Unveiling the Perfect Cheap Coffee Grinder: Exploring the Top Picks of 2022

Don't settle for mediocre coffee when you can start your day with the perfect cup of joe. But here's the thing: you don't need to spend a fortune to achieve coffee greatness. This article unveils the best-kept secret in the world of coffee lovers—the best cheap coffee grinder. We've conducted extensive research to bring you the top three budget-friendly options that will elevate your coffee game without breaking the bank. Get ready to savor the flavor and embrace the aroma of freshly ground beans with these affordable yet remarkable coffee grinders. Plus, we'll reveal the three main types of coffee grinders and highlight the best burr coffee grinders of 2022. So, all you coffee aficionados out there, prepare to be amazed!

Top 3 Inexpensive Coffee Grinders

Here are my three recommendations for affordable coffee grinders, listed in no particular order.

1. Krups F203: This blade grinder follows a tried and tested design, and is both robust and very affordable.
2. JavaPresse: My favorite low-priced mill that is manually operated. It's portable and quiet.
3. Hamilton Beach 4.5oz: Another practical one-touch electric grinder that is inexpensive to buy.

I will now explain my suggestions and share my experiences with each of them.

The Krups F203 is a reliable and affordable blade grinder. Grinding your own coffee is the best way to obtain a brew with a full flavor. You should never buy ready ground coffee unless you have to. Grinding right before you brew is generally the best way to make a full flavor beverage.

The Krups F203: A Tried and Tested Classic Design

I have been using the Krups F203 every day in my workplace for many years. It is a great machine that efficiently and effortlessly does its job.

For those looking for a no-frills grinder at an affordable price, I believe the Krups F203 will meet or exceed most people's needs and expectations.

Krups F203 Pros

• While there are better grinders available, they will cost substantially more money. The Krups F203 has a classic design and can be purchased for well under twenty dollars, making it a great deal.
• In addition to coffee, I have also used this grinder to grind spices, nuts, and grains. It is available in black, white, red, and cappuccino colors.
• I have had my machine for over eight years and it has not deteriorated in its grinding ability.
• It is robust and compact, allowing for easy storage when not in use. The compact design means it can be kept in a corner of the counter without taking up much surface space.

Krups F203 Cons

• The size of the grounds depends on how long you run the grinder, which may take some getting used to as there are no selectable settings.
• The noise level is another drawback. It can be loud enough to wake up a light sleeper in the next room. However, based on my experience, blade grinders are generally not quiet. You can muffle the sound by placing the grinder on top of a towel while grinding. If you prefer a quieter machine, your options are limited and you may want to consider a manual grinder like the JavaPresse below.

I really adore the sleek design of the JavaPresse. It is a hand-cranked grinder without a motor, making it easily portable for traveling, camping, or use on the road. Unlike the Krups, it has settings that allow you to achieve the precise grind size you desire.

The JavaPresse: Sleek, Portable, and Inexpensive

The best budget coffee grinders don't need to be electrically powered! I have a JavaPresse manual grinder that I take with me wherever I go.

It has a beautiful, sleek design and is a pleasure to use. It also provides a great grind.

JavaPresse Pros

• Hand-cranked mills have two significant advantages over electric machines. Firstly, they are usually portable and can be used anywhere. I take mine camping and on road trips. Secondly, they are very quiet, so you won't wake others up when making your morning brew.
• The JavaPresse offers 18 settings for grinding, making it easy to achieve precision. Different coffee makers require different ground sizes, so having settings is a great help for experienced grinders like myself.
• The JavaPresse is straightforward to use, easy to clean, and compact for convenient storage.

JavaPresse Cons

• The only downside is that being a manual grinder, it does require some time and effort to grind your coffee. You can't simply press a button or flip a switch like with an electric grinder.

The Hamilton Beach Fresh Grind 4.5oz Electric Coffee Grinder is another model with a well-designed and practical build that I highly recommend.

The Hamilton Beach 4.5oz: Affordable and Quiet

I never thought I would find a budget grinder that could rival my Krups, but then a friend introduced me to the Hamilton Beach Fresh Grind 4.5oz.

This compact machine has a striking and practical design that I love. It may take a little time to figure out the appropriate duration to hold down the push-button, but it's not difficult.

Hamilton Beach Pros

• This machine works similarly to the Krups, where a push-button is held down until the beans are ground to the desired size.
• The transparent grinding chamber allows you to see the spinning blades and the grounds. The chamber is also removable for easy use and cleaning.
• One of the biggest selling points for me with the Hamilton Beach is how it is noticeably quieter than most other inexpensive grinders I've used. This is particularly beneficial if you wake up early and want to avoid waking up others in your household.

Hamilton Beach Cons

• The main downside is that, like all blade grinders of this type, determining the coarseness of the grounds relies on visual judgment as there are no preset settings. You simply need to become accustomed to holding the button for the appropriate amount of time. While this may deter some people, it is not overly challenging.

The 3 Main Types of Coffee Grinder

There are three primary types of coffee grinders: blade, burr, and manual.

• Blade grinders: These are often the cheapest powered machines available. While they may not be the quietest or the most precise, they get the job done and are usually affordable. They operate by using a spinning, propeller-like blade to cut the beans into smaller and smaller pieces. The longer the blade spins, the smaller the grounds become. Blade grinders are favorable in small kitchens where space is limited or as office grinders.
• (Electric) burr grinders: These are typically quieter than blade grinders and offer more accuracy and less mess. However, they tend to be more expensive. They crush the beans and usually come with adjustable settings to determine the desired coarseness or fineness for your coffee maker. Electric burr grinders are widely regarded as the best type of grinder.
• Manual grinders: These grinders are operated by a crank and use rotating burrs to crush the beans. They are extremely quiet since they do not have motors and do not require a power supply. They are excellent options for traveling or camping. The size of the grounds produced is determined by the length of time you turn the crank—the longer you turn, the finer the grounds become.

The ideal size of grounds for brewing is dependent on the type of coffee maker you are using. For example, a French press requires coarse grounds, while espresso machines generally require very fine grounds.

Public Domain Image via Pixabay

A Brief History of Coffee

According to legend, coffee was first discovered by an Ethiopian goat herder who noticed that his animals became more lively after eating berries from a specific plant. Initially, the berries were chewed, but people eventually realized they could be used to make a drink. In the 15th century, Arabs in Yemen began cultivating the plant. By the 16th century, coffee was being consumed in Iran and Turkey before spreading to Western Europe through Italy. The first American coffee house opened for business in 1689.

Palestinian women grinding coffee in 1905. It was the Arabs who first cultivated coffee and transformed it into the product we know today. The Arabs dominated the world coffee market until European colonialists gained control of the plant.

Public domain image via Wikimedia Commons.

Tips for Storing Coffee

Instead of purchasing pre-ground coffee, opt for whole beans and grind them just before brewing for maximum flavor.

Store the coffee in an airtight container, ideally made of ceramic, glass, or stainless steel.

Keep the coffee away from direct sunlight and avoid exposing it to significant temperature changes. A fairly dark and cool location is ideal.

Try to avoid refrigerating or freezing the beans, as extremely cold storage can result in a loss of taste.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author's knowledge and is not intended to replace personalized and professional advice.

© 2011 Paul Goodman

The Top Burr Coffee Grinders of 2022

Below, you will find my recommendations for various categories of burr coffee grinders. It's important to note that these grinders should not be compared directly with each other, as they are designed to cater to specific segments of the market.

I am confident that one of these grinders will meet your specific needs. Good luck!

1: Baratza Encore (Filter Coffee)

The Baratza Encore is a modern classic with good reason - it is a reliable and consistently performing grinder. While there are other models that boast more advanced technology and fancier features, a grinder should simply excel at one or two tasks. And that's exactly what the Encore accomplishes.

If you primarily make black coffee using methods like French press, pour over, or Aeropress, then the Encore is an excellent choice. While not specifically designed for espresso, it can still grind finely with some adjustments, allowing for experimentation with that type of coffee.

For most coffee enthusiasts, the Encore is a great entry-level grinder. This sentiment is shared by The Wirecutter in their comprehensive grinder test (source).

One drawback of the Encore is that it may be inconsistent when dealing with specialty coffees and lighter roasts. If you prefer fruity and floral flavor notes rather than a full-bodied and strong taste, this may not be the ideal grinder for you. In that case, I would recommend considering a hand grinder in the same price range. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that Baratza is known for its excellent customer service, particularly in the United States.

Pros:

- Consistent grind at the pour over setting

- Well-known and trusted brand

- Easy to use, no-frills design

For more details, see my Baratza Encore Review (source).

2: 1zpresso jx (Filter/Espresso)

The 1Zpresso Jx has been one of my personal favorites since its release in 2019.

As a hand grinder, it is impressively fast and consistent. In fact, its grind quality surpasses that of electric grinders that are much more expensive.

This grinder is portable, quiet, and sturdy. It boasts one of the fastest grinding speeds among manual grinders, making it highly efficient.

If you prioritize the most consistent grind for your money, I highly recommend this grinder. However, if convenience is more important to you, you may want to consider an electric option instead.

For a more in-depth review of the Jx, please read my full review (source).

Pros:

- My personal favorite grinder

- Quiet and portable

- Professional grind quality

3: 1zpresso K-Max (Filter/Espresso)

The 1Zpresso K-Max is the latest flagship model from the Taiwanese brand.

Though slightly more expensive than my other favorite, the Jx, the K-Max offers several convenient upgrades for the additional cost.

One notable feature is the external grind size adjustment, which allows for easy switching between drip coffee, espresso, and French press.

Another advantage is the magnetic catch cup, which, though seemingly insignificant, enhances the overall user experience.

When it comes to flavor, I believe the K-Max surpasses the Jx. While this may not be detectable unless you have a refined palate, it is particularly noticeable during high extractions or when brewing espresso.

The K-Max shares many similarities with the K Plus model, which I have reviewed previously. However, the small tweaks on the K-Max make it a more appealing overall option.

For a more detailed explanation, please refer to my full article (source).

Pros:

- In my opinion, the best hand grinder on the market in 2022

- Multipurpose: Excellent for both espresso and filter coffee

- Professional grind quality

4: Timemore Chestnut c2 (Filter Coffee)

The Timemore Chestnut C2 is another excellent hand grinder.

If you truly want to appreciate specialty coffee without breaking the bank, this grinder is the most affordable acceptable option available. 

The C2 shares many advantages with the 1Zpresso Jx, but it is slightly lighter and more comfortable to hold, especially for those with smaller hands.

However, it does have some limitations. The capacity is somewhat limited, holding around 25 grams of coffee, and it is not suitable for grinding espresso.

Nonetheless, if you are looking for a fast, efficient, and capable hand grinder to kickstart your coffee journey, the Timemore Chestnut C2 is a fantastic choice. It outperforms traditional hand grinders from brands such as Hario, Porlex, or JavaPresse.

For a comprehensive review of the C2, please refer to my article (source).

Pros:

- Affordable

- Great for travel

- Fast for a manual coffee grinder

- A good starting point for your coffee journey

For more affordable coffee grinders, check out my list (source).

5: Eureka Filtro (Filter Coffee)

The Eureka Filtro is the logical step up from the Baratza Encore. Produced in Italy by the renowned grinder legends from Eureka, this flat burr grinder offers outstanding grind consistency.

The Filtro excels in its ability to produce a remarkably consistent grind. In fact, it is the most consistent grinder I have ever tested. For a more detailed explanation, feel free to visit my YouTube channel, where I conduct an in-depth comparison of mid-range grinders.

However, certain design choices leave much to be desired. For example, instead of a convenient on/off button, the grinder requires you to hold down the pulse button to operate it.

Additionally, the retention rate is slightly higher than desired. You can expect an exchange of approximately 1.5 grams per dose, which may be too much for precise single dosing.

Fortunately, it is possible to install bellows and remove the declumper to reduce the level of retention.

Nevertheless, the Eureka Filtro is in a class of its own compared to the Baratza Encore in terms of materials, construction, and grind consistency. Although slightly more expensive than the Encore, it offers exceptional value.

Pros:

- The most affordable flat burr grinder

- Extremely consistent

- Italian quality

For a comprehensive review of the Eureka Filtro, visit my article (source).

6: Fellow Ode (Filter Coffee)

The Fellow Ode grinder encountered some initial issues during its initial release. However, Fellow has addressed most, if not all, of these concerns in the Gen 2 version, establishing it as the new king of brew grinders.

If you're searching for an electric grinder that excels at everything except espresso and Turkish coffee, the Fellow Ode should be at the top of your list.

Its eye-catching and unique design is matched by its exceptional user experience. Furthermore, it is possible to swap out the burrs for different types, such as those from SSP, enabling the grinder to accommodate espresso range grinding.

It's important to note that the Ode grinder is designed for single-dosing. This means that you must measure out your desired dose each time you grind. However, this method is preferred by coffee enthusiasts and should not be seen as a downside.

Pros:

- Beautiful and innovative design

- Designed for single-dosing

- Professional grind quality for drip coffee with its 64 mm flat burrs

For more information, read my Fellow Ode review (source).

7: Eureka Mignon Specialita (Espresso)

Eureka is an Italian grinder brand with a rich history dating back to 1920. To this day, they continue to handcraft all their grinders in Florence, Italy. As a result, it's no surprise that they produce some of the finest grinders on the market, particularly for espresso.

The Eureka Mignon Specialita stands out as an exceptional espresso grinder. Personally, I have owned one for several years and absolutely love it. Its construction is top-notch, yet it remains compact enough to fit on any kitchen counter. Additionally, it operates with minimal noise, allowing you to brew a shot without disturbing the entire household.

The Specialita features a precise timing mechanism accurate to within 1/10th of a second. This guarantees an incredibly precise dose with each grinding session.

Lastly, it doesn't hurt that the Specialita boasts a sleek and visually appealing design.

To learn more about the Eureka Mignon Specialita, please read my review.

8: Df64 / G-iota (Espresso/Filter)

The DF64 grinder has generated considerable buzz in the coffee world throughout 2021 and 2022. Released by the relatively unknown Chinese brand, FL Coffee, it manages to incorporate many features sought after by coffee enthusiasts in an affordable package.

This multi-purpose grinder is designed for single-dosing, meaning it retains very little ground coffee within the burr chamber. Additionally, it is equipped with bellows, allowing for easy removal of any remaining grinds. This enables you to switch between different beans or brewing methods with ease.

The DF64 boasts 64 mm flat burrs, which makes it compatible with other burrs from various manufacturers. Many users opt to upgrade to SSP burrs for an even cleaner flavor profile.

While the grinder performs exceptionally well with stock burrs from Italmill, delivering outstanding flavor profiles, it truly shines when used for espresso. However, it can also handle pour-over coffee effectively with some modifications.

It's important to note that the DF64 may require some minor adjustments to fully unleash its potential. The declumper, in particular, has experienced some issues.

For more information on this grinder, please refer to my review.

Pros:

- Designed for single-dosing

- Suitable for both espresso and pour-over

- Sturdy design with a powerful motor

9: Baratza Sette 30 (Espresso)

When the Baratza Sette was released a few years ago, it was met with high expectations due to its unique and revolutionary design.

The grinder offers almost zero retention, exceptional speed, and excellent grind consistency at a price point suitable for home baristas.

Unfortunately, the initial version of the grinder had several bugs and issues, particularly with the built-in scale model. However, Baratza has made significant improvements and resolved most of these concerns. Combined with their reliable customer service, I no longer have reservations about recommending this grinder (specifically for the US market, where Baratza provides excellent support).

If you want to make exceptional espresso at home without breaking the bank, the Baratza Sette 30 is your best option. It features 30 grind settings, making it slightly more challenging to dial in compared to the more expensive 270 version. However, its grind size range is primarily focused on espresso and Aeropress brewing.

Pros:

- Zero retention grinder

- Produces fluffy grounds

- Attractive price point

- Super precise digital timer

For a comprehensive look at the Baratza Sette, check out my in-depth review.

Conclusion

These are the top burr coffee grinders of 2022, each with its own unique strengths and features. Choose the one that best fits your brewing preferences and enjoy the delicious flavors it will help you unlock in your coffee.

Grinders that didn't make the cut 😔

The world of grinders is highly competitive, and there have been significant advancements in recent years. As a result, some grinders that were considered excellent in 2020 may already be outdated less than a year later. To provide full transparency, I will list the grinders that were considered for this article but ultimately didn't make it to the final selection. If you have any questions about these burr grinders, please take a look below. I have listed the models from least expensive to more costly:

This grinder was one of my first when I entered the world of coffee. It is often recommended for beginners due to its budget-friendly price. The Cuisinart DBM-8 is not awful and has an appealing design. However, it lacks consistency, and you won't be able to extract intense flavors with this model. Investing a bit more money will yield far better results.

Bodum Bistro

I recently tested the Bodum Bistro, but I wasn't impressed. The particle distribution is below average, particularly for coarse grinds. Despite its unique look and a nice glass catch cup, the Bodum burr grinder doesn't stand out.

1Zpresso Q2

The 1Zpresso Q2 is an attractive and compact burr grinder. It is excellent for traveling and individuals with small hands who prefer a manual model. The reason it didn't make it to the list of the best conical burr grinders in 2021 is that the Timemore C2 has the same burrs and performs at a comparable level while being more affordable and visually appealing.

Xeoleo Ghost Burr Grinder

This grinder has unique ghost teeth burrs that prevent it from grinding finely. Furthermore, for some reason, the pour-over coffee doesn't taste as great as one would expect (although the particles appear uniform). While I find it interesting with some potential, I gave up on it quickly. It is most likely only available on Chinese marketplaces, which also means there are risks associated with warranty and import fees.

Breville Smart Grinder Pro

Breville's top model has some cool features, but it has an unforgivable flaw: the impeller tends to wear out after one or two years, causing the grind chamber to become clogged. Breville does not offer a replacement, so frustrated consumers have had to design their own with the help of crowdfunding. Additionally, considering its price, it only performs averagely for pour-over and espresso brewing.

Baratza Virtuoso Plus

The Baratza Virtuoso Plus is an excellent grinder (also recognized by the Wirecutter as one of the best grinders). However, customers pay a premium for the timer feature, which I doubt many people truly appreciate. For similar results at a more affordable price, you can purchase the M2 burr separately and install it in the Baratza Encore.

Wilfa Uniform

The Wilfa Uniform is a fantastic grinder in many ways, and I have made numerous delicious cups of coffee with it. However, it is only sold in Europe and is not available in 110V, making it useless in many parts of the world. It is not worth taking the risk and using it outside its warranty-covered geographical zone. Nevertheless, if you're in Europe, this grinder should be on your radar. Some individuals, including myself, have upgraded it with SSP burrs. However, for modding purposes, I believe the DF64 is a superior grinder due to its more powerful motor.

Comandante C40

The Comandante C40 offers excellent grind consistency and a pleasing design. However, it is slightly overpriced to be included among my top picks. Comparable results can be achieved with cheaper models. For all the details, check out my Comandante review.

In conclusion, finding a quality coffee grinder that won't break the bank is easier than you think. Whether you prefer the classic design of the Krups F203, the sleek and portable JavaPresse, or the affordable and quiet Hamilton Beach 4.5oz, there are plenty of options out there to suit your needs. And while the best burr coffee grinders of 2022 undoubtedly deserve their praise, let's not forget about the countless grinders that didn't make this list. So go ahead and elevate your coffee experience without emptying your wallet. Happy grinding!