No matter how good your coffee tastes, it’s no substitute for a cup made with freshly ground beans. That’s why we set out to find the best manual coffee grinders for every budget, from manual grinders that are cheap enough to buy on Amazon to high-end models that will last you a lifetime and make grinding your beans at home easy as can be.
This article covers everything from design to the extra features needed to select one of these kitchen tools.
How We Tested
To test the grinders, we measured their quality and durability by grinding coffee beans over 400 times. Then we looked at how easy they were to clean using a water sprayer and wiped them down with paper towels. Finally, we used each grinder to brew coffee in a AeroPress, French Press, Pour-over, and drip coffee maker.
We found that most manual coffee grinders were about equal regarding the quality of their grinds—but some were easier than others to make a consistent cup of joe. Here are our favorites:
Image | Details | Check Price |
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Top | 1Zpresso JX-PRO Manual Coffee Grinder Silver Capacity 35g with Assembly Stainless Steel Conical Burr - Numernal Adjustable Setting, Portable Mill Faster Grinding Efficiency Espresso to Coarse | Check Price |
TIMEMORE Chestnut C2 Manual Coffee Grinder Capacity 25g with CNC Stainless Steel Conical Burr - Internal Adjustable Setting,Double Bearing Positioning,French Press Coffee for Hand Grinder Gift | Check Price | |
VSSL JAVA Manual Hand Coffee Grinder. 50 adjustable grind settings for Aeropress, French Press, Drip Coffee, Espresso with best-in-class stainless steel burrs. 20g grind capacity. | Check Price | |
Hario "Skerton Pro" Ceramic Manual Coffee Grinder, Black | Check Price | |
Manual Coffee Grinder by JavaPresse — Manual Coffee Bean Grinder with 18 Adjustable Settings, Stainless Steel Manual Burr Hand Coffee Grinder with Crank — Great Holiday Gift, Perfect for Camping | Check Price |
1. 1Zpresso JX-PRO Manual Coffee Grinder – Best Overall
- ☕FINE ADJUSTMENT DIAL DESIGN - With 40 clicks in a full rotate, each click shifting by 12.5 microns. Over 200 clicks setting to ensure you have 100% accuracy control over the particles that you want. Find the “sweet spot” when dialing in your espresso!
- ☕DURABLE and STABILITY BURR– 48mm conical burr makes greater grinding efficiency. Internal fixing between the burr and central shaft, no more wobbly burr comes loose. Consistency of performance grind.
- ☕EASY TO CLEAN - Easy apart off cleaning thoroughly without any tool. With assemble properly, you dont even need to recalibrate again. Grinding coffee no longer has to equate to hassle, and can instead be something you enjoy.
- ☕ PRODUCT GUARANTEES - The burr was calibrated and fixed in place by the 1Zpresso team, ensure no wobbly parts or burrs that come loose as time goes on. Estimated grind approx 100-200KG by general use. Includes a one-year limited warranty, you will definitely get 100% customer support.
- ☕COFFEE IS LIFE - With users vision, we are working on the products what are you actually need! Chose a 1Zpresso product to stay with y
As a coffee enthusiast, I know firsthand the importance of a good coffee grinder in achieving a great cup of coffee. I was excited to try out the 1Zpresso JX-PRO Manual Coffee Grinder, which has consistently received rave reviews for its performance and quality. Here’s my experience with this grinder and why it’s the best manual coffee grinder on the market at this price point.
The 1Zpresso JX-PRO also boasts a sleek and modern design. The stainless steel and aluminum construction give it a premium feel, and it looks great on any countertop.
Features and Specifications:
The design of this grinder makes it perfect for travel and home use, as it is lightweight and easy to store. The design is excellent because it fits perfectly in your hand, so you can grip it better when grinding coffee beans.
In addition, this model features a fine adjustment dial with 40 clicks in a full rotation that shifts by 12.5 microns each click for 100% accuracy control over particles (so you won’t have any grounds left behind).
Another thing I like about this model is that the grinds are consistent because the conical burrs are made from high-quality materials such as steel and aluminum alloy, which ensures that every time you try grinding coffee beans, they’ll come out tasting amazing!
Grinding Mechanism:
One of the standout features of the 1Zpresso JX-PRO is its grinding mechanism. The steel burrs provide a consistent and uniform grind, and the wide range of grind settings allows you to easily adjust the fineness or coarseness of the grind to your liking. The crank handle is smooth and easy to turn, making the grinding process a breeze.
Size and Portability:
One of the things I love about the 1Zpresso JX-PRO is its compact size. It’s small enough to fit on most countertops and can easily be stored away when not used. It’s also suitable for travel so that you can take it on the go.
Furthermore, there’s no need to worry about cleaning up after using this product because all components are dishwasher safe! Plus, if anything malfunctions, then customer service
2. TIMEMORE Chestnut C2 Manual Coffee Grinder – Best Design
- The best cost-effective choice-TIMEMORE C2 Grinder. Stainless steel burr-CNC machining. Double bearing central axis positioning-uniform grinding particles. Burr size 38mm-efficient grinding of coffee beans.
- Convenient to carry : The body weighs 430g, while maintaining a light weight and a moderate sense of weight and luxury. It is ideal not only for home use but also for carrying outdoors or traveling.
- Roughness adjustment function : Adjustable in about 36 steps. You can easily grind the desired roughness from fine to coarse with the adjustment nut.
- Excellent Burr : The milling blade with 55-58HRC hardness in 5-axis CNC machining realizes uniform grinding with almost no excessively coarse grains. At the same time, the generation of fine powder is minimized.
- Labor-saving performance : The smoother movement is realized as the handle keeps turning for a while even if you release your hand due to the built-in bearing. In addition, a compact body of 52 mm that is easy to grasp even for small hands. and it is possible to grind lightly with very little for
I’m always on the lookout for the best tools to elevate my coffee experience. That’s why I was excited to try out the TIMEMORE Chestnut C2 Grinder, which has received numerous accolades for its design and performance. Here’s my experience with this grinder, and why I think it’s one of the best design manual coffee grinders on the market.
Features and Specifications:
The TIMEMORE Chestnut C2 is equipped with conical ceramic burrs and 30 grind settings, providing a narrow range of options for different brewing methods. The milling blade with 55-58HRC hardness in 5-axis CNC machining realizes uniform grinding with almost no excessively coarse grains.
The ergonomic design also makes it comfortable to use. Made of stainless steel with a relatively small capacity (25 grams), this manual grinder comes with an integrated hopper filter, lid, and scoop to measure your grounds. It’s easy to use, fun to clean up after, and can be used with most beans.
The TIMEMORE Chestnut C2 has a grinder body dimension of 160 mm x 60 mm, weighs 435 g, and has a capacity of 25 g. It is made from stainless steel conical burr and PCTG materials and comes in four color options: silver/black/white; frost white/silver/black; frost white/black; rose gold/pink gold leaf print patterns on white body finish.
Aesthetics and Design:
In addition to its practical features, the TIMEMORE Chestnut C2 also boasts an elegant and minimalistic design. The stainless steel construction gives it a premium feel, and it’s visually appealing on any countertop.
3. VSSL Java Manual Hand Coffee Grinder – Best for Travel
- ULTRA DURABLE: Made with our signature air-craft grade aluminum, your VSSL can handle any adventure.
- PRECISION ENGINEERING: Java comes with best-in-class stainless steel burr, which cuts the beans to a uniform shape and size instead of pulverizing them.
- OPTIMAL GRIND: 50 Unique grind settings allow you to achieve the ideal consistency of grind to match your chosen brew method. Thanks to our extendable grinder handles and ergonomic grip, you can go from beans to brewing in under a minute.
- EASY CARRY: An innovative and ultra-portable CLIP AND FLIP carabiner to grind handle design and with a load-bearing capacity of over 200lbs, you can pack and play as hard as you need to.
- BEST-IN-CLASS COMPONENTS: No matter where you find yourself prepping your morning brew, our premium ball bearings and threadless end-cap work together to ensure your grind stays uniform, resulting in a smooth, balanced taste. QUICK RELEASE TOP: Adding your beans is a breeze with the quick access one press relea
The VSSL Java Manual Hand Coffee Grinder is an excellent option for traveling as it’s lightweight, easy to use, and convenient. It can also be used for spices as well. The VSSL Java Manual Hand Coffee Grinder is 6″ x 2″ in diameter and weighs 396 grams.
It has 50 adjustable grind settings for Aeropress, French Press, Drip Coffee, and Espresso with best-in-class stainless steel burrs and a 20g grind capacity.
It is built with military-grade aluminum and best-in-class stainless steel, making it durable and portable. It features a conical stainless steel burr grinder that is balanced by dual bearings to create consistent coffee grounds for a more flavorful experience
4. Hario “Skerton Pro” Ceramic Manual Coffee Grinder – Best Budget
- Skerton Pro: A favorite amongst coffee newcomers and professionals alike. Its compact size makes it the perfect grinder both travel and home. This grinder can make a full range of grind sizes, whatever your preference
- New and Improved: An update to the original Skerton-- The Skerton Pro features a modern update on the classic design with sleek lines, and with easier-to-adjust burr settings for improved grind consistency
- Perfect Grind: Ceramic conical burrs ensure a precise, uniform grind-- Our burrs transfer less heat and shave coffee beans versus cracking them like blade grinders. Ergonomically designed crank handle detaches for compact storage and easy travel
- Japanese Design: Designed by Hario in Japan to provide coffee lovers with easy access to freshly ground coffee. The Skerton Pro was designed to be portable, and easy to use even while traveling or on the go
- Product Details: 100g Coffee grounds capacity; W167×D95×H195mm; Heat-proof glass bowl is made in Japan; Mill, hopper lid, non-slip cover, lid are made in Ch
The Hario “Skerton Pro” Ceramic Manual Coffee Grinder is worth considering if you’re in the market for a budget-friendly grinder. It’s an entry-level grinder that has received numerous accolades for its high-quality build and the large number of grind settings. Here’s my experience with this grinder and why I think it’s one of the best budget manual coffee grinders on the market.
Features and Specifications:
The Hario Skerton Pro is equipped with ceramic burrs and an adjustable nut on the bottom of the hopper to adjust the grind size. It also has a cute, compact design with a non-slip rubber foundation, a high-quality glass grounds container, a silicone rubber cover, and a plastic hopper and lid. It has a large capacity compared to other similar hand grinders and is suitable for home use and travel.
Grinding Mechanism:
One of the standout features of the Hario Skerton Pro is its grinding mechanism. The ceramic burrs stay sharper for longer and are less likely to heat the beans during grinding, preserving their flavor. The conical burr design also means that the coffee is ground more evenly than other similar hand grinders. The crank handle is comfortable to hold while grinding and is smooth and easy to turn.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance:
Cleaning and maintaining a coffee grinder can be a hassle, but the Hario ‘Skerton Pro’ is fairly easy to take apart and clean. However, it’s not the simplest process, so keep that in mind if you prefer a more hassle-free cleaning experience.
Size and Portability:
The Hario Skerton Pro has a cute, compact design that is perfect for both home use and travel. It’s small and lightweight, making it easy to pack and take with you on the go. It also has a non-slip rubber foundation that keeps it from moving about during grinding.
Aesthetics and Design:
The Hario Skerton Pro has a simple and minimalistic design that is sure to fit in with any kitchen décor. The transparent lid allows you to see the beans as they are being ground, which is a nice touch.
Noise Level:
The Hario Skerton Pro is relatively quiet compared to other manual coffee grinders, so it won’t be obtrusive if you’re using it in a shared space.
Additional Features:
The Hario Skerton Pro comes with a few additional features that add to its convenience. It has a large capacity for storing coffee grounds and a transparent lid to prevent the beans from scattering. It also comes with an anti-slip grip to ensure a stable grind.
Pros and Cons:
Overall, the Hario Skerton Pro is a great budget-friendly grinder that delivers on performance and quality. It provides a consistent and uniform grind, is easy to use and maintain, and has a compact design that is suitable for home use and travel. It’s also affordable, making it an excellent choice for those on a tight budget. The only downside is that it takes some effort to work due to being manual, and the cleaning process could be simpler.
The ceramic combo burrs are designed to last five times longer than stainless steel blades, so you can spend more time making your perfect cup than you have to spend cleaning up after yourself!
It’s also portable, making it perfect for camping trips or other places where space may be limited!
5. Manual Coffee Grinder by JavaPresse – Best Seller on Amazon
- ENJOY THE PERFECT CUP OF FRESH COFFEE ― The Manual Coffee Grinder by JavaPresse Coffee Company has a built-in adjustable ceramic burr with over 18 manual grind settings to ensure you have 100% precision & control over the coarseness of your grind. This hand coffee grinder is great for all brewing methods to enjoy the perfect cup of fresh coffee and espresso in the morning.
- CONVENIENT, PORTABLE AND EASY-TO-USE ESPRESSO GRINDER ― The hand crank coffee grinder mechanism eliminates over 90% of the noise that electric coffee bean grinders produce. Unlike electric burr grinders for coffee beans, the patented JavaPresse dual plated manual ceramic burr coffee grinder assembly requires no batteries, power or long plastic cords to operate. This allows you to enjoy fresh ground coffee beans at home or on the go as the best camping coffee grinder.
- THE BEST WAY TO START YOUR DAY ― This manual coffee grinder is equipped with a professional grade ceramic conical burr for an incredibly consistent coffee grind that heightens flavors of the most exquisite beans in the world. Smell the fresh aroma of fresh ground coffee as you brew them on your espresso machine, AeroPress, French Press or pour over coffee maker!
- TREAT YOURSELF TO THE HIGHEST QUALITY MANUAL COFFEE GRINDER THAT IS BUILT TO LAST ― Crafted with the same essence as traditional Japanese cookware, our patented ceramic handheld coffee grinder burr is tested through three quality inspections to last 5 times longer than comparable stainless steel coffee burrs. Combined with an impeccable frame and convenient size, this is the pinnacle travel coffee grinder that is a great gift for yourself or a friend.
- ENHANCE YOUR MORNING WHILE MAKING AN IMPACT AROUND THE WORLD ― Your deliciously crafted cup of coffee from our manual coffee grinder is helping empower coffee farmers to chase a brighter future. A portion of our profits go towards positively impacting our partner’s coffee supply chain and their local communities. Our mission hinges on one fundamental idea: when we care, happiness flows and everyone wins. Including you with this hand coffee bean grinder by JavaPres
If you’re looking for a manual coffee grinder that is a best-seller on Amazon, the JavaPresse is worth considering. It’s a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts and has received numerous accolades for its performance and quality. Here’s my experience with this grinder and why I think it’s the best manual coffee grinder on Amazon.
Features and Specifications:
The JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder is equipped with conical burrs made of stainless steel, known for their durability and efficiency. It also has a sleek and compact design. It has an adjustable grind size and a transparent lid to prevent the beans from scattering.
Grinding Mechanism:
One of the standout features of the JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder is its grinding mechanism. The conical burrs are made of stainless steel and are known for their durability and efficiency. They provide a consistent and uniform grind, and the crank handle is smooth and easy to turn.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance:
Cleaning and maintaining a manual grinder can be a hassle, but the JavaPresse is fairly easy to take apart and clean. It’s also made of high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting.
Size and Portability:
The JavaPresse has a sleek and compact design that is perfect for both home use and travel. It’s small and lightweight, making it easy to pack and take with you on the go.
Aesthetics and Design:
The JavaPresse has a sleek and modern design that is sure to fit in with any kitchen décor. The transparent lid allows you to see the beans as they are being ground, which is a nice touch.
Pros and Cons:
Overall, the JavaPresse is a top-notch manual coffee grinder that delivers on performance and quality. It provides a consistent and uniform grind, is easy to use and maintain, and has a sleek and compact design that is suitable for home use and travel. It’s also a best-seller on Amazon, a testament to its popularity and customer satisfaction. The only downside is that it takes some effort to work due to being manual.
Conclusion:
The Manual Coffee Grinder by JavaPresse is a high-quality grinder that delivers performance and value. It’s a best-seller on Amazon for a reason and is a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a reliable manual grinder, the Manual Coffee Grinder by JavaPresse is worth considering.
The manual coffee grinder by JavaPresse has been featured in publications such as Forbes, Buzzfeed, Entrepreneur, and Success Magazine, as well as many others! This little machine is rated #1 on Amazon with over 1 million reviews, making it one of the most popular products today!
Buyers Guide – Best Manual Coffee Grinders
When you’re ready to buy a manual grinder, there are several things you should keep in mind. A manual grinder is a good choice if you want to manually control the coarseness or fineness of your grinds. For example, if you’re using an espresso machine, this will be an ideal way to grind your beans to get the exact consistency required by your equipment.
Type of burrs:
The type of burrs used in a manual grinder can greatly affect the quality and consistency of the grind. Ceramic burrs tend to stay sharp longer and produce less heat during grinding, preserving the flavor of the coffee. Steel burrs are also a good option, but they may produce more heat and not last as long as ceramic burrs. Burr grinders produce a more consistent grind compared to blade grinders.
Grind size adjustability:
Adjusting the grind size is important for achieving the desired brew strength and flavor. Grinders with a wide range of grind size settings are generally more versatile and can be used for different brewing methods. The number of grind settings is critical for adjusting your coffee grounds output and grind consistency.
Ease of cleaning and maintenance:
It’s important to choose a grinder that is easy to disassemble and clean, as a dirty grinder can affect the taste of your coffee. Consider the accessibility of the burrs and other parts of the grinder, as well as the availability of spare parts if needed.
Size and portability:
If you plan on using your manual grinder for travel, it’s important to consider its size and portability. Compact and lightweight grinders are easier to pack and bring with you on the go.
Aesthetics and design:
The look and feel of the grinder can be a factor for some people. Consider if the grinder’s design and materials align with your style.
Noise level:
If you are sensitive to noise or plan on using the grinder in a shared space, it’s worth considering the noise level of the grinder. Some grinders can be pretty loud, while others are relatively quiet.
Price:
It’s important to consider the price of the grinder and whether it fits within your budget. While some higher-priced grinders may have more features or better build quality, there are also budget-friendly options that can still produce a good-quality grind.
Ease of use:
Consider the overall usability of the grinder, including the crank handle design, grind size adjustability, and overall functionality. A grinder that is easy to use can make the grinding process more enjoyable and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use a manual coffee grinder?
To use a manual coffee grinder, add whole beans to the hopper, adjust the grind settings to your desired coarseness, and crank the handle to grind the beans. Make sure to periodically empty the ground coffee into a separate container and clean the grinder as needed.
Can I use a manual grinder for espresso?
Yes, it is possible to use a manual grinder for espresso, but it may require a finer grind setting and more effort to achieve the desired consistency. It is also important to note that manual grinders tend to be slower and less consistent than electric burr grinders, which may not be suitable for espresso.
What is the difference between a conical and a flat burr grinder?
Conical burr grinders have a cone-shaped burr that crushes the beans, while flat burr grinders have two flat plates that crush the beans. Conical burr grinders are generally more expensive but produce a more consistent grind, while flat burr grinders are less expensive but can produce a less consistent grind.
What is the difference between a blade grinder and a burr grinder?
Blade grinders use a spinning blade to chop the coffee beans, while burr grinders use two burrs to crush the beans. Burr grinders are more expensive but produce a more consistent grind size.
Final Thoughts: Best Manual Coffee Grinder Reviews
After reviewing the top manual coffee grinders on the market, it’s clear that each one offers its unique features and benefits. From the sleek and modern design of the 1Zpresso JX-PRO to the elegant and minimalistic design of the TIMEMORE Chestnut C2, there’s a hand grinder for every coffee lover’s preference.
The VSSL Java Manual Hand Coffee Grinder is perfect for travelers. At the same time, the Hario “Skerton Pro” Ceramic Manual Coffee Grinder is a budget-friendly option for those looking to save money. And the Manual Coffee Grinder by JavaPresse is an Amazon best-selling item known for its consistent grind and durable design.
When choosing the best hand coffee grinder, it’s essential to consider the type of burrs used, whether ceramic or steel. Ceramic burrs stay sharp for longer and are less likely to heat the beans, preserving their flavor.
The number of grind settings is also important, as it allows you to customize your grind size to suit your preferred brewing method. Whether using an electric burr grinder or a hand coffee grinder, a consistent grind is crucial for a delicious cup of coffee.
We encourage coffee drinkers to invest in a compact, high-quality hand grinder for freshly ground coffee anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re a fan of pour-overs, French presses, or moka pots, a manual coffee grinder will help you elevate your coffee game. And with many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs. If you have the option to use freshly ground coffee or pre-ground coffee, always opt for grinding coffee yourself.
Thank you for your attention, and we hope this review has helped you find the best hand coffee grinder for your daily dose of caffeine. If you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy grinding!