Coffee Grinder Brands and Links

Updated October 2011

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In this report

Introduction
Blade Grinders{1 mention}{3 mentions}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{4 mentions}{1 mention}
Burr Coffee Grinders{2 mentions}{2 mentions}{1 mention}{1 mention}{8 mentions}{3 mentions}{5 mentions}{4 mentions}{4 mentions}
Manual Coffee Mills{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{2 mentions}
Useful Links
Our Sources

Burr grinders are best for espresso

For the freshest and best-tasting coffee, enthusiasts and experts agree that pre-ground coffee doesn't fit the bill. Instead, they recommend grinding your own coffee beans at home. Coffee grinders come in two primary styles: blade grinders and burr grinders. Blade grinders have a motor-operated, spinning metal blade that cuts the beans, while burr grinders have two metal disks (one stationary, one that moves) that crush the beans into fine (or coarse) particles.

Blade grinders can also be used to grind spices. If you want to make espresso, consumers and experts agree that only burr grinders can produce the fine grind necessary. A fine grind isn't ideal for drip coffee makers or French presses, however, because ground beans are exposed to water for a longer period. Experts say fine grounds that get longer exposure can become "overextracted," creating a bitter taste in coffee.

Some experts warn against purchasing a combination grinder/coffee maker because they can be more difficult to clean, but owners give them high marks for convenience. For information about grind-and-brew combos, see our report on coffee makers, which also covers automatic-drip and vacuum coffee makers.

Our report on espresso machines covers higher-end and budget models.

Which? magazine doesn't rate or review coffee grinders, but they do offer a useful buying guide on coffee maker accessories, including coffee grinders. The article is available to subscribers only.

The Phoenix New Times offers tips for making a great cup of coffee, including a discussion on grinding coffee beans and the types of coffee grinders.

About.com's coffee and tea channel provides a coffee-grinding guide that describes different coarseness levels. A useful chart is included, which identifies the best coarseness for different types of coffee brewers.

OrphanEspresso.com is a good site to check if you're considering a manual coffee grinder. A complete user guide is available, and antique mills are available for purchase on the site.

VolcanicaCoffee.com provides a thorough guide to grinding gourmet coffee beans, including a summary of the two main types of coffee grinders.

An article from Better Homes and Gardens takes the reader step by step from selecting beans to grinding coffee.

Fine Cooking magazine has a brief but useful tip on cleaning your coffee grinder with white rice.

Oakland, Calif.-based Sweet Maria's Coffee offers FAQs on home roasting and brewing, as well as tip sheets for various models.

USA Today provides links and information related to popular coffee-enthusiast sites where consumers can get expert advice on all things coffee-related. The article also discusses how expensive coffee grinders come into play for coffee lovers.

For tips on how to use and maintain your coffee grinder, WholeLatteLove.com and CoffeeGeek.com are indispensable.