Krups GX550850 Precision Flat Burr Coffee Grinder

A coffee grinder is an essential piece of equipment for coffee enthusiasts, allowing them to grind coffee beans to various degrees of fineness, providing a crucial tool for making delicious coffee. With the popularization of coffee culture and the emphasis on coffee quality, there is an increasing demand for coffee grinders that can provide precise grinding results to ensure the best possible taste and aroma of coffee.

The Krups GX550850 burr coffee grinder allows you to freshly grind coffee beans to unlock maximum flavor and aroma. With 12 grind settings to choose from, this versatile grinder can produce grinds ideal for drip, French press, espresso, pour over, cold brew, and more.

Overview

The Krups GX550850 features premium metallic flat burrs that grind coffee beans uniformly for consistent particle size and optimized extraction. It has 12 major grind settings with micro-adjustments to fine-tune grind size from extra coarse to super fine.

The grinder is equipped with a powerful 110W motor and 8oz bean hopper. Its grounds container can hold enough ground coffee to brew up to 32 cups. Convenient features include a 2-12 cup selector, auto stop, and built-in cleaning brush.

Key Features

• Premium metallic flat burrs for uniform grinding
• 12 grind settings with micro-adjustments
• 2-12 cup selector for precise portion control
• 8oz bean hopper and 32 cup grounds container capacity
• Auto-stop for consistent grinding
• Built-in cleaning brush for easy maintenance

Design and Build Quality

The GX550850 has a sleek all-black plastic exterior with stainless steel accents. The burrs are made of strong, durable metal. The burrs are made of strong, durable stainless steel. The grounds bin, while convenient to remove, is plastic and prone to static cling.

Ease of Use

Using this grinder is very straightforward. Just pour beans in the hopper, select grind setting and number of cups, and press the power button. I like that it stops automatically when done grinding. Users appreciate the automatic stop feature and find the built-in brush convenient for cleaning.

Working Principle and Advantages

Coffee grinders operate by grinding coffee beans into different degrees of fineness using rotating burrs. There are two main types of burrs: flat burrs and conical burrs. Flat burrs consist of two rings with teeth that grind the beans between them. Conical burrs have a cone-shaped center burr that grinds the beans against an outer ring burr.

The advantage of using flat burrs is that they ensure uniform grinding, providing a more consistent grinding result. Compared to blade grinders, flat burr grinders typically produce fewer fines, thus improving the quality and taste of the coffee. Fines are very small particles of coffee that can over-extract and create bitterness in the brew.

Premium Metallic Flat Burrs

The GX550850 utilizes premium metallic flat burrs for grinding coffee beans. Flat burrs are known for their consistency and ability to produce uniform particle sizes, which is crucial for optimal extraction and flavor. The metallic construction ensures durability and longevity, allowing the burrs to withstand frequent use and maintain their grinding performance over time.

12 Grind Settings with Micro-Adjustments

One of the standout features of this grinder is its 12 grind settings, catering to various brewing methods from French press to espresso. The micro-adjustments between settings offer further precision, allowing users to fine-tune their grind size to match their specific preferences and brewing equipment. This level of customization ensures that users can achieve the perfect grind for their desired coffee flavor profile.

2-12 Cup Selector for Precise Portion Control

The 2-12 cup selector is a convenient feature that enables users to grind the exact amount of coffee needed for their desired number of cups. This eliminates waste and ensures that coffee is always freshly ground, maximizing its flavor and aroma. The automatic stop function further enhances portion control by stopping the grinding process once the selected quantity is reached.

8oz Bean Hopper and 32 Cup Grounds Container Capacity

The 8oz bean hopper provides ample capacity for storing coffee beans, reducing the need for frequent refills. The grounds container can hold up to 32 cups of ground coffee, making it suitable for brewing large batches or multiple servings. This generous capacity is particularly beneficial for households with multiple coffee drinkers or those who entertain guests frequently.

Auto-Stop

The auto-stop feature is a practical addition that automatically shuts off the grinder when the selected grinding time or quantity is reached. This not only ensures consistent grinding results but also prevents the motor from overheating, extending the lifespan of the appliance.

Built-in Cleaning Brush

The built-in cleaning brush simplifies the maintenance process by allowing users to easily remove coffee grounds residue from the burrs and other parts of the grinder. Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the grinder’s performance and preventing the buildup of stale coffee oils that can negatively impact the flavor of future brews.

Mess-Free Grinding

The Krups GX550850 is designed for mess-free grinding, thanks to its auto-stop feature and removable top burr. The auto-stop function automatically shuts off the grinder when the grinding cycle is complete, preventing coffee grounds from spilling over. The removable top burr allows for easy access to the grinding chamber, making it simple to clean and maintain. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who value convenience and cleanliness in their coffee preparation routine.

Customizable Quantity

The grinder offers customizable quantity settings, allowing users to grind the precise amount of coffee needed for their desired number of cups. This feature is ideal for those who brew coffee for varying numbers of people or prefer different strengths of coffee. By grinding only the necessary amount, users can ensure that their coffee is always fresh and flavorful.

Generous 8-ounce Bean Hopper Capacity

The GX550850 boasts a generous 8-ounce bean hopper capacity, which can hold a substantial amount of coffee beans. This is advantageous for users who brew coffee frequently or in larger quantities. The large hopper reduces the need for frequent refills, making the grinding process more convenient and efficient.

Removable Grounds Container for Easy Cleaning

The grinder is equipped with a removable grounds container, simplifying the cleaning process. After grinding, users can easily detach the container and dispose of the coffee grounds. This feature promotes hygiene and prevents the buildup of stale coffee residue, ensuring that each brew is made with fresh grounds for optimal flavor.

Noise Level

It produces a moderate noise level comparable to an average countertop blender. The sound itself is not irritating, but some may prefer to grind coffee before brewing to avoid the noise early in the morning. The noise level of the GX550850 is around 70-80 decibels, which is similar to a vacuum cleaner.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To ensure the proper operation and longevity of the coffee grinder, it is recommended that users follow these maintenance and care tips:

• Clean the grinder’s burrs and container promptly after each use to prevent coffee grounds residue.
• Regularly inspect the burrs for wear and tear, and replace them promptly if worn to maintain grinding effectiveness.
• Use specialized cleaning agents to clean the grinder’s interior regularly to keep it clean and hygienic.
• Avoid putting damp coffee beans into the grinder to prevent rusting and corrosion.

By following proper maintenance and care practices, users can prolong the lifespan of their coffee grinder and ensure the quality and taste of their coffee.

Suitable Uses

The Krups GX550850 can grind coffee for:
- Drip coffee makers
- Pour over drippers
- French press
- Cold brew
- Espresso machines

User Feedback Analysis

The Krups GX550850 burr grinder has received largely positive reviews from owners. It currently has over 7,000 ratings on Amazon with an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

The consistency and range of grind sizes are consistently praised. Many users mention taste and aroma improvements after switching from blade grinders. They appreciate the ability to fine tune the grind for optimal flavor extraction.

A common complaint is static cling and messiness with the plastic grounds bin. Some report grinds sticking to the bin walls and minor leaks when removing it. This may be alleviated by spraying bins with anti-static spray.

Several users warn the espresso setting does not produce a fine enough powder for ideal espresso extraction. They recommend stepping up to a dedicated espresso grinder for best results. However, the espresso grind is suitable for moka pots and aeropress.

In reviews, the grinder is described as easy to use and clean. The automatic stop and built-in brush are convenient features owners appreciate. Some note the noise is moderate but not intrusive.

Overall, feedback indicates the Krups burr grinder performs very well for French press, pour over, cold brew, and drip methods. It provides significantly improved grind consistency over cheap blade grinders. For the affordable price, most agree it is an excellent value.

Pros

• 12 grind settings
• Precise grind size adjustments
• Durable metallic burrs
• Large bean hopper and grounds bin
• Built-in cleaning brush
• Competitively priced

Cons

• Grounds bin prone to static cling
• Espresso setting not ideal
• Fairly noisy

Value

With a retail price of around $60, the Krups GX550850 offers outstanding value for a burr coffee grinder. Models from other top brands like Baratza and Breville can cost over $200 for similar grinding performance.

Given its durable stainless steel burrs, wide range of grind settings, large capacities and versatile brewing capabilities, the Krups punches far above its price class. For those upgrading from inconsistent blade grinders, it’s an affordable path to better-tasting coffee.

While high-end grinders have finer build quality and grind precision, the Krups hits a sweet spot for budget-minded buyers. It produces grinds leagues beyond cheap blade crushers for only a modest investment. For daily home use, it’s a very worthwhile upgrade that can elevate your coffee experience.

Conclusion

For those seeking an affordable electric burr grinder that can handle everything from French press to espresso, the Krups GX550850 is an excellent choice. Convenient and versatile, it elevates everyday coffee with its uniform grinds. I would recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade from blade grinders. It delivers dramatic improvements in flavor and aroma for a very reasonable price.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 7.72”L x 3.15”W x 10.43”H
• Weight: 8 oz
• Power: 110W
• Bean Hopper Capacity: 8 oz
• Ground Coffee Bin Capacity: 12 cups

What’s Included

The box contains:
- Main grinder unit
- 8oz bean hopper
- Ground coffee bin
- Built-in cleaning brush
- User manual

Krups GX550850 Burr Coffee Grinder User Manual

1. Preparation

• Place the coffee grinder on a stable surface, ensuring the power cord is not strained or damaged.
• Prepare fresh coffee beans, ensuring they are not damp or spoiled.
• Check that the burrs are installed correctly and adjust the grind size setting as needed.

2. Usage Steps

1. Open the coffee grinder’s bean hopper lid and pour the desired amount of coffee beans into the bean hopper.
2. Close the bean hopper lid securely, ensuring it is fully locked to prevent coffee beans from spilling out.
3. Place a coffee cup or container under the grinder’s spout to collect the ground coffee.
4. Turn on the coffee grinder’s power switch and select the desired grinding time or mode.
5. Wait for the grinder to complete the grinding process until the coffee grounds reach the desired fineness.
6. Turn off the coffee grinder’s power switch and wait for the burrs to stop rotating completely.
7. Open the bean hopper lid and remove the freshly ground coffee, ready for brewing.

3. Cleaning and Maintenance

• Clean the grinder’s burrs and bean hopper thoroughly after each use to prevent coffee residue buildup.
• Regularly check the burrs for signs of wear and replace them promptly if necessary to ensure consistent grinding performance.
• Use specialized cleaning agents to clean the grinder’s interior periodically to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
• Avoid placing damp coffee beans in the grinder to prevent rusting and corrosion.

4. Precautions

• Always disconnect the power and wait for the grinder to stop completely before cleaning and maintaining it.
• Avoid inserting fingers or other objects into the grinder’s interior to prevent injury.
• Exercise caution with the power cord of the coffee grinder and avoid exposing it to water or damp environments.

5. Troubleshooting

If the coffee grinder experiences any of the following issues, please refer to the troubleshooting steps below:

1. Grinder does not start: Check if the power cord is plugged in properly and ensure the power outlet is functioning.
2. Grinder does not grind: Verify that the burrs are installed correctly and ensure the quality and dryness of the coffee beans are suitable for grinding.
3. Poor grinding performance: Adjust the grind size setting and clean the burrs and bean hopper to ensure optimal grinding performance.
4. Unusual noise from the grinder: Stop using the grinder and check for foreign objects or wear in the burrs.

If the above troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, please contact customer service or a professional technician for further inspection and repair.

This concludes the brief user manual for the Krups GX550850 Burr Coffee Grinder. We hope it helps you to use and maintain your coffee grinder correctly, allowing you to enjoy delicious coffee!