A few years ago, I got the Timemore Black Mirror coffee scale along with the Timemore C2 grinder. This combo quickly became a favorite among pour-over enthusiasts due to its affordability and performance.
Since then, Timemore has released several updates and new models.
Today, I’m excited to introduce the latest addition, the Black Mirror Basic Mini. If you can’t decide between the Nano and Mini models, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Here is my hands-on review on YouTube, check it out.
Timemore Black Mirror Mini – First Impression
When I first unboxed the Black Mirror Basic Mini, I was impressed by its sleek design and compact size. Inside the box, you’ll find:
- A USB-C charging cable
- An anti-slip mat that wraps around the sides and flips over to hold your portafilter
The Mini is incredibly small and thin, making it the slimmest scale Timemore has ever produced.
The thickness is perfect for fitting under most espresso machines, which often have limited clearance.
The LED display is the same bright blue as other models in the Black Mirror series, ensuring clear visibility.
Unlike the Timemore Nano, the Mini puts buttons on the front, which helps prevent accidental presses when moving the scale.
The scale comes with a new anti-slip mat that wraps around the sides. Flip it over, it can hold your portafilter for weighing.
The front button design is a practical improvement, especially for those who frequently reposition their scale.
Comparing the Mini and Nano
Nano and Mini both mean small, so which one is actually smaller? What’s the main difference between them? Let’s compare them side by side.
| Feature | Mini | Nano |
|---|---|---|
| Size and Weight | 192g, thinner | 230g |
| Dimensions | Slim, ideal for limited clearance | Slightly thicker |
| Design | Top display, front buttons | Tilted display, side buttons |
| Display | Weight, timer, drip rate | Weight, timer, drip rate (need toggling) |
| Material | Plastic base | Metal base |
| Battery capacity | 760 mAh | 900 mAh |
| Precision and Capacity | 0.1g precision, 2kg max | 0.1g precision, 2kg max |
Size and Weight:
- Mini: 192 grams, noticeably thinner
- Nano: 230 grams, slightly thicker with a metal base
Both the Mini and Nano are similar in width and height, but the Mini is noticeably thinner, making it ideal for espresso machines with limited clearance under the portafilter spout.
This is a real factor for those who need a slim espresso scale for their setup.
Design:
The Nano’s tilted display is especially handy for pour-over brewing as it remains easy to read even with a large carafe. The Mini uses a traditional top display which, while clear, doesn’t offer the same convenience for pour-overs.
One downside of the Nano is its side buttons, which can be accidentally pressed when moving the scale. The Mini’s front button design eliminates this issue, making it more user-friendly in everyday use.
The Mini displays both the drip rate and time directly on the screen without needing to switch between them, unlike the Nano, which requires toggling with side buttons. This straightforward approach on the Mini is highly convenient.
Material and Durability:
The Timemore Mini is lighter (192 grams) than the Nano (230 grams).
The Nano has a metal base, adding to its durability and giving it a premium feel. The Mini, on the other hand, has a plastic base, making it lighter but I don’t think it’s less durable because of this.
Battery Life:
The battery capacity for both scales is similar, with the Nano at 780 milliamp hours and the Mini at 760 milliamp hours.
My Nano can last at least two weeks on a single charge with daily use, and I expect the Mini to perform similarly.
Precision and Capacity:
Both scales can measure weights as precise as 0.1 grams and have a maximum capacity of 2 kilograms, making them equally reliable for precision tasks.
Well, this is the minimal requirement for a good coffee scale, both passed.
Core Functions
I’ve been using the Timemore Nano for quite a while, and the new Mini has the same modes and functions. I know how they work without having to learn them. If this is your first Timemore scale, they are easy to figure out.
You have three modes to choose from depending on your coffee routine. You can tap the timer button to toggle between them.
Basic Mode:
The basic mode is straightforward and includes the basic functions most coffee scales have. The right button tares the scale, and the left button starts the timer. This is the function I use most for daily brewing. It’s simple, efficient, and perfect for quick setups.
Auto Mode:
Tap the timer button five times to enter Auto mode, indicated by an “A” icon.
This mode is primarily designed for pour-over brewing. After a three-second countdown, the timer starts automatically when it senses water flow. When brewing is finished and you remove the brewer, it will stop timing.
I appreciate the flexibility of this feature, though some might prefer to start the timer manually.
Espresso Mode:
Espresso mode is very convenient for espresso brewing.
When you place a cup on the scale, it automatically tares. The timer starts with the first drop of coffee, with a slight one-second delay. It stops when the flow ends and tares again for the next shot.
This mode is excellent for consistency in espresso preparation, though the slight delay is something to be mindful of.
After pulling a shot, I usually flush the group head to remove residue on the shower screen. So, I have to remove the scale and put it under the spout again. It’s not a set-and-forget thing for me, but in a cafe, this can be useful if the barista pulls back-to-back shots.
Additional Functions:
If you don’t like the beep, you can turn it off by holding the timer button for five seconds. To switch between grams and ounces, press the tare button multiple times. However, for accurate measurements, I would stick with grams. The scale powers off after three minutes of inactivity.
Overall, this scale offers all the functions I expect from a coffee scale at this price.
Comparing to Black Mirror Basic 2.0
Timemore’s Black Mirror Basic series also includes the larger Basic 2.0. Here’s how it compares to the Mini:
Basic 2.0 Lacks espresso mode and is significantly larger, making it ideal for pour-over but less versatile for espresso.
It is a budget-friendly option and has a battery capacity of 1600 mAh, doubling that of the Mini.
Wrapping Up
The Timemore Black Mirror Basic Mini is a fantastic choice for coffee enthusiasts looking for a compact and feature-rich scale.
It offers all the essential functions for both espresso and pour-over brewing, combined with a practical design that fits well under most espresso machines.
Whether you choose the Mini, Nano, or Basic 2.0, Timemore provides reliable options to suit your brewing needs. But if I have to choose one, I will pick the new Timemore Mini for its practical design. Which one do you like?
