america’s test kitchen best burr coffee grinder 2023 Tested & Reviewed- LavaLove (2023)

Not only should a america’s test kitchen best burr coffee grinder suit your particular situation ¡ª taking into consideration storage space and frequency of use ¡ª it needs to be good. Some grinders clock as an investment, so value, design, and consistency are things to keep in mind. Additionally, a good coffee grinder can serve additional purposes in your kitchen. Grinding spices effectively is another perk of a good grinder and another reason to look for an appliance that¡¯s easy to clean and disassemble.
Unfortunately, most decent america’s test kitchen best burr coffee grinder, even those made specifically for home use, cost a very pretty penny ¡ª we¡¯re talking hundreds of dollars. So to figure out which models are worth the investment, we asked baristas, roasters, and coffee-shop owners about the versions they keep on their own kitchen counters (and sometimes in their suitcases because apparently good coffee never takes a vacation).
Ican’t tell you how many times I’ve heard a coffee pro say that the single biggest upgrade a person can make at home is to buy a good-quality burr grinder. Less often have I seen other suggestions, like buying a better coffeemaker, learning the ins and outs of brewing, and developing a better sense of one’s own coffee-bean preferences. The grinder recommendation is so common that it invaded my brain, eventually anchoring itself deep in the part responsible for consumerist behavior.But looking for a new america’s test kitchen best burr coffee grinder can be tricky. These appliances come in a massive range of prices, sizes, and settings, and it¡¯s hard to understand every option on every grinder comprehensively enough to find the one you need.
america’s test kitchen best burr coffee grinder

america’s test kitchen best burr coffee grinder Factors to Consider
Blade type
When choosing a coffee grinder, you’ll need to decide whether you want a blade, burr, or manual model. Blade grinders are a bit like food processors, slicing beans into teeny-tiny bits. The longer you keep your grinder running, the finer your grounds. Popular with beginners, blade grinders won’t achieve as consistent texture as burr blades, but they are smaller and inexpensive.
Generally, burr grinders are known to perform better than blade grinders when it comes to coffee. The majority of our test kitchen¡¯s ¡°best¡± picks are burr grinders. Because burr grinders function by having two revolving blades with textured surfaces, this method is more conducive to dealing with the small, rounded shape of coffee beans. In comparison, blade grinders have a single blade that moves like a blender¡¯s. This is often less effective at breaking coffee beans into pieces small and uniform enough to brew good coffee.
Manual (or hand) grinders are the smallest option and tend to be much more affordable than their electric counterparts. Users grind beans through two burrs by cranking a handle, which, admittedly, takes time and effort. However, manual grinders produce even grounds, and they can even offer different settings for various sizes. Also, they’re much quieter than both blade and burr grinders.
Hopper Size
This is primarily something to weigh in your decision if you¡¯re looking to make multiple cups of coffee at one time frequently. Many coffee grinders only fit enough coffee beans to produce grounds for one or two cups simultaneously, and it can be a pain to repeat the process over and over again while making breakfast or entertaining company. This may also impact the grinder’s size and your coffee grinder’s storage capabilities. Whether your kitchen has room for a larger grinder is something to consider, and a coffee maker with a built-in grinder might even suit your needs.
Settings
The number and range of settings on a coffee grinder can be significant depending on how you plan to make your coffee. Different applications exist for different coffee grind settings, like the extra-fine powder of good espresso or the coarser texture needed for brewing in a french press. With a broader array of settings comes a greater variety of options for your coffee-making, but if you plan on primarily utilizing one or two (like if you know you¡¯re a pour-over fan for life), the number of settings matters a little less. In that case, the accuracy and consistency of the grind you¡¯re specifically looking for are much more important.
The Pros And Cons Of Different Types Of Coffee Grinders
Coffee lovers know that the perfect cup of coffee starts with freshly ground beans, but it can be hard to decide which grinder is best for you. From blade grinders to burr grinders and everything in between, there are a lot of options out there ¨C each offering unique pros and cons. In this article, we¡¯ll explore different types of coffee grinders so you can find the one that suits your needs.
The first type of grinder we¡¯ll discuss is the blade grinder. These machines use sharp blades to chop up the beans into small pieces and offer an affordable way to make fresh grounds at home. Blade grinders don¡¯t require much effort from users but they also produce inconsistent results since some of the particles may end up being chopped finer than others.
Next, we have burr grinders, which use two abrasive surfaces called burrs to crush down the beans into uniform-sized grounds. This type of grinder produces consistent results, however, they tend to be more expensive compared to blade models and they usually require more time and energy when grinding large quantities of beans.
So now that you know what¡¯s available on the market, let¡¯s take a closer look at how these various coffee grinders compare in terms of their advantages and disadvantages!Overview Of Coffee Grinders
Coffee grinders have been around for centuries, and are essential tools for grinding coffee beans to the correct size for brewing. Coffee milling is what makes it possible to enjoy different types of coffee beverages from espresso to cappuccino, by creating a uniform texture that extracts flavors and aromas from the bean. There are several types of grinders available on the market today, including conical burr grinders, blade grinders, and manual grinders.
Conical burr grinders use two abrasive surfaces, one stationary and one spinning cone-shaped rotor, to cut up coffee beans into very small pieces. They offer excellent consistency with each batch as well as an adjustable range of fineness settings. Blade grinders consist of a single rotating blade inside a container that chops beans up when activated. This type of grinder produces inconsistent results because blades can chop unevenly or too coarsely depending on how long they run.
Burr grinders produce less heat than blade models due to their slower rotational speeds which helps preserve flavor characteristics in freshly ground batches. The downside is that these machines require additional cleaning time between uses given the presence of residual coffee grounds left behind in the machine¡¯s chamber after each operation. Additionally, they are often bulkier and pricier than other options making them not suitable for those who want convenience or affordability in their appliance selection process. Regardless, this style remains popular among serious home baristas looking for superior performance at higher price points. With all these considerations in mind let¡¯s take a look at burr grinders in greater detail¡­
Burr Grinder
It is commonly believed that burr grinders are the best type of coffee grinder due to their ability to produce precisely sized grounds and preserve more aroma. But does this make them superior? Let¡¯s explore the pros and cons of a burr grinder.
A burr grinder, also known as a conical or burr mill, uses two revolving abrasive surfaces between which the beans are ground down into fine particles. This type of grinder produces less heat than other types, resulting in better flavor preservation. The user can also select different sizes for the grind depending on what kind of brew they¡¯re making ¨C from coarse French press to espresso-fine powder ¨C thanks to its adjustable settings. Burr grinders offer consistency in particle size and evenness of extraction when compared with blade grinders, leading to an improved quality cup of coffee.
On the downside, these kinds of grinders tend to be much louder and slower than blade versions, so if you¡¯re looking for speed it might not be your ideal choice. Additionally, because these machines require a larger burr setup, they take up more counter space than smaller manual models or electric blade-style grinders do. They are generally more expensive too so if you¡¯re on a budget it may not be the best option for you either.
Blade Grinder
A blade grinder is a type of coffee-grinding device that uses a spinning blade to grind the beans. This method can be done either manually or with a motorized grinder. The main benefit of using this type of grinder is that it is generally much less expensive than other types, and also easier to use for those who are not experienced in coffee grinding.
The design of the blade mill consists of two blades that spin rapidly when powered by electricity or hand-cranked. These blades chop up the coffee beans into small pieces as they pass through the machine. The power level used to turn the blades determines how finely ground your coffee will end up being; however, since these blades are relatively blunt compared to other types of grinders, they usually don¡¯t produce an even particle size distribution and there may be some chunks left behind in the final product.
Another downside to using this type of grinder is that it produces more heat during operation due to friction between the rotating blades and the beans; this heat could cause flavor deterioration if overused. Additionally, because you must use manual labor when using a handheld version, it takes longer than other methods such as electric conical burr grinders.
In spite of its drawbacks, a blade grinder remains one of the most popular options out there due to its low cost and ease of use. It¡¯s especially useful for people who need only coarsely ground coffee on occasion but do not want to invest too much money into buying a high-quality grinder. With proper care and maintenance, it should last several years before needing replacement parts or repair work. Transitioning now from discussing Blade Grinders we move on to looking at Conical Burr Grinders¡­.
Conical Burr Grinder
Conical burr grinders, also known as coffee mills, have been around since the 1800s and provide an even grind without overheating your beans as other electric-style grinding machines do. They come in both manual and electric forms and can provide precise control over particle size¡ªfrom coarsely-ground French press to finely ground espresso.
Manual conical burrs offer more hands-on control than their electric counterparts, enabling users to customize their grind for better flavor extraction from each individual bean type. On the other hand, electric conical burrs tend to be noisier but make up for it with ease of use; many models feature settings that allow you to adjust speed or fineness of grind at the push of a button. Both types require regular maintenance such as cleaning out old grounds after every few uses to ensure optimal performance and avoid contamination between different blends.
In terms of cost savings, manual conical burr grinders usually carry a lower price tag while still providing enough power for consistent grinding results ¨C perfect if you¡¯re looking to save some money on your morning caffeine fix! Electric units may be pricier upfront but often offer features like built-in timers and automatic shutoff which could end up saving time (and energy!) down the line.
Electric Vs Manual Coffee Grinding
When it comes to making coffee, a grinder is essential. The type of grinder you choose will determine the flavor and strength of your brew. While conical burr grinders are known for their precision grinding capabilities, electric and manual coffee grinding machines both have their own advantages and disadvantages when compared.
Electric Coffee Grinders: Electric coffee grinders offer convenience since they don¡¯t require any extra effort from the user. They can produce consistent grounds quickly with one press of a button, which makes them great for busy people who need to make multiple cups in one day. Additionally, many electric models come with adjustable settings so users can control how fine or coarse they want their beans ground. However, electric grinders tend to be more expensive than manual ones due to their motorized components. Furthermore, some customers may not like that these types of grinders are louder than other options on the market.
Manual Coffee Grinders: Manual coffee grinders appeal to those looking for an affordable option as well as those who prefer a hands-on approach to preparing their daily cup of joe. Since there¡¯s no electricity required, this type of grinder is ideal for travelers as it doesn¡¯t take up much space in luggage either! Additionally, most manual models allow users to adjust coarseness levels by adjusting the number of rotations (or ¡°clicks¡±) made while turning the crank handle ¨C giving them full control over how finely or coarsely they¡¯d like their beans ground without relying on technology alone. On the downside though; manually powered devices require time and energy from the user in order to achieve desired results which might not always be worthwhile if only making one cup at a time.
In addition, some manual models lack consistency when compared to electric versions so users may find themselves disappointed if expecting uniformity throughout each batch of grounds produced ¨C especially considering its price tag versus what an automatic machine could provide. Nevertheless; budget shoppers keen on saving money but still wanting quality should consider investing in a good hand-crank device instead when shopping around for the best deals available online or offline!
Advantages Of Burr Mills
Burr mills are popular among coffee connoisseurs because of the many advantages they offer. Let¡¯s take a look at some of the benefits:
Burr mill grinders provide a consistent, uniform size for your ground coffee ¨C no more biting into large chunks! This ensures that all grounds are exposed to hot water evenly and produce an even extraction from cup to cup.
Burr mill grinders also preserve the freshness of beans by not destroying their delicate oils with heat or friction generated by other types of grinders. The grinding process is precise, so you can rest assured that there won¡¯t be any ¡°over-grinding¡± happening here!
With burr mill grinders, you have complete control over the coarseness or fineness of your grinds; this allows for experimentation and customization when it comes to brewing methods like French press, pour-over, espresso, etc. You don¡¯t need to worry about having too fine or coarse of a grind as long as you adjust accordingly.
Overall, burr mills provide excellent precision grinding capabilities while ensuring maximum flavor retention in each cup. They¡¯re particularly ideal for those looking for consistency and accuracy in their home brews without sacrificing aroma and taste. As such, these machines are worth considering if you want to achieve optimal results every time you make coffee.
Now let¡¯s move on to discuss the disadvantages of using burr mills¡­
Disadvantages Of Burr Mills
Burr mills are one of the most popular types of coffee grinders, but they come with a few drawbacks. While burr mills provide an even grind and delicious flavor, their overall size can make them difficult to use in smaller kitchens or when traveling. They tend to be bulky, heavy, and expensive compared to blade grinders.
One major downside is the noise level that comes with using a burr mill grinder. Although some models offer quieter motor options, it¡¯s still much louder than other machines. Additionally, because of the way the grinding mechanism works within these devices, beans often get stuck inside which makes for a messier cleanup process in comparison to other types of grinders.
Another big disadvantage of owning a burr mill is cost. These machines generally range from $50-$400 depending on features like ceramic versus stainless steel blades, electric or manual operation, etc., making them significantly more expensive than traditional blade grinders that typically cost around $25 -$30 dollars at most stores.
Finally, while all grinders need regular cleaning and maintenance regardless of type, burr mills require slightly more upkeep due to how intricate they are internally. This means you may find yourself taking apart your machine more frequently as well as purchasing additional parts such as replacement blades rather quickly if you want your device to last longer and continue producing quality grounds over time.
Though there are many advantages associated with choosing a burr mill grinder for your daily caffeine fix (as discussed previously), it¡¯s important to weigh both benefits and disadvantages before investing in any kind of kitchen appliance so that you have realistic expectations about what this tool can do for you in terms of convenience and efficiency. With that said let us now explore the pros associated with another type of grinder: blade grinders!
Advantages Of Blade Grinders
While blade grinders may not be the most advanced type of grinder, they do offer several advantages that make them a great choice for certain coffee drinkers.
One of the main advantages of blade grinders is their affordability. Compared to other types of grinders, blade grinders are typically less expensive, making them a great choice for coffee lovers who are on a budget. They are also easy to find at most home appliance stores or online, so you can quickly and easily get your hands on one.
Another advantage of blade grinders is their simplicity. Blade grinders are very easy to use, and they don¡¯t require any complicated settings or adjustments. You simply add your coffee beans to the grinder, press the button, and in just a few seconds, you¡¯ll have freshly ground coffee ready to use. This makes blade grinders a great choice for beginners or for those who don¡¯t want to spend a lot of time fussing with their coffee grinder.
Blade grinders are also very versatile. They can be used to grind other things besides coffee, such as spices, nuts, or seeds. This means that you can get more use out of your grinder and make the most of your investment.
Finally, blade grinders are very compact and easy to store. They don¡¯t take up a lot of space on your countertop, and many models are small enough to fit in a kitchen drawer. This makes them a great choice for those who live in small spaces or who don¡¯t have a lot of storage room in their kitchen.
Disadvantages Of Blade Grinders
Despite the affordability and convenience of blade grinders, they have several drawbacks that should not be overlooked. Noise production, inconsistent grinds, size limitations, and heat generation are some of the most common issues associated with these types of coffee grinders.
First and foremost, blade grinders are not very consistent. Because the blades chop up the beans randomly, the resulting coffee grounds can vary in size, which can negatively impact the quality of your coffee. Inconsistent grounds can lead to over-extraction or under-extraction, which can cause your coffee to taste bitter or sour.
Another issue with blade grinders is that they generate a lot of heat. As the blades spin, they can create friction that heats up the coffee beans, which can also affect the taste of your coffee. This heat can also damage the coffee oils and aromatics, which can lead to a less flavorful cup.
Finally, blade grinders can be quite loud. Because the blades spin at high speeds, they can produce a lot of noise, which can be disruptive if you¡¯re trying to grind coffee early in the morning or late at night.
Overall, while blade grinders can be a convenient and affordable option, they do have some significant drawbacks that may affect the quality of your coffee. If you¡¯re a serious coffee lover, you may want to consider investing in a burr grinder, which can offer a more consistent grind and better flavor.
Advantages Of Conical Burr Grinders
Conical burr grinders are considered one of the best types of coffee grinders available. This is because they offer a number of advantages, such as precision grinding, uniform particles, and flavor preservation. Here¡¯s why conical burr grinders stand out:
Precision Grinding ¨C Conical burr grinders provide superior control when it comes to particle size selection. They allow you to precisely adjust your grinder setting so that you can produce different sizes and shapes of grounds in order to match the needs of any particular brewing method.
Uniform Particles ¨C Unlike blade grinders which tend to chop up the beans into uneven pieces, conical burrs produce more consistent grounds with uniform-sized particles for an even extraction every time. This helps ensure maximum flavor from each cup without any bitterness or over-extraction issues due to under-grounding.
Flavor Preservation ¨C The slow grinding action provided by conical burrs ensures that there is less heat generated during the process which preserves more delicate flavors in the beans compared to other methods like blades which can cause oxidation leading to sour notes in your cup of joe!
Disadvantages Of Conical Burr Grinders
At first glance, conical burr grinders appear to be the perfect choice for those looking for a consistent and even coffee grind. However, there are some drawbacks to consider when selecting this type of grinder.
Firstly, due to their shape, conical burr grinders can be difficult to clean. It is hard to reach all parts of the interior with a brush or cloth, meaning that leftover grounds can remain in its confines. This may impact the taste and aroma of your next cup of coffee as old grounds mix with new ones.
Furthermore, conical burr grinders tend to be more expensive than other types of milling machines on the market. As they are made from high-quality materials such as ceramic and stainless steel, they cost more upfront but should last longer if properly maintained.
Additionally, these grinders require periodic maintenance which involves taking them apart regularly so you can clean every part thoroughly ¨C something not everyone has time for or enjoys doing. Therefore it¡¯s important to factor in how much time and effort you want to spend maintaining your grinder before making that costly purchase decision.
In summary, while conical burr grinders offer even consistency and quality results when used correctly, their cumbersome cleaning process and high price tag mean users need to carefully weigh up all the pros and cons before investing in one of these devices.
How we test coffee grinders
To determine which coffee grinders to recommend, the experts in the LavaLove Kitchen Appliances Lab tested 23 different grinders from trusted brands and best-sellers on Amazon. We included a variety of blade and burr grinders, three of which were manual. We used the same type of coffee bean purchased on the same date to ensure the most accurate side-by-side results. We used the same coffee bean on each grinder and conducted each grind for the same amount of time, using built-in timers where applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are high end coffee grinders worth it?
An expensive grinder will have higher-quality burrs that can produce a finer, more consistent grind than cheaper models. This means you’ll be able to enjoy an optimal flavor from your coffee since there won’t be any large chunks or powdery particles in the mix. This applies to coffee methods that NEED fine grounds.
Why should coffee be ground fresh before brewing?
Coffee beans are full of volatile compounds that contribute to the flavor and aroma of a freshly brewed cup. These compounds degrade over time, especially when exposed to moisture, heat, or air. And grinding coffee pulverizes the beans and increases the overall surface area, causing the coffee to oxidize and degrade much faster. In short: Grind fresh and use the beans right away to maximize freshness and get the best flavor.
Why grind your own coffee beans?
Grinding your own coffee beans ensures you’ll have the freshest, most flavorful coffee. Because coffee beans oxidize quickly once ground, store bought ground coffee will likely taste staler. Plus, different brewing methods require different grind sizes and having your own coffee grinder allows you to adjust this easily whether you’re brewing with an automatic drip machine, French press, or pourover.
How long should you grind coffee beans for?
If you’re weighing out your coffee beans for each go (as you should be), you can turn the grinder on and let it go until it stops or until it sounds like the grinder has finished grinding. We do recommend weighing your coffee beans before and after grinding to ensure you’re brewing the correct amount.
Should you moisten or spray coffee beans before grinding?
A few drops of water or a light spritz before grinding can help reduce static while grinding, but too much moisture can cause coffee to clump, clogging the grinder. We don’t recommend moistening coffee before grinding because the risks outweigh the benefit. Instead, we suggest letting coffee sit for 30 to 45 seconds after grinding to let the static dissipate before emptying the grounds into your filter.