For coffee aficionados, the journey to the perfect cup begins long before the brewing process. It starts with the grind.
And for those with limited counter space or smaller coffee needs, finding the best small electric coffee grinder is crucial. A quality grinder can dramatically impact the flavor and aroma of your daily brew, unlocking a richer, more nuanced coffee experience.
However, with a plethora of options available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. Our comprehensive review aims to simplify this process.
We understand the importance of balancing quality, performance, and value when choosing the best small electric coffee grinder. We’ll guide you through the key considerations to help you make an informed decision and elevate your coffee ritual.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 9 Small Electric Coffee Grinder Compared
Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder
- Quick grinding speed (30g in 10 seconds)
- Versatile, grinds coffee, herbs, spices, and nuts
- Clear lid for monitoring grinding progress
- Compact and easy to store
4.7/5
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Hamilton Beach Fresh Grind Electric Coffee Grinder for Beans
- Dishwasher-safe, removable grinding bowl for easy cleanup.
- Grinds enough coffee for up to 12 cups.
- Simple and intuitive one-button operation.
- Durable stainless steel blades suitable for coffee, herbs, and spices.
4.6/5
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BLACK+DECKER One Touch Coffee Grinder
- Durable stainless steel blades and bowl.
- Versatile for grinding coffee, herbs, and spices.
- Easy-to-use one-touch push-button control.
- Integrated lid-locking safety mechanism.
4.7/5
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Wancle Electric Coffee Grinder
- Easy one-button operation.
- Compact design saves counter space.
- Transparent lid for monitoring grinding.
- Versatile for grinding coffee beans, spices, nuts, and herbs.
4.4/5
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SHARDOR Electric Super Silent Blade Coffee Grinder
- Adjustable grinding precision for various brewing methods.
- Removable cup for easy cleaning and serving.
- Relatively quiet operation compared to other grinders.
- Multi-functional use for coffee, spices, and grains.
4.6/5
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Aroma Housewares Mini Coffee Grinder and Electric Herb Grinder with 304 Stainless Steel Grinding Blades and a See-through Lid (40 g.)
- Compact and portable design.
- Powerful motor for fast grinding.
- Durable stainless steel blades.
- Transparent top for monitoring grind consistency.
4.5/5
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Cuisinart DCG-20BKN Coffee Grinder
- Grinds up to 70g of beans at once.
- Modern and sleek black design.
- Stainless steel blades for consistent grinding.
- Safety interlock prevents operation without the lid.
4.7/5
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SHARDOR One Touch Coffee Grinder Electric
- Easy push-to-start operation allows for controlled grinding.
- Removable, dishwasher-safe stainless steel cup simplifies cleaning.
- Multifunctional design handles coffee beans, spices, and other dry ingredients.
- 2-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty provides added security.
4.7/5
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Electric Coffee Grinder
- Food-grade stainless steel construction.
- Multi-functional: grinds coffee, grains, and pills.
- Easy one-touch operation.
- Compact and space-saving design.
4.7/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Small Electric Coffee Grinder
Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder – Quick grinding speed (30g in 10 seconds)
This electric coffee bean grinder offers a compact and convenient solution for grinding small batches of coffee beans and other dry goods at home. Its ability to grind 30 grams of beans in approximately 10 seconds makes it suitable for single-cup or small-batch drip coffee brewing. The grinder’s versatility extends beyond coffee beans, allowing users to grind herbs, spices, grains, and nuts, adding to its functionality.
The clear safety lid is a practical feature, enabling users to monitor the grinding process without exposing themselves to the blade. The stainless steel blade construction suggests durability and effective grinding performance. While ideal for small quantities, it might not be the best choice for those who frequently grind larger batches of coffee or require a more consistent grind size for specific brewing methods.
Pros
- Quick grinding speed (30g in 10 seconds)
- Versatile, grinds coffee, herbs, spices, and nuts
- Clear lid for monitoring grinding progress
- Compact and easy to store
- Durable stainless steel blade
Cons
- Limited grinding capacity (small batches only)
- Grind consistency may not be suitable for all brewing methods
Hamilton Beach Fresh Grind Electric Coffee Grinder for Beans – Dishwasher-safe, removable grinding bowl for easy cleanup.
This electric coffee grinder offers a straightforward and convenient way to grind coffee beans. Its standout feature is the dishwasher-safe, removable stainless steel grinding bowl, which simplifies cleanup. The grinder is designed to produce enough grounds for up to 12 cups of coffee, making it suitable for both single servings and larger batches.
Operation is simple, requiring only a press of a button to grind. The durable stainless steel blades are capable of handling not just coffee beans but also herbs and spices, adding to its versatility. The hidden cord storage is a thoughtful touch, helping to minimize clutter.
While the grinder performs adequately, users should be mindful of grind consistency, as it might not be perfectly uniform. The product also claims to be quieter than leading competitors.
Pros
- Dishwasher-safe, removable grinding bowl for easy cleanup.
- Grinds enough coffee for up to 12 cups.
- Simple and intuitive one-button operation.
- Durable stainless steel blades suitable for coffee, herbs, and spices.
- Hidden cord storage reduces clutter.
Cons
- Grind consistency may not be perfectly uniform.
- Grind time depends on desired fineness, requires monitoring.
BLACK+DECKER One Touch Coffee Grinder – Durable stainless steel blades and bowl.
This coffee grinder offers a convenient solution for grinding coffee beans, herbs, and spices. The stainless steel blades and bowl appear durable, promising consistent grinds. The one-touch push-button control is straightforward, allowing for adjustable grind consistency.
The lid-locking safety feature provides peace of mind during operation. While the product boasts 30% better grinding, individual results may vary depending on the bean type and desired fineness. Overall, it seems like a decent option for those looking for a simple and safe grinder for everyday use.
Pros
- Durable stainless steel blades and bowl.
- Versatile for grinding coffee, herbs, and spices.
- Easy-to-use one-touch push-button control.
- Integrated lid-locking safety mechanism.
- Relatively compact design.
Cons
- The 30% better grinding claim may be subjective and dependent on usage.
- Limited capacity might require multiple batches for larger quantities.
Wancle Electric Coffee Grinder – Easy one-button operation.
The Wancle coffee grinder is a compact and straightforward appliance for quickly grinding coffee beans, spices, nuts, and herbs. Its one-button operation makes it easy to use: simply add up to 60g of ingredients, close the lid, and press the button to start grinding. The transparent lid allows for monitoring the grinding process, giving you control over the coarseness of the grind.
The stainless steel blade and bowl, combined with a copper motor, are designed to prevent burning and maintain the aroma and flavor of your ingredients. While the grinder’s size is convenient for saving counter space, its small capacity might require multiple batches for larger quantities.
Pros
- Easy one-button operation.
- Compact design saves counter space.
- Transparent lid for monitoring grinding.
- Versatile for grinding coffee beans, spices, nuts, and herbs.
- Stainless steel blade and bowl.
Cons
- Small capacity (60g) requires multiple batches for larger quantities.
- Grind consistency may vary depending on the user’s skill.
SHARDOR Electric Super Silent Blade Coffee Grinder – Adjustable grinding precision for various brewing methods.
This coffee grinder offers adjustable grinding precision, allowing users to select the appropriate coarseness for their brewing method. The removable grinding cup can accommodate up to 2.5oz of coffee beans, sufficient for approximately 10 cups of coffee. Its noise level, averaging around 63 dB, is relatively quiet compared to some other models on the market.
Beyond coffee, the grinder is also advertised as multi-functional, capable of grinding other dry ingredients such as spices and grains. The package includes the grinder itself, an additional 2-blade cup, a combination coffee spoon and brush for cleaning, a user manual, and a 2-year warranty, providing a degree of assurance. While the multi-functional aspect is a plus, potential users should be mindful of thoroughly cleaning the cup after each use to prevent flavor contamination between different ingredients.
Pros
- Adjustable grinding precision for various brewing methods.
- Removable cup for easy cleaning and serving.
- Relatively quiet operation compared to other grinders.
- Multi-functional use for coffee, spices, and grains.
- Includes a cleaning brush and extra blade cup.
- Backed by a 2-year warranty.
Cons
- May require thorough cleaning between uses to avoid flavor contamination.
- Grinding cup capacity of 2.5oz may not be sufficient for larger batches.
Aroma Housewares Mini Coffee Grinder and Electric Herb Grinder with 304 Stainless Steel Grinding Blades and a See-through Lid (40 g.) – Compact and portable design.
The Aroma electric coffee grinder is a compact and convenient appliance for grinding coffee beans, spices, and herbs. Its powerful 150W motor and stainless steel blades allow for quick grinding. The transparent top offers a clear view of the grinding process, enabling users to achieve their desired texture.
The one-touch power button with safety lock ensures safe operation, preventing accidental starts. While it is advertised to provide total grind control from ultra-fine to extra-coarse, in reality, the grind consistency can be somewhat inconsistent. The 40g capacity is suitable for individual or small batch use.
It’s a decent option for those seeking a small, easy-to-use grinder for occasional use.
Pros
- Compact and portable design.
- Powerful motor for fast grinding.
- Durable stainless steel blades.
- Transparent top for monitoring grind consistency.
- One-touch power button with safety lock.
Cons
- Grind consistency can be uneven.
- Small 40g capacity may not be suitable for larger batches.
Cuisinart DCG-20BKN Coffee Grinder – Grinds up to 70g of beans at once.
This coffee grinder offers a convenient way to grind up to 70g of coffee beans, sufficient for about 12 cups. Its modern black design allows it to fit well within most kitchen settings. The stainless steel blades and high-power motor aim to provide consistent grinding results, managed through a simple on/off control.
A built-in safety interlock prevents operation if the lid isn’t properly secured, adding a layer of safety. The grinder also boasts an easy-to-clean bowl and lid, along with practical cord storage. The fact that it is BPA-free and includes an instruction book enhances its user-friendliness.
Overall, a solid option for home coffee grinding.
Pros
- Grinds up to 70g of beans at once.
- Modern and sleek black design.
- Stainless steel blades for consistent grinding.
- Safety interlock prevents operation without the lid.
- Easy-to-clean bowl and lid.
- BPA-free and includes instruction book.
Cons
- On/off control offers limited grinding customization.
- Grinding consistency may vary depending on the beans and duration of operation.
SHARDOR One Touch Coffee Grinder Electric – Easy push-to-start operation allows for controlled grinding.
This electric coffee grinder offers a convenient push-to-start operation, allowing for controlled grinding and achieving desired fineness. The removable stainless steel cup simplifies both filling and cleaning, as it’s also dishwasher safe. While advertised as ‘super silent’ at 60dB, expect a noticeable whirring sound during operation, though potentially quieter than some alternatives.
Beyond coffee beans, the grinder can handle spices and other dry ingredients, expanding its utility. The included 2-year manufacturer’s warranty provides reassurance. Overall, this is a decent grinder for everyday use.
Pros
- Easy push-to-start operation allows for controlled grinding.
- Removable, dishwasher-safe stainless steel cup simplifies cleaning.
- Multifunctional design handles coffee beans, spices, and other dry ingredients.
- 2-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty provides added security.
Cons
- While advertised as ‘super silent,’ noise level is still noticeable.
- Grinding consistency may vary depending on user technique and ingredients.
Electric Coffee Grinder – Food-grade stainless steel construction.
This multi-functional grinder offers a compact and convenient way to grind coffee beans, grains, and even pills. The stainless steel construction gives a sense of durability and safety. Operation is simple with its one-touch button, and the grinding time determines the fineness of the powder.
While it effectively grinds small amounts (up to 50 grams), users should be mindful of the cleaning instructions, as it’s recommended to avoid direct water contact and instead use a brush or damp cloth. Its small size is a definite plus for those with limited counter space. The grinder seems adequate for basic grinding needs, but may not be suitable for heavy-duty or large-batch processing.
Pros
- Food-grade stainless steel construction.
- Multi-functional: grinds coffee, grains, and pills.
- Easy one-touch operation.
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Sharp blades for efficient grinding.
Cons
- Limited grinding capacity (up to 50 grams).
- Cleaning requires careful attention; avoid direct water contact.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Small Electric Coffee Grinder
Types of Small Electric Coffee Grinders
There are two main types of small electric coffee grinders: blade grinders and burr grinders. Blade grinders, like most of the models listed, use spinning blades to chop the coffee beans. They are generally more affordable and compact but produce a less consistent grind. Burr grinders, while often larger and pricier, crush the beans between two burrs, resulting in a more uniform grind size, which is crucial for optimal coffee extraction. For the purposes of this guide, we will focus on blade grinders, given the prompt focuses on “best *small* electric coffee grinder” and the products provided all feature blade grinders.
Key Features to Consider
When choosing the best small electric coffee grinder, consider these features: Grinding Capacity: How much coffee can it grind at once? Consider your typical brewing needs. Ease of Use: One-touch operation and clear lids are desirable. Cleaning: Removable and dishwasher-safe parts are a plus. Versatility: Can it grind spices, herbs, and nuts in addition to coffee? Durability: Stainless steel blades and bowls are preferable. Size and Storage: Compact designs and hidden cord storage are helpful for small spaces. Safety: Look for lid-locking mechanisms.
Blade vs. Burr: Understanding the Difference
While the provided products all feature blade grinders, it’s important to understand the difference. Blade grinders chop coffee beans, leading to uneven particle sizes and potentially inconsistent extraction. Burr grinders, on the other hand, grind beans uniformly between two revolving abrasive surfaces (burrs). This consistency is vital for achieving the best flavor from your coffee. If you’re a serious coffee enthusiast and willing to invest more and allocate space, consider a burr grinder, but if you’re after a convenient and affordable solution, a small electric coffee grinder with blades can still be a good choice.
Finding the Best Small Electric Coffee Grinder for You
Ultimately, the best small electric coffee grinder for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the amount of coffee you typically brew, how important grind consistency is to you, and how much counter space you have available. Read reviews, compare features, and choose a grinder that aligns with your specific requirements. Do you need a highly portable option, or is durability your primary concern? By carefully evaluating your needs, you can find the perfect small electric coffee grinder to enhance your coffee brewing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Small Electric Coffee Grinder
Is a blade grinder good enough for coffee?
Blade grinders are suitable for casual coffee drinkers who prioritize convenience and affordability over absolute grind consistency. While they don’t offer the precision of burr grinders, they can still produce decent coffee, especially when used with coarser brewing methods like French press or cold brew. Blade grinders are also ideal for grinding spices and herbs, making them a versatile kitchen appliance. However, for espresso or pour-over, a burr grinder is generally recommended for optimal results.
How do I clean a small electric coffee grinder?
Most small electric coffee grinders are easy to clean. Unplug the grinder and use a dry cloth or brush to wipe out any coffee grounds or residue from the bowl and blades. Some grinders have removable bowls that can be washed with soap and water. Be sure to dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling. Avoid immersing the base of the grinder in water, as this could damage the motor. A cleaning brush can also help remove stubborn particles from hard-to-reach areas.
Can I grind spices and herbs in my coffee grinder?
Yes, many small electric coffee grinders are designed to grind spices, herbs, and even nuts in addition to coffee beans. However, it’s important to thoroughly clean the grinder after grinding spices to prevent flavor transfer to your coffee. Some people even dedicate separate grinders for coffee and spices to avoid any cross-contamination. Strong spices like cumin or chili powder can leave a lingering taste, so careful cleaning is essential.
How long should I grind my coffee beans?
The ideal grinding time depends on the desired grind size and the power of your grinder. Start with short bursts of 5-10 seconds and check the consistency. Continue grinding in short bursts until you achieve the desired grind size. For coarser grinds, like for French press, you’ll need less time. For finer grinds, like for espresso, you’ll need longer. Experiment to find the perfect grinding time for your brewing method and taste preferences.
What is the best grind size for different brewing methods?
The ideal grind size varies depending on the brewing method. Coarse grinds are best for French press and cold brew. Medium grinds are suitable for drip coffee makers and pour-over. Fine grinds are required for espresso. Extra-fine grinds are used for Turkish coffee. Using the correct grind size ensures proper extraction and prevents over-extraction or under-extraction, which can affect the taste of your coffee. Experiment to find your preferred grind size for each brewing method.
What safety features should I look for in a coffee grinder?
When selecting a small electric coffee grinder, safety should be a priority. Look for models with a lid-locking mechanism that prevents operation without the lid securely in place. This prevents accidental spills and injuries. Also, consider grinders with non-slip feet to prevent them from moving during operation. Always unplug the grinder before cleaning or handling the blades. A one-touch operation can also provide more control and prevent over-grinding.
How much coffee can a small electric coffee grinder grind at once?
The grinding capacity of a small electric coffee grinder varies from model to model. Some grinders can grind enough coffee for a single cup, while others can grind enough for up to 12 cups. Consider your typical brewing needs when choosing a grinder. If you usually brew a large pot of coffee, opt for a grinder with a larger capacity. If you only brew a single cup at a time, a smaller capacity grinder may be sufficient.
What is the warranty on a small electric coffee grinder?
The warranty on a small electric coffee grinder varies depending on the manufacturer. Some grinders come with a limited one-year warranty, while others may offer a longer warranty period, such as two years. A warranty provides peace of mind and protects you against defects in materials and workmanship. Be sure to read the warranty terms and conditions carefully before purchasing a grinder.
What are the advantages of a removable grinding bowl?
A removable grinding bowl simplifies cleaning and serving. It allows you to easily transfer the ground coffee to your brewing device without making a mess. A dishwasher-safe bowl makes cleanup even easier. Removable bowls also allow you to grind spices and herbs without contaminating your coffee grinder. This feature is especially useful if you plan to use your grinder for multiple purposes.
Is a quiet coffee grinder worth the investment?
A quiet coffee grinder can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you live in an apartment or have housemates. Some grinders can be quite loud, which can be disruptive, particularly in the morning. While no blade grinder is truly silent, some models are designed to operate more quietly than others. Look for grinders that advertise reduced noise levels. A quieter grinder can make your coffee brewing experience more enjoyable for yourself and those around you.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder overall, this is a decent budget-friendly grinder for light use. it’s a good option for individuals who need a quick and easy way to grind small amounts of coffee beans or other dry goods but not recommended for coffee aficionados.
