Coffee Grinders

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    Learn More About Coffee Grinders

    Now that you’ve found the perfect coffee maker, the next item on the list to get the freshest cup of joe possible is a coffee grinder. Grinding coffee increases the bean's surface area, allowing the water to soak up the natural oils, salts, and sugars, giving you that robust flavor that makes mornings marvelous.


    Grinders are a vital tool in the coffee-making process, and without them, coffee would take longer to brew and wouldn't be nearly as flavorful. While you can buy pre-ground beans, grinding your coffee at home gives you an unbeatable fresh flavor that you’ll want to savor time and again.


    Besides being a practical gadget that helps craft an unbeatable brew, coffee grinders can complement your interior design style. An antique coffee grinder made from brass-tone metal with etched designs, or a traditional wooden coffee grinder with an iron handle enhances a countryside kitchen with farmhouse charm. On the other end of the spectrum, a modern coffee grinder with a smooth cylindrical shape adds a seamless futuristic touch to your state-of-the-art breakfast nook.

    • Hand coffee grinders: Also called manual coffee grinders, hand coffee grinders are a quieter choice that work well in homes with late sleepers or young children. They can be more affordable than electric versions, and they’re portable, so you can take them camping or to a picnic. Certain hand coffee grinders let you choose a grind size, but some vintage coffee grinders only come with one option.
    • Electric coffee grinders: Effortless to use, electric coffee grinders get the job done with the simple push of a button (or a switch). You can usually grind larger amounts and change the grind size easily, allowing for many different brewing options.
    • Commercial coffee grinders: If you’re a 10-cups-a-day kind of person or household, a commercial coffee grinder built to withstand constant use is a great option. It’s also a practical pick for offices or workplaces with a large number of coffee-loving employees. You’ll find plenty of grind settings in a commercial grinder, but the machine will be larger than most home-use grinders, so make sure you have enough room.

    When you’re considering what type of coffee grinder to choose, think about where you will place it in your kitchen; check the height of your cabinets if you’re planning on sliding the grinder underneath, or opt for a small one if you want to stash it away when not in use. The amount of coffee you drink and the type of coffee maker you have also make a difference. A drip coffee maker requires a finer grind, while traditional styles such as a French press use a coarser grind.


    A grinder with several different grind settings is an excellent choice if you brew your coffee multiple ways. A hand-crank manual coffee grinder does the trick for smaller pots of coffee, but if you’re craving bigger brews, an electric grinder is probably more practical. After figuring out all the logistical aspects, don’t forget to consider your personal design preference, too.