Timemore Millab M01: Review of the Grinder with Its Pineapple Burrs
Are you looking for a high-end manual coffee grinder for espresso? The Timemore Millab M01 is a premium grinder that marks Timemore's entry into the luxury segment with its Millab sub-brand. This professional coffee grinder introduces a major innovation: the patented 44mm pineapple conical burrs that promise uniform grinding superior to traditional conical grinders.
The Timemore Millab M01 represents a strategic turning point for the Chinese brand. With this premium sub-brand (comparable to the relationship between Lexus and Toyota), Timemore is targeting the high-end segment of manual coffee grinders. This espresso grinder has high ambitions with its distinctive aluminum design, patented pineapple burrs, and careful construction. But does this specialty coffee grinder deliver on its promises? Discover my test after several weeks of daily use.
Unboxing and First Impressions
From the moment you open the box, you understand that Timemore has taken care with the Millab M01 packaging. The grinder is perfectly secured in high-density foam that strangely recalls the texture of a memory foam mattress. This custom-fit protection demonstrates the care taken to protect the grinder during transport, but also the premium positioning of this product. Each element has its dedicated place: the grinder body, the catch cup, the replacement burrs, and accessories are nestled in their respective compartments. This is serious business.
Here's what the box contains:
- The Millab M01 grinder
- A Millab cleaning brush (aluminum handle)
- A collectible commemorative token
- The user manual and warranty card
Introducing the Timemore Millab M01: an imposing manual grinder
The Timemore Millab M01 does not go unnoticed. At 1.1 kg on the scale, it is one of the heaviest manual grinders on the market. Its generous size far exceeds that of competitors like the Comandante C40 or the 1Zpresso J-Ultra.
Premium construction: aluminum and stainless steel
The body of the Millab M01 grinder is made of aerospace-grade aluminum combined with stainless steel. Unlike some competing manual coffee grinders, very little plastic is used. The anodized finish is impeccable and the textured surface provides excellent grip that prevents any slipping during grinding.
My choice: the model with wood finish
For my part, I opted for the wood finish model, which I found more elegant and original. I admit I had an initial concern: that the coffee grinder might slip during use, especially when grinding for espresso, where the torque is significant.
Fortunately, these concerns proved unfounded. Even when grinding for espresso, the grinder does not slip at all. The substantial weight combined with the wooden surface ensures a good grip. A very strong point for Timemore.
On the silver aluminum model, grooves have been machined across the entire body of the grinder, providing better grip during use.
The pineapple burrs: the M01's main innovation
The heart of the Timemore Millab M01 is its patented 44mm conical burr nicknamed the pineapple burr due to its characteristic pattern. This coffee grinder burr stands out radically from traditional designs and constitutes the main asset of this high-end grinder.
An extended grinding path for optimal quality
Unlike traditional conical burrs, the M01's pineapple burrs incorporate two pre-grinding stages instead of just one. The grinding path is considerably lengthened: although it measures only 44mm in diameter, this burr offers a grinding path longer, similar to a 64mm flat burr.
This innovative design aims to combine the advantages of flat burrs (grinding uniformity) with those of conical burrs (ease of use and reduced torque). An ideal compromise for a versatile grinder, suitable for both espresso and pour-over methods. We will see later in this article how this innovation translates concretely in the cup.
Grinding ease and surprising speed
In daily use, the M01 displays remarkable performance. In terms of speed, it ranks at the level of 48mm conical burr grinders such as the Kingrinder K7 or the 1Zpresso J-Ultra.
But the real surprise lies in the effort required: despite this grinding time equivalent to 48mm grinders, the resistance is significantly lower. I could not precisely quantify this difference, but the feeling is undeniable. This ease is explained by the operating principle of pineapple burrs: the beans are first crushed during an initial stage before being ground more finely, which reduces the required effort compared to traditional conical burrs. A real advantage that is felt from the very first use.
Here are the grinding times measured for 18g of coffee:
| Brewing method | Grinder setting | Estimated time for 18 g |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso | 0.9 (9 clicks) | ~40 s |
| Pour-over (filter) | 8.0 (80 clicks) | ~20 s |
These times confirm the excellent performance of the M01, particularly for gentle methods where the coarser grind allows for remarkable speed.
Ultra-precise adjustment system: 100 micro-clicks of 12.5 microns
The Millab M01 uses a micrometric dual-bearing adjustment system with a click dial. In total, 100 micro-clicks are available, each adjusting the burr gap by only 12.5 microns. This exceptional precision allows for fine-tuning the espresso grind or for gentle methods.
Recommended settings:
- Espresso0 to 15 clicks
- Moka10 to 30 clicks
- Pour Over50 to 90 clicks
- French Press80 to 100 clicks
These settings are indicative and may vary depending on your coffee and preferences.
The system adjusts by numbered graduations from 0 to 10, with 10 subdivisions between each number. For espresso, settings are between 0 and 1.5, while pour-over methods are positioned between 5.0 and 10.0.
A very satisfying adjustment dial
I particularly appreciated the well-defined click when rotating the adjustment ring. The feedback is more pronounced than on the Chestnut S3. Each adjustment is crisp and precise.
Another detail I really liked: the hopper does not rise during adjustment. On some grinders, turning the dial makes the entire top of the grinder rise, which breaks the aesthetics. Here, the design remains intact during adjustment. An ingenious choice from Timemore.
Personally, I find that the top of the grinder evokes Leica M lenses with their lens hood: a refined and premium design that exudes quality. This resemblance is certainly no coincidence and contributes to the high-end identity of the [M01](https://www.timemore.com/coffeegeek-
M01).
Practical tip: the adjustment system also acts as a funnel, allowing you to pour coffee beans very easily into the grinder without risk of overflow.
The click-lock catch cup
Timemore has opted for an original catch cup attachment system: a click mechanism that combines the security of a screw system with the speed of a bayonet mount. A simple 1/8 turn is all it takes to remove and reattach the catch cup.
I find that the attachment is solid, quick, and secure all at once. Impossible to lose the catch cup during use, even when turning the handle vigorously. This is a really well-thought-out innovation that significantly improves the daily experience.
The catch cup also features a beveled edge that facilitates pouring, and its silicone base ensures excellent stability on the countertop. An appreciable attention to detail.
The handle: comfortable and elegant grip
The M01's handle adopts a fixed, non-retractable design, unlike that of the Chestnut S3
or the C3 ESP Pro for example. It removes easily thanks to its attachment system, but removal sometimes requires a bit of effort due to a very tight fit.
A comfortable and elegant handle
The wooden handle is really well executed and adds a touch of elegance to the grinder. It is slightly more voluminous than those on other Timemore grinders, which makes the grip comfortable.
I have a small regret that it is not retractable like on the other models in Timemore's Pro range. But this is completely normal: this grinder is not dedicated to travel.
Grinding performance: exceptional quality for espresso and filter
Remarkable grind uniformity
This is where the M01 grinder really stands out. Particle size distribution tests reveal exceptional uniformity for a conical grinder. The coffee grind profile resembles that of a very consistent flat burr rather than a traditional conical grinder.
The amount of fines is remarkably low, which produces clear and balanced espresso extractions. This characteristic allows pushing extraction levels higher without excessive bitterness.
The graph below presents the manufacturer data provided by Timemore, measured using a professional refractometer. These measurements allow visualizing the remarkable uniformity of the grind
produced by the M01's pineapple burrs.
These charts have been recreated from images provided by Timemore on their official website. The data is therefore approximate, but it gives a good idea of the particle size distribution of each grinder.
I myself took up the challenge of trying to measure grind uniformity with the BaristaTools app.
Espresso Performance
The result in the cup is truly remarkable. Tested with various medium roast coffees, the M01 produces espresso extractions of exceptional clarity with a syrupy body. As the grinder is designed more for pour over, it brings a slight acidic touch to espresso extractions that enhances the aromas without ever overwhelming them. This acidity remains very well controlled and balanced, without overshadowing the other aromatic notes. The grind profile favors concentration and clarity rather than the sweetness and body typically found with classic conical burrs.
After testing numerous grinders for this blog and personally, this is the first time in a long time that a grinder has impressed me this much. This new pineapple burr that Timemore offers us has not yet received enough attention in my opinion.
By applying all the principles to avoid channeling, you will discover in the video below how this grinder extracts 18g of coffee.
And the result in the cup:
Performance for filter methods (V60, Chemex, French Press)
It is truly for filter methods that the Millab M01 reveals its full potential. Since the grinder was specifically designed for pour over, you get exceptional clarity in coffee aromas with V60, Chemex and other filter methods.
The uniform grind produced by the pineapple burrs allows you to achieve complex cups with minimal bitterness. Compared to the 1Zpresso K-Ultra, the M01 allows you to push extraction further while maintaining a pleasant and clean finish.
The acidity is moderate, positioned between the brightness of the K-Ultra and the neutrality of the ZP6. An excellent filter coffee grinder that excels particularly in its ability to reveal the aromatic nuances of specialty coffees.
Maintenance and Disassembly
The M01 disassembles easily for cleaning, without tools. Simply remove the adjustment dial to access the movable burr. Brush cleaning is simple and effective.
As with all coffee grinders, absolutely avoid water during cleaning. A soft brush is more than sufficient.
Conclusion: the Timemore Millab M01, a Justified Premium Investment
After several weeks of daily use, the Timemore Millab M01 stands out as one of the best manual coffee grinders currently available on the market. Its major innovation - the pineapple burrs - is not just a marketing argument: it concretely translates into exceptional grind quality that rivals flat burrs in terms of uniformity.
This high-end grinder excels particularly for pour-over methods where it produces cups of remarkable clarity and complexity. For espresso, it offers a modern profile focused on concentration and precision,
perfect for showcasing specialty coffees. The premium aluminum construction, the ultra-precise adjustment system with 100 micro-clicks, and the refined finish fully justify its price positioning.
If you are looking for a manual coffee grinder capable of elevating your specialty beans with uniformity worthy of an electric grinder, the Millab M01 seriously deserves your attention.
- Exceptional cup result, remarkable aromatic clarity (espresso and manual brewing methods)
- Highly uniform grind, thanks to the patented pineapple burrs
- Ultra-precise adjustment, 100 micro-clicks with well-defined detents
- Comfortable to use, reduced grinding effort and excellent stability (1.1 kg)
- Premium and durable construction, aeronautical aluminum and steel (without superfluous plastic)
- Daily practicality, easy disassembly and secure bayonet container attachment
- Elegant design, clean lines with spare burrs included
- High price
Important note: this review is completely objective and independent. I personally purchased this Timemore Millab M01 grinder with my own funds. It was not provided by Timemore or any distributor. My evaluation is therefore based solely on my real user experience, without any commercial influence.