Acaia Lunar 2021 vs original scale

Want to talk espresso but not sure which forum? If so, this is the right one.
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CarefreeBuzzBuzz

#1: Post by CarefreeBuzzBuzz »

I am retiring my original Lunar to our kitchen for use there and just got a 2021 model for my Slayer. I didn't really think it was going to be much of an upgrade and I am pleasantly surprised by a few things.
  • Display is much brighter which I like
  • Turn on is nearly instant vs the wait on the original
  • USB-C charging - website says its Power Delivery, manual doesn't so I have asked and will post here, but that is a big plus for me if it is
  • Flow rate is actually useful for minor adjustments to grind if making multiples of the same coffee. It displays the average flow rate after you lift the cup and you can use this to mentally make small adjustments
  • Display shows both time and weight in barista tare mode (#4) which again is easier than looking at the machine.
  • Color - I didn't think I would like Silver but it really does go better with the Slayer.
  • There is a tare mode for using the same container - I don't use it but some may. I use Mode #1 to tare my bean containers. They vary a bit by weight so that works best.

If you decide to look for one, most websites exclude these from sales, but occasionally you can find one a bit off. I know they are expensive but having spent only $6 on my WDT tool this is one of the best accessories I believe you can have for your set up. And part of that reason is not performance, it's the experience of touch and result with it.

Michael
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Moka 1 Cup

#2: Post by Moka 1 Cup »

My first Acaia so I cannot compare it to the previous version, I like mine and I would probably buy it again if I had to.
However after 20 days of daily use for both espresso and pour over I am starting to think that I will never get used to the touch screen.
I use the auto-tare-start mode for espresso, mainly because the start "button" is always a hit and miss.
Turning it off always needs multiple interactions.
And I don't use the word 'always' lightly :D

Life, Liberty and The Pursuit of Happiness.

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CarefreeBuzzBuzz (original poster)

#3: Post by CarefreeBuzzBuzz (original poster) »

Monte, I assume you have disabled the Modes you don't use.

I suggest 3 min of practice when not making espresso.

It becomes second nature.
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pizzaman383
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#4: Post by pizzaman383 »

It is not a double-click - it is a click--click
Curtis
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Paris92
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#5: Post by Paris92 »

It's a great scale. It's overly complicated. The touch sensitivity is not consistent at all. For the price point these annoying user interface issues and complex non-intuitive programming and procedures should not require a badge of honor to have figured them out. There was another post recently about bulging batteries due to exposure to water. It's made to be used in and around coffee making. Again for this price point that kind of design flaw is inexcusable; especially with a multiple generation design.

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Jaroslav
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#6: Post by Jaroslav replying to Paris92 »

There's now a 65€ alternative :) I'm also quite happy with my 150€ Felicita Arc and if it ever breaks down (after nearly 3 years of service), there's still no way I'm spending 300€ on Lunar. I never understood this price, don't see such value in the hardware, and it can clearly be made and sold for under 100€ with exact same quality. I agree with you, at 300€ I'd expect perfection. It has to be worth it to pay 300€ for a Lunar over 65€ for a "Lunar" otherwise there's no difference.
Jaroslav

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CarefreeBuzzBuzz (original poster)

#7: Post by CarefreeBuzzBuzz (original poster) replying to Jaroslav »


They even ripped off the name I see. If you support this type of "theft" that is a personal choice. There is a reason for intellectual property laws.
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CarefreeBuzzBuzz (original poster)

#8: Post by CarefreeBuzzBuzz (original poster) »

Paris92 wrote:It's a great scale. It's overly complicated. The touch sensitivity is not consistent at all. For the price point these annoying user interface issues and complex non-intuitive programming and procedures should not require a badge of honor to have figured them out. There was another post recently about bulging batteries due to exposure to water. It's made to be used in and around coffee making. Again for this price point that kind of design flaw is inexcusable; especially with a multiple generation design.

Hmmm well the scale and no scale is waterproof that I am aware of. If you read the instructions you would understand the proper usage and how the scale is made. It is not intended to be sitting on the drip tray while using the steam arm. My original one is still going strong because I followed these instructions and the ones for charging too. It is not a design flaw as you call it.

Touch sensitivity is clear once you understand the process of how to switch modes or do other functions. Again sitting down with the manual helps greatly.

Fully understand if you don't like the price there are lots of other options.

They also are very responsive to questions and service issues. They have a very fair battery replacement program as well.

Hope you find something else that fits your price range.
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Jaroslav
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#9: Post by Jaroslav »

CarefreeBuzzBuzz wrote: They have a very fair battery replacement program as well.
And "The Acaia Lunar comes with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. It includes protection against water damage.". Not sure if many owners are aware of this, that's just nice. You certainly don't get that with knockoffs, but at the same time they aren't priced 300-350€.

I remember when iPhones were supposed to be waterproof (submergable), I still had to pay over 550€ for a replacement due do water damage even though my phone was never near water. Acaia's warranty covers that, that's just nice.
Jaroslav