One grinder for espresso and filter

Fellow built the Opus 2 as an all-methods grinder that can actually handle espresso, which is where the original Opus fell short for a lot of people. The 48 mm conical burrs are larger than the 40 mm set in the first generation, and Fellow states an espresso dose takes around nine seconds. Adjustment is handled by a stepless side dial rather than the stacked macro and micro rings of the old model, so moving from an espresso setting to French press and back is a single motion.

An internal impeller pushes grounds out of the burr chamber, and a built-in ionizer neutralises static so light doses do not cling to the chute or scatter across the counter. Neither eliminates retention entirely, but together they mean the dose you put in is close to the dose you get out, which matters most when you are single dosing for espresso.

Dialling in for espresso

The espresso catch cup snaps on magnetically and doses straight into a 54 mm or 58 mm basket, so it works equally well with a pump machine or a lever like the Flair 58. The grind guide on the lid is a starting point only: most people land somewhere in the low settings for espresso, but basket type, roast level and bean age all shift where you end up. Pressurised baskets want a coarser grind, and 58 mm baskets generally want a finer one than 54 mm.

Conical burrs at this size produce a slightly wider particle spread than a large flat burr set, which tends to give body and forgiveness rather than extreme clarity. Consistent puck preparation does more for shot quality here than chasing burr upgrades, so a spring-loaded tamper such as the Normcore V5 is a sensible companion purchase.

Opus 2 vs. Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2

Specifications

What’s in the box

• Opus 2 grinder
• Standard catch cup for brewed coffee
• Espresso dosing cup (54 mm and 58 mm)
• Magnetic cleaning brush
• Get to Know You guide

Fellow’s guide to the Opus 2