Coffee grinders

How to choose a coffee grinder

Coffee aroma starts fading minutes after grinding — which is why a home grinder is the cheapest big upgrade to your cup.

• Blade or burr. A blade grinder (150–200 W) is affordable and fast, fine for filter coffee. A burr grinder gives an even grind and is the only right choice for espresso.
• Grind settings. Espresso needs a fine grind, French press a coarse one. Adjustability matters more than wattage.
• Capacity. 45–75 g covers a couple of cups; 200–300 g suits a family.
• Cleaning. A stainless steel bowl and removable container make upkeep easy.
• Safety. A lid safety switch stops the motor from running with the lid open.

Related categories

See also coffee machines, kettles and blenders.

Frequently asked questions

Is a blade grinder enough? For filter coffee and French press, yes. For espresso choose a burr model — grind consistency is critical there.

How much power do I need? 150–200 W is plenty at home; grind consistency matters more.