The Timemore Chestnut S5 Pro and the EPEIOS Essence Go are two hand grinders people often get stuck choosing between. I own and use both, so this comparison sticks to two things: what I've noticed using them, and what the manufacturers publish. I haven't run particle-size or extraction tests, so you won't find any of those numbers here.
The short answer
- S5 Pro: for a grinder that lives on your counter and makes the same pour-over every morning
- Essence Go: for the lightest possible turning feel, or if you want to take it apart and carry it
What I've found using them
The S5 Pro was my very first hand grinder. Mine is the green one, I use it every day, and almost always for pour-over. At around 910g it's on the heavy side for a hand grinder, but since it stays at home, the weight has never bothered me.
My one-line verdict on the Essence Go: it just spins so easily. The lightness of the handle when you start grinding is the difference you notice right away.
Specs compared (manufacturer figures)
| Timemore Chestnut S5 Pro | EPEIOS Essence Go | |
|---|---|---|
| Burrs | 48mm stainless (TriB-048-I) | 38mm conical, 10-blade outer burr |
| Grind adjustment | External dial, 90 clicks per turn (about 15 microns per click) | 0–80 settings, readable from the outside |
| Capacity | About 30g | Up to about 30g |
| Weight | About 910g | About 870g |
| Portability | Folding handle; best kept at home | Comes apart and fits a dedicated case |
These figures come from the official pages we checked. Specs can change, so check the latest official page before you buy.
Difference 1: burr size and adjustment
The S5 Pro pairs 48mm burrs with a 90-click external dial, so you can make very fine adjustments. It suits the "dial it in once, brew the same cup every morning" approach.
The Essence Go uses 38mm burrs with 10 blades. EPEIOS says the blade count reduces friction to make the first turns lighter, which matches my experience exactly.
Difference 2: weight and where it lives
There's only about 40g between them, and neither is a lightweight. The real difference is design: the S5 Pro is meant to sit on your counter, while the Essence Go is meant to pack into its case and travel.
Which one to pick
- First grinder, mostly pour-over at home → S5 Pro (it's what I chose)
- You want effortless turning, or plan to take it camping or to work → Essence Go
- Buying a second grinder → S5 Pro at home, Essence Go for the road