Mr. Coffee IDS77

Bottom Line

For coffee-drinkers who want a cheap way to learn to grind their own beans, the Mr. Coffee IDS77 is the perfect model. It's also a fun impulse purchase, or a clever and inexpensive gift. While it's easy to use, the construction is called thin and flimsy, and the settings are basic, so connoisseurs -- beware!

Performance

Satisfactory grinding, meets modest expectations. Users say the Mr. Coffee IDS77 is a fine appliance that does precisely what it's supposed to do. One user posting to Amazon.com says that if you're looking for an inexpensive model, "it doesn't get any better than this," while another notes, "The darn thing actually does a pretty good job." Many reviewers who are new to using a grinder express satisfaction that grinding beans at home produces a fresh and good-tasting cup of joe. Nevertheless, those who are looking for something above and beyond a basic grind may find themselves disappointed. One user comments that although the model offers settings ranging from coarse to fine, there is actually little difference in the appearance of the ground coffee, no matter which setting you choose. There are a few users who are happy with espresso from beans ground by this unit.

Ease of Use

Unexpected convenience features. Users say the Mr. Coffee IDS77 is a straightforward and simple machine. Many note a variety of convenience features, including the removable grind chamber (allows you to carry ground coffee to your coffeemaker), and the timer (shuts the machine off after grinding enough coffee for the specified number of brewed cups). Because the grinding chamber and lid are dishwasher safe, many owners consider this an easy-to-clean model. In addition to coffee, users also report using the IDS77 to grind flaxseed, sesame seeds, buckwheat and nuts.

On the other hand, reviews are mixed about the unit's "Chamber Maid" cleaning system, which employs an internal plastic scraper to scrape grounds down the walls of the grinding chamber. Some owners find this a helpful feature, and others maintain that the system is not very effective, or that grinds still remain at the bottom of the chamber. The cord also elicits complaints, with some saying the integrated storage (the cord feeds through the base) is inconvenient.

Durability

Dependable for the price. Considering the low price, many users say they have been pleased with the reliability of their Mr. Coffee IDS77 grinders. Some report that it's still going strong after two or three years of regular use, with one adding that you could buy a new IDS77 every two years for a long time and still not come close to the high price of many upper-end models. Nevertheless, many users complain about the model's thin plastic casing and, in the words of one user, "cheap plastic parts." Some say pieces chip off easily, and others note that the plastic cleaning scraper tends to wear down, leading them to worry about tiny plastic shards making their way into the coffee. It comes with a one-year warranty.

Appearance

Classy, simple, and unobtrusive. "Classy," "stylish," "attractive," "compact." These are just a few of the remarkably positive reviews regarding the Mr. Coffee IDS77's appearance. One owner comments that the machine "neither adds nor detracts from one's décor," while another says it is "unobtrusive enough on the counter."

Noise

As loud as you might expect. Noise reviews for the Mr. Coffee IDS77 range from "pretty quiet" to "incredibly loud."" One user comments that you're definitely going to wake people up if you use it while others are sleeping. Still, some users point out that it's unfair to expect a blade grinder to be anything less than loud, considering that it's chopping up beans.