Finding the best coffee grinder might have you wondering… do I need to spend a whole lot of money in order to get something great? And the answer is a resounding no! You can get a great cheap coffee grinder, and not only will it be cheap, it’ll grind well, too!
In filmmaking, they say that in order to break the rules of filmmaking you need to know the rules in order to break them. As in, know what you’re doing, and make sure it’s intentful. Similar rules apply here because although a cheap coffee grinder might be cheap, it’s good to know if and what you’re sacrificing for the price, right? Or at least know what makes for a good coffee grinder, in order to get the right one for the job and the budget.
- Consistent Grind Size: The ability to produce evenly ground coffee is important in most coffee applications, outside of making coffee in an automatic drip. Uneven grinds lead to uneven extraction, which can spoil the taste of your coffee.
- This usually boils down to either a blade or a burr grinder (more in a moment!), but safe to say that if you’re looking to make espresso with this grinder, you’ll want a burr grinder.
- Adjustable Settings: This mostly applies to a burr grinder, depending on the coffee you’re making, a range of grind settings is important. Pour-over needs a different grind size to espresso.
- Burr Grinders vs Blade Grinders: Burr grinders are generally better than blade grinders because they provide more consistent grind sizes by crushing the beans between two surfaces with adjustable distances.
- Blade grinders don’t grind, they chop like a mini blender, which results in a less even coffee. This means an uneven extraction, inconsistent flavor, and the heat generated by these can alter the flavor of the coffee.
- Durability: A good grinder should be well-built and long-lasting, even when shopping on a budget. Look for grinders with high-quality materials like stainless steel or ceramic burrs.
JavaPresse Manual Burr Coffee Grinder
The JavaPresse manual burr coffee grinder is my favorite cheap coffee grinder because it’s really inexpensive, and it doesn’t compromise on the quality of the coffee it grinds. It still uses a professional-grade ceramic conical burr designed to outlast traditional stainless steel burrs by up to five times and with over 18 manual grind settings, ensures precise control over your coffee’s coarseness, catering to various brewing methods. Portable and easy to use, this hand powered grinder minimizes noise by 90% compared to electric grinders, making it a quiet companion for your coffee routine. My only gripe is that it takes a while to grind by hand, so I will occasionally use my drill to help move things along.
Key Features:
- Affordable Price: Typically priced less than $35.
- Enhanced Quality: Features a patented, professional-grade ceramic conical burr.
- Adjustable Grind Settings: Offers over 18 manual settings for precise grind control.
- User-Friendly Design: Convenient, portable, and easy to use without batteries or cords.
- Quiet Operation: Hand crank design reduces noise by 90% compared to electric grinders.
- Versatile Performance: Designed to deliver great-tasting and aromatic coffee, suitable for various brewing methods like espresso or cold brew.
Krups Silent Vortex Coffee and Spice Grinder
The KRUPS Silent Vortex Electric Grinder is a versatile, quick, and impressively excellent cheap coffee grinder. It’s perfect for grinding coffee, spices, and dry herbs with its Vortex Spin Technology, grinding up to 12 cups of coffee in just 15 seconds. The one-touch operation makes it simple to use, and it’s notably quieter compared to other grinders. Cleaning is a breeze with its dishwasher-safe stainless steel bowl. Plus, it comes with a handy storage lid, keeping your grounds fresh. Ideal for anyone seeking a fast, efficient, and multi-purpose grinder without the noise.
- Super Quiet Operation: Engineered for minimal noise, perfect for early morning coffee prep without disturbing the peace.
- Rapid Grinding: Grinds up to 12 cups of coffee in just 15 seconds – a real time-saver.
- Versatile 3-in-1 Functionality: Equally efficient at grinding coffee, spices, and dry herbs, making it a multi-use kitchen essential.
- One-Touch Simplicity: User-friendly with a single-button operation for both continuous and pulse grinding.
- Easy Clean-Up: Features a dishwasher-safe grinding bowl and includes a storage lid for mess-free countertops.
KitchenAid Blade Coffee Grinder
The KitchenAid Blade Coffee Grinder is designed for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate simplicity and efficiency. It quickly grinds beans for up to 12 cups of coffee, and the one-touch control makes grinding a breeze. You can easily see the consistency of your grind through the clear cover, so the longer you press, the more it grinds. It also features measurement marks for accurate portioning and a durable stainless steel blade. Perfect for those who want a no-fuss, cheap and reliable grinder for their daily coffee routine.
- Super Simple Operation: Just a single push to start grinding and release to stop. It’s that easy.
- Efficient Stainless Steel Blade: This blade quickly grinds your coffee beans uniformly, saving you time and effort.
- Handy Measurement Marks: The grinder comes with clear markings for different amounts, helping you get the perfect amount every time.
- Fast Grinding: It’s great for quickly making up to 12 cups of coffee, ideal for when you have guests over.
- Not Just for Coffee: You can use it for spices too, adding more versatility to your kitchen toolkit.
Wrapping up Cheap Coffee Grinders
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing a cheap coffee grinder, you don’t have to compromise on quality. Grinders like the KitchenAid Blade and others provide efficiency, ease of use, and versatility without a hefty price tag. While blade grinders are a great budget-friendly option, it’s worth considering burr grinders too since they give you more choice in the sizing of the coffee. Burr grinders offer a more consistent grind size which is crucial for extracting the full flavor from your beans. Electric versions might be slightly pricier, but for coffee enthusiasts who prioritize taste, a burr grinder like the JavaPresse is worth it. Ultimately, the right grinder will elevate your coffee experience, balancing cost, convenience, and quality. Happy brewing!