I had the older version and it has given me years of dependable service. I wanted the new model so I could use the spice grinder attachment. I love it. I always use sea salt and grinding enough to measure into recipes or salt meat was a real chore. My new Kitchenaid grinder now makes short work of that tedious task. When you couple ease of use with dishwasher safe you have a winner. The coffee grinder also makes short work of grinding my coffee to just the right grind. My sister has another brand grinder and it just doesn't have the power of my Kitchenaid. My only negative comment is that the logo printed on the grinder is different from my other Kitchenaid appliances. It is black print. Now my next problem - to whom do I pass my old grinder. One truly does buy Kitchenaid for a lifetime of use.