Coffee grinders

Coffee grinders are for anyone who wants to grind beans just before brewing. Our range includes manual and electric models, both blade and burr types, suited to filter coffee, espresso or a cafetière. Over 80 models come from brands such as ADLER, COMANDANTE, ESPERANZA, FELLOW and BOSCH.

How to choose a coffee grinder

Burrs or blades. A burr grinder crushes beans between two burrs, so the particles come out a similar size and the cup tastes cleaner. A blade grinder simply chops the beans with a spinning blade: it is simpler and cheaper, but the grind is uneven and you judge the fineness by eye. If you drink coffee every day and care about flavour, a burr grinder is worth choosing.

Manual or electric. Manual grinders are quiet, take up little space and need no power, which makes them easy to pack for travel. They manage one or two cups comfortably, but grinding a larger batch by hand becomes tiring. Choose an electric model if you brew for several people or several times a day.

Grind adjustment. Espresso needs a very fine grind and small adjustment steps, while a cafetière or filter coffee calls for a coarser one. Pick a grinder whose settings cover the way you brew. For an espresso machine, look for fine or stepless adjustment.

Burr material. Steel burrs are more resistant to knocks, while ceramic burrs do not rust and heat up less, but they can chip if a small stone gets in with the beans. Larger burrs usually grind faster and more evenly, which helps when you grind a lot at a time.

Capacity and cleaning. The bean hopper and the ground coffee container should suit how much you drink. A grinder with removable burrs is easier to clean, and that matters because coffee oils turn bitter over time and spoil the taste.

Brands we carry

• COMANDANTE: a German maker known for high-end manual grinders with steel burrs, popular with travellers and coffee enthusiasts.
• FELLOW: an American brand whose electric grinders are aimed mainly at filter coffee and stand out for their minimalist design.
• EUREKA and FIORENZATO: Italian makers known for espresso grinders used both in cafés and by coffee lovers at home.
• SMEG: an Italian maker of household appliances, known for retro-styled products that match coffee machines from the same design line.
• ROMMELSBACHER and CASO: German household appliance brands offering electric grinders for the home kitchen.

Also in our range: ADLER, ESPERANZA, BOSCH, GASTROBACK and ETA.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a burr and a blade coffee grinder?

A burr grinder crushes beans between two burrs and gives a more even grind, while a blade grinder chops them with a spinning blade. With a blade grinder, some coffee ends up too fine and some too coarse. The difference in taste is most noticeable with espresso and filter coffee.

Which coffee grinder should I choose for an espresso machine?

For an espresso machine, a burr grinder with fine grind adjustment is the best choice. Espresso is very sensitive to grind size, so even a small change should be noticeable and repeatable. Both manual and electric models can work, as long as their settings go fine enough.

Is a manual coffee grinder worth buying?

A manual grinder is worth buying if you drink little coffee, want quiet operation or brew on the move. Many manual models use burrs, so the grind can be even. If you need several cups every day, an electric grinder will be more convenient.

How often should I clean a coffee grinder?

Brush out leftover grounds and coffee dust at least every few weeks, and clean the burrs more thoroughly every few months, depending on how much you use it. Darker, oilier beans leave more residue, so the grinder needs cleaning more often. Always check the manufacturer's instructions for the right method.