Burr vs Blade Coffee Grinder

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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.

Brittany Rowland 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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