Two years ago, the DF64/G-Iota left a lasting impression on us. With an unrivaled price-to-performance ratio, it shook up the single-dosing grinder market. But how does its successor fare today? The Generation 2 of the DF64 has made the leap – and it has done so with substance.
What is new in the DF64 Gen2?
The update brings genuine improvements:
- Less static thanks to a built-in plasma ionizer
- New aluminum dosing cup, which feels more premium and is better centered
- Metal grind size indicator instead of a retrofitted plastic part
- Anti-popcorning insert to prevent beans from jumping out
- Optimized portafilter and cup holder
All of this makes it feel like a more mature product – one that has evolved from a DIY project into a production-ready everyday tool.
Buying the DF 64 Gen 2
The following specialist retailers distribute the Giota / DF 64 Gen 2, and we can recommend purchasing from these companies. They all offer the option to calibrate the machine's offset.
Germany: [Partner links] Bohnendealer
Austria: [Partner links] Bohnendealer
We look for specialist partners for you that we know provide good work and good service, and we are in close contact with the mentioned retailers. These links are so-called affiliate links. If you order via one of these links, you won't pay a cent more – however, we receive a small commission that we invest directly into new test equipment.
We are continuing to look for competent partners in the DACH region for you.
Retention? Near zero.
One highlight remains the retention performance. With less than 0.2 g of permanent retention, it is at the absolute top of its class. Thanks to the included bellows, almost all the ground coffee is pushed out – one of the key requirements for a single-dosing grinder.
Consistency & Grind Reproducibility
The Gen2 can be adjusted very precisely – and most importantly: the selected grind size is reproducible later on. In our tests, we returned to the original recipe after trying different preparations (espresso, ristretto, caffè crema) – and the particle distribution curves confirmed the sensorially perceived consistency as well as the repeatability of the brews.
The only point of criticism remains the scaling: Small changes (0.5 tick) result in noticeable differences in extraction, sometimes by 2–3 seconds. Finer graduations would be desirable.
Particle distribution: Impressive for the price
With an X50 value of 252 µm (espresso) and a fines content of 31%, the Gen2 performs at the level of significantly more expensive grinders. The main peaks are narrow, the distribution is even, and the sensory results confirm this: plenty of clarity, good texture, reproducible shots.
Speed, noise & everyday use
- 25 g in 10 seconds: very fast in its price range
- 86.8 dB: definitely on the loud side, but not annoyingly shrill
- Temperature stable: hardly any heating of the grinder or the coffee grounds, even with multiple shots
On top of that: The grinder is robust, sits securely, and looks premium. Only the rubber elements of the holder still feel cheap and fall off during intensive use.
Conclusion: The successor has delivered
The DF64 Gen2 is a clear step forward compared to the first version. The manufacturer has incorporated feedback, improved details, and lifted the grinder to a new level. In the price range around €450, it is hard to beat.
It remains the go-to grinder for ambitious home baristas who want maximum control with minimal retention – and now with a noticeable increase in comfort, consistency, and build quality.
