Types of coffee grinders: electric, burr, manual. How to choose the right quality model for your home?

Grinding coffee beans directly affects the taste of the finished drink, so devices designed for grinding them deserve special attention .

Manufacturers offer a variety of manual and electric devices that can cope with the task, however, in order to decide which model to choose, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the features of each type, their advantages and disadvantages .

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Varieties

There are only three types of coffee grinders , which are determined by grinding systems:

1. Rotary . They are a compact body with an internal engine. At the top of the appliance body there is a small compartment for coffee beans, which are ground using a rotating blade . There is no separate container for ground coffee in rotary coffee grinders. The device holds a small amount of raw materials, but this is quite enough to provide an invigorating drink for a family of five.
2. Millstones . The design of burr coffee grinders is a little more complicated than rotary models: inside the body there are two stainless steel disks, between which the beans are ground . The grinding amount in such a device can be adjusted depending on the distance at which the millstones are located. Electric millstone models are equipped with two containers for pouring in the product and obtaining it in crushed form , which helps prevent powder from scattering throughout the kitchen.
3. Mechanical . A device with a simple operating principle. To grind grains, the user needs to pour them into the compartment and start turning the handle without connecting to the network. In manual models, the degree of grain grinding is adjusted with a screw, so the grind can be made a little finer or coarser. The main thing in a mechanical product is the quality of all components and a comfortable handle that can withstand the pressure exerted on it .

Important! According to their intended purpose, electric coffee grinders can be household, professional and industrial.
For home use, the first option is the most suitable in all respects.

Burr or blade coffee grinder?

Coffee grinders grind beans in two ways: using blades or millstones.

Of course, you have an idea of ​​how the blades work. They just cut things. But is this method of grinding coffee really effective? What are millstones? How do they work? More importantly, are they better than blades?

Burr coffee grinders

Millstones are friction surfaces with grooves. When they come into contact, they crush and literally grind the grains, rather than cutting them. Thanks to burr grinders, you can get a variety of grinds. In the context of grinding, particle size is very important.

Burr grinders are best suited for professional baristas and we highly recommend them. Using a burr grinder, everyone will understand how to achieve an even release of oils and get the desired taste.

Blade coffee grinders

The blade, similar to the propellers on an airplane (by the way, such coffee grinders are sometimes called propeller grinders), mercilessly cuts the beans. Blade grinders produce a less uniform grind. This is why the final taste of coffee obtained from a blade grinder is inferior to that of a millstone grinder.

If you're not yet ready to make the switch to using a burr grinder, you can try one out at the store. Once you see the difference, you will rush to buy a burr grinder because then you will make better tasting coffee.

Electric rotary

Rotary or blade-type coffee grinders work on the principle of a blender , quickly grinding coffee beans to the desired size.
The device does not have a large volume (usually it ranges from 30 to 120 g) and a variety of functions. There is only a pulsed operating mode, characterized by constant stops at certain intervals.

The body of the electrical appliance can be plastic or metal. Plastic models are cheaper, however, less durable . Stainless steel products will last much longer, but you will have to pay a higher price for them.

The power indicator in rotary models varies from 80 to 270 W. When the knives rotate intensively, the coffee becomes very hot, losing its aromatic and taste properties, so of 180 W.

Advantages

• low price;
• the ability to grind coffee beans, spices, nuts;
• ease of use;
• compact size;
• anti-slip feet;
• removable knives;
• almost silent operation;
• light weight;
• maintainability.

Flaws

• uneven grinding;
• lack of a dispenser for poured grains;
• inability to control the quality of the powder;
• lack of a separate container for crushed product;
• The coffee grinder is inconvenient to clean;
• fragile plastic parts of the case;
• The protruding sharp parts of the knives can cut your fingers.

Who are they suitable for?

A rotary coffee grinder is perfect for people who love and appreciate good coffee brewed in a Turk, but do not prepare it often.
The chamber of the rotary device contains a small amount of coffee beans , which is why you will have to grind them to prepare several servings of the drink every day.

For users who actively drink coffee throughout the day, such a device will not be the most successful purchase.

Rating

Check out the ranking of the most popular models.

Rotary

Budget models

Middle price segment

Premium models

Millstones

Budget models

Middle price segment

Premium models

Manual

Budget models

Middle price segment

Premium models

Electric millstones

Electric burr coffee grinders have a large reservoir for coffee beans and provide high quality grinding . The millstones in the grinder are durable steel discs, and the grinding thickness is adjusted using the selected program. Up to 300 g of grains are placed in the container .

There are two types of millstones in burr-type coffee grinders: cylindrical and conical . Unlike cylindrical ones, devices with conical millstones have high power and a long service life, so consumers most often choose this option.

The average power of millstone models is 250-300 W, which is quite enough for domestic use.

Advantages

• large selection of working programs;
• optimal tank volume;
• possibility of grinding adjustment;
• high-quality uniform grinding;
• safety;
• the device does not heat the grains;
• ease of cleaning;
• ergonomic design;
• the device copes with heavy loads;
• preservation of the taste and aroma of grains;
• availability of additional functions.

Flaws

• the coffee grinder takes up a lot of space;
• noisy work;
• high price.

Who are they suitable for?

An electric burr coffee grinder will become an indispensable assistant in quickly preparing various coffee-based drinks in a coffee maker, electric Turk or coffee machine.
The device is also suitable for grinding coffee for further brewing in a cup - this is the easiest option for preparing an aromatic drink without the use of coffee machines.

What does grind size affect?

The degree of coffee grinding is one of the most important factors affecting the taste, aroma and quality of the finished coffee drink.

Using a burr coffee grinder, you can achieve any degree of grinding of beans and independently regulate the richness of coffee brewed in various ways..

Which coffee grinders should you not buy?

If you still don’t know which coffee grinder to get or how to choose it, then you can read what other people write. You will be able to find out which equipment has a negative reputation, and simply will not buy it. First, our recommendations on which devices you shouldn’t buy:

1. Plastic. They quickly break down and spoil the taste and aroma of the drink.
2. Knife devices without additional compartment. They will be difficult to extract powder from, they are difficult to clean, and you can get hurt on them.
3. With legs without elastic. Such units will be very noisy and slip during operation.

And now we offer you some reviews about coffee grinders.

• Kirill, 24 years old: “We recently bought Vitek.” Very pleased. The body is stainless and there is no plastic inside. Thanks to rubber feet, it is very stable. We are glad. But sometimes the latch opens. Maybe they just haven’t gotten the hang of closing it yet. And the cord is a bit short for me. But, in general, it’s a pretty decent unit. Fully meets the quality of its price. We have a small family and we really like it.”
• Alena, 33 years old: “We have Erison.” Grinds great. If you really need powder, you will have to disassemble the mechanism a little and tighten it a little. But it's not difficult. Looks very nice. It is convenient that there is a self-shutdown. I turn it on, brush my teeth, and then come, pour it in and make coffee. I was afraid that it would quickly break or be scratched. But everything works just great.”
• Yulia, 18 years old: “I’m used to always starting my morning with a cup of coffee. When I moved away from my parents, I was left without my favorite coffee maker, which itself ground the beans. I had to buy my own. I recently bought a Bosch coffee grinder. I got it very cheap. And I was satisfied. It works great. No grains, large fragments - nothing. Just the perfect grind. And very easy to manage."

We hope that now you can definitely choose a device that will be your ideal assistant in making aromatic and tasty coffee.

Hand millstones

Mechanical coffee grinders are the most popular and common devices for grinding coffee beans.

The operating principle of manual models is no different from electric millstone machines.

Attention! The main advantage of a mechanical device is that it does not need to be connected to an electrical outlet.

The millstones of a manual coffee grinder are made of ceramic, stainless steel or cast iron. Cast iron ones are considered inexpensive and durable - they are designed to process 0.5 kg of grains . The body of the device can be made of wood, ceramic or metal.

Manual burr-type coffee grinders carefully and thoroughly grind beans with maximum preservation of their unique aroma.

Advantages

• careful processing of the product;
• uniform grinding of grains;
• possibility of adjusting the degree of grinding;
• the device does not burn grains during processing;
• presence of a container for ground coffee;
• simple design;
• compact size and light weight;
• ease of care;
• low noise level;
• reasonable price.

Flaws

• grinding grains by hand;
• costs of time and energy;
• small size container for grains;
• To change the degree of grinding, you need to remove the fixing screw.

Who are they suitable for?

A manual coffee grinder has many advantages over using electric models, however, working with a mechanical device requires time and effort , which is why the coffee grinder is not suitable for busy people.
Choosing a manual model should be for those who live in a measured rhythm and can devote a few minutes to grinding grains by hand.

Well-known manufacturers and best models of different types of coffee grinders

1. Cunnill Brasil. A device with millstones, which is often chosen for bars, restaurants, and cafes. Suitable for use in the kitchen of fans of good coffee.

Advantages:

• High power;
• Adjustment of grinding degree and weight of the desired portion;
• Along with the device, the kit includes a tamper that presses coffee for use in coffee machines;
• The grain container is made of unbreakable material.

1. Bosh MKM 6000/6003, Caso Coffee Flavor. The best rotary coffee grinders, which are most often chosen by users.

Pros:

• Durable steel body;
• Receiving the finest grinding;
• Fast work;
• Capacious containers;
• The presence of an impulse switch.

1. Bekker BK-2517. A good manual coffee grinder with a stylish multi-colored body made of porcelain. The device is equipped with ceramic millstones that do their job, but can crack if hit.

Why choose a model:

• Sharp millstones made of ceramics;
• A handle that rotates both clockwise and in the opposite direction;
• Adjustment of grinding degree;
• Interesting design;
• Inexpensive, good coffee grinder.

Which brand of coffee grinder is better:

• Vitek. One of the leading brands of household appliances, which occupies a leading position in Russia. The brand's products are chosen for their good quality, ease of use, reliability, and affordable prices. Many consumers claim that the best budget coffee grinder is made by Vitek.
• DeLonghi. Italian manufacturer specializing in the production of coffee machines, coffee makers, coffee grinders and other kitchen appliances. Coffee connoisseurs have been choosing the brand's products for a long time.
• Bosch. German quality does not need advertising, which is why millions of consumers annually choose household appliances from the German concern.
• Vitesse. A French brand that produces high-quality elegant tableware and household items for the kitchen. True connoisseurs choose this brand.

How to choose a coffee grinder for your home?

When choosing a coffee grinder for your home, you need to check the following characteristics :

1. Power . The powerful device only takes a few seconds to grind the coffee into powder, but often the intense grinding leaves the coffee with a bitter aftertaste. For this reason, experts recommend choosing models with a power of 160-180 W.
2. Capacity . Freshly ground coffee does not retain its flavor and aroma properties for long, so the container for beans should not be too large. However, if you are buying a coffee grinder for a large family or office, it is better to choose a burr model that can grind a large number of beans at a time.
3. Safety . The coffee grinder should not be turned on with the lid loosely closed or open to prevent ground coffee from spilling, and should also have anti-slip feet for stability during operation.
4. Case material . Unlike plastic devices, metal structures are more stable and durable.

In electric models, you need to pay attention to the button to turn on the device . If it does not stick and is comfortable to press, you can safely buy the product.

Types of coffee grinders

Conventionally, mini coffee mills are divided into two classes - manual and electric. Each class, in turn, is divided into several subcategories with their own characteristics and features.

Manual coffee grinder Electric coffee grinder

Electrical

Electric coffee grinders grind whole beans using knives and burrs attached to a motor.

Rotary

Structurally, rotary coffee grinders consist of two metal knives. They crush grains by rotating at high speed. The longer the process takes, the finer the final product. They can crush grains unevenly, but they work for a long time and without failure.

The rotary coffee grinder consists of two knives

Attention! At very high speeds, they can overheat the product and burn aromatic substances.

Millstones

Grinding in such units occurs through grinding grains between two steel disks. They retain the aroma well and evenly chop the delicate product. The output is a homogeneous powder, which is well suited for capricious automatic coffee makers.

Optionally, such devices are equipped with several speed modes; the result can be obtained very small grains. Loss of taste in such devices is reduced to zero. Expensive.

In burr coffee grinders, grains are ground

Manual

In mechanical devices, grinding occurs using physical force. Structurally, it is a box with millstones and a rotary lever hidden inside. Completely preserves all the qualities of coffee beans and operates silently:

1. European. A wooden box with a handle on the body lid and millstones inside;
2. Eastern. Cylindrical, usually copper or brass mills. The result of the work is powdery coffee powder;
3. Without housing. Millstone without hopper for collecting powder. Easily installed directly onto the container before cooking.

European manual coffee grinder

Comparison table for coffee grinders of all types:

Additional functions

For ease of use, manufacturers equip coffee grinders with additional functions. Among them :

1. Protection against overheating or foreign objects - if the machine overheats or a stone or piece of branch accidentally gets into it, the operation will stop, which will protect the coffee grinder from damage and the user from drinking a low-quality drink.
2. Timer for setting the grinding time of grains - allows you to set the duration of grinding the product.
3. Display – it displays all the necessary data about the state of the device.
4. Cord winder – makes the electrical device compact and easy to store.
5. Double knives – increase the speed of grinding coffee beans several times.
6. Sound insulation – ensures quieter operation of the electrical appliance when used in the morning, when all family members are still sleeping.

The best 12 volt coffee grinders

Rating:

1. The most convenient model AUTO Clatronic 291 .
2. The most beautiful Profi Cook PC-KSW 1021 .
3. The most wear-resistant Sinbo SCM-2927 .

This type has compact dimensions, so the products are light and transportable, convenient to take with you. Devices with low power and small capacity grind coffee beans slowly.

The products are made of heat-resistant and durable materials. Productivity – 2-3 kilograms per hour.

Characteristics:

• type of mechanism (millstone);
• metal case;
• power – 110-115 W;
• 1-3 minutes of continuous operation;
• capacity – 50 g;
• number of grinding levels – 1-3;
• productivity – 2-3 kg per hour.

Pros:

• compactness;
• ease;
• ease of use;
• low price.

Minuses:

• low functionality;
• small capacity;
• long grinding of grains.

Useful video

From this video you will learn more about how to choose the right model for preparing your favorite drink:

With the right choice of coffee grinder, even a person far from culinary will be able to prepare a tasty and rich coffee drink.

Having decided to purchase a device for grinding coffee beans, you must first study information about all types of coffee grinders and decide on the functions that must be present in the device - this will help you choose the right model without overpaying for unnecessary options.

Automatic or manual coffee grinder?

In a world obsessed with instant gratification, spending time on something as simple as grinding coffee beans seems like an unnecessary obstacle to your morning cup of coffee.

If you want to achieve the best flavor in a short time or just want to sleep a few minutes longer in the morning, choose an automatic coffee grinder. They come in both millstone and knife types. You can choose the one that suits your budget.

However, good things come to those who wait for them. While using a manual grinder will slow down the process, hand-ground beans impart a rich flavor that is nearly impossible to achieve with an automatic grinder.