disadvantages

• High-speed units tend to heat up quickly, so it’s best to grind coffee beans with short bursts of power. however, this also increases the number of “stop/start” cycles the machine has to perform. and this will create more wear and tear on machine parts, ultimately leading to the untimely death of the unit.
• These are for light use only and it is recommended to avoid this type if you want a product that will last more than a couple of years.

an example of this type is the delonghi offer shown above.

high speed with gear reduction

These models, equipped with high-speed gear reduction motors, are often a much better product than the high-speed straight variety. They still have high-speed motors, but most of them run on DC (instead of AC), allowing for a much longer lifespan.

These feature a gearbox that uses the speed of the DC motor, along with a gear reduction to slow down the cutters while increasing torque.

In addition, this type of machine is generally quieter, has less static build-up in the bins or meters, and the beans are exposed to less heat. The Gaggia MDF and Baratza Precise, Baratza Virtuoso and Baratza Encore models feature gear reduction technology.

direct drive

Direct drive models make up the rest of the available offerings and are typically found on industrial, professional, and “prosumer” machines. these feature high-torque, low-speed, heavy-duty motors that drive the grinder with a belt or connected directly to the burrs via a driveline.

the baratza vario 886 flat ceramic coffee grinder is a great example of a direct drive model

They spin the burrs with sheer force.

these are the quietest of all models, very durable and high quality. these units transfer almost no heat to the coffee and minimize the chances of static building up inside the grounds.

all mazzers, compaks, macaps and baratza forte are direct drive. the “prosumer” versions include the rancilio rocky grinders with dispenser or without dispenser, and the baratza vario and vario-w.

models.

other important factors to consider

storage capacity and physical size

It’s important to know how often you’ll be using your coffee grinder, as most grinders have different sized bean capacities in the hopper. For example, a busy coffee shop would be better off purchasing a larger machine that has the capacity to hold more beans.

some models have optional small or large hoppers or hopper extensions, so the amount of coffee it can hold can be adjusted.

Conversely, the larger the hopper, the more difficult it is to fit under cabinets and the more space it can take up on the counter—important considerations for home kitchens, but not as much of an issue for a coffee shop.

are you grinding espresso, coffee or both?

If you are grinding exclusively for espresso, it is recommended to purchase a specific espresso grinder. the particles it will produce are very consistent, and can be adjusted by a barista to the exact grind needed for the type of bean, the level of roast of the bean, and even temperature and humidity.

an adjustable brew model works well if you’re grinding for a coarse french press, medium drip, powdered turkish, or even espresso.



the only downside to these multipurpose machines is that you usually can’t maintain the same consistency that you could with a specific espresso grinder, although most cheap models have narrowed this gap considerably over several years.

With these, you generally get what you pay for, and the more expensive models have better, longer-lasting burrs, better consistency, and more adjustments to the coarseness of the grind.

The various size settings available on the machine and the consistency of the coffee beans contribute about 50-60% of the flavor, and must be adapted to the brewing method, bean variety and oil levels, roast level and other variables.

9 of the best coffee grinders on the market right now: our reviews

well, the basics have been discussed. Let’s consider the best home coffee grinders available on the market today that will give you the best bang for your buck.

these are quality products that will last you much longer than what you find in most big box stores.

These are roughly ordered with entry-level machines most people would be happy to have at the top, down to examples that would be suitable for serious home espresso enthusiasts towards the bottom of the list.

1. most profitable: the bis de baratza

bis de baratza should meet the needs of most casual coffee drinkers, with the exception of those who tend to brew large auto-drip pots.

does not grind fine enough for some espresso machines. but for what it offers, it’s a great bargain.

baratza encore coffee grinder with conical burrs

the baratza encore is a great entry level cone grinder if you want to grind yours several times a week and get fairly fluffy ground coffee as a result.

We would by no means recommend this product be used for any type of commercial application as it is not as robust and the grinding times are long (an average of 90 seconds to get enough coffee to fill a 12 cup mug) . pot).

And it doesn’t have enough settings to satisfy espresso fanatics who need precise control.

but it works great for those interested in brewing via smaller automatic drip pans, french presses and the like. For its price, this is one of the best coffee grinders you can buy for the money.

read our detailed reviewor watch it on amazon now.

2. a great all-rounder: the breville bcg820bssxl smart grinder pro

This is another decent quality product at a mid-range price. breville is known for its various kitchen appliances and these are still made with a certain level of care (unlike many brands that have licensed their name to lesser quality manufacturers).

This model improves on Breville’s previous smart grinder (the non-professional model) and packs a lot of features for the price. it is available in two or three different colors – brushed stainless steel and sesame black are the two that are normally available, although there is a cranberry red version that is available intermittently.

breville bcg820bssxl in brushed stainless steel

The device now has 60 grind settings instead of the 25 found on the non-professional model. plus, there are 10 additional micro-settings, allowing you to select those finicky shots of espresso that require a bit of trial and error before you get it right.

Unlike many other inexpensive machines, users report no static buildup in the grounds container. static can be a big problem on several other models, as bean particles stick to the side of the container where they age, go rancid, and then fall off in the next batch.

When this happens, it can lead to the production of cups with an unpleasant taste, and this is definitely not what you want. breville has cracked the code with the static problem.

Another place obsolete grinders can hide is in the inner workings of the grinder. Unlike some models, this unit is very easy to clean, and disassembly (at least to the point where you need to be able to clean it) is a breeze.

Other improvements include the dosing function, which has been improved and is now time-based (whereas in the previous model it was based on “brew force”) and can be repeated up to 0.2 seconds.

If you’re grinding the same type of beans, you can use this feature for repeatable results, which means less waste for any form of preparation. and also allows you to grind in the portafilter of an espresso machine (although for best results, you’ll still want to weigh it).

Similar to the baratza optional locking hopper, this “smart” model features a hopper that can be locked and removed without spilling the beans.

this is incredibly useful if you want to change the variety you are grinding. With the bargain, you can also easily order additional hoppers, in case you want to have some ready to go. order parts through a huge multinational conglomerate, on the other hand? not so easy.

breville bcg820bksxl in sesame black

This point brings me to support, service and warranties. Contacting a company as large as Breville can be a challenge. emails can go unanswered, and getting a response is often much more difficult than getting assistance through a smaller company like baratza, which offers stellar support and warranty service.

In a nutshell: this is a very good machine that is suitable for all forms of preparation (including basic espresso).

but I just hope you don’t run into problems that require help.

Personally, I would invest in a precise baratza (reviewed below). for just a little more money, it has many more configurations available, and it’s backed by baratza’s incredible support, should you ever need a replacement part (and I’m talking years down the road).

That said, these breville units are decent quality and are some of the nicest of the bunch, which can help win over the spousal approval factor. That’s definitely something to consider if you have a she or he that must be obeyed around the house!

check them out on amazon now.

3. still good but starting to show some age: the gaggia 8002 mdf

This is another decent product that comes at a mid-range price. this is an older design that uses the same burr set as the rancilio rocky grinders, and is also made in italy (rancilio most likely made it for gaggia).

gaggia 8002 mdf grinder with dispenser, black

produces good quality grounds for french press and drip filter coffee. Like the Rocky models (discussed below), this model is somewhat hampered by its 39 settings, making it difficult to dial in a shot of espresso. but of course this is not a problem if you are not making espresso.

however, it presents some problems that affect its usability for all forms of coffee extraction.

Foremost among these problem areas is the inexpensive dispenser. this mechanism is really only suitable for filling a portafilter, and using it for other forms of brewing can be a chore, not impossible, just irritating.

even more concerning is the flimsy lever attached to the dispenser – users report that this part breaks often, with many resorting to ordering parts from europe (not too bad if you live in europe, but not too bad ). great if you live somewhere else).

this grinder is past its prime (in my opinion), a holdover from the days when the gaggia baby/classic and rancilio silvia espresso machines were the pinnacle of home espresso brewing, when the gaggia mdf , rocky rancilio, or investing in a business model were his only real options, but not so much these days.

I would suggest that if you want similar features, a more convenient method of dispensing, and much more robust construction, spend some extra money and take a serious look at the Rocky Rancilio without a dispenser reviewed below.

gaggia is not a bad model at its price point. I just think she can either spend her money wiser and get a better machine for the same price, or add a few bucks for a much more robust and capable unit.

but don’t take my word for it, read all customer reviews on amazon and make your own informed decision.

4. the best build quality and silent operation: the rancilio rocky – version without dispenser

See also: Container cafe giá bao nhiêu? Chi phí mở quán cafe container có lớn không?

Once the king of home coffee grinding, the Italian-made rocky rancilio remains relevant in today’s world of too much technology or too many inferior products.

Thanks to its heavy-duty motor, the same one fitted to the brand’s commercial md40, and belt-drive wheels, this top-tier grinder is at least 50% quieter than others on the market. same price class that are powered by tiny motors and gear reduction.



rancilio hsd-roc-sd rocky coffee grinder without dispenser

plus, its sturdy aluminum construction has earned it the nickname “the tank” among home coffee aficionados.

While newer models in the same price range offer more configurations, this will be the last model you’ll need to buy for non-espresso applications – the build quality is that solid.

In fact, I personally use one for my morning coffee every day.

read our full review or check it out at 1st in coffee now.

5. the best for budding espresso adventurers: the precise baratza

There’s a reason the Baratza Precise is often recommended as the best grinder for people with newly purchased espresso machines. the versatility you get at this price is second to none.

precise baratza – conical coffee grinder

the precise combines the 40 steps found in the baratza virtuoso with an additional 11 microsteps between each main setting, allowing you to dial in your espresso shots just the way you need them to extract flavorful flavors.

Combined with its impressive set of European-made 40mm conical burrs, this is an economical model that works for dripping and other brewing processes, and lets you play barista and produce consistent espresso shots with the kids and big girls.

With a more robust build quality and much quicker run times than the brand’s entry-level encore, you may want to step up and future-proof with this one.

an additional accessory, the esatto scale, also allows you to grind based on weight instead of relying on the built-in timer mechanism.

read our detailed review or see this excellent machine on amazon now.

6. for those who are starting to take espresso seriously: the baratza sette 270w

the baratza sette 270w is unlike any previous coffee grinder.

The machine was designed by Mahlkonig (one of Europe’s leading coffee grinder manufacturers) to be one of the simplest yet most accurate dosing models available today.

baratza sette 270w – coffee conical strawberry & espresso grinder available on amazon

Here’s the deal:

unlike the vast majority of other models, the 270w sette measures by weight, not time, meaning you can grind directly into an espresso machine portafilter and sip without clumsy weighing techniques or conjectures. a high precision acaia scale is incorporated!

Furthermore, thanks to a new design that has a fixed internal milling cutter and a rotating external milling cutter, the machine passes the grounds directly to the portafilter or to the container without passing through dispensers, intakes or other devices, which eliminates any worry. about rancid grists contaminating your beer.

This direct grinding path also prevents clumping.

the portafilter is convertible, allowing you to grind in the included anti-static container, in the pour-over mechanism of your choice, or even directly in a small or medium chemex glass maker.

the adjustment mechanism is a beautiful thing. the top ring allows for macro adjustment while the bottom ring allows the brewmaster to adjust the grind. this is the smoothest operating mechanism among all prosumer level coffee grinders.

Once you’ve adjusted your coarseness and your set weight, simply hit the go button and let the machine do its thing. there’s a little pause just before the grind starts to allow the scale to tare, but then the machine is incredibly fast (but a bit noisy).

Bluetooth functionality is built in and multiple logs can be maintained through the acaia brewbar app. this could be an important feature for espresso aficionados and hipsters looking to upgrade their favorite coffee roasts.

although the machine is assembled in asia, the burs (like all baratza offerings) are made by mahlkonig in liechtenstein.

note that there is a weightless version that weighs by time and not weight that is a bit cheaper; we would stay with the 270w.

Without having to worry about weighing your grinds, your home brewing experience is sped up significantly, and the lack of holes to clean out means this is definitely a keeper.

The 270w sette model would be our top pick for anyone who doesn’t want to spend $1000 or more on a dedicated espresso grinder (the 270w rings in for about half that).

read more reviews on amazon now.

7. the de facto standard for preparing espresso at home: the mazzer mini electric

the mazzer mini electric has become the standard in home espresso grinding, to which all others are compared.

Mazzer is a top-tier Italian manufacturer with one of the highest quality control processes in the industry, and this brand has earned the trust of nearly every cafe with its commercial offerings.



mazzer mini type a electronic coffee grinder without dispenser

They have been able to pack most of their best features into the mini electric and produce it in a form small enough to fit under your kitchen cabinets. It also won’t overpower other appliances in the kitchen.

Featuring 64-millimeter flat stainless steel burrs, this premium grinder has the ability to grind your espresso beans to an exact standard.

Electronic dosing controls allow you to find just the right amount of beans to perfect your extraction. And, unlike models with dispensers, it eliminates the worry that grounds will get trapped and go rancid inside, affecting the taste of subsequent shots.



is available in black, powder-coated silver and polished aluminum in two variations: type a and type b. Type A machines provide electronic dosing buttons on a digital touch panel located on the dosing funnel. in type b models, the electronic dosage adjustment controls are located a little above the support fork of the filter holder.

the only problem with mazzer is getting one! Due to Mazzer’s rigorous quality control procedures, distributors must place orders six months in advance and can sometimes run out of stock for a couple of months.

watch it on 1st in cafe now.

8. for those who want one grinder that rules them all: la baratza forte ap

the first and best grinder produced by baratza with a view to commercial applications, this forte model improves on the already excellent characteristics of its vario and vario-w models.

This is the best grinder for those who weigh every dose, make everything from French press to espresso, and want a grinder that excels at just about everything.



baratza forte ap (multipurpose) – flat ceramic coffee grinder

A larger motor and belt drive power the 54-millimeter flat ceramic grinders, producing the highest quality ground coffee that is often compared to the output of the famous super jolly and super jolly electronic mazzers, but in a much smaller size.

however, forte goes a step further by offering time-based and weight-based dosing built into the machine.

A built-in scale gives you the ability to weigh each dose, and the machine features the ability to be programmed to remember the dose weight and correlate it to a time, so you can set it to remember exact variations based on different types of beans, roast levels, etc.



In addition, the forte features a new “closing” hopper that allows you to close a valve, trapping the beans in the hopper for easy removal without a mess; the closing hopper is also available as an independent accessory for other baratza models.

and the forte ap just isn’t for espresso. slider levers make adjustments to a coarser grind for auto drip, pour over, French press, and sous vide quickly and easily.

simply adjust the slider mechanisms on either side of the lcd screen and change settings with a major jump in coarseness with the macro slider or by dialing in with the micro slider.

Full aluminum construction ensures the forte ap will remain a reliable part of your brewing arsenal for years to come, and its small footprint ensures it will fit right into your kitchen.

read foodal’s detailed review or find it now at 1st in coffee.

9. for those who want the ultimate in espresso: the mahlkonig k30 vario single

The Mahlkonig K30 Vario is actually designed for commercial establishments, but that doesn’t stop many espresso fanatics from using it at home.

mahlkonig has designed a short hopper specifically to fit the k30 in smaller spaces, and it is available as an option when ordering at no additional charge. this can also be purchased separately later.

mahlkonig k30 vario espresso grinder

the mahlkonig k30 vario won the red dot design award in 2005 for its innovative features, while perfecting a unique and truly beautiful look.

This is not your grandfather’s grinder.

a set of 65-millimeter flat burrs and adjustable speed give you complete control when shredding your beans, and programmable dosing lets you set parameters to your preferred specifications.

what makes the k30 vario unique is the “grind on demand” function. simply select the shot size you want, insert your portafilter into the nicely constructed holder and the machine automatically grinds to your desired texture, hands free.

This beast’s heavy-duty direct drive commercial motor ensures you’ll have a quiet milling experience, unlike some of the smaller home models that drive little screaming motors through a series of gear reductions.

If you like espresso, you know that the grinder accounts for 50% or more of the flavor (40% is due to the freshness and quality of the beans, and perhaps 10% is attributed to the espresso machine) .

This is the best coffee grinder if you’re serious about home espresso.

read foodal’s detailed review or watch it on amazon now.

weighing the options

No matter what brewing method you use, buying a grinder is essential to getting the best flavors.

Regardless of the style you choose, always buy the best you can reasonably afford. If you’re starting to prepare coffee at home but want a quality machine in which you can grow, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the baratza vario-w.

It won’t be the best performer at grinding espresso (for the absolute pinnacle in scooping shots, you really need a very large commercial unit with the largest burrs available), but it’s more than adequate for home use, and can be adjusted easily for other forms of preparation with the flip of a few levers.

tell us, in your opinion, which model is better for home use and why.

Also, feel free to read more guides and explore our top picks in the foodal grinders section or check out the entire coffee portal where we have many guides and articles . available, to help you make informed decisions and learn new techniques.

don’t forget to pin it!



Originally published August 1, 2015, last updated and revised March 19, 2017.

See also: 10 of the best coffee chains across the US

disadvantages

• High-speed units tend to heat up quickly, so it’s best to grind coffee beans with short bursts of power. however, this also increases the number of “stop/start” cycles the machine has to perform. and this will create more wear and tear on machine parts, ultimately leading to the untimely death of the unit.
• These are for light use only and it is recommended to avoid this type if you want a product that will last more than a couple of years.

an example of this type is the delonghi offer shown above.

high speed with gear reduction

These models, equipped with high-speed gear reduction motors, are often a much better product than the high-speed straight variety. They still have high-speed motors, but most of them run on DC (instead of AC), allowing for a much longer lifespan.

These feature a gearbox that uses the speed of the DC motor, along with a gear reduction to slow down the cutters while increasing torque.

In addition, this type of machine is generally quieter, has less static build-up in the bins or meters, and the beans are exposed to less heat. The Gaggia MDF and Baratza Precise, Baratza Virtuoso and Baratza Encore models feature gear reduction technology.

direct drive

Direct drive models make up the rest of the available offerings and are typically found on industrial, professional, and “prosumer” machines. these feature high-torque, low-speed, heavy-duty motors that drive the grinder with a belt or connected directly to the burrs via a driveline.

the baratza vario 886 flat ceramic coffee grinder is a great example of a direct drive model

They spin the burrs with sheer force.

these are the quietest of all models, very durable and high quality. these units transfer almost no heat to the coffee and minimize the chances of static building up inside the grounds.

all mazzers, compaks, macaps and baratza forte are direct drive. the “prosumer” versions include the rancilio rocky grinders with dispenser or without dispenser, and the baratza vario and vario-w.

models.

other important factors to consider

storage capacity and physical size

It’s important to know how often you’ll be using your coffee grinder, as most grinders have different sized bean capacities in the hopper. For example, a busy coffee shop would be better off purchasing a larger machine that has the capacity to hold more beans.

some models have optional small or large hoppers or hopper extensions, so the amount of coffee it can hold can be adjusted.

Conversely, the larger the hopper, the more difficult it is to fit under cabinets and the more space it can take up on the counter—important considerations for home kitchens, but not as much of an issue for a coffee shop.

are you grinding espresso, coffee or both?

If you are grinding exclusively for espresso, it is recommended to purchase a specific espresso grinder. the particles it will produce are very consistent, and can be adjusted by a barista to the exact grind needed for the type of bean, the level of roast of the bean, and even temperature and humidity.

an adjustable brew model works well if you’re grinding for a coarse french press, medium drip, powdered turkish, or even espresso.



the only downside to these multipurpose machines is that you usually can’t maintain the same consistency that you could with a specific espresso grinder, although most cheap models have narrowed this gap considerably over several years.

With these, you generally get what you pay for, and the more expensive models have better, longer-lasting burrs, better consistency, and more adjustments to the coarseness of the grind.

The various size settings available on the machine and the consistency of the coffee beans contribute about 50-60% of the flavor, and must be adapted to the brewing method, bean variety and oil levels, roast level and other variables.

9 of the best coffee grinders on the market right now: our reviews

well, the basics have been discussed. Let’s consider the best home coffee grinders available on the market today that will give you the best bang for your buck.

these are quality products that will last you much longer than what you find in most big box stores.

These are roughly ordered with entry-level machines most people would be happy to have at the top, down to examples that would be suitable for serious home espresso enthusiasts towards the bottom of the list.

1. most profitable: the bis de baratza

bis de baratza should meet the needs of most casual coffee drinkers, with the exception of those who tend to brew large auto-drip pots.

does not grind fine enough for some espresso machines. but for what it offers, it’s a great bargain.

baratza encore coffee grinder with conical burrs

the baratza encore is a great entry level cone grinder if you want to grind yours several times a week and get fairly fluffy ground coffee as a result.

We would by no means recommend this product be used for any type of commercial application as it is not as robust and the grinding times are long (an average of 90 seconds to get enough coffee to fill a 12 cup mug) . pot).

And it doesn’t have enough settings to satisfy espresso fanatics who need precise control.

but it works great for those interested in brewing via smaller automatic drip pans, french presses and the like. For its price, this is one of the best coffee grinders you can buy for the money.

read our detailed reviewor watch it on amazon now.

2. a great all-rounder: the breville bcg820bssxl smart grinder pro

This is another decent quality product at a mid-range price. breville is known for its various kitchen appliances and these are still made with a certain level of care (unlike many brands that have licensed their name to lesser quality manufacturers).

This model improves on Breville’s previous smart grinder (the non-professional model) and packs a lot of features for the price. it is available in two or three different colors – brushed stainless steel and sesame black are the two that are normally available, although there is a cranberry red version that is available intermittently.

breville bcg820bssxl in brushed stainless steel

The device now has 60 grind settings instead of the 25 found on the non-professional model. plus, there are 10 additional micro-settings, allowing you to select those finicky shots of espresso that require a bit of trial and error before you get it right.

Unlike many other inexpensive machines, users report no static buildup in the grounds container. static can be a big problem on several other models, as bean particles stick to the side of the container where they age, go rancid, and then fall off in the next batch.

When this happens, it can lead to the production of cups with an unpleasant taste, and this is definitely not what you want. breville has cracked the code with the static problem.

Another place obsolete grinders can hide is in the inner workings of the grinder. Unlike some models, this unit is very easy to clean, and disassembly (at least to the point where you need to be able to clean it) is a breeze.

Other improvements include the dosing function, which has been improved and is now time-based (whereas in the previous model it was based on “brew force”) and can be repeated up to 0.2 seconds.

If you’re grinding the same type of beans, you can use this feature for repeatable results, which means less waste for any form of preparation. and also allows you to grind in the portafilter of an espresso machine (although for best results, you’ll still want to weigh it).

Similar to the baratza optional locking hopper, this “smart” model features a hopper that can be locked and removed without spilling the beans.

this is incredibly useful if you want to change the variety you are grinding. With the bargain, you can also easily order additional hoppers, in case you want to have some ready to go. order parts through a huge multinational conglomerate, on the other hand? not so easy.

breville bcg820bksxl in sesame black

This point brings me to support, service and warranties. Contacting a company as large as Breville can be a challenge. emails can go unanswered, and getting a response is often much more difficult than getting assistance through a smaller company like baratza, which offers stellar support and warranty service.

In a nutshell: this is a very good machine that is suitable for all forms of preparation (including basic espresso).

but I just hope you don’t run into problems that require help.

Personally, I would invest in a precise baratza (reviewed below). for just a little more money, it has many more configurations available, and it’s backed by baratza’s incredible support, should you ever need a replacement part (and I’m talking years down the road).

That said, these breville units are decent quality and are some of the nicest of the bunch, which can help win over the spousal approval factor. That’s definitely something to consider if you have a she or he that must be obeyed around the house!

check them out on amazon now.

3. still good but starting to show some age: the gaggia 8002 mdf

This is another decent product that comes at a mid-range price. this is an older design that uses the same burr set as the rancilio rocky grinders, and is also made in italy (rancilio most likely made it for gaggia).

gaggia 8002 mdf grinder with dispenser, black

produces good quality grounds for french press and drip filter coffee. Like the Rocky models (discussed below), this model is somewhat hampered by its 39 settings, making it difficult to dial in a shot of espresso. but of course this is not a problem if you are not making espresso.

however, it presents some problems that affect its usability for all forms of coffee extraction.

Foremost among these problem areas is the inexpensive dispenser. this mechanism is really only suitable for filling a portafilter, and using it for other forms of brewing can be a chore, not impossible, just irritating.

even more concerning is the flimsy lever attached to the dispenser – users report that this part breaks often, with many resorting to ordering parts from europe (not too bad if you live in europe, but not too bad ). great if you live somewhere else).

this grinder is past its prime (in my opinion), a holdover from the days when the gaggia baby/classic and rancilio silvia espresso machines were the pinnacle of home espresso brewing, when the gaggia mdf , rocky rancilio, or investing in a business model were his only real options, but not so much these days.

I would suggest that if you want similar features, a more convenient method of dispensing, and much more robust construction, spend some extra money and take a serious look at the Rocky Rancilio without a dispenser reviewed below.

gaggia is not a bad model at its price point. I just think she can either spend her money wiser and get a better machine for the same price, or add a few bucks for a much more robust and capable unit.

but don’t take my word for it, read all customer reviews on amazon and make your own informed decision.

4. the best build quality and silent operation: the rancilio rocky – version without dispenser

See also: The 5 Best Burr Grinders Under 50 (Busting Beans On A Budget)

Once the king of home coffee grinding, the Italian-made rocky rancilio remains relevant in today’s world of too much technology or too many inferior products.

Thanks to its heavy-duty motor, the same one fitted to the brand’s commercial md40, and belt-drive wheels, this top-tier grinder is at least 50% quieter than others on the market. same price class that are powered by tiny motors and gear reduction.



rancilio hsd-roc-sd rocky coffee grinder without dispenser

plus, its sturdy aluminum construction has earned it the nickname “the tank” among home coffee aficionados.

While newer models in the same price range offer more configurations, this will be the last model you’ll need to buy for non-espresso applications – the build quality is that solid.

In fact, I personally use one for my morning coffee every day.

read our full review or check it out at 1st in coffee now.

5. the best for budding espresso adventurers: the precise baratza

There’s a reason the Baratza Precise is often recommended as the best grinder for people with newly purchased espresso machines. the versatility you get at this price is second to none.

precise baratza – conical coffee grinder

the precise combines the 40 steps found in the baratza virtuoso with an additional 11 microsteps between each main setting, allowing you to dial in your espresso shots just the way you need them to extract flavorful flavors.

Combined with its impressive set of European-made 40mm conical burrs, this is an economical model that works for dripping and other brewing processes, and lets you play barista and produce consistent espresso shots with the kids and big girls.

With a more robust build quality and much quicker run times than the brand’s entry-level encore, you may want to step up and future-proof with this one.

an additional accessory, the esatto scale, also allows you to grind based on weight instead of relying on the built-in timer mechanism.

read our detailed review or see this excellent machine on amazon now.

6. for those who are starting to take espresso seriously: the baratza sette 270w

the baratza sette 270w is unlike any previous coffee grinder.

The machine was designed by Mahlkonig (one of Europe’s leading coffee grinder manufacturers) to be one of the simplest yet most accurate dosing models available today.

baratza sette 270w – coffee conical strawberry & espresso grinder available on amazon

Here’s the deal:

unlike the vast majority of other models, the 270w sette measures by weight, not time, meaning you can grind directly into an espresso machine portafilter and sip without clumsy weighing techniques or conjectures. a high precision acaia scale is incorporated!

Furthermore, thanks to a new design that has a fixed internal milling cutter and a rotating external milling cutter, the machine passes the grounds directly to the portafilter or to the container without passing through dispensers, intakes or other devices, which eliminates any worry. about rancid grists contaminating your beer.

This direct grinding path also prevents clumping.

the portafilter is convertible, allowing you to grind in the included anti-static container, in the pour-over mechanism of your choice, or even directly in a small or medium chemex glass maker.

the adjustment mechanism is a beautiful thing. the top ring allows for macro adjustment while the bottom ring allows the brewmaster to adjust the grind. this is the smoothest operating mechanism among all prosumer level coffee grinders.

Once you’ve adjusted your coarseness and your set weight, simply hit the go button and let the machine do its thing. there’s a little pause just before the grind starts to allow the scale to tare, but then the machine is incredibly fast (but a bit noisy).

Bluetooth functionality is built in and multiple logs can be maintained through the acaia brewbar app. this could be an important feature for espresso aficionados and hipsters looking to upgrade their favorite coffee roasts.

although the machine is assembled in asia, the burs (like all baratza offerings) are made by mahlkonig in liechtenstein.

note that there is a weightless version that weighs by time and not weight that is a bit cheaper; we would stay with the 270w.

Without having to worry about weighing your grinds, your home brewing experience is sped up significantly, and the lack of holes to clean out means this is definitely a keeper.

The 270w sette model would be our top pick for anyone who doesn’t want to spend $1000 or more on a dedicated espresso grinder (the 270w rings in for about half that).

read more reviews on amazon now.

7. the de facto standard for preparing espresso at home: the mazzer mini electric

the mazzer mini electric has become the standard in home espresso grinding, to which all others are compared.

Mazzer is a top-tier Italian manufacturer with one of the highest quality control processes in the industry, and this brand has earned the trust of nearly every cafe with its commercial offerings.



mazzer mini type a electronic coffee grinder without dispenser

They have been able to pack most of their best features into the mini electric and produce it in a form small enough to fit under your kitchen cabinets. It also won’t overpower other appliances in the kitchen.

Featuring 64-millimeter flat stainless steel burrs, this premium grinder has the ability to grind your espresso beans to an exact standard.

Electronic dosing controls allow you to find just the right amount of beans to perfect your extraction. And, unlike models with dispensers, it eliminates the worry that grounds will get trapped and go rancid inside, affecting the taste of subsequent shots.



is available in black, powder-coated silver and polished aluminum in two variations: type a and type b. Type A machines provide electronic dosing buttons on a digital touch panel located on the dosing funnel. in type b models, the electronic dosage adjustment controls are located a little above the support fork of the filter holder.

the only problem with mazzer is getting one! Due to Mazzer’s rigorous quality control procedures, distributors must place orders six months in advance and can sometimes run out of stock for a couple of months.

watch it on 1st in cafe now.

8. for those who want one grinder that rules them all: la baratza forte ap

the first and best grinder produced by baratza with a view to commercial applications, this forte model improves on the already excellent characteristics of its vario and vario-w models.

This is the best grinder for those who weigh every dose, make everything from French press to espresso, and want a grinder that excels at just about everything.



baratza forte ap (multipurpose) – flat ceramic coffee grinder

A larger motor and belt drive power the 54-millimeter flat ceramic grinders, producing the highest quality ground coffee that is often compared to the output of the famous super jolly and super jolly electronic mazzers, but in a much smaller size.

however, forte goes a step further by offering time-based and weight-based dosing built into the machine.

A built-in scale gives you the ability to weigh each dose, and the machine features the ability to be programmed to remember the dose weight and correlate it to a time, so you can set it to remember exact variations based on different types of beans, roast levels, etc.



In addition, the forte features a new “closing” hopper that allows you to close a valve, trapping the beans in the hopper for easy removal without a mess; the closing hopper is also available as an independent accessory for other baratza models.

and the forte ap just isn’t for espresso. slider levers make adjustments to a coarser grind for auto drip, pour over, French press, and sous vide quickly and easily.

simply adjust the slider mechanisms on either side of the lcd screen and change settings with a major jump in coarseness with the macro slider or by dialing in with the micro slider.

Full aluminum construction ensures the forte ap will remain a reliable part of your brewing arsenal for years to come, and its small footprint ensures it will fit right into your kitchen.

read foodal’s detailed review or find it now at 1st in coffee.

9. for those who want the ultimate in espresso: the mahlkonig k30 vario single

The Mahlkonig K30 Vario is actually designed for commercial establishments, but that doesn’t stop many espresso fanatics from using it at home.

mahlkonig has designed a short hopper specifically to fit the k30 in smaller spaces, and it is available as an option when ordering at no additional charge. this can also be purchased separately later.

mahlkonig k30 vario espresso grinder

the mahlkonig k30 vario won the red dot design award in 2005 for its innovative features, while perfecting a unique and truly beautiful look.

This is not your grandfather’s grinder.

a set of 65-millimeter flat burrs and adjustable speed give you complete control when shredding your beans, and programmable dosing lets you set parameters to your preferred specifications.

what makes the k30 vario unique is the “grind on demand” function. simply select the shot size you want, insert your portafilter into the nicely constructed holder and the machine automatically grinds to your desired texture, hands free.

This beast’s heavy-duty direct drive commercial motor ensures you’ll have a quiet milling experience, unlike some of the smaller home models that drive little screaming motors through a series of gear reductions.

If you like espresso, you know that the grinder accounts for 50% or more of the flavor (40% is due to the freshness and quality of the beans, and perhaps 10% is attributed to the espresso machine) .

This is the best coffee grinder if you’re serious about home espresso.

read foodal’s detailed review or watch it on amazon now.

weighing the options

No matter what brewing method you use, buying a grinder is essential to getting the best flavors.

Regardless of the style you choose, always buy the best you can reasonably afford. If you’re starting to prepare coffee at home but want a quality machine in which you can grow, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the baratza vario-w.

It won’t be the best performer in espresso grinding (for the absolute pinnacle in scooping shots, you really need a very large commercial unit with the largest burrs available), but it’s more than adequate for home use, and can be adjusted easily for other forms of preparation with the flip of a few levers.

tell us, in your opinion, which model is better for home use and why.

Also, feel free to read more guides and explore our top picks in the foodal grinders section or check out the entire coffee portal where we have many guides and articles . available, to help you make informed decisions and learn new techniques.

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Originally published August 1, 2015, last updated and revised March 19, 2017.

See also: 7 Best Japanese Coffee Brands Worth Trying