There are a few key features to look for in a good espresso coffee grinder:
- Consistency: A good espresso grinder should produce a consistent grind, meaning all the coffee grounds should be about the same size. This is important for evenly extracting the flavors from the coffee beans, resulting in a better-tasting espresso.
- Burr type: Most experts agree that burr grinders are better for espresso than blade grinders, because they produce a more consistent grind. There are two types of burrs: conical and flat. Conical burrs are more common in entry-level grinders, while flat burrs are found in more high-end models.
- Grind size adjustability: A good espresso grinder should have a range of grind size settings, allowing you to fine-tune the grind to match your espresso machine and the type of beans you’re using.
- Speed: Grinding espresso beans takes longer than other types of coffee beans, so you’ll want a grinder that can handle the extra time without overheating.
- Quality: A high-quality grinder will produce a better-tasting espresso and is likely to last longer than a lower-quality model. It may be worth investing in a more expensive grinder if you’re serious about making great espresso at home.
It’s important to note that the best coffee grinder for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. These grinders are just some of the top-rated options that are widely recommended for producing high-quality espresso. I have been using a Sette 270 that has been doing an incredible job. If you want to learn more about the Sette 270, checkout my written piece here.
Here are my picks for the top 10 coffee grinders, along with a brief explanation of what makes them good:
- Baratza Virtuoso+: This grinder has a conical burr design and 40 grind settings, allowing for precise control over the fineness of your grind. It is well-built and durable, making it a good choice for both home and professional use.
- OXO Brew Conical Burr Grinder: This grinder has a sleek design and is very easy to use, with an intuitive control panel and a built-in scale for precise measurements. It also produces a consistent grind, which is vital for good-tasting coffee.
- KitchenAid Burr Grinder: This grinder is a classic choice that has stood the test of time. It has a sturdy build and a range of grind settings, making it suitable for various brewing methods.
- Capresso Infinity Conical Burr Grinder: This grinder is a good budget option that still produces a high-quality grind. It has a range of grind settings and is easy to use, making it a good choice for beginners.
- Rancilio Rocky Doserless Grinder: The Rocky is a classic choice for espresso grinding, with a powerful motor and flat burr design that can handle a high volume of beans. It is a bit pricier, but it is well worth the investment for those who take their espresso seriously. It has a heavy-duty design and can produce consistent, fine grinds every time.
- Baratza Encore: This grinder is a great budget option that still produces a high-quality grind. It has a range of grind settings and is easy to use, making it a good choice for beginners.
- Breville Smart Grinder Pro: This grinder has a conical burr design and 60 grind settings, giving you a wide range of options for fineness. It also has a built-in dose-weighing scale, making it easy to pull perfect shots consistently.
- Cuisinart DBM-8 Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill: This grinder is a good budget option that still produces a high-quality grind. It has a range of grind settings and is easy to use, making it a good choice for beginners.
- Mazzer Mini Espresso Grinder: This grinder is a favorite among espresso lovers. It has a high-quality burr set and a range of grind settings, making it suitable for espresso as well as other brewing methods.
- Hario Skerton Ceramic Coffee Mill: This grinder is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts who want a manual grinder. It has a high-quality ceramic burr set and is very portable, making it a good choice for travelers or those who don’t have a lot of counter space.
If you had the choice of spending more money on an espresso machine or grinder, I would choose the grinder. If you have any specific questions about these models, I would check out their manufacturer’s website and read reviews.
