How to choose a manual meat grinder for your home and where to buy it: an overview of the rules and the TOP 5 best products

Photo: pixabay.com

In the modern world, many people are switching to electric meat grinders, because they are much easier to use and require minimal physical effort. And the process of grinding products occurs much faster. However, manual meat grinders are still popular among buyers. This is due to the fact that they have a number of advantages over their electric counterparts:

• Mechanical meat grinders are generally much cheaper.
• They are compact and do not require much storage space.
• The operation of the device does not depend on the availability of electrical energy.
• Manual meat grinders are almost silent.
• This device is durable, there is practically nothing to break, so it can last more than one generation in the family.

Basically, all manual meat grinders consist of the following parts:

• Body with meat receiver.
• An auger is a working shaft that is twisted in a spiral and is designed to move the product towards the knife.
• Knife – chops the pieces before passing them through the grate.
• The grille is a metal disc with many holes.
• The handle is designed to operate the entire mechanism.
• Upper and lower shoe with a clamping screw - for fixing the device on the edge of the table.

Some manufacturers supplement the devices with special attachments, for example, for making cookies or sausages.

We present the rating of manual meat grinders 2021. The best 6 models that were selected by our experts based on user reviews and ratings.

Design

The main purpose of the device is to grind meat and fish into minced meat. Minced meat can have different degrees of grinding, depending on the size of the holes on the installed grate. If additional attachments are provided, it becomes possible to obtain juice, puree, make pasta and cookies.

The device does not have many parts:

• body – unites the entire structure;
• a handle with a twist bolt - turning it activates the mechanism;
• fastener - a latch that holds the device in place;
• auger – spiral shaft;
• four-bladed knife – cuts the product into pieces;
• grate - the meat is pushed through it, taking the form of minced meat;
• clamping nut – secures the disc in the correct position.

So, the workpiece falls on the auger. It rotates and pushes the pieces further, cutting them into smaller pieces in the process. Next, the blades come into play, cutting the ingredient and moving it towards the grate. Passing through the holes, the workpiece is finally crushed and falls into the prepared vessel.

Meat grinder in the kitchen

A meat grinder is simply indispensable in the kitchen.

Many people still use old, mechanical meat grinders, which are operated by turning a handle. This doesn't mean this grinder is bad. Not at all, and it’s even more convenient if you don’t have to grind kilograms of meat every day. But if you have to make minced meat often, then it is better to purchase a powerful electric meat grinder . You can find out how to choose an ice cream maker for your home by following the link.

Among the advantages of an electric meat grinder are the speed and quality of offal preparation. But according to reviews from housewives, it is quite difficult to wash such an electric meat grinder.

Advantages and disadvantages

I think you can guess the main drawback - low performance. How much minced meat you end up getting depends only on your endurance and efforts.

The process will take much longer than if you were working with electrical equipment. And of course, there is no talk of any comparison in speed with an industrial meat grinder.

The twisting procedure can be quite labor-intensive. Especially if stringy meat is used. You have to constantly stop, disassemble the mechanism, clean the internal parts from films, reassemble and only then continue.

All this, of course, is very tiring. But despite this, the units also have advantages, and they often play a primary role.

1. The price is several times lower than the most budget electric models. Although this statement is not true for all members of the family. Foreign branded products will compete in price with advanced technology.
2. Autonomous - no connection to the electrical network is required to start.
3. Light weight – due to the simplified design, the weight does not exceed 2 kg.
4. Compact - takes up little space, which increases ease of storage.
5. Reliability – with careful handling and timely sharpening, it will last for decades.
6. No noise - you can work even at night, without the risk of waking up your family or displeasing your neighbors.
7. The taste of the finished product is a subjective parameter, but some users claim that the preparation made in this way tastes better.

A mechanical shredder is often purchased as an auxiliary tool. When the amount being processed is small and there is no point in getting a massive electric assistant.

It is also good for tiny apartments, in which there is simply no place to store massive equipment. The device is also useful in a country house where there is no electricity or there are constant interruptions in its supply.

Rotor Diva-MRP - cheap and durable

The Diva-MRP meat grinder looks like traditional models produced 20, 30 or 40 years ago. The design of the model is no different from old meat grinders.

For the manufacture of the main parts, food-grade aluminum is used, which makes the mechanical device lightweight with relatively high strength. The material is considered safe, easy to clean and does not absorb odors.

The theoretical performance of the model is up to 32 kg per hour. The actual speed depends on the user’s physical condition and the hardness of the food (meat, fish, vegetables).

Advantages of Diva-MRP:

• low price – you won’t be able to pay less for a new meat grinder in 2019;
• light weight – 0.7 kg;
• durability of the case and steel knife, designed for at least 100 hours of operation.

Disadvantages of the model:

• minimal equipment - the set includes only a standard perforated disk;
• poor quality of processing of the grid and knife;
• rapid appearance of rust on parts made of steel.

Types of devices

The main characteristic by which all units are classified is the material of manufacture. The service life largely depends on it.

• Cast iron

The most expensive option. But also the strongest. Such objects are often inherited from grandmothers and can serve for many more years.

However, cast iron is very heavy and also brittle. When impacted or dropped, cracks will almost certainly form on it, or a piece will break off altogether. Cast iron is also susceptible to rust, so the structure will have to be thoroughly dried after washing.

• Aluminum

These models are much lighter and cheaper than their cast iron counterparts. As a rule, not pure aluminum is used, but an alloy. And here it is worth paying special attention.

Aluminum-silicon samples have proven themselves on the positive side. They are quite reliable; you just need to periodically sharpen the cutting edge.

It is better to avoid specimens made of aluminum-magnesium alloy: their service life is short due to their high fragility.

• Plastic

Lightweight and not very reliable. Of course, high-strength plastic is used, but it can break under the pressure of a resisting piece or an accidental bone. At the same time, their price is not inferior to their metal counterparts.

• Stainless steel

Such devices are rare because they are quite expensive materials. And it’s a pity, because it is quite light, durable, not subject to corrosion, and easy to clean. Usually some parts of the unit are made from it.

Which is the best meat grinder for your home?

The question of choosing a meat grinder for the home is open to many. This is due to the great benefits of its use. As mentioned earlier, a large assortment of models makes it difficult to choose.

To simplify your search, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the basic criteria for choosing the best meat grinder for your home:

• Type of meat grinder . All meat grinders for household use are divided into mechanical and electric. They have fundamental differences in structure and operating features. More details about each variety.
• Electric meat grinder classes . If a person has chosen an electric meat grinder, then he should familiarize himself with the existing classes of the device. Meat grinders are divided into “A”, “B” and “C” classes. The first variety is more suitable for industrial use, the second and third can be used at home.
• Performance and power . In mechanical meat grinders, this criterion depends on the human factor, how much force it will apply. The power of electrical appliances is calculated differently.
• Noise level . The highest noise threshold reaches 82 dB.
• Equipment . Some models are additionally equipped with attachments and other accessories to significantly expand functionality. The most common: meat grinder, grater, for kebbe and sausage preparation.
• Availability of guarantee . On average, the warranty period is 1 – 2 years. If you strictly adhere to all operating rules specified in the accompanying documentation, the service life will be significantly longer.
• Material of manufacture. In the production of meat grinders, stainless steel and plastic are mainly used.

These are the main parameters that you should pay attention to when choosing a meat grinder for your home. To protect yourself from purchasing a defective or counterfeit meat grinder, it is recommended to make purchases in large chain stores or local trusted stores. Be sure to make sure that the household appliances are in working order and that all accompanying documentation and warranty card are available, if a warranty is provided. To make your search easier, we have selected the best meat grinders for home in 2021.

Tips for choosing a meat grinder

When choosing, all attention should be paid to design differences and workmanship.

Loading opening

This is the neck where the ingredients are fed. For ease of loading, it is better to choose a wide neck.

Its height also matters. The longer the tube, the less likely you are to hurt your fingers.

It is good if the loading portal is sloping to the side. This allows the shaft to more effectively grab pieces and push them forward. This increases processing efficiency and speed.

Fasteners

There are two solutions here.

The first is traditional. Assumes the presence of a clamp for fixation. It is a support that is installed on the edge of the table. Below it there is a movable element that rises thanks to a screw mechanism and presses the unit to the tabletop. This is a convenient system, but there is a risk of “tightening” the fastening and damaging the furniture.

It is worth considering that it is not always possible to install such a structure, for example, if the surface is without a protrusion.

The second option involves the presence of a suction cup. It looks like a round rubber or silicone base and is found on plastic models. The device will hold well only on a perfectly smooth and even surface. Over time, the suction cup stretches and no longer holds the vacuum.

Handle screw

This is a small part with which the handle is screwed on. It can have a metal or plastic head.

The plastic one will break if you apply a little more force than necessary. After some time, it dries out and may crack or crumble. So metal is preferable in any case.

Screw

Both its material and shape are important. It is best to choose stainless steel elements: it is durable and does not rust. Plastic ones are only suitable for soft products, such as tomato or peach puree.

The shape of the shaft is more or less elongated. Accordingly, the distance between the ribs can be large or small. The more often the turns are located, the more thoroughly the contents are crushed on the way to the knife.

Knife

The most common are blades with four blades, but there are models with the number of wings from 2 to 5. On products with a small number of blades, the pieces are larger.

The element must be made of high quality steel. This determines its service life and sharpness. If the knife is sharp, then the work will go quickly, and even stringy meat will be processed well.

There are specimens that require periodic editing of the cutting edge. There are also self-sharpening samples. They don’t get dull for a long time, but when this happens, you’ll have to look for new ones.

Lattices

The hole sizes on the disks are different. The smaller the holes, the smaller and more tender the minced meat is. It’s good if the set contains several accessories with holes of different diameters. This significantly increases culinary possibilities.

But if the standard set is not enough for you, then don’t worry: you can always buy additional grilles. Fortunately, there is a large selection of them for any units.

Additional attachments

The most popular is the juicer attachment for a meat grinder. Its operating principle and design are the same as that of a mechanical auger juicer. It is ideal for tomato juice. Therefore, many summer residents have similar installations.

There are attachments for stuffing sausages, cutting noodles and cookies, and a vegetable cutter.

Inspection before purchase

To make sure it's working properly, you need to check:

• integrity of parts - there should be no cracks or chips;
• all parts must be accurately cast and without nicks;
• ease of assembly - try assembling and disassembling the meat grinder: everything should go easily;
• the tightness of the elements adhering to each other - this is especially true for the knife and the perforated disk.

The best models of mechanical meat grinders

The top best handmade models include those that are most in demand among modern housewives. According to reviews, you can buy a reliable and powerful assistant quite inexpensively. To do this, you need to study the models in our rating and choose the one that suits you in terms of price, technical characteristics and functional features.

You may be interested in: Rating of narrow dishwashers: top review of popular models

Bradex "Ekman" TK 0068

The average price is 3500 rubles.

Dimensions (W×D×H) – 13×21×17 cm

The mechanical meat grinder Bradex “Ekman” TK 0068 is designed for quick and easy grinding of products with different densities. The housing with a silicone suction cup is securely attached to the surface. Additional grates and attachments will help you prepare coarse and fine minced meat, dough for pasta and baking.

meat grinder Bradex “Ekman” TK 0068

Thanks to high-quality plastic, the meat grinder is both lightweight and durable.

Advantages

• comfortable ergonomic handle;
• reliable fastening to the table;
• light;
• simple and easy to use;
• design.

Flaws

• does not scroll the meat all the way through;
• There is a lot of meat left in the grates.

Vitesse VS-1911

The average price is 4000 rubles.

Dimensions (W×D×H) – 20.5×15×23 cm

This model cannot be considered a budget option, but it fully justifies its cost. All parts, knives, housing, screw shaft are made of stainless steel.

This allows you to grind food quickly and efficiently, and wash it in the dishwasher. It is attached to the table using a vacuum suction cup, so it can be placed anywhere on the table.

meat grinder Vitesse VS-1911

A wide neck with a diameter of 9.5 cm allows you to place food in large portions.

Advantages

• convenient to store;
• reliable;
• metal components;
• design.

Flaws

• attaches only to a perfectly smooth surface;
• Difficulty in caring for a glossy surface.

Endever HG-006

The average price is 880 rubles.

Dimensions (W×D×H) – 14.5×28×22.2 cm

Very simple and easy to use. Easy to assemble, disassemble and wash. Fixed to the table using a rubber bottom. Can be used to prepare minced meat and fish, vegetable puree, pate.

There is a nozzle for stuffing sausages, 2 steel grates with holes of different diameters. Dishwasher safe.

meat grinder Endever HG-006

Transparent parts of the meat grinder allow you to see all the processes happening inside.

Advantages

• light;
• compact;
• sharp knives;
• design.

Flaws

• attaches only to a perfectly smooth surface;
• fragile plastic.

Motor Sich 1 MA-S (aluminum)

The average price is 1100 rubles.

Dimensions (W×D×H) – 23×24.8×10.5 cm

The model is convenient to use in the country, easy to wash and store. High productivity, up to 32 kg/h, is achieved due to the correct geometric design of the screw blade.

You may be interested in: Choosing the best bread maker for the home: rating, characteristics and reviews

The meat grinder is equipped with a rubberized screw with a claw, which will protect your countertop from damage and give stability to the device.

meat grinder Motor Sich 1 MA-S (aluminum)

The meat grinder can easily be converted into a juicer using a special attachment.

Advantages

• lighter than analogues;
• no attachments included;
• compact;
• price;
• silent.

Flaws

• knives become dull quickly;
• design.

Tescoma Handy

The average price is 4100 rubles.

Dimensions (W×D×H) – 14×27×19 cm

Despite the plastic body, pusher, tray and auger, it easily copes with its functions. The blade and grinding discs are made of high quality stainless steel. Cannot be washed in the dishwasher.

meat grinder Tescoma Handy

The grinding method is regulated by large and fine nozzles.

Advantages

• design;
• light;
• compact.

Flaws

• the handle comes off;
• price;
• It does not attach well to the table; you have to buy an additional silicone stand.

Uralochka MA-S (aluminum)

The average price is 800 rubles.

Dimensions (W×D×H) – 10×23.5×25.5 cm

The best budget option among mechanical aluminum meat grinders. Traditional model from the Soviet period for processing meat, fish, vegetables and fruits.

Additional attachments will help you prepare minced meat products, shape cookies, and stuff sausages.

meat grinder Uralochka MA-S (aluminum)

Has the function of self-sharpening knives.

Advantages

• price;
• equipment;
• rubber pads for fastening;
• compact.

Flaws

• weight;
• it is inconvenient to tighten the screw;
• knives become dull.

TOP 3 manual meat grinders

First, look at the ROTOR meat grinder for 2,810 rubles, then look at these three models.

Minuses:

• requires careful handling;
• Installed only on a smooth surface.

LUCOG Second generation - a device from Chinese friends for 2,020 rubles. Stainless steel and plastic are used in production. Installation on the tabletop is carried out through a clamping mechanism. It has a somewhat unusual method of grinding (due to the absence of the usual grid). The device comes with a cone for making sausages and a plate for defrosting.

Pros:

• weighs only 1 kg;
• steel knife;
• Convenient spout for sausage.

Minuses:

• not suitable for tough meat;
• can cook only one type of minced meat.

Tescoma HANDY is another plastic sample for 4,930 rubles.
The manufacturer emphasizes that the device is made of particularly durable hardened plastic. The main cutting parts are made of stainless steel. Stability on the surface is ensured by an effective vacuum. Pros:

• first-class materials and workmanship;
• stylish look;
• compact and weightless (700 grams).

Minuses:

• there are no spare parts on sale;
• It is not very convenient to wash the case - it cannot be completely disassembled.

Comparative characteristics of models

Price does not always guarantee quality. Our rating confirms this. Consider the reliability, increased quality of the device and its components. We did not find any new technical solutions here, but a manual meat grinder can be considered eternal.

Housing material

When making handmade models, cast iron and aluminum are most often used. Some manufacturers even produce their models in two versions at once, to choose from.

Cast iron is a heavy and durable material, but brittle. It is not afraid of intensive use, time and heavy loads, however, it can break if dropped. The weight of cast iron models is 2–3 kg, so when purchasing such a device it is worth considering how easy it will be to install and remove it for storage.

Aluminum is another popular material used in the manufacture of meat grinders. The models are light and quite soft. The weight of aluminum meat grinders is about 1–1.5 kg. If dropped, such a device is unlikely to break, but it may become deformed.

In addition to the listed materials, plastic is used in the manufacture of meat grinders. However, it is neither durable nor wear-resistant. A plastic meat grinder may not withstand any serious loads.