Craving that perfect espresso shot at home shouldn’t break the bank. While a high-end espresso machine often steals the spotlight, the unsung hero of exceptional coffee is undoubtedly the grinder.
A quality grinder is paramount for extracting maximum flavor, even more so than the machine itself. But navigating the world of coffee equipment can be daunting, especially when seeking quality on a budget.
Finding the best cheap espresso grinder requires careful consideration. Many budget-friendly options promise exceptional results, but few truly deliver.
This review will delve into the crucial aspects of selecting the best cheap espresso grinder, focusing on factors like grind consistency, durability, and overall value. We’ll help you sift through the noise and identify the models that offer the most bang for your buck, ensuring you can achieve barista-level espresso without emptying your wallet.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Cheap Espresso Grinder Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL EZLucky Portable Manual Coffee Grinder – Conical Burr with 5 Adjustable Settings for Smooth Grinding
- Adjustable ceramic burr with 5 grind settings
- Lightweight and portable design (250g)
- Suitable for various brewing methods
- Durable stainless steel exterior
4.7/5
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🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Wancle Electric Coffee Grinder
- Simple one-button operation
- Adjustable grind coarseness
- Transparent lid for easy monitoring
- Compact design saves counter space
4.6/5
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� BEST VALUE Portable Electric Burr Coffee Grinder with 38 Adjustable Grind Settings – USB Rechargeable Ceramic Core Conical Burr
- 38 adjustable grind settings provide versatility.
- External adjustment dial allows for easy grind size changes.
- Ceramic burr minimizes heat and preserves flavor.
- Compact and lightweight design for portability.
4.8/5
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SHARDOR Conical Burr Espresso Coffee Grinder Electric with Precision Timer 2.0
- 40mm stainless steel conical burr minimizes heat and preserves coffee oils.
- 51 precise grind settings for various brewing methods.
- Precision cup quantification and electronic timer ensure consistent dosing.
- Grinds directly into a portafilter for convenient espresso preparation.
4.6/5
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AMZCHEF Coffee Grinder
- 48 grind settings for diverse brewing methods.
- Digital LED control panel for precise adjustments.
- Includes accessories for espresso preparation.
- Conical burr minimizes heat and preserves coffee bean oils.
4.5/5
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Mini Manual Coffee Grinder with 40 Adjustable Settings
- 40 external grind settings offer precise control.
- Compact and portable design makes it ideal for travel.
- Ceramic burrs provide a consistent grind and minimize heat.
- Easy to disassemble and clean.
4.7/5
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Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder
- Quick grinding time (30g in 10 seconds)
- Versatile use for coffee beans, herbs, spices, nuts, and grains.
- Clear lid allows monitoring of grinding process.
- Compact size ideal for home use.
4.6/5
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Rsoilch Manual Coffee Grinder With Ceramics Burr For Espresso
- 40 adjustable grind settings offer versatility.
- Ceramic burr ensures consistent grind size.
- Suitable for various brewing methods.
- Compact and portable design.
4.5/5
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JavaPresse Manual Stainless Steel Coffee Grinder – 18 Adjustable Settings
- Adjustable grind size with multiple settings.
- Portable and convenient for travel.
- Quiet operation compared to electric grinders.
- Durable ceramic burr.
4.3/5
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Tuni G1 Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
- 48 adjustable grind settings for various brewing methods.
- Patented anti-static conical burr aims for consistent grinds.
- Compact size with a relatively large bean hopper.
- Includes useful accessories like a portafilter holder and dosing container.
4.5/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Cheap Espresso Grinder
EZLucky Portable Manual Coffee Grinder – Conical Burr with 5 Adjustable Settings for Smooth Grinding – Adjustable ceramic burr with 5 grind settings
The EZLucky Manual Coffee Grinder aims to provide a portable and adjustable solution for coffee enthusiasts. The grinder features a ceramic burr with 5 grind settings, catering to various brewing methods like espresso, drip coffee, and French press. Its lightweight design (250g) makes it suitable for travel.
The stainless steel exterior and ceramic burr are intended to offer durability and easy maintenance, with a fully washable design. The company emphasizes customer support through Amazon messaging, promising timely assistance. While the grinder seems focused on portability and ease of use, long-term performance and grind consistency relative to higher-end grinders would require extended use and comparison.
Pros
- Adjustable ceramic burr with 5 grind settings
- Lightweight and portable design (250g)
- Suitable for various brewing methods
- Durable stainless steel exterior
- Easy to clean and fully washable
- Customer-first support with quick response time
Cons
- Only 5 grind settings may be limiting for some users.
- Grind consistency may not match higher-end grinders.
Wancle Electric Coffee Grinder – Simple one-button operation
The Wancle coffee grinder offers a compact solution for grinding coffee beans, spices, nuts, and herbs. Its one-button operation makes it user-friendly, allowing for customizable grind coarseness by adjusting the grinding time. The transparent lid offers easy monitoring of the grinding process.
The grinder features a stainless steel blade and bowl, coupled with a copper motor. The 60g capacity is suitable for individual or small batch grinding. While it aims to preserve flavor and aroma during grinding, the overall build quality might be a concern for long-term durability.
The compact design is great for saving counter space.
Pros
- Simple one-button operation
- Adjustable grind coarseness
- Transparent lid for easy monitoring
- Compact design saves counter space
- Versatile use for coffee, spices, nuts, and herbs
Cons
- Relatively small 60g capacity
- Long-term durability might be a concern
Portable Electric Burr Coffee Grinder with 38 Adjustable Grind Settings – USB Rechargeable Ceramic Core Conical Burr – 38 adjustable grind settings provide versatility.
This electric burr coffee grinder offers a decent range of grind settings, catering to various brewing methods from French press to espresso. The external adjustment dial is a convenient feature, allowing for on-the-fly grind size changes. The ceramic burr is designed to minimize heat during grinding, which should help preserve coffee flavor.
Its compact and lightweight design, coupled with a rechargeable battery, makes it a portable option for travel or office use. However, it’s specifically designed for coffee beans only, and finer grinds can take significantly longer. While most parts are dishwasher-safe, the motor component needs to be hand-washed.
The recommendation to consider a plug-in grinder for frequent fine grinding implies some limitations in its speed and power for espresso enthusiasts.
Pros
- 38 adjustable grind settings provide versatility.
- External adjustment dial allows for easy grind size changes.
- Ceramic burr minimizes heat and preserves flavor.
- Compact and lightweight design for portability.
- Rechargeable battery for cordless operation.
Cons
- Exclusively for coffee beans; not suitable for other materials.
- Finer grinds can take significantly longer.
SHARDOR Conical Burr Espresso Coffee Grinder Electric with Precision Timer 2.0 – 40mm stainless steel conical burr minimizes heat and preserves coffee oils.
This coffee grinder boasts a range of features aimed at delivering consistent and flavorful coffee. The 40mm stainless steel conical burr is a key component, designed to minimize heat during grinding, potentially preserving the coffee bean’s essential oils. With 51 grind settings, users have precise control over the grind size, suitable for everything from espresso to French press.
The precision cup quantification and electronic timer allow for consistent dosing, a valuable asset for repeatable brewing. The ability to grind directly into a portafilter streamlines the espresso-making process. Furthermore, the anti-static technology and included cleaning tool suggest a focus on ease of maintenance.
Overall, this grinder appears to offer a balance of precision, convenience, and ease of use for coffee enthusiasts.
Pros
- 40mm stainless steel conical burr minimizes heat and preserves coffee oils.
- 51 precise grind settings for various brewing methods.
- Precision cup quantification and electronic timer ensure consistent dosing.
- Grinds directly into a portafilter for convenient espresso preparation.
- Anti-static technology reduces mess.
- Includes a cleaning tool for easy maintenance.
Cons
- The large number of grind settings might be overwhelming for beginners.
- Long-term durability of the electronic components is unknown.
AMZCHEF Coffee Grinder – 48 grind settings for diverse brewing methods.
This coffee grinder aims to deliver precision and customization for home baristas. It includes accessories tailored for espresso preparation, such as a portafilter holder and a photophobic coffee ground container, catering specifically to espresso enthusiasts. The grinder boasts 48 grind settings, offering a wide range of coarseness options for various brewing methods, from espresso to French press.
The digital LED control panel with touch-sensitive switches allows for easy operation and precise adjustments, including grinding by cups, time, or espresso shots, with incremental time adjustments. Its 40mm stainless steel conical burr is designed to minimize heat and preserve the coffee bean’s oils, ensuring a consistent and flavorful grind. While the product aims for precision, initial use may require some adjustment due to residual coffee powder.
Pros
- 48 grind settings for diverse brewing methods.
- Digital LED control panel for precise adjustments.
- Includes accessories for espresso preparation.
- Conical burr minimizes heat and preserves coffee bean oils.
- Precise grinding system for consistent results.
Cons
- Initial use may require adjustments due to coffee powder residue.
- Potentially complex for beginners due to the numerous settings.
Mini Manual Coffee Grinder with 40 Adjustable Settings – 40 external grind settings offer precise control.
The CEVING manual coffee grinder offers a portable and relatively convenient solution for coffee enthusiasts seeking freshly ground beans on the go. The 40 external grind settings provide a good range of options for different brewing methods, from espresso to French press, allowing users to experiment with grind size and flavor. The ceramic burr is a welcome feature, contributing to a more consistent grind and minimizing heat generation, which is beneficial for preserving the coffee’s flavor profile.
While the 30g capacity is sufficient for individual use, it might be limiting for those brewing larger batches. The grinder is easy to disassemble and clean, though avoiding water is recommended to maintain optimal coffee flavor. Overall, it presents a decent option for travel or small-batch brewing.
Pros
- 40 external grind settings offer precise control.
- Compact and portable design makes it ideal for travel.
- Ceramic burrs provide a consistent grind and minimize heat.
- Easy to disassemble and clean.
- Good for small batch grinding and single servings.
Cons
- 30g bean capacity may be insufficient for larger brewing needs.
- Cleaning requires a brush or dry cloth; water is not recommended.
Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder – Quick grinding time (30g in 10 seconds)
This electric coffee grinder offers a convenient and relatively quick way to grind small batches of coffee beans and other dry goods. Its compact size makes it suitable for home use, particularly for individuals or small households. The ability to grind 30 grams of beans in around 10 seconds is quite efficient for drip coffee brewing.
The clear lid is a practical feature, allowing you to monitor the grind consistency without needing to stop the process. Its versatility extends beyond coffee beans, accommodating herbs, spices, grains, and nuts. The stainless steel blade appears robust, suggesting decent durability for regular use.
Pros
- Quick grinding time (30g in 10 seconds)
- Versatile use for coffee beans, herbs, spices, nuts, and grains.
- Clear lid allows monitoring of grinding process.
- Compact size ideal for home use.
- Durable stainless steel blade.
Cons
- Small batch capacity (30g) may be insufficient for larger households or brewing needs.
- Grind consistency may not be as uniform as with burr grinders.
Rsoilch Manual Coffee Grinder With Ceramics Burr For Espresso – 40 adjustable grind settings offer versatility.
This manual coffee grinder offers a wide range of grind settings, catering to various brewing methods from espresso to French press. The 40 adjustable settings provide flexibility in achieving the desired grind size. The ceramic burr grinder is designed for consistent results, and avoids heating the coffee grounds.
The build quality seems adequate for home use. While manual grinders require more effort than electric models, they offer greater control and portability. It’s important to note that achieving a very fine espresso grind may take some time and effort with this grinder.
Cleaning is relatively straightforward, and the compact size is a plus for storage.
Pros
- 40 adjustable grind settings offer versatility.
- Ceramic burr ensures consistent grind size.
- Suitable for various brewing methods.
- Compact and portable design.
- Relatively easy to clean.
Cons
- Manual operation requires physical effort.
- Achieving a very fine espresso grind may be time-consuming.
JavaPresse Manual Stainless Steel Coffee Grinder – 18 Adjustable Settings – Adjustable grind size with multiple settings.
The JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder offers a portable and convenient way to grind coffee beans. It features an adjustable ceramic burr with multiple grind settings, allowing users to customize the grind size for various brewing methods like espresso, drip coffee, and French press. The hand crank design eliminates the noise associated with electric grinders, making it suitable for quiet environments and travel.
The ceramic burr is advertised to be durable and long-lasting, potentially outperforming stainless steel alternatives. While the manual operation requires some physical effort, the grinder aims to provide a consistent grind for enhanced flavor. It’s promoted as a quality product, but users should consider the manual grinding process when making a purchasing decision.
The company also donates a portion of profits to support coffee farmers.
Pros
- Adjustable grind size with multiple settings.
- Portable and convenient for travel.
- Quiet operation compared to electric grinders.
- Durable ceramic burr.
Cons
- Manual operation requires physical effort.
- Grinding speed is slower than electric grinders.
Tuni G1 Conical Burr Coffee Grinder – 48 adjustable grind settings for various brewing methods.
The Tuni G1 espresso grinder is a compact and versatile coffee grinder designed for home use. It boasts an impressive 48 grind settings, offering flexibility for various brewing methods from espresso to French press. The patented anti-static conical burr aims to provide consistent grinds while minimizing heat and static.
The grinder’s compact size is a plus for smaller kitchens, and the included accessories such as the portafilter holder, dosing container, and cleaning brush add value. The anti-fingerprint finish helps keep the grinder looking clean. The adjustable cup size setting (based on Americano) is a convenient feature.
Overall, it offers a decent range of features for its size and intended user base.
Pros
- 48 adjustable grind settings for various brewing methods.
- Patented anti-static conical burr aims for consistent grinds.
- Compact size with a relatively large bean hopper.
- Includes useful accessories like a portafilter holder and dosing container.
- Anti-fingerprint finish for easy cleaning.
- Adjustable cup size setting.
Cons
- Cup size settings are based on Americano serving size, which might not be ideal for all users.
- The plastic lid and bean hopper may feel less premium than stainless steel components.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Cheap Espresso Grinder
Understanding Your Espresso Needs
Before diving into the world of affordable espresso grinders, consider your espresso setup and desired grind quality. Are you using a pressurized or unpressurized portafilter? Unpressurized portafilters require a much finer and more consistent grind. How often will you be making espresso? If it’s infrequent, a manual grinder might suffice. For daily use, an electric grinder will save time and effort. Also, consider the brewing methods you use, as the best cheap espresso grinder may also be capable of grinding for other methods.
Manual vs. Electric: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Manual grinders, like the EZLucky, JavaPresse, or Rsoilch, offer portability and quiet operation, but require manual effort. Electric grinders, such as the Wancle, Amazon Basics, SHARDOR, AMZCHEF, or Portable Electric Burr Coffee Grinder, provide convenience and speed, but can be noisy and require a power source. The “best cheap espresso grinder” depends on your priorities. If you prioritize portability and budget over speed and convenience, manual is a better choice.
Burr Type: Ceramic vs. Stainless Steel
Burr grinders are superior to blade grinders for espresso, providing a more consistent grind. Ceramic burrs, like those found in the EZLucky and Mini Manual, minimize heat transfer, preserving coffee flavor. Stainless steel burrs, such as the SHARDOR’s 40mm conical burr, are more durable and can handle higher volumes. While both can produce excellent results, stainless steel is generally preferred for frequent espresso use and the pursuit of the best cheap espresso grinder.
Grind Settings and Adjustment
The number and precision of grind settings are crucial for dialing in your espresso. Look for grinders with a wide range of settings, allowing you to fine-tune the grind size to achieve optimal extraction. The SHARDOR and AMZCHEF offer a particularly high number of settings. External adjustment dials, as seen in the Portable Electric Burr Coffee Grinder, make it easier to change grind size on the fly.
Essential Features and Considerations
Consider features like anti-static technology (SHARDOR), precision timers (SHARDOR), and accessories (AMZCHEF, Tuni G1). Portafilter holders (Tuni G1) and dosing containers (Tuni G1) add convenience. Ease of cleaning is also important; look for grinders that are easy to disassemble and clean. Finally, read customer reviews to get a sense of the grinder’s reliability and performance in real-world use.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Cheap Espresso Grinder
What is the most important feature to look for in a cheap espresso grinder?
The most crucial feature in an affordable espresso grinder is grind consistency. A consistent grind is essential for achieving proper espresso extraction, regardless of the brewing method. Look for burr grinders (ceramic or stainless steel) over blade grinders, as burrs provide a much more uniform grind size. Adjustable grind settings are also important, allowing you to fine-tune the grind to suit your specific espresso machine and beans. The best cheap espresso grinder will prioritize grind consistency.
Are manual grinders suitable for espresso, or should I always opt for an electric one?
Manual grinders can be suitable for espresso, especially if you’re on a tight budget or prioritize portability. However, grinding fine enough for espresso with a manual grinder can be time-consuming and require some effort. Electric grinders offer convenience and speed, but they tend to be more expensive. If you only make espresso occasionally and don’t mind the manual effort, a good manual grinder can be a viable option. The best cheap espresso grinder may be manual.
What’s the difference between ceramic and stainless steel burrs in an espresso grinder?
Ceramic burrs are known for their ability to minimize heat transfer during grinding, which can help preserve the flavor of the coffee. They are generally less expensive than stainless steel burrs. Stainless steel burrs are more durable and can handle higher volumes of grinding. They are also less prone to chipping or cracking than ceramic burrs. Both types can produce a consistent grind, but stainless steel is often preferred for frequent espresso use.
How many grind settings do I need on an espresso grinder?
The more grind settings an espresso grinder has, the more control you’ll have over the grind size. At a minimum, you should look for a grinder with at least 30 adjustable settings. This will allow you to fine-tune the grind to achieve optimal extraction. Some grinders offer even more settings, providing even greater precision. A wide range of grind settings is crucial for dialing in your espresso.
Can I use a cheap coffee grinder for other brewing methods besides espresso?
Yes, many affordable coffee grinders can be used for other brewing methods, such as French press, pour-over, and drip coffee. However, the grind consistency may not be ideal for all methods. Espresso requires the finest and most consistent grind, so a grinder that excels at espresso will likely perform well for other methods. A versatile grinder can be a good investment if you enjoy various brewing styles.
What are the key benefits of an electric burr grinder over a blade grinder?
Electric burr grinders offer several advantages over blade grinders. Burr grinders produce a much more consistent grind size, which is essential for proper espresso extraction. They also generate less heat, which can help preserve the flavor of the coffee. Blade grinders, on the other hand, chop the coffee beans unevenly, resulting in an inconsistent grind and a bitter taste.
How important is it to have a built-in timer or scale on an espresso grinder?
A built-in timer or scale can be helpful for ensuring consistent dosing, which is crucial for repeatable espresso shots. Timers allow you to grind for a specific amount of time, while scales measure the amount of coffee being ground. These features can help you eliminate variables and achieve consistent results. However, they are not essential, and you can always use a separate timer or scale.
What makes a coffee grinder easy to clean and maintain?
A coffee grinder is easy to clean and maintain if it has removable parts that can be easily accessed and cleaned. Look for grinders with a simple design and minimal crevices where coffee grounds can get trapped. Some grinders also come with a cleaning brush to help remove coffee grounds. Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the grinder’s performance and preventing the buildup of stale coffee oils.
What is the difference between a conical burr and a flat burr grinder?
Conical burr grinders have a cone-shaped burr that rotates against a stationary ring burr. They are generally quieter and produce less heat than flat burr grinders. Flat burr grinders have two flat burrs that rotate against each other. They are often preferred for their ability to produce a more consistent grind size. Both types can be suitable for espresso, but conical burrs are often favored for home use.
What is the best cheap espresso grinder for a beginner?
For beginners, a manual grinder with a good reputation for consistency, like the JavaPresse or Rsoilch, offers a cost-effective entry point. These provide a good grind and are portable. Electric options like the Wancle or Amazon Basics, while not the most precise, can offer convenience at a low price, but consider that they may not produce the finest grind. The Portable Electric Burr Coffee Grinder offers more grind settings, a good option if you want more control.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The EZLucky Portable Manual Coffee Grinder – Conical Burr with 5 Adjustable Settings for Smooth Grinding Manual Coffee Grinder offers a portable and convenient solution for grinding coffee. If you prioritize portability and ease of use, this grinder is a viable option, especially for travel or occasional use. However, those seeking professional-grade grind consistency might consider exploring higher-end alternatives.
