Overview
The Weber Workshops HG-2 is the pinnacle of hand grinding. Featuring oversized 68mm conical burrs — far larger than typical hand grinders — it delivers grind quality rivaling the best electric grinders while maintaining the meditative ritual of hand grinding. The massive burrs require surprisingly few turns per gram, making the grinding effort manageable despite the espresso-fine setting. CNC-machined from solid blocks of aluminum and stainless steel, the HG-2 has essentially zero retention and a beautifully tactile adjustment mechanism. The build quality is extraordinary, with tolerances measured in microns. For the home barista who values the hand-grinding ritual but refuses to compromise on grind quality, the HG-2 stands alone at the top of the hand grinder hierarchy.
The Weber Workshops HG-2 features a 68mm conical burr set, crafted from steel. Grind retention is approximately 0.0g — virtually zero retention, making it excellent for single dosing.
At $1,650, the Weber Workshops HG-2 is aimed at uncompromising enthusiasts and professionals who want the absolute best. 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 Weber Workshops HG-2 is weighing 2.8 kg, manufactured in Taiwan. Its footprint measures 85 x 85 x 220 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 (0.0g) 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
- Premium pricing at $1,650 puts it out of reach for most home setups
Full Specifications
| Brand | Weber Workshops |
|---|---|
| Model | Weber Workshops HG-2 |
| Category | Hand Grinder |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Year Introduced | 2019 |
| Burr Size | 68 mm |
| Burr Material | Steel |
| Burr Type | 68mm conical |
| Retention | 0.0 g |
| Single Dose | Yes |
| Stepless Adjustment | Yes |
| Hopper Capacity | 35 g |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 85 x 85 x 220 mm |
| Weight | 2.8 kg (6.2 lbs) |
| MSRP | $1,650 |
Our Verdict
The Weber Workshops HG-2 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 Weber Workshops HG-2 grind fine enough for espresso?
Yes, the Weber Workshops HG-2 is capable of grinding fine enough for espresso. Its stepless adjustment allows you to dial in precisely for any coffee.
Is the Weber Workshops HG-2 good for single dosing?
Yes, the Weber Workshops HG-2 is designed for single dosing. With only 0.0g 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 Weber Workshops HG-2?
Grinding a single dose (18g) for espresso typically takes 30-60 seconds with the Weber Workshops HG-2, 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 Weber Workshops HG-2?
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 Weber Workshops HG-2 worth $1,650?
The grinder is the most important variable in espresso quality — more important than the machine. Investing in a quality grinder like the Weber Workshops HG-2 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.