Beatrice Lang
For coffee lovers, a burr grinder is an essential tool to have. Burr grinders are known for their precision, allowing coffee enthusiasts to grind coffee beans to various sizes for different brewing devices and styles. While there are many electric burr grinders on the market, not all of them are created equal when it comes to size. Some stand out for their compact and slim designs, making them perfect for small kitchens or those with limited counter space. In this article, we will explore some of the smallest electric burr grinders available and discuss their features, performance, and any potential drawbacks to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Smallest grinder | JavaPresse burr mill |
| Small electric grinder | Wilfa Svart (available in Europe) |
| Small electric grinder | Brim (available in the US) |
| Small electric grinder | Fellow Ode |
| Size | 4.7(L) x 9.5 (W) x 9.4 (H) inches |
| Burr | 55mm/64mm flat stainless steel |
| Build | Mix of plastics and stainless steel |
| Small electric grinder | OXO Brew Compact Conical Burr Coffee Grinder |
| Size | Compact |
| Burr | 40mm stainless steel conical burrs |
| Capacity | 50 grams of beans |
| Small electric grinder | Baratza Encore Conical Burr Grinder |
| Size | Compact |
| Burr | 40mm |
| Price | $100 |
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Electric vs. manual burr grinders
When it comes to burr grinders, there are two main types: electric and manual. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Manual burr grinders are typically more affordable than electric ones, with reliable options available for as little as $20-30. They are also often more durable than electric grinders due to their simpler construction, and they are easier to clean. However, grinding by hand can be tiring, especially when preparing coffee for multiple people. Additionally, manual grinders may not be suitable for espresso unless you are willing to invest in a higher-end model.
On the other hand, electric burr grinders offer convenience and speed. With the press of a button, they can quickly grind beans to your desired consistency. They are also quieter than manual grinders and allow for greater flexibility in terms of placement since they are not limited by cords. However, low-end electric models often feature false burrs, resulting in inconsistent grind sizes. Electric grinders can also be more expensive, with prices ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars.
When choosing between an electric and manual burr grinder, consider your budget, the intended use, and your preferred coffee preparation ritual. If you prioritize convenience and speed, an electric grinder may be the better option. However, if you are on a tight budget or value durability and ease of cleaning, a manual grinder might be the way to go.
In terms of the smallest electric burr grinder, the Baratza Encore is a popular entry-level option known for its ultimate control and adjustability. It has a compact design and is suitable for a variety of brewing styles, including French press, Aeropress, and filter coffee. The OXO Brew Conical Burr Grinder is another compact option that offers a balance of price, grind quality, and ease of use. It features a 12-ounce hopper and a timer, allowing for easy automation.
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Burr material
The most common material for burrs is stainless steel. Steel burrs are durable, easy to maintain, and can be cleaned with a stiff wire brush. They are suitable for grinding coffee beans and are the most common type of burr found in electric grinders. Steel burrs also come in a variety of widths, with those in electric grinders typically measuring around 40 millimeters.
Another material used for burrs is ceramic. Ceramic burrs are less common than steel burrs, but they offer the advantage of being rust-resistant and suitable for grinding a wider range of products, including coffee beans, pepper, salt, and spices. However, ceramic burrs are more fragile than steel and may shatter if they come into contact with small stones mixed in with the beans. For this reason, they are less commonly found in electric grinders, but some manufacturers, like Baratza with their Vario model, still use them in their espresso grinders.
Other materials used for burrs include plastic and zinc alloy. Plastic burrs are not ideal and are not recommended, as they do not offer the same durability and performance as steel or ceramic. Zinc alloy is commonly used in pepper grinders due to its corrosion-resistant properties, but it is not suitable for grinding salt.
When choosing an electric grinder, it is important to consider the material of the burrs, as it will impact the performance and versatility of the grinder. Steel burrs are the most common and offer durability and ease of maintenance, while ceramic burrs offer rust resistance and multi-use capabilities but are more fragile.
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Burr size
The OXO Brew Compact Conical Burr Grinder is another popular option known for its slim design and precise settings. It offers 15 settings and 29 micro-adjustments, providing a high level of precision for finding the perfect brew. The stainless steel conical burrs deliver consistent grind sizes, which are crucial for flavour extraction.
When it comes to manual grinders, the JavaPresse burr mill is known for its small and slim design, making it a space-saving option. However, it requires several minutes of hand-cranking to grind enough beans for two people. For a faster manual grinding experience, premium hand grinders such as the Lido, Comandante, or Kinu are recommended.
In terms of burr material, steel burrs are the most common and durable option, although ceramic and plastic burrs are also available. Steel burrs are easy to maintain and can be cleaned with a stiff wire brush. They are known for their sharpness and speed, resulting in a consistent and efficient grinding process.
While smaller burr sizes may be more compact and space-saving, it is important to consider the trade-off between size and grinding speed. Larger burrs, such as the 64mm flat burrs found in the Fellow Ode grinder, can reduce heat, increase grinding speed, and produce more uniform grind particles, ultimately enhancing the flavour of the coffee.
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Price
The price of a burr electric grinder varies depending on the quality and features offered. Here is a breakdown of the prices of some of the smallest burr electric grinders available:
Budget Options:
Some of the most affordable burr electric grinders are priced below $100. Options in this price range include the OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder, which typically sells for around $89, and the Kingrinder K6, which can be found on Amazon for just under $100. The Cuisinart Supreme DBM-8 is another option for those seeking a cheap electric grinder. While the exact price is not mentioned, it is recommended for those on a tight budget.
Mid-Range Options:
For those willing to spend a little more, there are burr electric grinders in the $100 to $200 range. The Baratza Encore Conical Burr Grinder falls into this category, with prices varying from $99 to $149. The OXO Brew Grinder also has an MSRP above $100, but it can often be found on sale for under that price. The Capresso Infinity Conical Burr Grinder is another option in this price range, though the exact price is not specified.
Premium Options:
For coffee enthusiasts seeking a high-end burr electric grinder, there are options priced above $200. The Fellow Ode Gen 1 Burr Grinder is one such example, though its exact price is not mentioned. The Technivorm Moccamaster KM5 Burr Coffee Grinder is another premium option, known for its high price point that exceeds that of the Baratza Virtuoso+.
It is worth noting that the prices of burr electric grinders can vary depending on sales and the retailer. Additionally, while some grinders may be more expensive, they often offer superior performance, durability, and grind consistency. Ultimately, the price of a burr electric grinder depends on the specific features, quality, and brand, with options available for various budgets.
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Ease of use
When it comes to the ease of use of electric burr grinders, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the grinder should be simple to operate, with clear and intuitive controls. For example, the Breville Smart Grinder Pro has an intuitive interface with simple instructions, making it easy for users to operate. Similarly, the Baratza Encore is known for its user-friendliness and ease of maintenance.
Secondly, the grinder should be easy to clean and maintain. The OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder, for instance, is known for its ease of cleaning, with a hopper that has a shut-off valve for easy removal. The Breville Smart Grinder Pro also receives high marks for ease of cleaning, with accessible burrs that make maintenance a breeze.
Another important consideration is the grinder's capacity. While manual grinders are known for their small capacity, some electric grinders offer a good balance between size and portability. For instance, the Chestnut C2 Manual Coffee Grinder is compact and ideal for travel, but it can only make enough grounds for a cup or two of coffee at a time.
The adjustability of the grinder is also crucial for ease of use. A good grinder should offer different settings for various grind sizes, catering to different brewing methods. For instance, the Baratza Virtuoso+ is often favoured by professionals due to its adjustability, allowing for easy tweaks to the grind settings. The Breville Smart Grinder Pro offers 60 different grind settings, making it versatile for different brewing styles.
Lastly, the design of the grinder can impact its ease of use. Some grinders have features such as a tinted external bean hopper to protect the quality of the beans during storage. The feel of the grinder can also be a factor, especially for manual grinders. The JX Pro, for example, has a comfortable diameter for all hand sizes and includes a silicone sleeve for a better grip.
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Frequently asked questions
The smallest electric grinder is the JavaPresse burr mill, which is a hand-cranked grinder. However, if you are looking for something electric, the Wilfa Svart is a small grinder that is available in Europe. The Brim grinder, which is a reshaped Wilfa Svart, is available in the US.
Small grinders are great for those with limited counter space. They are also good for those who only want to grind enough beans for one or two cups of coffee.
The Fellow Ode is a small electric grinder that is suitable for espresso. It has 64mm flat burrs, which is large for a home coffee grinder, and produces better-tasting coffee.
The Baratza Encore is a good entry-level electric grinder for brewed coffee. The Brim grinder is also a good option, though it is not great for espresso.
