Timemore offers several excellent hand grinders, including the Slim Plus from the Chestnut Slim series and the C2 from the Chestnut C/C2 series. While they are very similar, there are some differences, which we'll highlight in this blog post.
After conducting a comprehensive comparison test of 14 hand coffee grinders, we've added both grinders to our range. Simply because we think they're really good. You can find them in both our German and Swiss shops .
Which Timemore hand grinder is right for me?
You're considering buying a hand grinder and have come across Timemore grinders. Why does the Slim Plus cost about €35 more than the C2? Is this price difference justified? And if so, why? Or does the Slim Plus simply look a bit more stylish?
We've repeatedly received questions about the exact differences between these two grinders. We'll explore this question in this blog. In addition to the Slim Plus, we've taken a look at the white C2 and the anthracite/black C2.
The exterior of the Timemore Mills
On the left is the Timemore Slim Plus. In the middle and right is the Timemore C2.
At 17.5 cm tall, the Slim Plus is larger than the C2, which measures just 15 cm. The body, with a diameter of just 4.4 cm, is significantly slimmer than the C2's 5.1 cm. Another difference in the external appearance is the feel. Interestingly, the two C2 models also differ from each other. The white C2 grinder features a smooth, sleek surface in a color that's more off-white than pure white.
Anthracite/dark gray Timemore C2.
The C2 in anthracite/black, which is actually more anthracite/dark grey in colour but is simply described as 'black' by Timemore, has a clearly noticeable 'ridged' square pattern on the outside.
The Slim Plus features a significantly finer pattern than the dark C2. This pattern is also clearly noticeable and feels comfortable in the hand. The most important thing about the ridge: the Timemore C2 doesn't rotate during grinding, but instead creates resistance through the pattern.
Another external difference we notice is the handle of the grinders. The handle of both C2 models is made of plastic. The Slim Plus's handle is made of wood and is also removable. It's held in place by a magnet. This makes it even easier to disassemble the grinder and store it for travel, for example.
Accessories and packaging. Are there any differences here?
The C2 models come in a foldable box. The Slim Plus packaging feels a bit more premium and is comparable to a box you'd find in smartphones.
Unboxing of the Timemore models.
There are no significant differences in the features. All grinders come with an English-Chinese instruction manual. (Tip: If you think you're reading a purely Chinese manual, just look at the back.) A nice black cloth bag is also included, making it ideal for travel. A brush for cleaning the grinder is also included.
The interior of the Timemore C2 and the Timemore Slim Plus
Now things get exciting. There are significant differences between the C2 and the Slim Plus on the inside.
- Construction
- The grinder and the grinding cone
Interior of the three Timemore models.
The structure
The body of the Slim Plus is made from a single piece of aluminum, whereas the body of the C2 has a plastic insert that holds the axle.
On the left in the images is the C2 and on the right is the Timemore Slim Plus. When looking at the axle, several differences are immediately apparent. The axle mount of the C2 is made of plastic, while the axle mount of the Slim Plus is made of aluminum.
The Slim Plus's spindle is longer, due to the different heights of the grinders (15 cm versus 17.5 cm). The Slim Plus features an additional screw nut at the top for increased stability. Furthermore, the Slim Plus's built-in spring is significantly stronger, which is especially beneficial for very fine espresso grinds.
The grinder and the grinding cone
Both grinders are made of stainless steel and have 5 grinding teeth at the top; the difference only becomes apparent upon closer inspection.
Timemore calls the grinder used in the Slim Plus E&B, which stands for Espresso and Brewing, but what is the real difference?
The Slim Plus grinding cone is slightly larger and weighs 5 grams more (45g vs. 50g).
As this illustration shows, the E&B grinder also has an additional grind on the blades in the upper area and has two more grinding teeth in the lower area than the grinder of the C2.
Conclusion and Timemore C2 and Timemore Slim Plus
The C2 is a very solid grinder with good value for money, especially suitable for filter coffee. It can also prepare espresso, but grinding takes significantly longer.
Due to the differences outlined, the Slim Plus is also technically a bit superior to the C2 and is, in our opinion, a very good and cheaper alternative to the best hand grinders on the market.
The differences between the C2 and Slim Plus in terms of the internal structure and the grinder also explain why the Slim Plus grinds a good deal faster and can also achieve finer grinds than the C2.
In our opinion, the Slim Plus offers very good value for money and is a lot of fun to use in everyday life.
