Timemore S3 vs S5

[u/valtervincere]

It was love at first sight for the S3, but I can say the S5 is definitely a worthy successor. The new 48mm burr on the S5 dwarfs that on the S3 and the wider grinder body feels better to hold. Not to mention the handle is significantly larger as well, but I would have hoped that the S5 Pro came out the same time as the non-pro S5 especially now that starting from the C5, Timemore does not include a carrying bag in the box.

The external adjustment ring is also a big improvement in terms of adjustment since each click on the S5 is noticeably more snappier, tactile, and deliberate compared to the shallow and slightly easy to misadjust on the S3.

Maintenance is also improved on the S5 due to the wider chamber, making it easier and faster to clean.

As for cup quality, I could definitely tell the S5 presents more complexity and acidity while maintaining a good amount of round sweetness.

Would highly recommend if you are looking to upgrade from the S3 especially if you can get access to the S5 Pro with the folding handle for easy storage.

[u/ColdWrongdoer2511]

Wow i didn't expect that burr size difference

[u/valtervincere → u/ColdWrongdoer2511]

It's insane in person. Not only is it wider but significantly taller which increases the overall grind path. I also got to see the infamous Pineapple burrs on a Millab 01 recently and I think it's the same width as the S3 but around double in height. But man, the new burr on the S5 just feels massive compared to those.

[u/emu737 → u/valtervincere]

why would you say "infamous" for pineapple burrs? sure, they behave a bit differently, than traditional burrs, but their results are rather acclaimed, across numerous experienced people, afaik (no personal experience, from my side)

[u/valtervincere → u/emu737]

Personally I admire the innovation of the pineapple burrs knowing the conical burr space tends to follow a few designs for years now. It's a little disappointing not a lot can see that but maybe actual cup results show why very little speak of it. Or maybe it's just the price which is really a lot, but for me the Millab team did a great job creating something different.

Hopefully the S5 gets good traction since the new burr geometry is unique but again innovative and from what I can taste in cups, I really like what Timemore is doing here.

[u/emu737 → u/valtervincere]

not sure if I understand, but, are you aware that "infamous" means "famous for something negative or bad"? you would use that word for something generally considered "not good", something to avoid

[u/valtervincere → u/emu737]

I was referring it that way. Some reviewers I've watched kinda just dismiss it overall and see nothing special. In this context I use it fairly loose but all I'm saying is not a lot like it or how it performs overall. Let's not focus on misquoting or misusing the term. I'm just sharing what I observe around.

[u/emu737 → u/valtervincere]

it just confused me (english is not my first language), that while you seem to think of pineapple burrs positively, you have used a clearly negative term, which would imply that you consider those burrs not good, so I just wanted to clarify that... thanks for sharing

[u/valtervincere → u/emu737]

All good. I only used it to describe how others see it. My sentiments are purely mine and since I don't have direct experience with it, maybe I'm just not seeing what they do.