When the Fellow Ode grinder first hit the market, it stunned the coffee world with the perfect mix of function and form. With professional grade 64mm flat burrs, and deliberate details like a magnetically aligned grounds catcher and knocker to reduce retention, it quickly became the go-to choice for home brewers around the world.
Fellow haven't stood still though, and the new Ode Brew Grinder (Gen 2) claims to take things to the next level. But is it worth the upgrade? We've been able to get some hands-on time with the new Fellow Ode 2 Brew Grinder, and we're here to share our thoughts with you.
The ideal addition to a coffee corner - the Fellow Ode Brew Grinder.
What Is the Difference Between Fellow Ode 1 and Gen 2 Burrs?
When redesigning the Ode grinder, the main focus was - of course - the burrs. Both models feature the same sized 64mm stainless steel flat burrs, but Gen 2 burrs boast a new two-stage grinding geometry. The result - a sweeter cup, with more balance and clarity than ever before.They also grind right down to 250 microns (down from Gen 1's 550 microns and up), which means you can dial in your finest pourover recipes for even more extraction.
Finally, the Gen 2 burr set has new anti-static technology, a magnetically aligned catch for added cleanliness, and a grinds knocker to reduce grind retention.
Stunning in white or black.
Can a Fellow Ode Grinder Grind for French Press?
Of course! In fact, the Fellow Ode Gen 2 is ideal for a whole range of filter methods - from the finest pour-overs to coarse French Press and cupping. In total, it boasts 31 steps to choose from, so you can really focus on dilling in each new coffee. Plus, it's quiet. The Ode Gen 2 was designed with quietness in mind, so your brewing ritual can be properly peaceful.Is the Fellow Ode Grinder Good for Espresso?
The Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2 focuses on getting the very best from your filter coffee. Its burr set and motor means that unfortunately, it's not suitable for espresso brewing. The new Fellow Opus takes on that responsibility instead, as well as being adaptable to a whole range of other brew methods. We'd also recommend the Eureka Mignon Specialita as a great all-rounder which handles espresso very well. If espresso isn't on your mind, the Ode Gen 2 is a step up for folks who really want to experience all that a premium coffee grinder can offer.Grinder Comparison – Ode Vs Wilfa Uniform:
What about the other big player on the home coffee scene, Wilfa? We've been fans of Wilfa's range for a long time now, and their Uniform and Uniform + models are both well-regarded by people in the know. A step up from the entry-level Wilfa Svart, the Wilfa Uniform grinders offer a marked difference in quality and consistency. Plus, as the name suggests, they really do give a uniform grind, which is key to even extractions and tasty brews.
The Wilfa Uniform +
The Wilfa Uniform is more than comfortable handling grinds of all sizes, including espresso. Both models have a large, flat 58mm burr set. Along with a purposefully slower grind speed, this helps to temperature build-up and maintains clarity of flavour. Plus, the black Wilfa Uniform + model has a built-in set of scales in its lid!
Comparing the Wilfa to the Fellow Ode Brew Gen 2, there are a lot of options to weigh up. The Uniform + is a similar price point to the Ode, but the basic silver model of the Uniform (without scales) would be a more affordable option. Both Fellow and Wilfa's offerings are visually stunning but in different ways. The sleek rounded silhouette of the Wilfa has that Scandanavian-style appeal, whereas Fellow opt for a more angular design with textured elements.
As for the cup quality, we'd say that the Fellow Ode Gen 2 just pips it, by the smallest of margins. The extra research that has gone into creating Gen 2 really shines through, and what you lose in its inability to grind for espresso, you gain in clear and nuanced filter brews. That's not to say the Wilfa Uniform is bad in any way, though! For the vast majority of 'prosumer' coffee aficionados, the Wilfa Uniform really is an end-game upgrade.
Is the Ode Gen 2 Worth It?
If it wasn't clear already, we really do think that the Fellow Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2 is a masterclass in technology and design.
Form meets function with the Ode Gen 2
As well as being capable of producing stunning coffee, it has clearly been designed with intentionality at its core. From a built-in grind guide to a magnetic alignment for the grinds catcher, the Ode Gen 2 is proof that the right grinder can elevate your coffee in ways you might not have thought possible. It might not be for everyone: at over £350 it's a big investment, and if you're just dipping your toe into the world of specialty coffee, you'll probably be just as pleased with an entry-level grinder like the Wilfa Svart, for example.
However, if you're reading this because you're ready to take the next steps in your coffee journey, and want to experience some of the best brews in the world, the Fellow Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2 is here to guide you on your way. Buy it here.