Coffee Grinder Guide – Burr vs Blade vs Manual Coffee Grinders 2023
If you want to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee every time, then it just might be the time to purchase your own coffee grinder.
It is said (and experts attest to this) that coffee tastes at its best when the beans are freshly grounded. Grinding the coffee beans just before brewing it keeps the aroma of the coffee, thus protecting its flavor.
So for most coffee lovers, having this device right at the comfort of their house is necessary. To get the best coffee grinders, you should carefully discern what you need and want in such a device. With the wide range of choices out in the market, there is surely one that will best fit you.
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Manual Coffee Grinder vs Burr Coffee Grinder vs Blade Coffee Grinder
Let’s take a quick look at how these three types of coffee grinders work.
Manual Coffee Grinder
A manual coffee grinder typically consists of a hopper, a grinding mechanism, and a collection chamber.
To use manual coffee grinder , the user first adds whole coffee beans to the hopper, which is located at the top of the grinder. The beans then fall down into the grinding mechanism, which is usually made up of two burrs that crush and grind the beans into smaller, more uniform pieces. The user turns a handle on the top of the grinder to rotate the burrs, which grinds the beans. As the beans are ground, the resulting coffee grinds fall into the collection chamber at the bottom of the grinder, ready to be used for brewing.
The grind size can be adjusted by adjusting the distance between the two burrs, allowing the user to achieve the desired grind size for their brewing method.
Burr Coffee Grinder
A burr coffee grinder works by using two revolving abrasive surfaces called burrs to grind whole coffee beans into consistent particle sizes.
The burrs are typically made of either ceramic or stainless steel and can be adjusted to create a range of grind sizes. As the beans are poured into the grinder’s hopper, they fall between the burrs and are crushed and ground into smaller particles. The size of the particles is determined by the distance between the burrs, which can be adjusted using the grinder’s settings.
The resulting coffee grounds are then dispensed into a container or portafilter ready to be brewed, with the consistent particle size of the grounds allowing for an even extraction and better tasting coffee.
Blade Coffee Grinder
A blade coffee grinder operates by using a rapidly rotating blade to chop the coffee beans into smaller pieces.
When the user adds whole coffee beans to the grinder’s chamber and activates the blades, they slice through the beans repeatedly, breaking them down into particles of varying sizes. Unlike burr grinders, blade grinders do not produce consistent particle sizes, resulting in an uneven extraction and potentially a less flavorful cup of coffee.
However, blade grinders are generally less expensive and more widely available than burr grinders, making them a popular choice for those on a budget or just starting out in the world of coffee.
Burr vs Blade vs Manual Coffee Grinder Comparison
Each type of coffee grinder has its own advantages and disadvantages, so let’s compare them.
Burr grinders are generally considered to be the gold standard for coffee grinding. They produce a consistent grind size and are highly adjustable, allowing users to customize their coffee to their liking. Burr grinders are available in both electric and manual varieties, and they tend to produce less heat during the grinding process, which can preserve the coffee’s flavor.
Blade grinders, on the other hand, are typically less expensive and more widely available than burr grinders. They operate by using a rapidly spinning blade to chop up the coffee beans. However, blade grinders produce inconsistent particle sizes, which can result in an uneven extraction and a less flavorful cup of coffee.
Manual coffee grinders require more effort to use, as the user must turn a handle to rotate the burrs and grind the coffee. However, they are typically less expensive than electric burr grinders and can be a good option for those who want to grind their coffee on the go. They also tend to be quieter than electric grinders and produce less heat, which can help preserve the coffee’s flavor.
Overall, the best type of coffee grinder for you will depend on your budget, preferences, and brewing method. Burr grinders are generally considered to be the best option, but if you’re on a budget, a blade or manual grinder may be a good choice.
Burr Coffee Grinders
The burr grinder is a type of coffee grinder that is typically used for any heavy-duty coffee grinding. Some people may say that this is the best kind of coffee grinder.
Most burr grinders feature a transparent compartment where you can store the beans for future grinding.
The compartment is airtight keeping the aroma and flavor of the coffee. The best burr grinders come with 18 to 25 grind settings to cater to the different coffee preparation (French press, espresso, drip).
In addition, they usually have built-in timers so that you can set the grinding time. These are also very easy to use and easy to clean.
Baratza
Baratza is a well-known brand in the specialty coffee world and is known for its high-quality burr grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Baratza Encore, Virtuoso, and Sette 270.
Breville
Breville is a popular brand that offers a range of coffee-related products, including burr grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Breville Smart Grinder Pro, Dose Control Pro, and the Breville BCG820BSSXL Smart Grinder.
Breville offers one of the best models of burr coffee grinders available in the marketplace today. It will allow you to choose from the 25 different grind settings, which will be perfect for the drink that you want to have. It also comes with a well-lit LCD screen that helps in making it more convenient to use.
Related reading: Breville Coffee Making Equipment Review
Bodum
Another good brand that can be considered is Bodum. One of its good features is the use of a borosilicate glass container that prevents static. To add, it is also a good thing that the glass container s designed with a silicone band that prevents it from slipping when it is held with wet hands.
Capresso
Capresso is a Swiss-made brand that is known for producing high-quality coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Capresso Infinity, Capresso 560.01, and the Capresso 591.05.
Cuisinart
Cuisinart is a well-known brand that offers a variety of kitchen appliances, including burr coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Cuisinart DBM-8 Supreme Grind, Cuisinart CBM-18N Programmable Conical Burr Mill, and the Cuisinart CBM-20 Deluxe Conical Burr Mill.
DeLonghi
DeLonghi is a popular brand that offers a range of coffee-related products, including burr grinders. Some of their most popular models include the DeLonghi KG89, DeLonghi Dedica KG521.M, and the DeLonghi Ariete Conical Burr Electric Coffee Grinder.
KitchenAid
KitchenAid is a well-known brand that offers a variety of kitchen appliances, including burr coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the KitchenAid KCG0702ER Burr Coffee Grinder, KitchenAid KCG8433ER Burr Grinder, and the KitchenAid KCG0702OB Burr Coffee Grinder.
Krups
Krups is a German-made brand that offers a range of coffee-related products, including burr grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Krups GX5000 Professional Electric Coffee Burr Grinder, Krups GX420851 Burr Coffee Grinder, and the Krups Gx332850 Silent Vortex Electric Grinder.
The burr coffee grinder from Krups is also a common choice for many customers. One of the most significant reasons for such is the presence of stainless steel housing, which does not only help in terms of aesthetics but also provides assurance when it comes to the durability of the unit.
Other brands that can also be taken into account when choosing the best burr coffee grinders include Baratza, Jura-Capresso, and Melitta, among others. Their coffee grinders are also made from the best materials and intelligent designs to make sure of their dependability and functionality.
OXO
OXO is a popular brand that offers a variety of kitchen products, including burr coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the OXO BREW Conical Burr Coffee Grinder, OXO BREW 9 Cup Coffee Maker, and the OXO BREW Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker.
Rancilio
Rancilio is an Italian-made brand that is known for producing high-quality espresso machines and burr grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Rancilio Rocky Espresso Coffee Grinder, Rancilio MD 40 Commercial Espresso Grinder, and the Rancilio KRYO 65 OD Commercial Espresso Grinder.
Secura
Secura is a popular brand that offers a range of coffee-related products, including burr grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Secura Automatic Conical Burr Coffee Grinder, Secura Electric Burr Coffee Grinder Mill, and the Secura SCG-903B Automatic Electric Burr Coffee Grinder.
Read more: Best Burr Grinder For Home Use
Blade Coffee Grinders
On the other hand, if you are looking for a coffee grinder for your home, you may check out blade grinders. This type of coffee grinder is usually small and compact, making them perfect for home settings. It is also cheaper compared to burr grinders.
Typically, blade grinders can hold three ounces of beans, enough for fifteen cups of coffee. The best blade grinders are usually equipped with a pulse action button to let you choose the beans’ fineness. They are also very easy to clean and use.
Convenience and portability can be enjoyed by the different brands of the blade coffee grinders in the market. Aside from the fact that they are ideal for limited spaces, many of them can also be operated with a touch of a button and some even have hands-free operations.
In addition, many of the models within this product category are also designed with stainless steel blades. Such material is commendable because of its long functional life and because of its ability to deliver superior grinding performance.
A transparent lid, which is common in blade coffee grinders, is another thing you might like. This will allow you to see the performance of the chosen model, including the ability to see the fineness of the coffee.
Lastly, these coffee grinders are equipped with powerful motors for superb functioning while maintaining silent operations. For instance, the model from Krups is equipped with 200 watts of power, which will be enough for your daily needs. This will assure you that your fresh and hot cup of coffee will be ready in seconds, without the need to sweat in the preparation of such.
Here are some of the most popular blade coffee grinder brands, along with a short overview and a few popular models:
KitchenAid
KitchenAid is a popular brand that offers a variety of kitchen appliances, including blade coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the KitchenAid BCG111OB Blade Coffee Grinder, KitchenAid BCG211OB Blade Coffee and Spice Grinder, and the KitchenAid BCG111ER Blade Coffee Grinder.
Hamilton Beach
Hamilton Beach is a well-known brand that offers a range of kitchen appliances, including blade coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Hamilton Beach Fresh Grind Electric Coffee Grinder, Hamilton Beach Custom Grind Coffee Grinder, and the Hamilton Beach Chamber Coffee Grinder.
KRUPS
KRUPS is a German-made brand that offers a range of coffee-related products, including blade coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the KRUPS Silent Vortex Electric Grinder for Spice, Dry Herbs and Coffee, KRUPS GX4100 Electric Spice Herbs and Coffee Grinder, and the KRUPS F203 Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder.
Cuisinart
Cuisinart is a well-known brand that offers a variety of kitchen appliances, including blade coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Cuisinart DCG-12BC Grind Central Coffee Grinder, Cuisinart DCG-20N Coffee Grinder, and the Cuisinart SG-10 Electric Spice-and-Nut Grinder.
BLACK+DECKER
BLACK+DECKER is a popular brand that offers a range of home appliances, including blade coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the BLACK+DECKER CBG100S SmartGrind Electric Coffee Grinder, BLACK+DECKER CBG110S Easy Grind Electric Coffee Grinder, and the BLACK+DECKER CBM310BD Burr Mill Coffee Grinder.
Mr. Coffee
Mr. Coffee is a popular brand that offers a range of coffee-related products, including blade coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Mr. Coffee IDS77-RB Blade Grinder, Mr. Coffee 12 Cup Electric Coffee Grinder, and the Mr. Coffee Automatic Burr Mill Coffee Grinder.
Blade coffee grinders are typically more affordable than burr grinders and can be a great option for those just starting to grind their own coffee at home. However, it’s worth noting that blade grinders can produce inconsistent grind sizes and may not provide the same level of precision and control as burr grinders.
Manual Coffee Grinders
If you have the luxury of time and energy, you may also want to consider getting a manual coffee grinder. Unlike the blade and burr coffee grinders, this does not run on electricity and caters to more personal consumption since it can only grind a small number of beans at one time. It is super easy to use, just pour the beans inside the bowl and steer the handle. It is also very decorative since most of the best manual grinders are made of classic wood, which can add character and charm to one’s place. In addition, it is fairly cheap since prices usually start at $20.00.
One of the important features of manual coffee grinders is an ergonomic handle. Many of the available models are designed with such, which makes it comfortable to use. Even if you have been grinding coffee for some time, when the handle is well-designed, you will not get tired easily.
Many manual coffee grinder models are also made with an adjustable mechanism. Because of this, you can select the right level of coarseness and fineness, depending on how you expect your drink to be once it is finally made.
While there are some models that need to be washed manually, there are also other units that are dishwasher-safe. This means that it will be a snap for you to keep the product at its best possible condition, which, in turn, will help in increasing its functional life.
Some of the top brands that you can consider when looking for the perfect choice within this category include Peugeot, Kyocera, Danesco, Supreme Housewares, and Zassenhaus, among others. Because of the multiplicity of available options, you will surely be able to find the perfect product regardless of your target price range.
Fun fact – I just noticed that people are often searching for the best coffee grinder for weed. Who knew?
Here are some of the most popular manual coffee grinder brands, along with a short overview and a few popular models:
Hario
Hario is a Japanese brand that specializes in manual coffee brewing equipment, including coffee grinders. Some of their most popular models include the Hario Skerton Pro Ceramic Coffee Mill, Hario Mini-Slim Plus Ceramic Coffee Mill, and the Hario Canister Ceramic Coffee Mill.
Porlex
Porlex is a Japanese brand that offers a range of manual coffee grinders that are known for their compact design and durability. Some of their most popular models include the Porlex Mini Stainless Steel Coffee Grinder, Porlex JP-30 Stainless Steel Coffee Grinder, and the Porlex Tall Hand Grinder.
JavaPresse
JavaPresse is a brand that specializes in manual coffee grinders that are designed for both travel and home use. Some of their most popular models include the JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder, JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder with Adjustable Setting, and the JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder with Conical Burr Mill.
Hario Skerton
Hario Skerton is a line of manual coffee grinders that are known for their high-quality ceramic burrs and compact design. Some of their most popular models include the Hario Skerton Plus Ceramic Coffee Mill, Hario Skerton Pro Ceramic Coffee Mill, and the Hario Skerton Ceramic Coffee Mill.
Zassenhaus
Zassenhaus is a German brand that offers a range of manual coffee grinders that are known for their precision and durability. Some of their most popular models include the Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Mill, Zassenhaus Santiago Coffee Mill, and the Zassenhaus Panama Coffee Mill.
Handground
Handground is a brand that specializes in manual coffee grinders that are designed for precision and consistency. Some of their most popular models include the Handground Precision Manual Coffee Grinder, Handground Precision Pro Manual Coffee Grinder, and the Handground Cone Burr Manual Coffee Grinder.
Lido
Lido is a brand that specializes in high-end manual coffee grinders that are designed for precision and consistency. Some of their most popular models include the Lido 3 Manual Coffee Grinder, Lido E Manual Coffee Grinder, and the Lido ET Manual Coffee Grinder.
Manual coffee grinders are a great option for those who prioritize precision and control over speed and convenience. They can be a great option for travel, as they are often more compact and lightweight than electric grinders. However, manual grinders do require some effort to use and may not be the best option for those who want to quickly grind large quantities of coffee.
Related reading: Nespresso Pixie C60 Espresso Machine Review
Conclusion
When choosing the best coffee grinder for your needs, the most important step is choosing the type of grinder that will satisfy your needs best.
Burr and manual coffee grinders offer different benefits and features, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages you should consider.
With a little research, you can find the perfect grinder for your needs. Whether you are looking for a manual or an electric grinder, you can be sure to find a unit that will help you enjoy a delicious cup of coffee every day.
