Burr vs Blade Coffee Grinder
As you analyze the variety of coffee grinders available—electric, automatic, manual, blades, burrs—you may wonder which type is best for you and which type gives the best results. Let’s look at the different types.
| Blade Grinders | |
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to use with the press of a button | Not always consistent with fineness/coarseness of grounds |
| Inexpensive (typically starting around $20) | If food processor-type grinder overheats the grounds, it can affect the flavor and aroma |
| Portable | Noisy |
| Also works on spices and nuts | |
| Burr Grinders | |
| Pros | Cons |
| More sophisticated | Pricier |
| Conical burr grinders produce less heat than flat burr grinders—preserve the aroma of the coffee | Also noisy |
| Ideal for espresso, percolated, and French press coffee | |
| Gives greater control over fineness/coarseness | |
| Manual Crank Grinders These can come in blade and burr varieties |
|
| Pros | Cons |
| Fewer parts make them more durable than electric counterparts | Requires (some) physical labor, patience, and persistence |
| Typically include ceramic or stainless steel parts that reduce static in the grounds—less mess | Most produce grounds suited only for drip coffee |
| Consistent results | |
| Less noisy | |
Ultimately, burr grinders are for serious coffee aficionados. They’re more expensive than blade grinders, but produce more consistent, quality results.
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Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
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Filed Under: Appliances • Coffee Grinders
