Baratza Sette 270 Spotlight (2024)
Introduction
The Baratza Sette 270 is a classic go-to option when it comes to multi-purpose home-use espresso grinders. With a unique design and an even more unique two-part adjustment mechanism, the Sette has long commanded respect in the home barista realm.
In this grinder spotlight, we will examine the primary features of the Baratza Sette 270, touch on the 270's standout features and missing functionalities, and compare the 270 to the newcomer, the DF64.
Let's get brewing!
Table of Contents
Grinder Overview
Hopper-Style Dosing
The Sette 270 features an 8oz bean hopper with an airtight lid and viewing window. Beans are gravity-fed from the hopper into the grind chamber for a hands-free dosing experience. This allows you to store a moderate supply of beans without having to add each dose manually.
Compared to a single dose design, a hopper style is more convenient day to day but may slow down your workflow if you like to swap between bean types or sub in de-caffeinated options.
Compact, Angled Design
Measuring just 13 x 25 x 41 cm (WDH), the Sette 270 has a relatively small footprint. It features an angled base that lets portafilters lock into place for hands-free grinding directly into the basket. The front-mounted control panel provides one-touch access to grind settings and functionality. The monochrome LCD display is intuitively integrated into the design.
Performance Conical Burrs
At the heart of the Sette 270 are 40mm steel conical burrs engineered for speed and precision. The innovative burr geometry maximizes bean grinding efficiency and consistency. Despite their compact size, the burrs can grind a dose of espresso in as little as 20 seconds. The burrs are removable for easy cleaning and calibration.
What Makes the Baratza Sette 270 Special?
Programmable LCD Display
The Sette 270 has a dated but elegant digital control panel that lets you program and save grind settings. You can create and customize 3 grind-by-time presets for different brew methods or bean types. The adjustment is by the tenth of a second, and you can also grind manually for small adjustments or for an extra dose.
Direct Portafilter Grinding
The unique design incorporates a hook below the grind chamber that locks your portafilter securely in place. This allows grounds to dispense directly into your filter basket for simplified dosing with less mess or waste.
Micro & Macro Adjustment
At the heart of the 270's name and functionality is its two-part adjustment system. A macro wheel below the hopper makes large grind size adjustments to cross-brew, ranging from pour-over to espresso.
Meanwhile, the stepless micro mechanism underneath makes the minute adjustments needed to dial in espresso. This two-part adjustment mechanism gives the Sette a total of 270 grind settings, hence the name of the ever-popular grinder.
What is Missing on the Baratza Sette 270?
Noise Level
One frequent complaint about the Sette 270 is its high-pitched noise during grinding. The 40mm steel burrs rotating at high speeds inevitably produce a somewhat disruptive level of sound. At over 80db, the grinder can be loud enough to make morning conversation challenging and potentially wake light sleepers.
This may be an annoyance in small homes or apartments with close quarters. Competitors like the Eureka Mignon Silenzio are significantly quieter.
Pricing Against New Competition
Currently priced at a $399 MSRP in a competitive market, some buyers may find the Sette 270 overpriced for its feature set. Emerging alternatives like the DF64 or Eureka Mignon Notte offer true full stepless adjustment and respectable flat burrs for a similar or lower price point.
Comparison: Baratza Sette 270 vs. DF64
Since the release of the Sette 270, many new grinders have popped up on the scene to challenge the Baratza classic. One such challenger is the DF64 which is a flat burr, single-dose grinder that packs a punch.
Burr Type
The Sette 270 Utilizes compact 40mm conical burrs, ideal for consistent grinds across the espresso range. Expect balanced flavor and predictable results, perfect for those who value ease of use.
On the other hand, the DF64 boasts large 64mm flat burrs, grinding faster and potentially unlocking sharper flavor profiles. However, these require more precise dialing due to their sensitivity. Be prepared to experiment for the perfect cup.
Dosing Style
The 270 sports a traditional 8oz hopper, perfect for grinding multiple doses or storing beans conveniently. It's ideal for those who brew espresso regularly and appreciate a streamlined workflow.
The DF64 embraces the single-dosing philosophy. It includes a small funnel and demands weighing beans for each shot. While offering more control over grind size and freshness, it requires a more involved, mindful approach.
Grind Range & Adjustment
The Sette 270 uses the two-part micro macro grind mechanism, offering a good range for dialing in brew methods. But, the micro adjustment may leave something to be desired when trying to dial in a challenging bean or roast. The DF64 uses true stepless grind adjustment. It allows for extreme precision when dialing in your grind, ideal for baristas who want perfect control over extraction.
Which To Buy
If you love the classic Baratza look, value timed dosing, and prefer a hopper-style workflow, the Sette 270 is likely your better pick. But in 2024, if you value overall grind quality, flexibility, and value, the DF64 reigns supreme and should be your top pick in the price category.
Where To Buy
In 2024, the Baratza Sette 270 retails for $399 and is available from a variety of online vendors throughout the United States and globally. We recommend looking at Clive Coffee, Curated, and Amazon to purchase the Sette 270.
The Final Sip
The Baratza Sette 270 packs espresso grinding power into a compact package. Its 40mm conical burrs ensure consistent grinds for predictable, balanced shots, while the 8oz hopper and programmable dosing streamline your espresso routine. Though limited to stepped grind settings and lacking single-dosing capabilities, the Sette shines for beginners and space-conscious coffee lovers who value ease of use and grind-by-time convenience. Just remember, a touch of noise comes with the territory! Grab the Sette if speed, simplicity, and delicious espresso are your priorities.
