We have subjected the Zuriga G2 espresso grinder to an extensive test. It is the counterpart to the Zuriga E2 Gen 2 espresso machine, which is reflected in its design language and material. The Zuriga E2 recently underwent a thorough revision, and in our review, we call it "possibly the best espresso machine in its price range." Naturally, we also tested the Zuriga G2 in combination with its espresso machine partner.
Since 2024, there has also been the Zuriga G2 Grind by Weight. Zuriga has added a weighing function to the classic G2. The grinder no longer stops based on a timer, but rather when the set amount of coffee has been ground into the portafilter. For this purpose, the portafilter holder was significantly improved and equipped with the weighing function. The G2 and G2 GbW share most features. Therefore, this article begins with the general features of the G2. Further down the page, we describe the new Zuriga G2 Grind by Weight with weighing function.
New: Video about the Zuriga G2 Grind by Weight.
Processing and testing of the Zuriga G2
The grinder costs 980 Swiss francs and is also manufactured in Switzerland. The Zuriga G2 weighs 6 kilograms, is 119 mm wide, 345 mm high, and 200 mm deep.
As with the espresso grinder, the high quality of workmanship and the design stand out very positively. We tested the grinder according to the criteria of our extensive home grinder test series. The Zuriga G2 was impressive with its low retention of only 1.5 grams, very good consistency, and also its single-dosing performance.
The Zuriga espresso grinder can be precisely adjusted and readjusted. It features an innovative ramp for adjustment, which allows for more precise selection of grind settings in the fine range, while the coarser grind range is adjusted in larger increments.
The particle distribution of the grinder is also good. The main peak is narrow and can be precisely reached again even after adjusting the grinder. At around 23.7% and 23.1% respectively, the fine fraction is in the mid-range. However, this did not manifest as pronounced bitterness when pulling our espressos.
The noise level of the Zuriga G2 is relatively mid-range and rather pleasant. Ease of use is good, and dosing accuracy is very good.
We have prepared many good and very good espressos with the Zuriga G2.
Weaknesses of the Zuriga G2
Unfortunately, the Zuriga espresso grinder also has some weaknesses, some of which affect the taste of the espresso and the performance. Compared to other espresso grinders in the same and even lower price ranges, the Zuriga is one of the slowest grinders. The bean hopper cannot be closed and thus cannot be conveniently removed.
While these two mentioned problems are manageable, the temperature development during regular use of the grinder is a difficulty. Even after just two grinds, the temperature of the dispensed coffee grounds rises sharply. Over six extractions at 30-second intervals, we measured temperatures averaging 40.2 degrees Celsius.
The grind adjustment area gets noticeably warm, also indicating heat buildup inside the grinder. These higher temperatures of the coffee grounds affect the taste of the espresso. For a single espresso, this is less of a problem, because the heat generation only occurs during the grinding process. However, if several espressos are pulled one after another during a party or a coffee break, the quality of the later espresso extractions suffers. This makes the Zuriga G2 an espresso grinder that is less suitable for larger households, shared apartments, or offices with high espresso frequency.
Zuriga G2 Grind by Weight with weighing function
Everything we observed for the version without a scale also applies to the Zuriga G2 Grind by Weight. Overall, it is a very good espresso grinder for the home. What we really like, besides the general weighing performance, is the new holder.
While the holder on the base model acts more like a targeting device than a holder, it truly earns its name in the new version. Portafilters from many manufacturers sit stably in the holder.
Truly remarkable is the weighing function, which is among the best on the market. The load cell is fast and accurate. And above all, it is robust. It is hardly affected by vibrations. And even if the grinding process is interrupted, the grinder remembers the weighing progress and continues grinding after the interruption.
We used the grinder in the fall on a wobbly circus wagon and had absolutely no problems. The grinder tares quickly and precisely. Deviations between grinds are in the range of 0.1 grams.
With the GbW, we measured a slightly lower noise level, which is why we corrected the volume in our conclusion down from 81 to 79 decibels.
The information on the GbW will be supplemented. Until then, we recommend watching our video about the grinder.
The Zuriga G2 compared to all other Grind-by-Weight grinders: To the GbW comparison →
