Kinu M47 Phoenix Review

Explore the Kinu M47 Phoenix, a manual coffee grinder that stands out for its remarkable performance and refined design. In this article, I share my first impressions of this model while comparing it to other high-end grinders such as the Apollo from BPlus. You’ll find a detailed analysis as well as a demonstration video to better appreciate its strengths. Dive into the world of quality coffee and discover the ideal grinder to enrich your caffeinated experience.

A long time ago, I owned one of the first variants of the Kinu M47 that I eventually replaced with the Apollo from BPlus. I extensively documented this decision in an article and a YouTube video.

Two years later, Kinu returns with new versions. How does this M47 Phoenix compare to my previous tests? Fortunately, a friend lent me this model so I could test it and share my impressions.

Presentation of the Kinu M47 Phoenix

The packaging is well-designed and protects the grinder well. Inside the box, you’ll find:

• A thank you letter / user manual
• A crank handle
• The grinder
• A plastic container
• Replacement gaskets for attaching the container

The Crank Handle

The crank handle features a moderately ergonomic plastic knob. The shape doesn’t perfectly fit the palm of the hand, which can be bothersome during prolonged use. I personally preferred the handle of the El Comandante C40 or the Apollo from BPlus.

Once installed, the crank handle cannot be easily removed. Underneath it is the adjustment dial, undoubtedly one of the best on the market.

The adjustment dial

Kinu has greatly improved its adjustment system on the M47 Phoenix. It is robust, precise and does not slip, making it probably one of the most reliable on the market.

Compared to the Comandante C40 and the Apollo by BPlus, the Phoenix offers even finer adjustment. Once locked, the crank handle remains perfectly stable.

The grinder body

The design is understated: a brushed stainless steel tube paired with a plastic container. A rubber bracelet makes it easier to grip and makes the use more pleasant than the thumb-rest system of the classic M47.

However, the internal structure uses polymer fasteners of questionable quality. This makes the grinder partially non-disassemblable: it is impossible to deep clean the interior, which can pose a problem in the long term.

The burr

The Kinu M47 Phoenix burr is manufactured by Italmill, a renowned Italian company. It is identical to that of the BPlus Apollo, but the post-production treatment differs:

• Carried out by Kinu for the Phoenix
• Carried out by Italmill for the Apollo

Result: the grind is very similar between these two grinders, and significantly more precise than that of the Comandante C40, particularly thanks to the fineness of the adjustment.

Notable difference with the Apollo:

• The Phoenix is slower at grinding the same amount of coffee (because the plastic supports that hold the burr shaft are very close to the burr, slowing the flow of coffee beans into the burrs).
• But it is more pleasant to use as it requires less physical effort and its body is more stable.

The Container

This is probably the weak point of the Kinu M47 Phoenix. The plastic container lacks stability and unbalances the grinder because it is too light (only 24 g).

It is sold for 25 €, which remains excessive for a simple molded plastic. The magnetic container of the Kinu M47 Classic, more premium (metal coating and magnetic attachment), costs 50 €. Unfortunately, it is not certain that it is compatible with the Phoenix.

Verdict: a disappointing concession that detracts from the overall ergonomics and gives the impression of an unfinished prototype.

Using the Kinu M47 Phoenix

I mainly tested this grinder for espresso. However, it is reputed to adapt well to coarser grinds as well (V60, French Press, AeroPress…).

Kinu also offers replacement burrs adapted for filter methods. But be careful: only the movable part can be changed because the inside of the Phoenix is not disassemblable.

How long does it take to grind an espresso?

For 15 g of espresso grind coffee, it takes approximately 90 turns of the crank.

This is slightly longer than on the Apollo or the classic M47, but the difference only represents a few seconds. Nothing prohibitive for quality coffee.

Grind Quality

The grind obtained is of very high consistency:

• Fine and stable adjustment
• Particle uniformity
• Excellent results in the cup (tested on a La Pavoni)

The Kinu M47 Phoenix perfectly meets the requirements of a professional espresso machine.

Cleaning

Cleaning is simple but limited:

• Completely unscrew the adjustment wheel
• Remove the movable burr
• Brush away residue with a small brush (absolutely avoid water)

The internal body is not disassemblable: impossible to clean the inside thoroughly, which is unfortunate.

Conclusion: what to think of the Kinu M47 Phoenix?

The Kinu M47 Phoenix is not a fully accomplished grinder. Its strengths are real (exceptional adjustment, pleasant ergonomics, precise grind), but its technical compromises — particularly the plastic container and the impossibility of complete cleaning — penalize it heavily.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆

At this price point (around €200), I would rather recommend the 1Zpresso J-Ultra, which is more balanced and better designed.

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