A coffee grinder is the cornerstone of a great cup of coffee, transforming whole beans into grounds that unlock aroma and flavor. In 2025, the market offers a range of grinders—burr, blade, and manual—catering to different budgets and brewing styles. After analyzing expert reviews and hands-on tests from trusted sources, we’ve curated a list of the six best coffee grinders for 2025. This guide covers their features, pros, cons, and a buying FAQ to help you choose the right machine.
1. Baratza Encore ESP
The Baratza Encore ESP is a versatile grinder designed for both espresso and other brewing methods, earning praise for its consistency and serviceability. It features 40 grind settings and 40mm conical burrs, making it ideal for pour-over, drip, and espresso. Its straightforward design appeals to beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts alike. Baratza’s commitment to repairability, with accessible replacement parts and detailed guides, ensures longevity. It scored 83 points in a comprehensive review, securing a strong recommendation as a multipurpose entry-level grinder.
Pros:
- Wide range of grind sizes for various brewing methods.
- Consistent grind quality with 40mm conical burrs.
- Excellent customer service and repair guides.
- Durable build for long-term use.
Cons:
- Lacks a timer, which is a notable omission in 2025.
- Hopper insertion can be tricky, requiring troubleshooting.
2. OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
The OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder is a top pick for its balance of affordability and performance. It offers 15 grind settings, with a dial for 0-30 seconds of grinding time, allowing customization for fine, medium, and coarse grounds. Its 12-ounce hopper with UV-blocking and airtight features preserves bean freshness, and the stainless steel grounds container minimizes static. Testers noted its ability to produce uniform grounds, resulting in smooth, flavorful coffee. It’s a reliable choice for drip, pour-over, and cold brew, though it may struggle with very oily beans.
Pros:
- Consistent grind across fine, medium, and coarse settings.
- Large hopper holds ¾ pound of beans.
- Static-fighting grounds container with a mess-free lid.
- Sleek, space-efficient design.
Cons:
- May clog with very oily beans, requiring frequent cleaning.
- Less precise for espresso compared to dedicated grinders.
3. Breville Smart Grinder Pro
Breville’s Smart Grinder Pro stands out for its versatility and user-friendly features. With 60 grind settings, it caters to a wide range of brewing methods, from espresso to French press. Its digital display and “Dosing IQ” technology ensure precise grind amounts, and the grinder trends finer, making it suitable as an entry-level espresso grinder. Testers praised its quiet operation and consistent medium grinds, though its coarsest setting is less ideal for cold brew. The machine’s build quality and included accessories, like a portafilter cradle, enhance its appeal.
Pros:
- 60 grind settings for precise adjustments.
- Digital display with intuitive controls.
- Quiet operation compared to other burr grinders.
- Includes accessories for espresso brewing.
Cons:
- Coarsest setting too fine for optimal French press or cold brew.
- Built-in scale can be finicky, off by up to two grams.
4. Fellow Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2
The Fellow Ode Brew Grinder Gen 2 is a premium choice for pour-over and drip coffee enthusiasts. It features 64mm flat burrs and 11 settings with 31 steps, offering a wide grind range. Its sleek metal construction and low grind retention make it both stylish and efficient. The grinder includes a guide on the lid for brew method settings, ideal for beginners. Testers lauded its consistent grounds and quiet operation, but it’s not recommended for espresso due to its coarser grind range.
Pros:
- Exceptional grind consistency for pour-over and drip.
- Stylish, high-quality metal build.
- Quiet operation with low grind retention.
- User-friendly setting guide on lid.
Cons:
- Not suitable for espresso grinding.
- Premium price may deter budget-conscious buyers.
5. Bodum Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder
The Bodum Bistro Burr Coffee Grinder is a solid mid-range option with 18 grind settings, suitable for espresso, drip, and French press. Its glass grounds container with a grippy rubber band and secure lid prevents mess, and the timer allows grinding for up to 20 seconds. Testers found it produced noticeably different grind sizes across settings, ensuring versatility. While it requires a five-minute rest between grinds to prevent overheating, its ease of use and consistent performance make it a favorite for casual coffee drinkers.
Pros:
- 18 grind settings for versatile brewing.
- Mess-free glass container with secure lid.
- Easy to handle and clean.
- Affordable for a burr grinder.
Cons:
- Requires rest between grinds, limiting heavy use.
- Less durable than higher-end models.
6. Lagom Mini 2
The Lagom Mini 2, introduced in Spring 2025, is a compact, single-dose grinder perfect for travel or small kitchens. Powered by USB-C, it features 48mm conical burrs, stepless grind adjustment, and a magnetized dosing cup. Its all-metal construction and quiet operation impressed testers, who noted its low grind retention and ease of cleaning. With a typical sale price of $299, it’s a premium option for those prioritizing portability and precision, though its low-volume design isn’t suited for large batches.
Pros:
- Compact, travel-friendly design.
- Stepless grind adjustment for precision.
- Quiet and low-retention grinding.
- USB-C powered for convenience.
Cons:
- High price for a single-dose grinder.
- Not ideal for high-volume grinding.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Coffee Grinder
Burr vs. Blade Grinders
Burr grinders, whether conical or flat, are the gold standard for consistent grind size, essential for even extraction and balanced flavor. Blade grinders, while cheaper, produce uneven grounds, leading to inconsistent brews. For optimal results, choose a burr grinder unless budget constraints are significant.
Grind Settings
Look for grinders with multiple settings to accommodate various brewing methods:
- Fine: Espresso, Moka pot.
- Medium: Drip, pour-over.
- Coarse: French press, cold brew.
Stepped grinders offer preset sizes for ease of use, while stepless models allow finer adjustments but may require more experimentation.
Hopper and Grounds Container
A larger hopper (8-12 ounces) suits frequent brewers, while single-dose grinders are ideal for freshness-focused users. Grounds containers should minimize static and mess, with lids or spouts for easy transfer.
Build Quality and Maintenance
Durable materials like metal or high-grade plastic ensure longevity. Grinders with removable burrs and accessible chambers simplify cleaning, crucial for oily beans. Brands like Baratza offer replacement parts, extending machine life.
Noise Level
Electric burr grinders are noisy, but models like the Breville Smart Grinder Pro and Fellow Ode Gen 2 are quieter. Manual grinders are nearly silent but require more effort.
Budget
Quality burr grinders start around $100, with premium models reaching $300+. Budget blade grinders cost $20-$50 but compromise on consistency. Invest in the best grinder your budget allows, as it’s the most critical factor in coffee quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is a burr grinder better than a blade grinder?
Burr grinders crush beans between two surfaces, producing uniform grounds that ensure even extraction and better flavor. Blade grinders chop beans inconsistently, resulting in a mix of fine and coarse particles that can make coffee taste bitter or weak.
How often should I clean my coffee grinder?
Clean your grinder every two weeks if using oily beans, or monthly for lighter roasts. Brush out the burrs and chute to remove residue, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for deep cleaning to prevent clogs and maintain performance.
Can I use the same grinder for espresso and drip coffee?
Yes, but choose a grinder with a wide range of settings, like the Baratza Encore ESP or Breville Smart Grinder Pro. Espresso requires fine, precise grounds, while drip needs medium grinds. Dedicated espresso grinders offer more control for fine-tuning shots.
How long do coffee grinders last?
With proper maintenance, a quality burr grinder can last 5-10 years. Regular cleaning and occasional burr replacement extend lifespan. Brands like Baratza provide parts and guides to support long-term use.
Is a manual grinder worth it?
Manual grinders are quieter, portable, and often cheaper than electric models, making them great for travel or small batches. However, they require physical effort and are slower, so they’re less practical for daily use or large households.
Do I need to spend a lot for a good grinder?
Not necessarily. Grinders like the OXO Brew ($100) and Bodum Bistro ($120) offer excellent performance for the price. Spending $200-$300 gets you premium features like stepless adjustment or quieter operation, but even $100 grinders can transform your coffee.
Conclusion
The right coffee grinder elevates your brew by delivering consistent, fresh grounds tailored to your preferred method. The Baratza Encore ESP and OXO Brew are standout choices for versatility and value, while the Fellow Ode Gen 2 and Lagom Mini 2 cater to specific needs like pour-over or portability. Consider your brewing habits, budget, and kitchen space when choosing. With any of these top six grinders, you’re on your way to a better cup of coffee in 2025.