Option O Grinder
Option-O is a Hong Kong-based company that makes some of the most talked-about grinders in specialty coffee right now. Their Lagom series has earned a reputation for exceptional grind quality, minimal retention, and a design philosophy that prioritizes precision over flashy features. If you've been browsing coffee forums and seeing the name pop up repeatedly, there's a reason for that.
I got my hands on the Lagom P64 about two years ago, and it changed how I think about grinding coffee. In this guide, I'll cover the full Option-O lineup, what makes these grinders special, and whether the steep price tags are justified.
The Option-O Lineup
Option-O currently makes three grinders, each targeting a slightly different audience. All of them share the same design DNA: single-dose workflow, low retention, and premium burr options.
Lagom Mini
The Lagom Mini is Option-O's most accessible model, priced around $200-250. It uses 38mm conical burrs made by Italmill and has a stepless adjustment system. The hopper is tiny by design because this grinder is meant for single-dosing (weigh your beans, dump them in, grind them all out).
For the price, the Mini punches well above its weight. It produces noticeably better grinds than anything else in its price range, including popular options like the Timemore Chestnut and 1Zpresso JX-Pro. The catch? It's slow. Grinding 18 grams for espresso takes about 30 seconds. If you're patient and value quality over speed, the Mini is a gem.
Lagom P64
The P64 is where Option-O made its name. This is a flat burr grinder with 64mm burrs, available in several configurations. You can choose between SSP Multipurpose burrs (good for both espresso and filter), SSP High Uniformity burrs (optimized for filter and lighter roasts), or the stock Italmill burrs.
I chose the SSP Multipurpose set, and the clarity in my espresso improved overnight. Notes I'd never tasted before, things like jasmine and stone fruit in Ethiopian beans, suddenly showed up in the cup. The P64 retails for around $800-1,100 depending on the burr configuration.
Retention is remarkably low. I measured about 0.2 to 0.3 grams of retained grounds after grinding, which is among the lowest in its class. This matters because stale grounds from previous sessions contaminate your fresh dose and mute the flavors.
Lagom P100
The P100 is Option-O's flagship, featuring massive 98mm flat burrs in a surprisingly compact body. This grinder competes directly with commercial units costing two to three times as much.
At roughly $2,500-3,000, the P100 is strictly for enthusiasts who want the absolute best home grinding experience. The grind speed is fast (about 2-3 seconds for a double shot), the consistency is extraordinary, and the build quality is impeccable. It's more grinder than most people need, but for those who want it, nothing else at this size comes close.
What Makes Option-O Grinders Stand Out
Single-Dose Design Philosophy
Every Option-O grinder is built around single-dosing. There's no large hopper sitting on top holding stale beans for days. You weigh your exact dose, pour it in, and the grinder processes every last gram. This approach wastes less coffee and ensures maximum freshness.
The grind path on Option-O grinders is short and nearly vertical, which minimizes retention. Coffee goes in the top and comes out the bottom with very little getting stuck along the way. Compare this to traditional hopper-fed grinders that can retain 3 to 5 grams in the burr chamber and chute.
Burr Options and Swappability
One of the smartest things Option-O did was make their burrs easy to swap. The P64, for example, can accept burrs from SSP, Italmill, and other manufacturers. This means you can start with one set and upgrade later, or keep two sets on hand for different brewing methods.
SSP burrs in particular have become the go-to upgrade in the specialty coffee world. Their High Uniformity burrs produce incredibly clean, tea-like filter coffee, while their Multipurpose burrs deliver a balanced profile that works well for espresso.
Build Quality and Aesthetics
Option-O grinders look beautiful on a counter. The Lagom P64 has a minimalist aluminum body with clean lines and a small footprint. There are no plastic parts on the exterior. Everything feels solid and intentional.
But beauty aside, the engineering is what matters. The motor is quiet (noticeably quieter than competitors like Niche Zero or Eureka), the alignment is precise from the factory, and the adjustment dial moves smoothly with zero play.
Option-O vs. Popular Competitors
vs. Niche Zero: The Niche Zero is the most direct competitor to the Lagom P64. Both are single-dose grinders in the $700-1,000 range. The Niche uses 63mm Mazzer conical burrs, while the P64 uses 64mm flat burrs. Flat burrs generally produce a cleaner, more defined flavor profile. Conical burrs produce a thicker, fuller body. Your preference depends on what you value in the cup.
vs. Eureka Mignon Single Dose: Eureka's single-dose grinder is about half the price of the P64. It's a solid grinder, but the grind quality doesn't match Option-O's, especially with SSP burrs. If you're on a budget, the Eureka is fine. If you want the best, the P64 wins.
vs. Fellow Ode Gen 2: The Fellow Ode is designed for filter coffee only and costs around $300. It's not really in the same category as the P64, but it's worth mentioning because people often compare them. The Ode is great for its price, but the P64 operates on a different level entirely.
For a broader look at premium options in this category, our best coffee grinder guide covers models at every price point.
Who Should Buy an Option-O Grinder?
The Lagom Mini is perfect for someone who wants excellent grind quality but can't justify spending $800 or more. It's the best grinder under $300, period.
The P64 is for the home barista who has already invested in a good espresso machine and wants their grinder to match. If you're pulling shots on a Breville Dual Boiler, Lelit Bianca, or Decent DE1, the P64 is a natural companion.
The P100 is for people who don't want to think about whether their grinder is the bottleneck. It's overkill for most home setups, but if you have the budget and the desire, it delivers.
If you're not ready for the Option-O price range, browse our top coffee grinder roundup for alternatives that still deliver great results at lower price points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Option-O grinders?
Option-O sells direct through their website (option-o.com). They also have authorized dealers in various countries. In the US, retailers like Prima Coffee and Fellow occasionally carry them. Availability can be spotty because these grinders sell out quickly after each production run.
Are Option-O grinders good for espresso?
Yes. The Lagom P64 with SSP Multipurpose burrs is one of the best espresso grinders under $1,500. It produces the fine, uniform particle distribution that espresso demands. The Lagom Mini can also grind for espresso, though it's slower and less consistent than the P64.
How long do Option-O burrs last?
With typical home use (20-40 grams per day), expect the burrs to last 5 to 10 years before needing replacement. SSP burrs are hardened steel and wear slowly. Replacement sets cost $60-150 depending on the model.
Is the Option-O Lagom P64 worth it over the Niche Zero?
It depends on your taste preference. If you prefer clarity, sweetness, and distinct flavor notes, the P64 with flat burrs is the better choice. If you prefer a heavy, syrupy body in your espresso, the Niche Zero's conical burrs might suit you better. Both are excellent grinders. I prefer the P64, but that's a personal call.
The Takeaway
Option-O has earned its reputation by doing one thing extremely well: making grinders that get out of the way and let your coffee taste like it should. The P64 is their sweet spot for most buyers. Buy it with SSP Multipurpose burrs if you drink espresso, or High Uniformity burrs if you focus on filter coffee. Either way, you'll taste the difference on your first cup.