DF64 vs Niche Zero: Which Coffee Grinder Should You Choose?

When it comes to premium single-dose coffee grinders, two names consistently rise to the top: the DF64 and the Niche Zero. Each has earned its place on the countertops of home baristas and coffee enthusiasts worldwide—but for very different reasons.

In this post, we’ll explore what sets these grinders apart and help you figure out which one’s the better fit for your coffee setup. We'll also recommend a few accessories and complementary tools that can level up your brew game even further.

Design & Build Quality

Niche Zero is all about style and simplicity. With its compact, curved body, oak accents, and low-profile design, it blends beautifully into modern kitchens. It feels like a premium appliance—and at its price point, it should.

DF64, on the other hand, goes for a utilitarian aesthetic. It’s more of a tool than a design piece, with a minimalist metal body and a no-frills dial. But don’t let the looks fool you—it’s a serious workhorse.

Want to keep your grinder station clean and organized? Check out our knock boxes and tamping mats.

Burrs & Flavor Profile

Here’s where the grinders really diverge:

• Niche Zero uses 63mm conical burrs, which tend to produce coffee with more clarity and sweetness—especially great for espresso lovers who enjoy fruity or complex notes.

• DF64 is equipped with 64mm flat burrs, which offer a more balanced and uniform grind—ideal for everything from espresso to pour-over to French press.

If you like to experiment across different brew methods, the DF64 offers more flexibility. But if you’re locked into dialing espresso and crave sweetness and body, the Niche might have the edge.

Pro tip: Upgrade your grind quality with a WDT tool or distribution tool from our espresso accessories collection.

Grind Adjustment & Workflow

Both grinders use stepless grind adjustment, giving you full control over your grind size.

• The Niche’s collar-style adjustment is intuitive and clearly marked.

• The DF64’s external collar has a bit of a learning curve, but once you’ve got it, it's just as capable.

For single-dosing workflows, both machines perform well. The Niche has incredibly low retention (often <0.1g), and the DF64 comes with a bellows to help reduce retained grounds.

That said, some DF64 users report more static and mess—something you can fix with accessories like a grind cup, RDT spray bottle, or anti-static tools.

Check out our grind cups and brew scales to keep your prep clean and precise.

Price & Value

• The DF64 is typically more budget-friendly and delivers impressive performance for the price.

• The Niche Zero, while more expensive, brings refinement, ease of use, and arguably a better out-of-the-box experience.

If you’re new to dialing in espresso or you appreciate premium design, the Niche might be worth the investment. If you’re more focused on value, flexibility, and tweaking your setup with mods and burr swaps, the DF64 is a fantastic pick.

Final Verdict

Both grinders are exceptional. The “better” choice really comes down to your preferences:

Whichever you choose, you’re setting yourself up for next-level coffee at home.

Want to take your setup further? Pair your grinder with one of our premium espresso machines or browse our brew gear for pour-over kits, tampers, and more.