Mahlkönig X64 SD Single Dose Grinder

The difference between the Mahlkonig X64 SD and the Mahlkonig EK43 lies in their intended use, burr size, and target workload, although both deliver professional grinding quality from the German manufacturer Mahlkönig.

Mahlkonig X64 SD – Precision Single Dose Grinding

The X64 SD is designed as a single dose grinder for specialty coffee enthusiasts, home baristas, and small cafés that prioritize precision and versatility across multiple brewing methods.

• 64mm flat burrs
• True single dose system with zero retention
• Ideal for espresso and filter coffee
• Compact footprint with quiet operation
• Fast and precise grind adjustment
• Suitable for professional home use and low-volume commercial environments
•  The ideal choice for those seeking the best single dose grinder with commercial-grade quality.

Mahlkonig EK43 – High-Volume Commercial Performance

The EK43 is an icon in the world of commercial coffee grinders, engineered for specialty cafés, roasteries, and high-demand environments.

• 98mm flat burrs
• Extremely high grinding capacity
• Designed for continuous operation and large batch grinding
• Larger size with higher space requirements
• Ideal for cafés and coffee roasteries
•  The best choice for intensive commercial use and high-volume grinding.

The Mahlkonig X64 SD Single Dose Grinder features a clear grind size reference on the back of the lid, marked on a scale from 0 to 12, making it easy to fine-tune your grind.

For best results, settings between 0–2 are ideal for espresso, 2–7 for filter brewing, and 7–12 for coarser grinds such as cold brew.

These ranges serve as general guidelines and may vary depending on coffee origin and roast level.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Use the Reference Guide The X64 SD has a built-in grind guide printed inside the lid showing recommended ranges on a 0-12 scale:

• 0-2: Espresso (finest)
• 2-7: Filter coffee (pour-over, drip)
• 7-12: Coarse (French press, cold brew)

2. Adjust the Dial Turn the stepless adjustment knob to your desired setting:

• The dial is numbered 0-12 - a full rotation of the knob is required to move from one number to the next
• The stepless system uses a planetary gear mechanism that allows tiny, nearly invisible changes on the micron level
• You can make micro-adjustments anywhere within each numbered increment

3. Switch Between Methods

• Espresso to filter: Turn the dial from the 0-2 range toward 2-7
• Filter to cold brew: Continue rotating from 2-7 range toward 7-12
• No steps or clicks to count—complete freedom to fine-tune anywhere along the range

Practical Considerations:

• Initial setup: Most units require "zeroing" when first received to establish proper espresso range
• Tracking settings: Because it's stepless with widely spaced markings, many users mark their preferred settings externally (e.g., with tape or a marker) to return to them accurately
• When switching coffee types: If changing between very different beans, grind 2-3g of the new coffee first to purge any residual grounds (due to the 0.6g retention)