Overview
The Kinu M68 features massive 68mm conical burrs — unusually large for a hand grinder — delivering grind quality that rivals premium electric conical burr grinders. The larger burr set means fewer turns per gram and an easier grinding effort despite the espresso-fine setting. Kinu signature stepless adjustment carries over, providing the infinite precision needed for espresso dialing. The M68 is built with the same German engineering precision as the M47, scaled up with a heavier, more substantial chassis to accommodate the larger burrs. For the hand grinding purist who wants the absolute best conical burr quality available without electricity, the M68 is in a class of its own.
The Kinu M68 features a 68mm conical burr set, crafted from steel. Grind retention is approximately 0.1g — virtually zero retention, making it excellent for single dosing.
At $480, the Kinu M68 is aimed at serious home baristas who understand the importance of grind quality. Key workflow features include single-dose design (no hopper needed) and stepless grind adjustment for infinite precision. As a hand grinder, it's completely silent, portable, and gives you a meditative morning ritual.
The Kinu M68 is weighing 1.2 kg, manufactured in Germany. Its footprint measures 65 x 65 x 230 mm (W×D×H).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large 68mm burrs deliver fast, consistent grinding with excellent particle uniformity
- Designed for single dosing — weigh your beans in, get precisely that amount out with minimal waste
- Stepless grind adjustment allows infinite precision for dialing in any coffee to perfection
- Near-zero retention (0.1g) means almost no stale grounds contaminating your next shot
- Completely silent operation — perfect for early mornings without waking the household
- Fully portable with no electricity required — great for travel and camping
Cons
- Manual grinding requires physical effort — espresso-fine takes 30-60 seconds of turning
- Not practical for making multiple drinks back-to-back for guests
Full Specifications
| Brand | Kinu |
|---|---|
| Model | Kinu M68 |
| Category | Hand Grinder |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Year Introduced | 2022 |
| Burr Size | 68 mm |
| Burr Material | Steel |
| Burr Type | 68mm conical |
| Retention | 0.1 g |
| Single Dose | Yes |
| Stepless Adjustment | Yes |
| Hopper Capacity | 40 g |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 65 x 65 x 230 mm |
| Weight | 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs) |
| MSRP | $480 |
Our Verdict
The Kinu M68 is a hand grinder, which means it trades speed and convenience for portability, silence, and often better value per dollar of grind quality. At this price point, you're getting a premium hand grinder that competes with electric grinders costing significantly more. If your daily routine involves 1-2 drinks and you enjoy a mindful morning ritual, this is an excellent option. For larger households or back-to-back drinks, consider an electric alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Kinu M68 grind fine enough for espresso?
Yes, the Kinu M68 is capable of grinding fine enough for espresso. Its stepless adjustment allows you to dial in precisely for any coffee.
Is the Kinu M68 good for single dosing?
Yes, the Kinu M68 is designed for single dosing. With only 0.1g of retention, virtually all the coffee you put in comes out ground. Weigh your beans before grinding for the most consistent results.
How long does it take to grind espresso with the Kinu M68?
Grinding a single dose (18g) for espresso typically takes 30-60 seconds with the Kinu M68, depending on the bean and your desired fineness. It requires moderate physical effort. Most users find it a pleasant morning ritual, but if you make more than 2-3 drinks daily, consider an electric grinder.
How do I maintain the Kinu M68?
Clean out retained grounds after each use with a brush or bellows. Deep clean the burrs every 2-4 weeks by removing them and brushing away oil buildup. Hand grinders are easy to disassemble for cleaning. Never wash burrs with water.
Is the Kinu M68 worth $480?
The grinder is the most important variable in espresso quality — more important than the machine. Investing in a quality grinder like the Kinu M68 will have a bigger impact on your espresso than upgrading any other piece of equipment. If you're serious about espresso, this level of grinder investment is justified.