Coffee and Spice Grinders: Burr and Blade

Burr or blade: how the grind is made

A blade grinder spins a propeller-like blade that chops beans into a mix of dust and chunks, with the result depending on how long you hold the button. A burr grinder crushes beans between two abrasive surfaces set a fixed distance apart, so particles come out uniform, and changing the gap gives coarse, medium or fine. Even grounds extract evenly, which is why burr designs are preferred for espresso and pour-over.

Once you have picked a type, compare the number of grind settings and whether the finest step is fine enough for espresso, the hopper or cup capacity, and whether the container is removable and washable. Timer-only models give less control than stepped dials. Static makes fine grounds cling to plastic, so a metal or anti-static container is tidier.

Mains, USB-C or herb grinder: choosing by where and what you grind

Mains-powered grinders suit daily use, while portable models charge over USB-C and trade capacity for convenience at a desk or on a trip. Herb and spice grinders are a separate kind, usually small multi-piece sets; do not grind spices in a coffee grinder, because oils and aromas cling to the blades and flavor the next batch. This aisle also lists replacement parts such as carafes and grinding cups; match them to your model number.

Questions about Coffee and Spice Grinders: Burr and Blade

What grind size should I use for each brewing method?

Coarse for French press and cold brew, medium for drip machines, fine for espresso and moka pots, and extra fine for Turkish coffee. If coffee tastes sour, grind finer; if it tastes bitter, grind coarser.

Can I grind spices in my coffee grinder?

You can, but spice oils and aromas cling to blades and burrs and will flavor your next coffee. Keep a dedicated grinder for spices and herbs, or wipe the chamber thoroughly and expect some lingering scent.

How do I know if a listed carafe or cup fits my machine?

Match the model number printed on your unit with the model named in the listing, and compare capacity and diameter. Parts with the same capacity can still differ in lid, spout and handle fit. Treat 'universal' replacements with caution.