Best coffee mill
13 Best Coffee Grinders 2022
13 Best Coffee Grinders 2022 | The StrategistEvery product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
Coffee Talk
Skip article listPhoto: Marcus McDonald
Photo: Marcus McDonald
I’ll be honest: I’m not a coffee snob. Give me a cup — pretty much any old cup — and I won’t complain. However, that doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate a particularly good one. And as any actual coffee snob will tell you (trust me, I’ve talked with a lot of them), your coffee is only going to be as good as your beans. And your beans won’t be any good at all if you’re not grinding them yourself right before brewing.
Unfortunately, most decent coffee grinders, even those made specifically for home use, cost a very pretty penny — we’re talking hundreds of dollars. So to figure out which models are worth the investment, we asked baristas, roasters, and coffee-shop owners about the versions they keep on their own kitchen counters (and sometimes in their suitcases because apparently good coffee never takes a vacation).
If you’re still not quite convinced a coffee grinder is something you should put so much hard-earned money toward (ahem, me), don’t worry: We’ve included a few more affordable options that are still very much pro-approved.
Best overall | Best less expensive | Best even less expensive | Best for filter brew methods | Best quiet | Best with an integrated scale | Best with an integrated timer | Best for espresso | Best less expensive for espresso | Best durable | Best retro style | Best professional quality | Best manual
Grind consistency: Every expert we spoke to noted that burr grinders (which break down beans in a kind of milling action) are better than blade grinders (which act more like choppers). As someone who has a barely used blade grinder sitting shamefully in the back of a cabinet, I concur. Will Pratt, owner and founder of Tandem Coffee Roasters in Portland, Maine, explains that with burr grinders, all the beans pass from the top of the machine to the bottom, meaning they end up a uniform and precise size as opposed to getting “thrown around like they’re in the dryer.” Joanna Lareau, café manager at Stumptown Coffee, agrees that blades are a haphazard method, leaving you with some coffee that’s “overextracted” (quite bitter) and some that’s “underextracted” (quite sour). Plus, she says, “with burr grinders, you can tinker until you find what tastes good” for whatever coffee maker you use.
Noise level: Whether it’s at your own pre-coffee expense or your sleeping partner or roommate’s, early-morning noise is pretty universally unwelcome. Almost every grinder makes some, but we categorized each as either “loud” or “quiet” depending on which way it leaned — and went into more detail in the description of each.
Price: As noted above, these aren’t cheap. But with coffee grinders, cost is relative, denoted by the number of dollar signs. $ means it costs less than $100, $$ means between $100 and $400, $$$ between $400 and $800, and $$$$ above $800.
Baratza Encore Electric Grinder
$170
Burr | Loud | $$
As a brand, Baratza came up in our reporting more often than any other. Some favor its higher-end models (more on a couple of those below), but nearly a dozen of the coffee aficionados we spoke with recommended this more affordable option, highlighting its quality performance and solid build — especially for the price. “It’s simple to use and super-consistent,” Lareau told us. “I’ve had one for almost three years now, and it’s still amazing.” Humberto Ricardo, founder of Third Rail Coffee, adds that Baratza machines are “designed to be repaired instead of thrown away should something break, which is good for my wallet and for the planet.” And speaking of repairs, Pratt noted Baratza’s great customer service.
“When you have to replace the burrs every few years, they make it incredibly easy to do so,” he says.
Elliott Foos, director of coffee at Daymoves in Brooklyn, told us he used the Encore at work when he used to run the coffee shop attached to chef Flynn McGarry’s Lower East Side restaurant, Gem. “It’s intuitive and performs wonderfully,” he says, “grinding from fine espresso to the most coarse setting for French press or cold brew.” (The Encore has 40 grind settings, so you can easily adjust to whatever you’re looking for.) While he acknowledges it can be a little loud — or a “touch chatty,” in his words — Foos says that’s to be expected for a grinder made of plastic and designed for the home.
Krups Precision Grinder
$66 now 18% off
$54
Photo: retailer
Burr | Loud | $
If you’re not quite ready to take the plunge on a model upwards of $100, the Krups Precision Grinder is a very solid place to start. It comes recommended by Paul Schlader, owner of New York City–based Birch Coffee, who promises it has the essentials: 12 settings for selecting your preferred grind size and a “cup selector” dial to grind the exact amount of coffee you need for the number of drinks you’re making.
$54 at Amazon
Buy
$51 at Wayfair
Buy
Cuisinart Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill Grinder
$45
$60 now 25% off
$45
Burr | Loud | $
If you don’t drink coffee every single day (or, like me, you buy pre-ground beans most of the time), you might not even want to spend as much as $100. This $60 grinder from Cuisinart is one of the most affordable on the market with burr-style blades — and works totally great, at least in my experience. It’s quite intuitive to use: You simply fill the chamber with beans (it can fit nearly a whole pound at once), set the dial to any of the 18 settings between fine and coarse grind, set the number of cups you are planning to brew (though you won’t need this if you pre-weigh the amount of beans you put in in the first place), and press start. Most of the pieces are removable and dishwasher-safe, and it stores well; it’s rectangular and compact, with a place to wrap the cord underneath.
Eureka Mignon Filtro Coffee Grinder
$209
$209
Burr | Quiet | $$
Matthew Kang, editor of Eater L.A., likes the Eureka Mignon even more than the similarly priced Baratza because he says it has better grind consistency. The catch is that it only mills on the coarser end of the spectrum — meaning it’s great for methods like pour-over, French press, and Aeropress, but not espresso. But the grinder is “strong, durable, and powerful,” Kang says, breaking down whole bags of coffee at a time with its bigger-than-average 50-mm. flat burrs. Kang does note that the machine only has a small dial to change the grind setting and a tiny button on the bottom to start the grinder without any timers.
But he also says that doesn’t matter — in the end, “the beans will be ground more consistently, resulting in better-tasting coffee.” This grinder certainly makes some noise, but as you can see in this video, it’s quite a reasonable level — especially for this price point, as the pro testing it points out.
$209 at Seattle Coffee Gear
Buy
Fellow Ode Brew Grinder
$299 now 15% off
$255
Burr | Quiet | $$
When it came out a little over a year ago, Fellow’s Ode grinder was all the buzz among professional and amateur baristas alike — so much so that it prompted associate editor Louis Cheslaw to try it out and write an extremely favorable review, noting in particular that at its very loudest, the grinder sounds “like crumpling up a newspaper.
”
But its appeal goes beyond noise control. The Ode combines fast, consistent, and typically commercial-grade flat-burr grinding technology with a compact size and the thoughtful design details that Fellow’s other tea and coffee products are known for (here at the Strategist, we’re particularly fond of the company’s electric kettle). “They really thought about every detail,” says Jerad Morrison, co-founder and co-CEO of Sightglass Coffee in San Francisco. “The dial that adjusts the grind size is very intuitive. The cup that catches the grind is magnetic, so it clicks into position tightly and easily. The machine even has a button that shakes out any residual chaff” — the leftover coffee skins that mostly come off during roasting but usually not all the way — “into the cup instead of blowing them out onto your counter, which happens with other grinders.
” (For what it’s worth, when I checked back in with Cheslaw, he noted that he did sometimes find excess grounds on his counter but that he might have misunderstood the correct button — and, regardless, that it’s a “small price for quieter grinding.”)
$255 at Amazon
Buy
$255 at Nordstrom
Buy
Oxo Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder With Integrated Scale
$300 now 14% off
$259
Burr | Loud | $$
Schlader loves this Oxo grinder for a number of reasons, but chief among them is its “built-in intelligent scale” — which means you won’t lose extra money or counter space buying a separate one.
The feature “simplifies the process of grinding coffee for your average home brewer and cuts down on equipment,” he says. Enter the number of cups you’re going to brew and your preferred coarseness for whatever coffee-making method you employ, and the grinder spits out exactly what you need. “It’s an incredibly thoughtful product,” he says.
Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Coffee Grinder With Digital Timer Display
$250
Burr | Loud | $$
If you’re looking for a grinder with a timer (or if you’d just like a general step up from the Baratza Encore), four of our baristas praised this model. You can set it to grind for a specific time, turn it on, walk away, and come back to beans that are never overground.
(The Encore, by contrast, must be stopped and started manually.) Ricardo says it’s fast and relatively quiet.
La Marzocco Lux D Coffee Grinder
$995
$995
Burr | Loud | $$$$
The grinder is on the pricier side, but according to Morrison, it’s worth it. “Most grinders claim they can get a fine-enough consistency for espresso,” he says, “but that’s just not true.” The Marzocco, on the other hand, was made specifically for espresso and espresso alone. It’s high-quality enough to be used in many coffee shops but is still a good investment at home if you’re a serious espresso drinker. “For espresso preparation, a mediocre grind is a nonstarter,” says Morrison.
Niche Zero Coffee Grinder
$570
$570
Burr | Quiet | $$$
Several times a year, Cary Wong, a member of the Partners Coffee education team, attends trade shows to try lots of new products. This grinder left such a lasting impression that he still recommends it years later. The Niche Zero is a stepless grinder, which means you have infinite grind-size settings as opposed to having to choose from predetermined ones. That feature, Wong says, “really allows you to grind fine enough coffee to make great espresso.” While it’s only single dose, that makes its footprint smaller than most — ideal for if you have limited counter space or want to store it in a cabinet.
“I also love that it comes with a nice dosing cup with a perfect size for your portafilter,” Wong says, “which makes it easy and allows for no mess.” Other pluses he points out are its sleek design, well-built construction, and the fact that it’s quiet, “perfect for early-morning coffee drinkers.”
[Editor’s note: The Niche Zero is priced in pounds, so the price shown is an approximate conversion to U.S. dollars.]
$570 at Niche
Buy
KitchenAid Burr Coffee Bean Grinder in Silver
$319
Burr | Loud | $$
Jamie McCormick, co-owner of the East Village coffee shop Abraço, swears by this KitchenAid model.
“It grinds at an insanely consistent particle size, right up there with my shop’s Mahlkonig EK,” a commercial coffee grinder that costs over $2,500. In addition to the top-notch technicals, it’s “very sturdy.” How does he know? It still works fine after being dropped on a concrete floor at the roastery about five years ago. “It looks totaled and unusable, but it still purrs, no problem,” he says. One potential downside to take into consideration, according to McCormick: “It is loud and sounds like the machine it is.” Naama Shefi, founder of Jewish Food Society, also calls this model “strong,” using it every day — sometimes multiple times a day — to brew coffee in her moka pot.
$319 at Amazon
Buy
$319 at Amazon
Buy
Smeg Coffee Grinder
$330
$330
Burr | Quiet | $$
Smeg makes many particularly attractive, retro-style appliances (we’re talking everything from refrigerators to toasters). And while we would never urge you to buy something just for looks, Kang says its coffee grinder is super solid, the one he has been using nearly every day at home for the last year and a half. Kang owns it in pastel green, which he says “looks really adorable with its 1950s design.” But he also points out that the grind consistency is good, the container captures most of the coffee dust, it’s easy to dose a specific amount, and the hopper is big enough for almost a pound of beans.
Baratza Forte BG Commercial Coffee Grinder
$900
Photo: retailer
Burr | Quiet | $$$$
If you are in fact ready to take the plunge on the very high end of the coffee-grinder spectrum, it doesn’t get much better than the Baratza Forte BG. The word commercial in the name is an indicator; it’s intended for extensive daily use in restaurants and cafés. For one, it’s virtually silent. For another, “the grind-by-weight feature is incredible,” says Reagan Petrehn, specialty coffee consultant and former branding lead of Felix Roasting Co. Petrehn adds that he loves its capabilities across the board, which allow him to use it “both for espresso and pour-over” and change his grind settings as he goes.
$900 at Amazon
Buy
$900 at Amazon
Buy
Porlex Mini Grinder II
$84
$84
Burr | Quiet | $
In an entirely different category are manual grinders. The Porlex — an updated version of one that a couple of our experts noted was great — features the same burr-grinding method as the electric models on this list, but you have to do the work yourself. Although it may sound strange to take a technological step backward, manual grinders have plenty of fans. “It’s great to travel with or to gift someone if you don’t want to assume anything about the setup of their kitchen,” says Caroline Bell, owner of Cafe Grumpy in New York City. “It’s easy to adjust, and the grind size is really consistent.” I think this would be a good pick for someone who doesn’t make coffee every single day.
$84 at Blue Bottle
Buy
$84 at Porlex
Buy
A coffee grinder with over 5,500 five-star Amazon ratings
$50
$59 now 15% off
Buy at Amazon
A cheap grinder from an expert-approved brand
$28
$43 now 35% off
Buy at Amazon
The grinder Brad Leone of 'Bon Appétit' swears by
$186
$350 now 47% off
• Caroline Bell, owner of Cafe Grumpy
• Louis Cheslaw, Strategist associate editor
• Elliott Foos, director of coffee at Daymoves
• Matthew Kang, editor of Eater LA
• Joanna Lareau, cafe manager at Stumptown Coffee
• Jamie McCormick, co-owner of Abraço
• Jerad Morrison, co-founder and co-CEO of Sightglass Coffee
• Reagan Petrehn, specialty coffee consultant
• Will Pratt, owner and founder of Tandem Coffee Roasters
• Humberto Ricardo, founder of Third Rail Coffee
• Paul Schlader, owner of Birch Coffee
• Naama Shefi, founder of Jewish Food Society
• Cary Wong, member of the Partners Coffee education team
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10 Best Coffee Grinders (2022): Conical Burr, Flat Burr, Manual, Blade
Jaina Grey Scott Gilbertson
Gear
Get more joy from your java. These conical-burr, flat-burr, and bladed machines let you enjoy freshly ground beans in every cup.
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Featured in this articleWhat Is a Conical, Flat, or Blade Grinder?
Why We Prefer the Burr
Read more
Best for Most People
Oxo Conical Burr Grinder
Read more$100 at Target
Best Conical Burr Grinder
Baratza Encore Burr Grinder
Read more$170 at Amazon
The Best Grinder, Period
Eureka Mignon Notte
Read more$329 at Seattle Coffee Gear
Show more
4 / 14
It's all in the beans. Nothing will improve your morning coffee like grinding the beans right before you brew.
It doesn't matter whether you're rocking a fancy liquid-cooled-quantum-AI-powered espresso machine or a $20 Mr. Coffee—making the switch to whole beans will transform your coffee-drinking experience.
We have some advice on finding good whole beans at the end of this article, and you might want to read our guide to the best coffee bean subscription services. Then, once you have your beans, it's time to grind 'em up fresh each day. Here's our guide to the best coffee grinders.
Also, be sure to check out our other coffee gear roundups, like the Best Latte and Cappuccino Machines, Best Portable Coffee Makers, Best Espresso Machines, and Best Portable Espresso Makers.
Updated August 2022: We’ve added the Eureka Mignon Notte and KitchenAid blade grinder.
What Is a Conical, Flat, or Blade Grinder?
Why We Prefer the Burr
Our list consists mostly of conical-burr grinders. In a conical grinder, coffee beans are crushed and ground between two rings of burrs.
They deliver a finer, much more consistent grind than you’d get with a traditional blade grinder, even the nicest ones. Flat-burr grinders are similar, but they’re typically more expensive. In these, the burrs are laid on top of each other, and the beans pass through them as they grind. The grinder action pushes the grounds out of one end, instead of relying on gravity like a conical burr grinder, and the beans spend more time in contact with the burrs. This results in a more consistent grind, but for home brewers, conical-burr grinders are just as good—even if they require more maintenance and don’t result in consistent-down-to-the-micron-scale grounds.
Blade grinders have a chopping blade that spins around like a food processor. But blades don't produce even results. Some of your coffee will be fine powder at the bottom, and at the top you'll have bits too large for even French press. The result is an inconsistent, unpredictable brew. These grinders are cheap, and yes, using fresh beans in a blade grinder is far better than buying ground coffee.
(You can learn how to shake the beans to even your grind just a little. See world barista champion James Hoffmann's video for some more blade grinder hacks.) If you can afford it, we highly recommend going with one of the burr grinders we've listed. There's a reason why they cost a little more than a budget burr grinder. The machinery in a high-quality burr grinder is a bit more complicated, and it's built to withstand greater wear and tear. In cheap burr grinders, the burrs will typically get blunt from regular use, and the flimsier motors may burn out with regular use in a matter of months.
Photograph: Oxo
Best for Most People
Oxo Conical Burr Grinder
Oxo's Brew grinder has a good balance of features, usefulness, and relatively low price among the electric grinders we've used. It's a conical burr grinder, so it gives you the precision for most types of brewing. There are 15 settings, covering every brewing scenario from finely ground espresso to coarse-ground that’s perfect for a French press.
Its slim, narrow profile doesn't hog counter space—though it is 16 inches tall and may be a tight fit under the cabinets. (Remember, you need some clearance to take the lid off and pour in beans.) It's not silent by any means, but it's not too loud, and it grinds quickly. We've used this grinder daily for more than a year, and it's held up well! If you've never had a burr grinder and want to see what all the fuss is about without breaking the bank, this is where you should start. But be careful, you will end up drinking more coffee because it tastes so good when it's burr-ground. Avoid the equally popular Cuisinart burr grinder ($60). Members of our reviews team have purchased and tested this Cuisinart model at least three times because of its low price. It was loud, the grind wasn't as even as we wanted, and the motor gave out on all of our units (which we purchased years apart) after a month or two.
$100 at Target
$100 at Amazon
$100 at Bed Bath & Beyond
Photograph: Amazon
Best Conical Burr Grinder
Baratza Encore Burr Grinder
There’s a good reason the Baratza Encore’s been unchanged on the market for over a decade.
While coffee culture can often seem elitist and uninviting, this conical burr grinder is more accessible and less expensive than most quality grinders. There are 40 settings, from a fine grind for espresso all the way to a coarse grind for French press. However, if drip coffee is your life’s blood like it is mine, you’ll want to stick with a medium setting of around 20. It's simple to operate, features an automatic shutoff timer, and doesn't hog counter space. (It's about 14 inches tall, so check the specs against your kitchen.)The Baratza Encore is also easily cleanable and repairable. No tools are required to take the machine apart, and replacement parts are easy to obtain. Plus, there’s a one-year limited warranty. The Encore has a bigger, beefier cousin, the Encore Vario-W, but for most people the Encore is a much better pick. The Vario-W does include a scale, and it has flat burrs, but at over $500 it doesn't do much to justify that price. —Haley Sprankle
$170 at Amazon
$170 at Seattle Coffee Gear
Photograph: Eureka
The Best Grinder, Period
Eureka Mignon Notte
Hand-built in Florence, Italy, the Eureka Mignon Notte is the best grinder we've ever tested.
It's built from top to bottom with longevity in mind. You can disassemble it to service its robust inner machinery, clean the burrs, and troubleshoot any issues you might be having. Moreover, the chassis is built like a tank, and unlike most grinders, it's made almost entirely of steel. Servicing a heavy-duty machine like a burr grinder encased in flimsy plastic can be a huge pain—and sometimes impossible without breaking something. Burr grinders will always run into problems. They break up oily beans into fine powders, so there's going to be some buildup, somewhere. The Mignon Notte is one of the first burr grinders that I feel confident might actually outlast me. Plus, it grinds coffee to perfection in a matter of seconds, no matter how fine or coarse you want it, and it costs hundreds less than most flat-burr grinders.
$329 at Seattle Coffee Gear
Most Popular
Photograph: KitchenAid
Best Blade Grinder
KitchenAid Blade Coffee Grinder
A burr grinder will get you noticeably tastier coffee, but there's nothing wrong with a plain old blade grinder.
If you're just grinding coffee for a drip machine, French press, or pour-over, a blade grinder will do just fine in most cases. My personal favorite has been this KitchenAid that I picked up on Amazon a few years back. It's sturdy, and it has a little removable cup so you don't have to invert the whole grinder over your coffee machine to empty out the grounds. But most importantly, it gets the job done. Add in fresh, locally roasted beans and you'll be in for a killer cup of coffee. Pro tip: If you pulse it instead of holding it down for one long grind, you'll get a more consistent grind, and you won't end up with as many nearly whole beans floating at the top of your coffee filter. More consistent grind = more flavor in your cup.
$30 at Amazon
Photograph: Fellow
Best for Pour-Over & Drip Coffee
Fellow Ode Brew Grinder
The Ode Brew Grinder only grinds coffee coarse enough for pour-over, drip, or French press brewing, but it's a great grinder.
Its flat burrs produce a super consistent grind that really elevates a good pour-over. It's also nice to look at and is built from solid metal, like a tank. The Ode thoroughly, speedily, and relatively quietly grinds your coffee beans. We recommend it if you’re looking to raise your coffee game at home but aren't interested in making espresso.$299 at Amazon
$300 at Seattle Coffee Gear
Photograph: Breville
Easy to Clean
Breville Smart Grinder Pro
We have killed quite a few burr grinders in our day. They can be hard to keep clean, hard to maintain, and most of the ones you’ll find under $80 aren’t going to live very long no matter how well you look after them. The motors burn out, the burrs get worn down, coffee dust builds up in places you can’t get to—being a burr grinder is a hard life.
The Breville Smart Grinder Pro is one of the best I’ve used. It has all kinds of helpful features like a grind timer and adjustable dose control, and attachments that let you settle a portafilter in right under the spout where the grounds come out.
The standout feature for me is its cleanability. You can easily disassemble the hopper, get access to the burrs, and pull out the spill tray under the spout—it’s amazing for keeping a burr grinder in working order.★ Alternative: The KitchenAid Burr Grinder ($170) is also very stylish and easy to clean. The burrs are just a bit more accessible thanks to their placement directly beneath the hopper. It also features precise dose control and a dial controlling the consistency of the grind (with helpful guidelines for different kinds of coffee preparation). Plus, you can swap the little container that catches the grounds with a holder for a portafilter—which makes it super easy to grind exactly how much you need and not a single bean more.
$182 at Amazon
$200 at Seattle Coffee Gear
Most Popular
Photograph: Oxo
Best Grinder With a Scale
Oxo Burr Grinder with Scale
Making great coffee is all about starting with fresh roasted beans, getting them to just the right grind, and adding hot water.
Making great coffee consistently is all about measuring your variables, and adjusting one at a time. One key variable is the weight of grounds you use, and this Oxo model is one of the only grinders with a built-in scale. Set your grind size, select the weight you want, hit Start, and walk away; it shuts itself off when it's done. You could use a kitchen scale to weigh your beans, but this is a nice way to streamline your morning ritual, especially if counterspace is at a premium. Be warned though, it does have a tendency to cast off a few grounds here or there when you open the little grounds container, so make sure you sweep your counter regularly. $278 at Amazon
$300 at Bed Bath & Beyond
Photograph: Amazon
Best Manual Coffee Grinder
Hario Skerton Pro
WIRED senior reviewer Scott Gilbertson prefers to hand-grind his coffee, and he's tried half a dozen manual grinders. The Skerton Pro is far and away his favorite. It's fast, taking less than two minutes to grind out the half cup of fine grounds for my moka pot—and the burr design produces a consistent, fine grind.
Note that we said “fine.” This is not the best choice for French press brewing, because the Skerton Pro is just not consistent enough at coarse grinds.On the downside, the silicone grip constantly falls off. (Scott threw his away, as it didn't do much anyway.) On the upside, the threads on the grinder portion are standard, so if anything happens to the glass jar you can just use a regular Ball mason jar.
$38 at Amazon
$50 at Blue Bottle Coffee
Photograph: Amazon
Best Grinder for Traveling
Hario Mini Slim Plus
This smaller Hario is the first hand grinder that senior reviewer Scott Gilbertson ever used. It's perfect for a shot of espresso or even a small moka pot. It doesn't grind as fast as the Skerton, but it's much lighter and safer to throw in your bag when you travel, thanks to the plastic construction. There's also the slightly larger and more expensive Mini Slim Pro. Grind-wise, the Mini Slim is about the same, but he doesn't like it as much, because you can't see how much coffee you've ground.
$32 at Amazon
$40 at Seattle Coffee Gear
Most Popular
Photograph: VSSL
Sturdiest Grinder
VSSL Java Grinder
VSSL started life making ultra-durable camping tools—waterproof canisters with flashlights, compasses, first aid kits, and more. Recently the company took that same design—a slender tube made of aircraft-grade aluminum—and turned it into the Java, a portable coffee grinder rugged enough to survive the zombie apocalypse, or a bumpy ride to your favorite campsite.
Senior reviewer Scott Gilbertson loves everything about the Java. It's incredibly well made, yet (relatively) lightweight. The handle is clever. It folds out and provides a lot of leverage while you grind, and you can use it as a hook to hang the Java up when you're done. The setup produces a nice even grind, covering the full spectrum of brew possibilities, from French-press coarse to espresso-fine.
At roughly 14 ounces, you wouldn't bring it backpacking, but it's great for grinding fresh beans while camping.
The Java isn't cheap, but if you do a lot of camping and want a grinder that's going to last a lifetime, this one fits the bill.$160 at VSSL
Photograph: Fellow
A Place to Store Your Beans
Fellow Atmos Vacuum Canister
It's easy to overlook bean storage, especially if you go through coffee pretty quickly. But during months of testing, I can say definitively that a vacuum container preserves the delicate flavors of locally roasted coffee much longer than the bag they came in does. The Atmos Vacuum Container is my hands-down favorite, and every single bag of coffee I get goes right into one as soon as I bring it home from the store. By using a twist-action pump on the lid to vacate the container of any air, the Atmos effectively puts your beans into stasis. Without air, there are fewer passive chemical reactions going on that break down those roasty toasty flavors before you can get to them.
$40 at Fellow
$40 at Williams Sonoma
Photograph: Ozeri
A Scale for Weighing Your Beans
Ozeri Pronto Digital Multifunction Food Scale
Ok.
I admit, I was one of those people who was vehemently against weighing out my beans for each cup. I thought it was bougie and unnecessary—until I tried it. I bought the Ozeri food scale for weighing out baking ingredients, and one day I used it for coffee and really enjoyed the results. By weighing out exactly how many grams of whole coffee beans I'm going to use, I can achieve a level of consistency that's hard to beat. A scale is a must-have if you're trying to troubleshoot or explore the differences you experience in your coffee from cup to cup. Whether you're using a drip brewer, an espresso machine, or a pour-over setup, weighing out your beans before you grind them is a wonderful way to ensure you're only grinding exactly what you need (which reduces waste). It's been especially helpful in my home, which drinks a lot of standard and decaf coffee. My partner is sensitive to caffeine, so we like to make sure there aren't any caffeinated beans left in the grinder before grinding her decaf.
Weighing the beans for each cup (or pot if you're using a drip brewer) makes it super easy to control which beans are going into which cup. Plus, I guarantee you'll find more uses for this food scale than you ever expected.$10 at Amazon
$10 at Walmart
Most Popular
Buy Fresh Beans (You Won't Regret It)
Where to Find Whole Beans
Whole beans will always taste fresher than preground, but the fresher they actually are, the more delicious they may taste. We suggest visiting your local coffee roaster. Just Google “coffee roasters near me” and I guarantee you’ll find something nearby. Your local grocery store probably even stocks locally roasted beans.
Look for bags of whole beans with dates printed on them. (That’s when they were roasted, and you’ll usually only find those on local brands.) If you don't have any coffee roasters in your area, you can order some quality beans online.
If you're unsure which variety of coffee to get, again, check our guide to the best subscription coffee services. These services send you new beans to try every few weeks.
Jaina Grey is a product reviewer at WIRED, covering all those devices that make your life easier—and sometimes much more difficult. Since her first byline in Dragon Magazine to her more recent work at Digital Trends, she’s covered a little bit of everything, from crime, courts, and patent filings to... Read more
Scott Gilbertson is a senior writer and reviewer for WIRED, specializing in portable technology. He was previously a writer and editor for WIRED's Webmonkey.com, covering the browser wars, web standards, the independent web, and all aspects of internet culture. He studied at the University of Georgia.
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The coffee grinder is a special kitchen appliance that lovers of freshly brewed coffee will appreciate.
If the beans have just been ground, the coffee will have a pleasant taste and aroma. There are quite a few varieties of coffee grinders - they are mechanical, but they are being replaced by electrical products.
Summary of rating: (hide/show)
How to choose a good coffee grinder?
At first glance, it may seem that choosing a coffee grinder is as easy as shelling pears - just go to a hardware store and purchase a product that is affordable and has a beautiful appearance. Some housewives use blenders instead of such an apparatus, but it is better not to do this, since the grains can greatly dull the blades, and besides, it is unlikely that you will be able to get fine grinding.
Today, it is impossible to say exactly which company produces the best coffee grinders in the world, since many enterprises produce high-quality devices. There are a lot of criteria for choosing a coffee grinder:
- Equipment capacity;
- Number of operating modes;
- Availability of security systems;
- The material from which the working container is made, the body of the structure, and so on;
- Odor free.
We analyzed a lot of customer opinions, based on which we compiled this ranking of the top 10 coffee grinders in 2022. We hope that after reading our article, you will be able to make your choice much easier and faster and purchase the most suitable coffee grinder that will serve faithfully for a long time. nine0004
List of the best models of coffee grinders
10. Bosch TSM6A011W
In order for coffee beans to retain their pleasant taste and aroma for the longest possible time, they are advised to finely grind them immediately before brewing. It is very convenient to use this equipment. High quality knives are installed here. They are made from special food grade stainless steel and have a self-sharpening design. With their help, you can achieve effective uniform and fine grinding. The degree of grinding is regulated by the duration of the coffee grinder itself and the amount of product loaded. Up to 75 grams of coffee beans can be placed in the container of the product - this amount is enough for several servings at once.
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The coffee grinder is quite suitable for grinding and grinding spices, you can also make powdered sugar here. Turning on the device unintentionally will not work, because the device starts working only if the lid is closed. The manufacturer recommends using the design for no more than 30 seconds. If the coffee grinder overheats, a special protection system will work.
Advantages:
- Very stylish appearance;
- Can handle various types of bulk solids; nine0021
- There is a reliable protection against injury.
Disadvantages:
- The motor is weak and overheats quickly.
Coffee grinder Bosch TSM6A011W
9. AKSINYA KS-602
The electrical design is characterized by a fairly high power. This allows this model to cope with the assigned tasks in the shortest possible time. The knife is made of steel, does not become dull during the entire period of operation. It effectively copes with any variety of bulk products.
Coffee beans are ground quickly and very high quality. The design of the case is complemented by rubberized legs, due to which the stability of the device is increased, regardless of the type of surface. The case itself is made of durable plastic with a matte finish. Dust and other contaminants will not accumulate on the surface. The coffee grinder fits perfectly into any kitchen interior. nine0004
The device can grind up to one hundred grams of grains in one go. The knife does not oxidize during operation, does not emit harmful compounds during operation, which could harm human health or in some way adversely affect the quality or taste of the drink. It will not be possible to start the grinder motor until the lid is closed, as the lock function is activated.
Advantages:
- Very attractive and stylish appearance;
- Decent power figures; nine0021
- Reliable and durable electric motor;
- Locking function available;
- The motor is equipped with overheating protection.
Disadvantages:
- The supply cable is not always long enough.
Coffee maker AKSINYA KS-602
8. Polaris PCG 1017
It has an attractive and quite stylish design, the design is equipped with a transparent cover connected with an injury protection system. If it is not installed in its place, then a protective interlock will work, which will prevent the motor from starting. The power of the coffee grinder is 170 W - this indicator is quite enough even for very large coffee beans. In order for the device to grind them faster, it has a pulsed mode. nine0004
The grinder holds up to 50 grams. The case is made of high-quality food-grade plastic, painted in a dark pleasant color. Practically does not make noise in the course of work, does not vibrate. The container is small in size, with a full load, the grinding speed is about thirty seconds.
Benefits:
- Conveniently located function buttons;
- High grinding speed;
- Acceptable cost;
- Can be used not only for grains, but also for spices, nuts, sugar and so on; nine0021
- Very user friendly.
Disadvantages:
- Grinding is not too even, so that it is relatively uniform, the coffee grinder has to be shaken periodically;
- The bowl is non-removable - it cannot be washed, so you only need to wipe it with dry or damp cloths.
Polaris PCG 1017
7. Kitfort KT-1315
This model can grind up to 60 grams of even the toughest and hardest coffee beans at one time. The manufacturer claims that the device is allowed to be used even for grinding spices of a very different plan. The tank is removable, so it is very convenient to wash it. Despite its compact size and reasonable cost, this device is characterized by advanced functionality. In particular, there is a pulse mode of operation, with which you can quickly and thoroughly grind the contents of the tank. A system of protection against accidental start is provided - until the tank is placed in its place, it will not be possible to start the engine.
This technology allows you to fully protect the user from serious cuts. nine0004
The machine is very easy to use and easy to maintain. The type of coffee grinder control is mechanical, so it will be possible to figure out the principle of its operation within a few minutes. The grain tank is made of stainless steel with a special coating, which is completely devoid of foreign smell. It is also easy to wash, especially since the knife blade can be removed from the container if necessary. The body of the product is also made of metal, which gives the device additional attractiveness and style. The shape of the coffee grinder resembles a trapezoid, in the lower part you can find ventilation holes for cooling the engine and rubberized legs that will dampen the vibration of the device during operation. The device is characterized by significant power, but it works relatively quietly. nine0004
Advantages:
- Removable bowl very easy to clean;
- Well designed system to protect the user from injury;
- Elementary design control;
- Grinding size adjustable by grinding time;
- Can work not only with coffee beans, but also with other products;
- Attractive appearance.
Disadvantages:
- Short supply cable.
Kitfort KT-1315 coffee grinder
6. Polaris PCG 0815A
The power of this coffee grinder is 150W with a maximum bowl capacity of 70 grams. The design provides a pulse mode, which allows for fine grinding. The security system is represented by a start limiter, which does not allow the motor to turn on when the lid is open.
The product has an attractive appearance, painted in silver. The case is made of high-quality food stainless steel. Grinding is carried out by a rotary knife, also made of stainless steel. nine0004
Advantages:
- Beautiful appearance;
- Robust and well built metal housing;
- Good security system.
Faults:
- Lid sticks intermittently;
- The finished product is not easy to pour out;
- Stickers that spoil the appearance and are also quite problematic to remove.
Polaris PCG 0815A
5. BRAYER 1170BR
110 W electric household appliances, ideal for handling bulk products, coffee beans, sugar. Operates on standard power supply. The case is made of high quality plastic, characterized by increased strength. The device has a very stylish appearance, it will become a real decoration in any kitchen, regardless of the style in which the room is decorated. The design includes two compartments. Grinding is carried out not with the usual knife, but with real millstones. There is a special lever on the body that is responsible for grinding - you can choose a large or small option. nine0004
There is also a dispenser with which you can grind or dispense the required amount of coffee. A maximum of 100 grams of coffee is ground at a time. To prepare one cup of espresso, you need only 15 grams of food. The pulse mode of operation of the product allows you to additionally protect the motor from overheating and increases the period of operation of the device.
Benefits:
- Stylish appearance;
- Excellent build quality;
- Millstones are used instead of a knife; nine0021
- Grinding fineness adjustable;
- Pulse mode;
- There is a reliable protection against overheating.
Disadvantages:
- Some users believe that this machine turned out to be oversized for a coffee grinder.
BRAYER 1170BR coffee grinder
4. De Longhi KG 89
This is the first burr type design featured in our roundup of the best coffee grinders. With its help, you can grind a significant amount of grains. It has a beautiful appearance, which organically combines metal elements, black and translucent plastic, has a backlit device power button. nine0004
The device is controlled by two mechanical regulators and one button. The maximum capacity is 120 g, the power cable is 0.6 m long.
Easily remove lid and container, so they can be easily washed under running water without fear of contact with electrical components and causing a short circuit.
Mechanical rotary knobs allow you to select the portion, as well as the grinding level. The maximum continuous operation of the device is 60 seconds, which is enough to make coffee for 12 cups. nine0004
Benefits:
- Easy to use;
- Large number of grinding options;
- Nice looking;
- Reasonable price
Drawbacks:
- Difficult to clean;
- Ground coffee often spills out
De Longhi KG 89
3. Kitfort KT-717
This grinder is equipped with flat burrs. They are made from the highest quality alloy steel. Such a solution does not allow the device not to overheat, the taste of coffee is just perfect. Up to 230 grams can be placed in the bean tank, the ground coffee container is designed for 100 g. All containers can be easily removed if necessary, they are easy to wash, they can even be placed in the dishwasher. The degree of grinding is adjustable if necessary, thanks to this function, you can ensure the optimal texture of coffee for preparing a drink in a coffee maker, French press or cezve.
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After the end of the work, the device switches itself off. The maximum continuous operation time can reach 5 minutes. If the coffee grinder still overheats, then the protective thermostat will work. It will stop the engine and prevent it from failing. The design is disassembled, the millstones can be cleaned with a special brush that comes with the machine. Rubberized feet reduce vibration and prevent the device from sliding or jumping on the surface.
Benefits:
- Several grinding levels available;
- One cycle can grind up to 15 cups of coffee;
- Easy to use;
- Well thought out ergonomics;
- Although the motor is powerful, it runs almost silently;
- Compact overall dimensions;
- Fits perfectly into the interior of the room.
Faults:
- The bowl is prone to static electricity.
Coffee grinder Kitfort KT-717
Available in several colors - green, burgundy, orange, milk and so on.
The products are characterized by a high level of engine power, which allows you to quickly and efficiently work not only with coffee beans, but also with various spices. The case is made of stainless steel and plastic, looks quite bright and attractive - it will fit well into any kitchen interior. The cover of the device is securely held in place thanks to a reliable lock: the user can be completely sure that it will not fly off during the operation of the device. When developing the device, it was decided to equip the device with a convenient removable container, and it can also be used to store ground coffee. nine0004
The device has rubberized feet. The case has a special compartment for the power cord, which can significantly save space when storing the device. A self-sharpening knife made of stainless steel is used here as the main moving element. It has no foreign odors. The power of the electric motor is 250 W - enough for thorough grinding of grains. In one cycle of work, up to 75 grams of grains can be processed.
There is a special pump for pumping air out of the bowl so that ground coffee does not scatter throughout the volume, but is concentrated in the area of \u200b\u200bthe knife. nine0004
Advantages:
- Many products can be handled;
- Runs as loud as a blender;
- Stylish housing made of stainless steel and plastic parts;
- Odorless self-sharpening knife available;
- Wire storage compartment included.
Disadvantages:
- Vacuuming is only possible temporarily.
Oursson OG2075
1. Bosch MKM 6000
The leader of our top coffee grinders, developed by German specialists. The device has a cylindrical shape, under the body there is an engine that drives the main shaft. In the upper part of the body there is a bowl with a rotary knife made of stainless steel.
The device is equipped with a convenient transparent lid made of high quality plastic. There is a start button on the side.
Inside the bowl there is a slight slope, due to which it is possible to ensure uniform grinding. Medium power motor - 180 watts. nine0004
Benefits:
- Good capacity - bowl volume 75 grams;
- The design is quite simple and reliable;
- It has a high degree of protection against unintentional start;
- Acceptable cost.
Disadvantages:
- No grind setting, otherwise perfect for home use.
Bosch MKM 6000
Final video
We hope that our review of the best coffee grinders for home will help you decide on a quality product. You can express your opinion on the presented rating, as well as on the models that we reviewed here, in the comments to this article.
Best Espresso Grinder (Reviewed in 2022)
Baratza Sette 270 Conical Burr Grinder
- 270 grind settings in total.
- Precise time dosing
- Adaptable Portafilter
VIEW ON AMAZON
How to Choose an Espresso Grinder
Some brands on the market would like to claim that their grinder can do everything from the perfect size for cold brewing to the finest Turkish grind. This is not what you want from an espresso grinder. The best espresso grinder has more customization options when creating fine grinds, even if that means missing out on a good range of coarse grind settings. nine0004
Why grind size is so important in espresso
Think espresso and you almost certainly imagine rich aroma and concentrated flavor, but statistics often determine the perfect shot. The SCA defines espresso as 25-35 ml made from 7-9 grams of coffee at 195-205 F using 9-10 bar pressure and a brew time of 20-30 seconds (1).
The grind size affects the brewing time.
The ideal grind for espresso is fine. Coarse grinds let water through much faster, while superior powder slows down the extraction rate and even reduces shot volume. You may not be concerned about your position in the SCA when you take a sip of espresso, but changing the brew time has consequences for the taste. Too short and you end up with underextracted, sour coffee. Too long and your shot will be bitter and lacking in complexity. nine0004
You might be wondering why you need so many grind settings when making espresso is so specific. The fact is that there are a number of other variables that help determine the grind size you need. For starters, all espresso machines will vary slightly in how they work, and you'll find that what works for one machine will be a completely wrong grind for another.
Day after day, you will find that different coffee beans require different grind sizes to achieve the same level of extraction.
For example, light roasts extract more slowly, so you can grind lightly to extend the extraction time (2). nine0004
The required precision and consistency is why we do not recommend knife grinders. Blade grinders grind the coffee beans instead of grinding, resulting in uneven coffee grinding.
Grind settings
If we wanted to make it short, we could tell you that the grind settings are better, but unfortunately it's not that easy.
There is no correlation between the settings of different grinders - the coarsest setting on one will not match the setting of the other, and increments between grind settings will not adjust the size by the same amount. Even stepless coffee grinders, which theoretically allow you to infinitely adjust the grind size, have a minimum and maximum grind size. nine0004
Having said that, there is no real benefit in a coffee grinder with fewer settings. There is a minimum range of grind sizes that are suitable for espresso, but it is better to be able to adjust than not.
You don't have to aim for the most grind settings as a hard and fast rule, but if you're on the fence, choose the one with the most settings.
Burr size and shape
The two forms of burrs you will encounter are conical burrs and flat burrs. Serious coffee connoisseurs will probably appreciate their preference, but we can assure you that a flat and cone burr grinder will provide an even grind if you buy quality coffee. nine0004
Conical burrs are the most common. The shape makes them very efficient, which makes them suitable for manual coffee grinders, but it also means they often run quieter in an electric coffee grinder.
Flat burrs require more force to grind coffee beans, which is why they are most often seen in automatic coffee grinders. Due to the horizontal arrangement, the flat burr mill is more stable and produces fewer fine particles. However, this arrangement also results in more ground coffee remaining in the grinder. nine0004
The burr size refers to the diameter, the larger the better.
Larger burrs have a larger surface area, resulting in more coffee beans being ground at the same time. The less time it takes to grind, the less heat it will generate, which will prevent flavor changes. If you are using a manual grinder, a faster grinder means less effort to get freshly ground coffee.
Ceramic and steel burrs
Ceramic and steel burrs are taken very seriously by professionals, but not so important for those who buy a coffee grinder for the home. nine0004
Ceramic burrs of choice for commercial operations because they generate little or no heat during the grinding process. Ceramic burrs can be prone to chipping, but they are also much more durable than steel burrs and stay sharp much longer before they need to be replaced.
On the other hand, steel burrs don't crack and are much sharper when new. They wear out over time, but for a home grinder, you won't notice a difference for years. The heat generated by the steel millstones should be considered, but should not be the deciding factor.
The average coffee drinker will take 1-2 sips at a time, so there is little chance that the heat from the grinders will affect the coffee. nine0004
Doser vs. Doserless Grinder
This sounds a lot more complicated than it really is - you basically decide if you want a grinder with a coffee grounds container (dispenser) or a grinder that grinds coffee straight into a portafilter (without a dispenser) ).
Dispenser fans love that it's a cleaner process, less coffee grounds end up on the counter. You can also be less precise about how much coffee you grind initially and then take what you need for coffee. On the other hand, there may be some coffee grounds left in the dispenser from previous use. This is a particular problem if you want to switch between coffee brewing methods with very different grind sizes. nine0004
The dispenserless espresso grinder grinds the coffee directly into the portafilter and this often means that a few stray coffee beans can leak out, but the grind sizes never mix.
Dosless grinders are suitable for advanced users who know exactly how much freshly ground coffee they need.
Manual vs. Automatic
The choice between manual and automatic coffee grinders most likely depends on how you intend to use it. A hand grinder is the only option if you want to travel with your grinder or use it in a place where you won't have access to electricity. In theory, a manual coffee grinder has an accurate grinding mechanism, but this will be limited by the power you can develop with the handle. nine0004
Be sure to check the capacity of your travel grinders, as some of the smallest models don't have enough room to make a double espresso.
Electric burr grinders are much more efficient and powerful and are the only choice for grinding large volumes, but they do have some drawbacks. They take up more space in the kitchen, create a lot more noise and are often much more expensive. With a manual coffee grinder, all you need to worry about is the mechanism itself, but with an electric grinder, there are many more parts that are prone to failure.
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Best Espresso Grinders for 2022
Many grinders claim to be fine enough for espresso, but in the end, they lack the range to allow you to tailor the grind for different coffee beans and your particular coffee maker. We've listened to the needs of espresso lovers and found the best espresso grinders you can buy right now.
Below you will find the best espresso grinders. For a wider list of coffee grinders, see our page: Best burr grinders. nine0004
| PRODUCTS | parts | Button | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Baratza Sette 270 Cone grinder |
| WATCH ON AMAZONE |
| Budget selection | Ariete electric coffee grinder with conical burrs |
| nine0443 WATCH ON AMAZONE |
| The best ratio of price and quality | Breville Pro Smart Sander |
| WATCH ON AMAZONE nine0444 |
| best coffee grinder with flat burrs | Rancilio Rocky |
| WATCH ON AMAZONE |
| Best for travel | Knock Feldgrind |
| click to check price |
| The quietest shredder nine0444 | Eureka Mignon Silencio |
| View on Amazon |
| The best hand grinder | 1Zpresso J-Max manual coffee grinder nine0444 |
| WATCH ON AMAZONE |
| Fine grinding setting | Manual coffee grinder Zassenhaus Santiago | nine0019 | WATCH ON AMAZONE |
5 x 8.5 x 16.3 inches 
7 x 11.8 x 8.6 inches Baratza Sette 270 Cone grinder
Best Overall
- Automatic
- 5.
1 x 9.5 x 15 inches - 275g
WATCH ON AMAZON
Ariete electric coffee grinder with conical burrs
Budget selection
- Automatic
- 14" x 5" x 9" nine0020 378g
WATCH ON AMAZON
Breville Pro Smart Sander
The best ratio of price and quality
- Automatic
- 12.5 x 8.5 x 16.3 inches
- 510g
WATCH ON AMAZON
Rancilio Rocky
best coffee grinder with flat burrs
- Automatic
- 9.
8 x 4.7 x 13.8 inches - 295g
WATCH ON AMAZON
Knock Feldgrind
Best for travel nine0004
- Manual
- 2.0 x 2.0 x 7.9 inches
- 35-40g
click to check price
Eureka Mignon Silencio
The quietest shredder
- Automatic
- 15.7 x 11.8 x 8.6 inches
- 300g
View on Amazon
1Zpresso J-Max manual coffee grinder
The best hand grinder
- Manual
- 8.
9 x 4.4 x 4.2 inches - 35-40g nine0030
- Manual
- 8.3 x 3.5 x 8 inches
- 30g
- Defining the Ever-Changing Espresso 25 Magazine: Issue 3.
(2018 Feb 17). Retrieved from https://scanews.coffee/2018/02/01/defining-ever-changing-espresso-25-magazine-issue-3 - Riportella, K. (2019, October 9). Adapting the brew recipe to your coffee roast level. Retrieved from https://perfectdailygrind.com/2019/10/how-to-adjust-your-brewing-recipe-for-coffee-roast-level.
- Kelso, K. (October 04, 2018). Grind Retention: What, Why, and Does It Matter? Retrieved from https://clivecoffee.com/blogs/learn/grind-retention nine0021
- Mutter, M., & Powell, M. (2021, August 9). Breville Smart Grinder Pro review. Retrieved from https://www.techgearlab.com/reviews/kitchen/coffee-grinder/breville-the-smart-grinder-pro
- Silent technology. (th). Retrieved December 24, 2021 from https://www.eureka.co.it/en/plus/id/93.aspx.
- Replacing grinder burrs. (2021, February 16). Retrieved from https://www.baristahustle.com/blog/changing-grinder-burrs
- AeroPress FAQ: Everything you ever wanted to know about it.
Learn more
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Manual coffee grinder Zassenhaus Santiago
Fine grinding setting
WATCH ON AMAZON
1. Baratza Sette 270 Cone Burr Coffee Grinder - Best Overall nine0036
Features
WATCH ON AMAZON
If you're really serious about espresso, you'll probably want to invest in a professional grinder. And if so, then Baratza is a brand to look out for. Baratza offers semi-professional technology for home grinders and the Sette 270 is one of our favorite models.
The 30 grind settings don't seem too impressive at first, but there are an additional 9 micro settings for a total of 270 - hence the grinder's name. The Sette range of grinders are set to fine to medium grinds, so while they're not as flexible for a French press, they give them more range for espresso. nine0004
Grind settings are manually adjusted using the dial and the timer is set using the small screen and front panel buttons. What's great here is that you can set the timer to as low as 1/100 of a second for highly accurate dosing, especially with the low grind hold of the Sette 270 (3). You can save different times as presets for one-touch grinding of different coffee beans or different brewing methods.
Steep adjustable portafilter holder under the grinder. You can use it to grind directly in a portafilter up to 58mm, or adapt it to the included grind hopper or even famous pour-over brewers like the Hario V60. nine0004
This is one of the more expensive grinders on our list, but the quality justifies the price jump, especially if you have a good espresso machine.
2. Ariete Electric Cone Burr Grinder - Budget Choice
Features
LOOK ON AMAZON
Burr grinders that are suitable for making espresso are notoriously expensive, but every now and then you come across a budget grinder that surprises you. The simple controls and low price might put you off, but the Ariete Grinder Pro is a great option for espresso lovers on a budget. nine0004
Of course you can't expect the level of control you get from a more expensive grinder. The Ariete only has 15 grind settings, but to be honest, that's about as many as some manual coffee grinders. Users report that it works better with finer grinds, which is all you need for espresso.
The operation is simple, you turn the dial on the side to select the grind fineness, set the timer, then press the big start button to start grinding. The timer function makes this process hands-free. However, with only 10 second increments, you will get a more accurate dose using the manual setting, especially considering the speed of the grinder, which can go through a full bean hopper in less than a minute.
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People outside of Italy may not know the Ariete brand as well, but it has been making kitchen appliances since the 1960s. The brand is now part of the DeLonghi group.
3. Breville Pro smart sander - Best value for money
Specifications
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Whatever type of coffee you are brewing; you'll be hard-pressed to find an espresso grinder more capable than the Breville Smart Grinder Pro at this price point. Breville is known for its innovative technology, and this grinder is a great example of the brand's thoughtful approach to home appliances. nine0004
The "smart" part of the name refers to the grinder's programmability, which is accessed via a user-friendly LCD screen. The most obvious two parameters are the grind size and the number of seconds it will grind into the hopper or directly into your portafilter. Once you are comfortable with the machine, you can save your settings and choose the number of cups you will prepare to start.
If you want to skip smarts, there is also a manual brewing feature.
Grinding is important, of course, and the Smart Grinder Pro provides both consistency and range of grind settings.
Very few tabletop grinders that can handle coarse grinds can also work well in the very fine espresso range, but the Smart Pro is undeniably one of them.
Technical equipment laboratory
You have 60 macro settings for manual brew methods, but there are also 10 micro settings built into the top burr, giving you a staggering 600 settings possible. Some users have found that the consistency fluctuates once you reach the coarsest settings, but for anything finer, the grinder outperforms even more expensive grinders (4). nine0004
4. Rancilio Rocchi - The best coffee grinder with flat burrs
Features
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The Rancilio Rocky is one of the most popular coffee grinders on the market, and for good reason.
This is a real workhorse that will be more than capable of meeting your home coffee needs for years to come.
50mm diameter stainless steel flat burrs are as good as what you would get in an entry level commercial machine, they are able to work faster and more consistently than for consumer use. Combined with a 140-watt industrial-grade motor, this gives the Rocky a 3.5 lb/hr capacity - more than you'd ever want to grind at home. nine0004
Rocky SD is the version without pipette with removable portafilter stand. Press the pulse button to grind directly into a portafilter, or remove the rack to fill the container of your choice. There's no timer or scale, so you'll need to weigh your beans before grinding or getting used to the correct amount by eye.
You won't get the tiny adjustments that other grinders would have like you would with a step grinder. But the Rocky Rancilio is for espresso, and with 55 grind settings, you'll have enough to play with here. nine0004
With the durability, performance and value for money that Rocky offers, we choose the best flat burr grinder for espresso.
5. Knock Feldgrind - Best for travel
Specifications
Click to check price
Knock Feldgrind somehow combines a large bean bin (for a manual grinder) with a slim profile, making it the perfect travel grinder. It can weigh the same 35-40g as the J-Max but is smaller and lighter. nine0004
The Feldgrind was discontinued in 2018 but has been reinstated due to popular demand. The new model includes updates that give it a fresher look and improve sanding quality.
…Feldgrind is the perfect balance of grind quality and portability for the quality conscious consumer.
Coffee Compass
Now with a wooden handle, a longer handle makes sanding smoother. You will notice a small hole in the lever at the end of the grinder that allows you to see the grind setting without removing the handle. The grind settings are also very convenient. Although the Knock Freldgring is a stepless coffee grinder, the numbers are clearly marked on the dial.
This way you can not only fine-tune your grind, but also remember where it was. nine0004
The body is made of lightweight but strong aluminum to reduce weight. Inside, you'll find nitrided titanium millstones and a thicker shaft that delivers durability where you need it most.
6. Eureka Mignon Silencio - The quietest meat grinder
Specifications
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The entire Eureka Mignon line is known for its pleasing to the ear. Among them, Silenzio (meaning "silence" in Italian) stands out as the quietest of all. nine0004
The secret lies in the thick metal housing, which provides excellent sound insulation. Rubber dampers have been placed around the motor and moving parts to reduce vibration, with a claimed noise reduction of 20 decibels compared to other grinders (5).
All Mignon lines have the same square design. Like it or not, the simplicity eliminates any distractions from the process, with just a small dial to adjust the grind settings at the top.
Like the Rancilio Rocky, this grinder features 50mm flat steel burrs for greater consistency and speed, with up to 1.6g/s on espresso settings and up to 2.3g/s on coarser grinds. nine0004
You dose on a timer from 1 to 14 seconds, which is our only complaint about Mignon Silenzio. It can be a little tricky to access, and the fact that the numbers aren't marked on the dial makes it less intuitive. Alternatively, you can switch to manual grinding.
7. 1Zpresso J-Max Manual Coffee Grinder - Best Hand Grinder
Features
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It's no secret that we are fans of 1Zpresso coffee grinders. In a few short years, this Taiwanese brand has made a name for itself by producing some of the finest manual espresso grinders at amazingly affordable prices. nine0004
The J-Max is based on the JX and JX-Pro with some grinder upgrades to make it more suitable for espresso. There are 90 clicks per revolution adjusted to 8.8 microns each. This is the most precise adjustment of the 1Zpresso grinder and great news for the right espresso grind.
Like the other J-series models, the J-Max has large 48mm burrs for improved grind consistency and speed. In this case, the burrs are titanium coated for longer life (6). nine0004
Unusually for a manual coffee grinder, the adjustment mechanism is on the outside so you can make adjustments without removing the base. The waste container has also been updated. This one has a magnetic latch (rather than a screw down) for quick and easy release. It is also larger, holding 35-40g of coffee. This makes it bigger and heavier, but gives you more options for making coffee on the go.
8. Zassenhaus Santiago manual coffee grinder - setting the best grind nine0036
Specifications
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The Zassenhaus Santiago manual grinder is our top choice for Turkish fine powder, but its performance at the finer end of the scale makes it an obvious choice for espresso as well.
Carbon steel burrs are adjusted by turning the small nut at the base of the crank handle.
With stepless grind settings, you can have an infinite number of grind sizes. The downside to this is that there are no numbers, so you'll have to find a way to mark your favorite settings or recognize them by touch. nine0004
The entire range of traditional Zassenhaus coffee grinders features a vintage wooden design that harks back to the company's history dating back to 1867. And in true traditional style, these pieces are built to last, with a 25-year warranty on the grinder mechanism.
For a manual coffee grinder, it's not particularly portable, so it's not the best choice for travel. It still has some advantages over an electric meat grinder. However, it's quieter, more energy efficient, and you can easily put it away when not in use. nine0004
This style of grinder was originally called the "knee grinder" or "knee grinder" because it was designed to fit between your knees while grinding, but it also works well on a countertop.
Verdict
How you choose your espresso grinder will depend on many factors, including the accuracy you need, whether you plan to travel, and your budget.
Based on performance, we chose the Baratza Sette 270 as the best home espresso grinder. It's an investment, but it pays off in terms of grind consistency, grind speed and accurate dosage. nine0004
Frequently Asked Questions
The best espresso beans are usually medium or dark roasted, as they are less likely to become acidic due to the short extraction time. Anything labeled as espresso beans is not another type of coffee, and it simply means that the coffee has been sourced and roasted in a way that the brand believes is well-suited for espresso. Don't be afraid to experiment with lighter roasts; just make sure your beans are freshly roasted and freshly ground. nine0004
You will get good espresso crema if you follow some basic rules. Start with fresh coffee beans, use the correct grind size, use the correct ratio, and pack the coffee grounds well. Foam is often seen as a sign that a shot of espresso has been made correctly, but it is possible to get good crema on coffee that tastes terrible, and vice versa.
No, you cannot make espresso without an espresso machine. Espresso needs to be extracted at a pressure of 1 bar, while the AeroPress produces less than 1.5 bar and the Moka coffee maker produces about 1.5 bar.7). It may not be true espresso, but you can get a rich, concentrated coffee that can be served as is or used as the base for cafe-style drinks like latte or cappuccino. nine0004
Yes, espresso contains more caffeine per ounce of liquid than other brewing methods. One ounce of espresso contains about 1 mg of caffeine, while a 50 ounce French press contains only 1 mg of caffeine.8). However, it is very important to consider portion size. Espresso is often consumed as a 2-ounce double serving, providing a total of 100 mg of caffeine, while a French press can be served in an 8-ounce cup, providing a total of 145 mg of caffeine.
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