SHARDOR BD-CG018 Conical Burr Coffee Grinder - Excellent Grinder for Espresso and Other Brews

History and Evolution of Coffee Grinders

The history of coffee grinding dates back centuries. Early grinders were simple manual devices that required significant time and effort. With technological advancements, electric grinders emerged in the early 20th century, drastically improving grinding efficiency. Conical burr grinders, a more advanced grinding technology, gained popularity in the mid-20th century, favored by coffee professionals and enthusiasts for their superior grind quality and consistency. The SHARDOR BD-CG018 is a culmination of this technological innovation, bringing professional-grade grinding to the home coffee brewing experience.

The SHARDOR BD-CG018 is an impressive conical burr coffee grinder that delivers consistent grinds for espresso and other brew methods. With 51 grind settings, precision timer, and useful accessories, this grinder punches above its price point. Keep reading for an in-depth review.

Overview

• Brand: SHARDOR
• Model: BD-CG018
• Type: Electric conical burr coffee grinder

The SHARDOR BD-CG018 is a conical burr grinder equipped with 51 precise grind settings to cater to various coffee brewing methods, from espresso to French press. The precision electronic timer and LCD touchscreen allow users to accurately control grind time and cup quantity. This grinder also features direct grinding into the portafilter, anti-static technology, and overheat protection.

Design and Build Quality

The SHARDOR BD-CG018 Conical Burr Electric Coffee Grinder not only impresses with its aesthetics but also with its robust build quality. The brushed stainless steel exterior not only lends it a modern, sleek look but also ensures durability and resistance against wear and tear. This choice of material signifies a commitment to longevity and sustainability, as stainless steel is known for its recyclable nature and environmental friendliness. Inside, the 40mm stainless steel conical burrs are a testament to the grinder’s precision engineering, designed to deliver consistent grind sizes crucial for extracting the full flavor of the coffee beans.
This design minimizes friction and heat generation during grinding, preserving the flavor and aroma of the coffee beans and preventing the coffee grounds from being overheated, which could affect the taste.
The attention to detail extends to the user interface, with a responsive touch screen that enhances user experience and adds a touch of modernity to the device.

Ease of Use: How to Set Up the SHARDOR BD-CG018

Setting up the SHARDOR BD-CG018 is a breeze. First, choose your desired grind size from the 51 available options, ranging from ultra-fine to coarse. Then, use the touchscreen buttons to set the grind time or the number of cups. If you’re making espresso, insert the portafilter into the cradle and press the start button; the grinder will automatically begin grinding.

The Impact of Grind Size on Coffee Flavor

Understanding the impact of grind size on coffee flavor is crucial for any coffee enthusiast. For example, if the grind is too fine, the coffee may be over-extracted, resulting in bitterness. If the grind is too coarse, the coffee may be under-extracted, resulting in sourness and lack of flavor.
The grind size affects the extraction process during brewing; a finer grind size increases the surface area in contact with water, facilitating a quicker extraction but risking over-extraction if too fine. This can lead to a bitter taste. On the other hand, a coarser grind decreases the surface area, slowing down the extraction process, ideal for brewing methods like the French press. However, too coarse a grind can result in under-extraction, leading to a weak and sour taste. The SHARDOR BD-CG018’s 51 grind settings provide an expansive range to fine-tune this balance, catering to various brewing preferences and ensuring the optimal extraction for each coffee type.

How Burr Grinders Work

The SHARDOR BD-CG018 utilizes a conical burr grinding mechanism. This type of grinder has two conical burrs, one stationary and one rotating. Coffee beans are ground between the two burrs into uniform particles. Compared to blade grinders, burr grinders generate less heat, thus better preserving the coffee’s flavor. Additionally, burr grinders offer more precise control over grind size, catering to various brewing preferences.

Precision Electronic Timer and Cup Quantification

The Precision Electronic Timer is a standout feature, offering unparalleled control over your grind. The ability to adjust grind time in 0.1-second increments ensures you achieve the perfect coarseness for your chosen brewing method. This level of precision is crucial for espresso, where even slight variations in grind size can dramatically impact the flavor and extraction.

The Cup Quantification feature further simplifies the process by allowing you to select the desired number of cups (1-12). The grinder will then automatically calculate and dispense the appropriate amount of ground coffee, ensuring consistency and eliminating guesswork.

Customizable Grind with 51 Precise Settings

The 51 precise grind settings provide exceptional versatility, accommodating a wide range of brewing methods. From the ultra-fine grind required for espresso to the coarser grind for French press, this grinder has you covered. This adaptability allows you to experiment with different brewing techniques and discover new flavors in your favorite beans.

The ability to fine-tune your grind is essential for achieving optimal extraction and flavor. Too fine a grind can lead to over-extraction and bitterness, while too coarse a grind can result in under-extraction and weak coffee. With 51 settings at your disposal, you can dial in the perfect grind for your specific taste and brewing equipment.

Premium Conical Burr and Espresso-Focused Design

The 40mm stainless steel conical burrs are the heart of this grinder, ensuring consistent and uniform particle size. This consistency is key to achieving balanced extraction and a flavorful cup of coffee. The stainless steel construction guarantees durability and longevity, while the conical shape minimizes heat buildup during grinding, preserving the delicate aromas and flavors of your beans.

The Espresso-Focused Design with the Portafilter Cradle and Dosing Rings streamlines the espresso-making process. Grinding directly into the portafilter eliminates the need for additional containers and reduces mess. The included dosing rings ensure a precise dose of coffee for optimal extraction.

LCD Touch Screen

The LCD Touch Screen provides a modern and user-friendly interface for controlling the grinder. Its intuitive design makes it easy to navigate through the various settings and adjust grind time or cup selection with a simple touch. The clear display provides real-time feedback, ensuring you have complete control over the grinding process.

Overheating Protection

The Overheating Protection feature is a crucial safety mechanism that prevents the motor from overheating during extended use. This safeguard ensures the longevity of the grinder and prevents potential damage caused by excessive heat buildup. It also provides peace of mind, allowing you to grind large batches of coffee without worrying about the machine overheating.

Lockable Bean Hopper

The Lockable Bean Hopper is a practical feature that keeps your beans secure during grinding. The locking mechanism prevents accidental spills and ensures that the beans remain in place, even if the grinder is bumped or moved. The easy-to-remove design also simplifies cleaning and refilling.

Large Capacity Bean Hopper and Anti-Static Technology

The 12.5-ounce Bean Hopper holds a generous amount of coffee beans, reducing the need for frequent refills. The locking system allows for easy removal and cleaning, while the airtight seal helps keep your beans fresh.

The Anti-Static Technology is a thoughtful addition that minimizes static cling in the ground coffee chamber. This reduces mess and makes cleanup a breeze, enhancing the overall user experience.

Easy Cleaning and Comprehensive After-Sales Service

The Easy Cleaning features, including the coffee grounds residual cleaner, built-in brush, and removable components, make maintenance a hassle-free task. Keeping your grinder clean is essential for preserving the flavor of your coffee and ensuring its longevity.

The Comprehensive After-Sales Service demonstrates the manufacturer’s commitment to customer satisfaction. The offer of replacements or full refunds in case of dissatisfaction provides peace of mind and confidence in your purchase.

Other Convenience Features

In addition to the portafilter cradle and cleaning tools, the SHARDOR BD-CG018 boasts several other convenience features to enhance user experience:

• Anti-Static Technology: Reduces coffee ground splatter in the grinding chamber, keeping your countertop clean.
• Safety Lock: The bean hopper is equipped with a safety lock for easy removal, storage, and transfer of the hopper.
• Overheating Protection: The grinder automatically shuts off when the motor temperature gets too high, protecting the motor and extending its lifespan.

Noise Level

The grinder operates at around 83dB, which is average for burr grinders. It is noticeably quieter than cheaper blade grinders. The sound is smooth and consistent. Compared to other brands of grinders, the SHARDOR BD-CG018 has a lower noise level, allowing users to enjoy their coffee without being disturbed by noise.

Ideal Uses

The SHARDOR BD-CG018 Conical Burr Electric Coffee Grinder is ideal for brewing espresso, drip coffee, and French press. The range of grind sizes allows it to handle anything from fine espresso to coarse cold brew. The specialized tools make it easy to grind directly into a portafilter.

User Feedback Analysis

The SHARDOR BD-CG018 Conical Burr Electric Coffee Grinder has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with 73% of reviews rating it 5 stars. Users praise the consistent grind quality, precision customization, and helpful features for making espresso. Many describe it as producing café-quality grounds that improve the flavor of their coffee.

The most common complaint is that beans can sometimes get stuck in the hopper when filled over halfway. This indicates there may be an issue with the bean flow design. However, it’s easily resolved by filling the hopper less full.
Some users also mentioned that the grinder produces very little static electricity during grinding, which prevents coffee grounds from splattering and keeps the countertop clean.

A few users mention the portafilter cradle does not fit larger 58mm models. This accessory seems to be designed for standard 53mm portafilters. Larger models may require modifying the cradle or using the included dosing cup instead.

Overall, reviews indicate the SHARDOR BD-CG018 Conical Burr Electric Coffee Grinder delivers exceptional grind quality and customization for brewing espresso at home. Users find it very easy to dial in the perfect grind size. Many say it’s the best home grinder they’ve ever owned.

Value

At under $100, the SHARDOR BD-CG018 Conical Burr Electric Coffee Grinder provides tremendous value compared to other electric burr grinders. Models with similar precision and capabilities often cost $200+. This grinder delivers commercial-grade performance at a budget-friendly price point.

For espresso lovers, the ability to grind directly into a portafilter and program precise doses is a game changer. No more guessing at the grind size or wasting expensive beans. The built-in tools help optimize the process.

Considering the quality components, versatile grind range, and precision controls, the SHARDOR BD-CG018 Conical Burr Electric Coffee Grinder outperforms grinders double its price. It’s an unbelievable value for improving everyday coffee and espresso.

Conclusion

The SHARDOR BD-CG018 stands out in the market with its exceptional grind quality, user-friendly design, and durable construction. Its ability to deliver precise and consistent grinds across a broad spectrum of settings makes it a versatile choice for any coffee lover. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced barista, this grinder offers the functionality and quality typically found in higher-priced models, providing excellent value for money. For those looking to elevate their home coffee brewing experience, the SHARDOR BD-CG018 is a compelling choice that promises to enhance the flavor and enjoyment of your daily coffee ritual.

Overall, the SHARDOR BD-CG018 is a cost-effective conical burr grinder with excellent performance, versatility, and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for coffee lovers. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced barista, this grinder can meet your needs.