging UV rays if you store coffee beans in there.

How Do I Use the Ascaso I-Mini?

Using the Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder will be very straightforward, especially if you’re already an experienced home barista. However, you can expect quite a bit of trial and error as you’re dialing in your grind for the first time.

After unboxing the I-Mini, it’d be a good idea to rinse the bean hopper. Oh, and make sure it’s fully dry before popping it back into place. Then, press the on/off switch to power up the grinder.

As I mentioned above, a coffee scale will be essential for repeatable results. So, when using the grinder, simply weigh your dose, add the beans to the hopper then place your portafilter on the support forks. Next, push the portafilter back to activate the grinding switch and hold it there until all the beans have passed through the burrs.

From what I’ve heard, the dispensing chute will retain some grinds, so it might not be a bad idea to give it a gentle tap once the grinding cycle is complete.

By the way, the Ascaso I-Mini leaves the factory with the grind setting somewhere in the middle. So, I’d say it’s unlikely you’ll get the perfect shot of espresso right off the bat. Still, your best bet is to pull a shot, assess the results then start making small changes until you’re satisfied. Oh, and always use the same dose of coffee while you’re dialing in this way.

Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder Cleaning

I shouldn’t need to tell you that your Ascaso I-Mini will require regular cleaning to maintain peak performance. However, you aren’t going to have to do anything too difficult.

I’d recommend keeping an eye on the bean hopper, wiping it on a regular basis to prevent coffee oils from building up. Also, feel free to brush out the dispensing chute once a week.

You can access the burr chamber by removing the bean hopper, but you won’t be able to remove the burrs that way. Instead, you’ll need to remove a couple of screws and take off the front panel. Once that’s done, you’ll be able to give the burrs a good brushing to remove any pesky buildup.

Oh, and you should consider replacing the burrs if you notice a dip in grinder performance. However, I’d say you’ll only need to do this once in a blue moon.

Ascaso I-Mini Specifications

Ascaso I-Mini vs Eureka Mignon Zero

We’re now at the point in my Ascaso I-Mini review where I put it head-to-head with a competitor model. And to be honest, the Ascaso grinder falls a little short when compared with the incredibly popular Eureka Mignon Zero.

Listen, I’m not going to take back anything I’ve said about the I-Mini. This is a superb little espresso grinder that any barista would be happy to own. However, it’s really difficult to compete with the Eureka Mignon Zero.

For starters, the Eureka grinder has slightly larger flat burrs and an even more powerful motor. Furthermore, the Zero grinder is equipped with innovative anti-static technology, meaning you’ll experience almost no grind retention issues. Finally, the Eureka Mignon Zero is even more reasonably priced than the Ascaso I-Mini. In fact, it’s currently available from Seattle Coffee Gear for just $349.00.

Ultimately, I’d jump at the chance to own either of these espresso grinders. Still, the fact remains that Eureka is able to undercut Ascaso to the point where it’d be difficult to justify spending over $100 more on the I-Mini.

See Also: Eureka Mignon Zero Review

Ascaso I-Mini vs Eureka Mignon Zero Comparison Chart

Verdict: Ascaso I-Mini Review

An affordable and effective espresso grinder

Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder

Compact footprint

High-quality materials

Near infinite grind settings

Straightforward operation

Flimsy plastic hopper

CHECK PRICE

All specifications

Ascaso I-Mini Espresso Grinder
Current price on Amazon
All specifications

I have to say that I really look forward to testing out the Ascaso I-Mini. Personally, I’m a huge fan of simple and straightforward coffee equipment, and this grinder certainly fits the bill. What’s more, the Ascaso grinder’s asking price seems super reasonable to me, especially given the premium materials and attention to detail involved.

With that said, comparing the Ascaso I-Mini to the Eureka Mignon Zero was very revealing. I mean, if I were on the hunt for a top-quality grinder for espresso, I’d have a hard time justifying the extra money required for the I-Mini.

Still, I won’t be able to pass judgement until I’ve tested the thing. So, if you’re interested in finding out what I think of the I-Mini, keep checking back in. I’ll update this review as soon as I’ve put the grinder through its paces.

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