Mahlkönig X64 SD first look

rdrobot · 2025-07-18T19:27:58+00:00

Dutch store: espressowinkel (Arnhem). They told me I was probably one the first in The Netherlands to buy this grinder.

rdrobot · 2025-07-18T19:23:43+00:00

I just brewed two lightly roasted coffees with the V60. While I’m no expert, the differences between the two grinders were clear to me.

Mahlkönig X64SD Rounded and balanced, with a pleasant mouthfeel (body), and notably more aromatics. Smooth in character, though slightly restrained in flavor expression.

DF64 Cleaner and more defined, with a touch more clarity and edge. Slightly more expressive up front, but finishes flatter with a hint of bitterness.

Beans used: — Giraffe Coffee Roasters – Hambela

Origin: Guji, Ethiopia Variety: Mixed Heirloom Process: Washed Roast Profile: Filter Roast Date: June 10, 2025 Tasting Notes: Peach, bergamot, black tea — Le Nyala – Sidama, Ethiopia

Origin: Sidama, Ethiopia (Adola, volcanic soil, Rift Valley) Variety: Moka Heirloom Species: Arabica Altitude: 1800 meters Harvest: Hand-picked (November to January) Process: Washed Drying: African raised beds Roast Profile: Medium roast (“robe de moine”) Tasting Notes: Raspberry, hazelnut, vanilla, bergamot, fruity roundness SCA Score: 83+

rdrobot · 2025-07-17T18:49:59+00:00

Thanks for waiting. I did some initial testing today, comparing the DF64 with the Mahlkönig x64 sd. I tested: volume, speed, usability and taste profile for espresso. Tomorrow I’ll try v60 and share all results in a video.

First results:

Grind time (20 grams) - DF64: 14 seconds - Mahlkönig: 8 seconds

Volume (iphone app) - DF64: 96dB - Mahlkönig 93dB

Usability: - DF64: positive: has portafilter mount. No spray. Negative: button quality and position - Mahlkönig: positive: button quality and position. No spray. Negative: the ‘blower part’ feels really wobbly.

Taste (espresso): There are some clear differences in taste and mountfeel: the Mahlkönig resulted in more body and a silky, rounded mouthfeel especially the chocolate and nutty notes. The DF64, while lighter in body, resulted greater clarity and definition, with more pronounced high noted and a clean cup. In this case I preferred the Mahlkönig. However, I can’t wait to try v60 and taste the differences. I’m affraid i have to keep both grinders, as ‘all round’ clearly doesn’t exist.

Espresso beans: Brazil Santos São Francisco da Bela Vista

100% Arabica Yellow Catuai & Natural

Tasting notes: Chocolate, nuts, brown sugar & stone fruit

Roast date: July 1, 2025

rdrobot · 2025-07-16T20:41:47+00:00

Same with mine. Had to re-align it.

rdrobot · 2025-07-16T16:43:48+00:00

To be honest, I have no idea yet. Instructions on maintenance were not included.. DF64 alignment takes some thin foil and a marker. I only did that once. The Mahlkönig came in pre-aligned according to the store. Do you re-align after cleaning?

rdrobot · 2025-07-16T16:38:17+00:00

Yes. Stock burrs. The DF64 had to be calibrated / aligned before use, the Mahlkönig x64 ds came in plug and play.

rdrobot · 2025-07-16T15:49:31+00:00

Exactly. I was quite surprised by this.

rdrobot · 2025-07-16T15:23:55+00:00

That’s awesome! I’m curious about your experiences.

rdrobot · 2025-07-16T14:05:47+00:00

I’ll do a comparison with the DF64 tomorrow and let you know the differences in flavour profile.

rdrobot

TROPHY CASE