Grinders & Gear

Burr vs Blade Grinders

Burr Grinders: Precision & Consistency

Burr grinders crush beans between two abrasive surfaces, producing uniform particle sizes. This consistency is essential for even extraction, whether you're pulling espresso shots or brewing pour-over coffee.

🎯 Uniform grind size

⚡ Consistent extraction

🔧 Precise adjustment

High

Consistency

$$$

Investment

Wide

Applications

Burr Grinder Guide →

Blade Grinders: Simple & Affordable

Blade grinders use a high-speed propeller to chop beans, creating inconsistent particle sizes. While affordable and simple, they compromise on consistency and are best suited for coarse brewing methods.

⚠️ Inconsistent grind

❌ Not for espresso

💰 Low cost

Low

Consistency

$

Investment

Limited

Applications

Blade Grinder Guide →

Choosing the Right Grinder

Your choice depends on budget, brewing methods, and quality expectations. Here's a practical comparison to help you decide.

Choose Burr Grinders If:

You brew espresso regularly
Precision and consistency matter
You want versatile brewing options
You're willing to invest in quality

Blade Grinders May Work If:

You only brew French press or cold brew
Budget is the primary constraint
You don't mind inconsistent results
Coffee quality is secondary

Selection Guide →

Burr Geometry: Flat vs Conical

Flat Burrs: Precision Engineering

Flat burr systems use parallel rings that shear beans between two flat surfaces. They excel in producing consistent particle size and predictable shot timing, making them popular for espresso applications.

Clarity & Cleanliness

Flat burrs produce clean, bright cups with excellent clarity

Predictable Timing

Consistent particle distribution leads to reliable shot times

Espresso Focus

Often preferred for precision espresso applications

Flat Burr Guide →

Conical Burrs: Sweetness & Body

Conical burrs use an inverted cone paired with a ring, crushing beans as they move through the narrowing gap. They often deliver sweeter cups with more body while being forgiving of minor grind variations.

Sweet & Forgiving

Often produce sweeter cups with good mouthfeel

Lower Speed

Typically run cooler and quieter than flat burrs

Versatile Applications

Excellent for filter coffee and good for espresso

Conical Burr Guide →

Grind Calibration by Method

Espresso Calibration

Espresso requires the finest grind setting, resembling powdered sugar. Start with a fine grind and adjust based on extraction time and taste, aiming for 25-30 second shots with balanced flavor.

Grind Size: Fine (powdered sugar)

Target Time: 25-30 seconds

Ratio: 1:1.5 to 1:2

Sour/Under-extracted: Grind finer

Bitter/Over-extracted: Grind coarser

Espresso Calibration →

Pour-Over Calibration

Pour-over methods use medium-fine grinds resembling coarse sand. Adjust based on brew time and taste, with typical total brew times of 2:30-4:00 depending on the specific method.

Grind Size: Medium-fine (coarse sand)

Target Time: 2:30-4:00 total

Ratio: 1:15 to 1:17

V60: Medium-fine, 2:30-3:30

Chemex: Medium, 3:30-4:30

Kalita: Medium-fine, 2:45-3:15

Pour-Over Calibration →

Immersion Methods

French press and cold brew require coarse grinds resembling breadcrumbs and coarse pepper respectively. These methods benefit from longer extraction times and gentle agitation.

French Press: Coarse (breadcrumbs)

Cold Brew: Extra-coarse (pepper)

AeroPress: Medium-fine (between sand/salt)

Time: 4-5 minutes French press

Cold Brew: 12-24 hours steep

Agitation: Minimal stirring for clarity

Immersion Guide →

Essential Brewing Gear

Digital coffee scale with precision dosing

Precision Scales

Accurate scales are essential for consistent brewing. Look for 0.1g precision, built-in timers, and stable platforms. Proper dosing ensures repeatable ratios and extraction quality.

Precision: 0.1g accuracy minimum

Timer: Built-in timing functions

Capacity: 2kg+ for most brewing

Scale Guide →

Gooseneck Kettles

Gooseneck kettles provide precise flow control essential for pour-over methods. Variable temperature settings allow optimization for different roast levels and extraction methods.

Flow Control: Precise pouring capability

Temperature: Variable temp settings

Capacity: 1L+ for multiple pours

Kettle Guide →

Espresso Accessories

Essential espresso tools include precision tampers, distribution tools, and WDT (Weiss Distribution Technique) implements for achieving even extraction and consistent results.

Tamper: Level, consistent pressure

Distribution: Even coffee bed prep

WDT Tool: Break up clumps

Espresso Gear →

Grinder Maintenance

Burr Grinder Cleaning

Regular cleaning prevents oil buildup that affects grind quality and flavor. Use cleaning grits, brushes, and compressed air to maintain optimal performance and extend burr life.

Daily: Brush out grounds

Weekly: Deep clean burr chamber

Monthly: Use cleaning grits

Cleaning Guide →

Blade Grinder Care

Clean blade grinders weekly using uncooked rice. The rice absorbs oils and residue while being gentle on the blade mechanism. This simple method keeps grinders functional longer.

1. Add 1/4 cup uncooked rice

2. Grind for 1 minute

3. Wipe out rice powder

4. Repeat if needed

Blade Care Guide →

Troubleshooting Guide

Common Grind Issues & Solutions

Understanding common problems helps you diagnose and fix extraction issues quickly. Most problems stem from inconsistent grinds or equipment problems.

Inconsistent Extraction

Cause: Uneven grind, oil buildup, worn burrs

Solution: Clean grinder, check calibration, replace burrs if worn

Bitter/Sour Taste

Cause: Grind size incorrect, channeling

Solution: Adjust grind size, improve distribution

Slow/Fast Flow

Cause: Grind too fine/coarse, equipment issue

Solution: Adjust grind, check for clogs

No Consistency Between Shots

Cause: Poor distribution, tamping issues

Solution: Use distribution tools, consistent tamping

Full Troubleshooting →