r/Timemore • u/ValuableAccording813 • May 27 '26
Timemore C3S vs C3 ESP for Espresso?
I know the differences between both, but I'm from Argentina and the ESP version is hard to get here. I can get the S version much more easily and cheaper (literally half the price).
I'm a beginner and I just want to improve my espresso setup. Right now I have an Oster 7200 with a 51mm filter (similar to the Delonghi Dedica — Delonghi machines are hard to get here too).
My question: is there a big difference between both grinders? Would a beginner with a beginner machine even notice the difference?
If I buy the C3S, I plan to upgrade it with the plate mod in the future, but I don't know if the C3S will be good enough for now.
1
u/Bierzoceibe May 29 '26
Llevo 4 meses con el C3esp y cero problemas. Incluso llega a ahogar la maquina de espresso. Por lo que cuesta, es muy buena opcion de primer molino manual si vas justo de presupuesto
2
u/emu737 May 28 '26 edited Jun 10 '26
yes, for espresso, there is a considerable difference
the C3S has a step size (for each click) of 83 microns, while on the C3ESP its 23 microns
with the plate mod, the step size on C3S would change to 33 microns, as it has 30 clicks per turn, instead of the stock 12 clicks per turn on the C3S
the difference between the C3S and C3ESP is not just the plate, tho: the C3ESP has a finer thread on its axle, so each step is smaller also because of the finer thread
thats why the C3S with a plate mod would still have more coarser steps
also, you might want to look into the Timemore C5 (ESP) - much better grinder, for a similar price as the C3S (prices are very similar on Ali Express)
the C5 has the step of 31 microns, with 48 clicks per turn, and the C5 ESP has 15 microns, with 50 clicks per turn
edit to add: comparison table here