A Beginner's Guide to Choosing a Coffee Grinder

The best coffee grinder is essential for a great cup of coffee, and as a beginner, there are several factors you need to consider before choosing one. When it comes to deciding which grinder to get, there are several options but before you choose one, you need to consider three factors: price, consistency. and durability. Here a few tips to help you choose the right one for your home.

Types of Coffee Grinders

Coffee drinkers want to have the best cup of coffee they possibly can. There are two types of coffee grinders you can choose from. Understand the difference between the two to make an effective decision.

Blade grinders

A blade grinder looks similar to a food processor with a blade that looks a lot like an airplane rotor. This grinder is less expensive than others but that does not mean that you cannot get decent grinding. It is simply that it will work in a different manner than the burr grinder does. The blades turn in a manner that is similar to a plane rotary: the blades cut, break, and bash the beans. You simply need to pour the beans on the blades and press the button to begin turning the blade. The action of the blades will create an effect that pulls uncut beans and large bits into the blades. If you want finer coffee grain, you need to allow the blades to run for a longer period of time. The grinder is cost-effective and is ideal for beginners. However, the only disadvantage is that they produce an uneven grind which is something that can be a big issue if you like espresso.

Burr Grinders

Another alternative is a burr grinder which has two burrs, one remains still and the other is attached to a motor and rotates. Instead of slicing the beans, the grinder crushes them and the grind is more consistent because the force is not concentrated on a specific point. You will see some loose grounds, but much less than you would see in a blade grinder.

The grinder offers better control, consistency, precision, and ease of use. It is priced slightly on the higher side and is heavier which means it will use more energy. There are two options in burr grinders: flat burrs and conical burrs. Conical burrs last longer and they are more precise because you can adjust them by degrees.

Size

Size is an important factor to consider. Kitchen counters and cabinets are small in size and if you are looking for a coffee grinder, you need to choose one that does not take up a lot of space next to your coffee maker. Measure the counter space and then make a decision. Do not opt for huge coffee grinders because they can be hard to maintain.

Capacity

Coffee grinders come with varying capacities. You need to decide how much coffee you want and if the grinder can hold that amount. It is ideal to grind coffee right before brewing, hence, you might want to opt for a small capacity grinder if you're making a small amount in a French press. However, if it is going to be used by many people, you can choose a bigger grinder.

Grind Settings

If you enjoy different varieties of coffee, it is best to buy a grinder that has different settings. Note that most grinders with more settings will be costly.

Material

Burr grinders are available in ceramic or steel and ceramic burrs are highly durable but equally expensive. Stainless steel burrs are ideal for regular use but they need frequent replacement.

Durability

Whenever you buy any kitchen appliance, you need to consider its durability. You do not want to replace the items time and again. Expensive coffee grinders are long-lasting and you can count on ceramic burrs for longevity.

Heat

This factor is often overlooked but it is important to consider when buying a coffee grinder. A grinder that heats the beans will burn them and will change the flavor. Blade grinders operate by rotating the blades at a high speed and it burns the coffee grounds. Understand the way a grinder operates and whether it will heat up the grinds or not.

Consistency

Another important factor to consider is consistency. The quality of the ground matters but if the grinder does not grind the beans to the right size, there will be inconsistency issues with the coffee.

Cost

Lastly, consider the price of the grinder. Do not expect a quality grinder to cost $20. Blade grinders are slightly cheaper than burr grinders. It is worth noting that buying a grinder is an investment you are making for the right cup of coffee every morning.

Resources— Perfectdailygrind, Wholelattelove, Techlifeland