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Selecting the right Espresso Grinder

October 16, 2010

Selecting the right Espresso Grinder

Select your grinder carefully as the grinder is almost more important as the espresso machine.

The espresso grinder must match your espresso machine. In many cases it makes sense buying the same brand within the manufacturer.

However, with so many grinders to choose from, read the various forums about public opinions.

You need to decide what you want the grinder to be used for. Many grinders have a wide adjustment range from fine to coarse. This allows you to use the grinder for espresso and drip coffee or French Press. Some grinders can go as fine as powder for Turkish Coffee.

Here is a sample of the grind scale (under the microscope) of many high end espresso grinders:

Type of grinders:

	Manual Grinder These grinders are not suited for espresso as you can not adjust them fine enough. They are often used to grind other ingredients such as herbs and seeds. They are generally OK for French Press. If you are a camper and don't have access to electricity, this type of grinder is a welcome travel companion.
	Blade Grinder They are best used for drip coffee maker and french press. They don't actually grind but chop the coffee beans. They are generally OK for French Press and drip coffee
	Burr Grinder These are the grinders used for espresso.

Burr Grinders are differentiated between conical and flat (disc) grinders. Conical grinders generally run at lower speeds, hence, they don't generate a lot of heat and don't burn your coffee.

Many high end grinders have a large adjustment range. They even differentiate in step-less and micro-step versus stepped. If you are planning to time your shots and/or brew at a certain brewing pressure, you'll need a stepless grinder.

Next step is to determine if you want a doser or doserless model. If you use a lot off espresso every day, then a doser is fine. Keep in mind. Once you grind coffee beans, it will go stale the same day. Don't use ground left over coffee the next day. A doserless grinder will grind directly into the porta filter. This way, you always have fresh coffee.

Do some additional reading: