SmartFingers Masala Plus Wet Grinder Review

SmartFingers Masala Plus Wet Grinder has quietly become one of the more user-focused wet grinders in the market. It is compact, yet powerful. It’s not just the vibrant blue design that catches attention—it’s the thoughtful touches in usability that stand out.

We’ve used it daily for over three months, and in that time, it has taken over many tasks that our trusted Elgi Ultra once managed.

How We Tested

Our testing approach is straightforward, we use the appliance as any home user would. Over three months, the SmartFingers Masala Plus was used to grind idli-dosa batter, make pesarattu and vada mixes, knead atta, and even prepare masalas, Chutneys using the dedicated masala mode. We compared its output, ease of use, cleaning effort, and safety to our existing wet grinder (Elgi Ultra) and the previous SmartFingers Comfort Plus model.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out about the SmartFingers Masala Plus is its size. It takes up less space than traditional grinders, making it a better fit for compact kitchens. The control dial at the front is large and responsive—it’s used to set the timer and switch between wet grinding and masala mode. The stone drum sits neatly above a base that doesn’t wobble during use.

A distinctive feature is the batter collection cap positioned near the bottom of the drum. This allows you to collect batter or masala directly into a vessel. However, it’s crucial to lock it tightly. If not secured properly, batter can leak while the machine runs. The mechanism isn’t difficult, but it needs attention. For first-time users, there might be a short learning curve.

The top lid also includes a small cap for adding water during grinding. It’s a separate part and functions well without fuss. Inside the drum, the stones are lighter than what you’d typically expect. This makes removal and cleaning far easier. Overall, the construction feels sturdy, and the included accessories—atta kneader, coconut scraper, and brush match the machine’s build quality.

Performance

The SmartFingers Masala Plus delivers consistently good results in wet grinding mode. Idli batter turns out smooth and ferments well. Dosa batter is fine enough to make crisp or soft dosas depending on your pan technique. Vada and pesarattu batters came out airy and uniform.

Masala mode is where this grinder separates itself. It simulates the manual back-and-forth motion of a traditional stone grinder. It’s not fast, you’ll need 15 to 20 minutes for a batch of chutney or masala but the taste payoff is real. The pastes are richer and the texture closer to hand-ground versions.

Atta kneading is smooth and hassle-free. Water can be added through the lid, and the dough forms evenly within minutes. It doesn’t require scraping or manual folding mid-way.

Cleaning and Maintenance

This is where SmartFingers gets most of the praise in our household. The stones are lighter, which makes removal easier. After grinding, we typically add a bit of water, let it run for a few seconds, and collect the remaining batter with the included brush. The cap opens easily for this step. Unlike some grinders with deep ridges or grooves, the SmartFingers drum and lid are simple to rinse. However, reaching the bottom of the drum still requires a brush, especially if you’re cleaning manually.

Safety, Noise, and Usability

From a safety standpoint, the grinder is stable and doesn’t shift during use. There is overload protection switch, but we didn’t encounter overheating during long grinding sessions. That said, one moment of carelessness caused a minor bruise. After removing the batter collection cap, I placed my finger inside while the grinder was still on, something you should never do. The stones were still rotating, and that brief contact was enough to leave a bruise. This isn’t a design flaw, the machine includes a brush specifically for collecting leftover batter, even while running. The mistake was entirely mine, and it’s worth pointing out for others who may be tempted to do the same.

As for noise, the machine produces a steady mechanical hum—not silent, but less intrusive than most mixer grinders. It sits comfortably under cabinets and tucks away neatly when not in use.

Comparison: Elgi Ultra vs SmartFingers Masala Plus

We’ve used the Elgi Ultra for over five years, and it still works reliably. But over time, its heavy stones, larger footprint, and more laborious cleaning process made us look for something lighter. SmartFingers doesn’t beat Elgi in bulk grinding, but for daily use, it’s more practical. It does almost everything the Ultra does, but with less effort.

Compared to the Comfort Plus, SmartFingers Masala Plus offers better grinding performance—particularly thanks to the masala mode. For anyone who values taste and is willing to spend a few more minutes for it, this mode is a real asset.

Verdict

SmartFingers Masala Plus Wet Grinder doesn’t try to do everything fast—it focuses on doing it well. From the quality of the batter to the depth of flavor in masalas, the machine delivers where it matters. It’s easier to clean, easier to store, and easier to use, especially for homes that grind batter or masala often.

It isn’t for people who expect instant results. But for those who want the richness of traditional stone grinding in a more manageable package, this one’s a dependable choice.

Who Should Buy It

South Indian homes that grind frequently, prefer stone-ground taste, and need a compact, easy-to-clean appliance.

Who Should Skip It

Those who grind rarely or want quick chutneys without waiting.