Grinder selection and alignment
How to choose the right grinder for home brewing and why burr alignment is critical for grind quality and consistency.
- Coffee Basics Nerds
- 2 min read
Article 2 of 12 in Home Brewing Setup & Skills/
Why the Grinder Matters
- The grinder has more impact on cup quality than the brewer.
- Consistent grind size = predictable extraction.
- Poor grinders produce fines (over-extracted) and boulders (under-extracted).
Grinder Selection
- Blade vs Burr
- Blade grinders chop unevenly → inconsistent flavor.
- Burr grinders (conical or flat) crush beans uniformly → better extraction.
- Manual vs Electric
- Manual Grinders: Affordable, portable, excellent for travel and filter brewing.
- Electric Grinders: Faster, convenient, some with programmable dosing.
- Burr Types
- Conical Burrs: Compact, quieter, often better for espresso.
- Flat Burrs: Superior grind uniformity, clarity in flavor, common in prosumer setups.
- Grind Range & Adjustability
- Filter-only grinders vs multi-purpose (espresso + filter).
- Stepless adjustment allows fine-tuning, stepped is simpler and more repeatable.
- Budget Tiers
- Entry Level: Manual burr or basic electric (Hario, Timemore, Baratza Encore).
- Mid-Tier: Flat burr electrics, higher-quality hand grinders.
- High-End: Espresso-focused grinders with alignment features (Niche, Mahlkönig, Weber).
Alignment Importance
- Misaligned burrs cause uneven grind and poor extraction.
- Even premium grinders may arrive slightly misaligned.
- Alignment checks:
- Marker test (color rub on burr edges).
- Listening for burr rub at zero point.
- DIY shimming or professional alignment can improve performance.
Maintenance & Longevity
- Clean burrs regularly to prevent oil buildup.
- Replace burrs when dull (every 500–1000 kg depending on material).
Summary
Choosing the right grinder involves balancing burr type, grind range, and budget, while prioritizing consistency. Burr alignment is often overlooked but critical for achieving uniform particle distribution and unlocking the best flavor in home brewing.