One of the core truths we’ve stood by at CoffeeGeek for years is this: the grinder is the single most important tool for making great coffee at home. More important than your espresso machine, your sleek automatic brewer, or even the coffee beans themselves (as long as you’re starting with quality beans). If you want to take your home coffee game to the next level, investing in a good grinder is the smartest move you can make.
Back in 2003, our Senior Editor made a bold claim in a national newspaper: he could pull better espresso shots with a $200 machine and a $400 grinder than with a $4,500 espresso machine paired with a cheap $50 grinder. The numbers have changed since then – good budget espresso machines have become pricier – but the principle remains solid. Your grinder matters. A lot.
The good news? The cost of a high-quality grinder has come down significantly. In 2025, you can get a fantastic, well-built grinder for around $200, with solid options dipping as low as $100. If you’re willing to stretch your budget to $300 or so, you’ll land a grinder that rivals the performance of $600 models from ten years ago. We’re living in a golden age of home coffee grinding, with more high-quality, affordable options than ever.
At CoffeeGeek, we take our grinder recommendations seriously. Every grinder on our list has been personally tested, reviewed, or extensively used by our team. Some have been industry favourites for years, while others are newer models built to high standards with durability in mind. No matter which one you choose, each grinder here will be a solid upgrade for your home coffee setup.
Also note, we’re not declaring any individual grinders on this list as the best overall of the year: we save those recommendations for our end of the year Best Of Guide.
Now, let’s be upfront. Nine of the twelve grinders we recommend include affiliate links to Amazon or our Affiliate Link Program partners, and some are from companies that advertise with us. To be crystal clear: this doesn’t affect our choices; our only goal is to give you the best possible advice on choosing a grinder that delivers top-tier performance. In fact, three of our selections generate zero income for us; we list them purely because they’re fantastic grinders.
When you buy through our affiliate links, we earn a small commission (anywhere from $1.05 to $5.90). That money goes directly to supporting our content creators, helping us continue to bring you in-depth reviews and coffee guides.
With that out of the way, let’s dive into our Best Budget Grinders Feature Guide!
Feature Guide Information
This is the original version of this purchasing feature guide, published February, 2025. It will be updated several times in 2025. A badge that manufacturers and vendors can use will be coming soon.
Our Top PicksBudget Coffee Grinders
If we were doing this list 10 years ago, it’s possible there would only be 2 or 3 selections even if we kept the list to under $300. Things have really changed in the coffee grinder market since then. We have twelve choices for you, including a $100 electric model, four manual grinders with three under $100, and two selections from Baratza. We also have a new flat burr selection this year that is under $250, unheard of a few years ago.
MiiCoffee DF54
New for 2024, the MiiCoffee DF54 is a compact clone of the DF64 Gen II grinder with key features like a plasma coil for anti-static, stepless grind adjustment, a bellows system, and more.
1Zpresso X-Ultra
Best of class manual grinder delivering performance similar to $600+ electric models, for under $170. Durable all-metal build, 100s of grind settings, fast grinding, and easy cleaning.
Fellow Opus Grinder
Fellow's first true multipurpose grinder handles everything from espresso to press pot. With a 100g capacity, this single-dose grinder offers great features and a sleek design.
Timemore C3 ESP Pro
A durable all-metal manual grinder with a folding handle, precise burr adjustments, a high-quality burr set, and a 25g capacity, grinding for pour-over in just 35 seconds.
Baratza Encore ESP
Baratza’s Encore ESP is the latest upgrade to their classic entry-level grinder, now offering true espresso grind capability for the first time while maintaining its familiar design.
Lagom Mini 2
Option-O’s Lagom Mini 2 refines an already unique grinder with key upgrades. Running on 100W USB-C power, it’s compact and precise, grinding for espresso to Turkish coffee.
1ZPresso Q Air
A budget-friendly $70 grinder, perfect for travel and home brewing. Lightweight, compact, and equipped with 38mm heptagonal burrs, it delivers consistent, quality grinds.
Breville Smart Grinder Pro
A “jack of all trades” grinder that excels across various brew methods. A true multipurpose, on-demand option with good performance and dual portafilter forks for added convenience.
MHW-3Bomber Blade R3
The Blade R3 manual grinder offers great value under $100 with precise grind adjustments, a built-in sieving system, and durable all-metal construction. All grind levels are available.
OXO Brew Grinder
One of only two grinders on our list that struggle with espresso, the OXO Conical Burr Grinder can still do most other brew methods to a high standard, and has an impressive featureset.
Turin SD40s Grinder
The SD40S is a precise, user-friendly $200 grinder with stepless adjustments, 40mm stainless steel burrs, and a durable construction. Compact and quiet, it's great for espresso lovers.
Baratza Encore
A top-selling consumer grinder for 20 years, still available for $150, offers great value and durability. While it struggles with espresso, it excels in all other brewing methods.
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All AboutBudget Coffee Grinders
Coffee lovers in 2025 have more options than ever when it comes to high-quality coffee grinders. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly model or a high-end precision grinder, there’s a perfect fit for every need and price range. From trusted brands like Baratza, with models spanning $150 to $900, to specialty manufacturers like Option-O and renowned Italian makers like Eureka and Ceado, the variety available today is truly incredible.
With so many options, we define the “budget” range for quality coffee grinders as $100 to $300. That might seem like a significant investment, but when you consider the impact a great grinder has on your coffee’s flavour, it becomes one of the best upgrades you can make.
Even more exciting? The grinders available today in this price range rival the performance of models that cost twice as much just a decade ago. If we were making this guide in 2013, we’d likely be recommending grinders in the $250 to $500 range to get similar performance. That means more people than ever can experience professional-quality grinding at home without breaking the bank.
When investing up to $300 in a coffee grinder, you should expect outstanding grind quality, longevity, and great value for your money. A high-quality grinder will deliver a consistent particle size with minimal heat transfer, ensuring better flavour extraction. Unlike a $75 electric grinder that might break after a couple of years, a well-built $200 grinder can easily last 10-15 years, making it a smart long-term investment.
Another key consideration is features. Some grinders prioritize build quality, burr precision, and motor strength, while others focus on user-friendly interfaces and added functionality. Whether you prefer a no-frills powerhouse or a feature-packed model, there’s something for every preference in our list.
Now, let’s talk about the value of upgrading. Moving from pre-ground coffee or a basic blade grinder to one of our recommended budget grinders is a game-changer. You’ll experience a dramatic improvement in flavour, consistency, and overall coffee quality. While upgrading beyond $300 to $500+ offers some refinements, the biggest leap in quality happens when you switch from a low-end grinder to one of the selections in our guide.
Ultimately, a great grinder is the foundation of better coffee at home. Our Budget Coffee Grinder Guide is here to help you find the perfect model to elevate your daily brew and bring out the best in every cup!
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MiiCoffee DF54Flat Burr Budget King
Name: MiiCoffee DF54
Maker: Unknown
MSRP: $239USD
Typical Sale Price: $239USD
Introduced: Summer 2024
Features: single dose, stepless grind adjustment, 54mm flat burrs, plasma coil / ionizer for anti static, anti-popcorn device, bellows, plastic 58mm sized single dosing cup, can grind directly into 58mm portafilters, one off button only, high torque motor, medium to fast grinding times, turkish to press pot grind range.
The MiiCoffee DF54 is a major standout star out of all the grinders released in 2024. It is essentially a shrunken down DF64 Gen 2, complete with the plasma coil system to reduce static, stepless grind adjustments, anti-popcorn device, excellent motor system and all metal construction.
It’s the price that just makes this grinder next level: at $240 or less, it is one of the best bang for the buck grinders on the market today.
The DF54 may seem an espresso-primary grinder, but the truth is, it can tackle all your grinding needs. The flat burrset – very rare at this price point – is tuned for espresso, but in our testing so far, it is more than capable of doing an acceptable brew grind. It is a single dose grinder so you won’t be doing large batch-brew grinds on it; max dose size when using the bellows is around 30-35g. The included burr set is excellent quality (especially for espresso), and like other DF grinders, there are aftermarket versions available.
Pair this up with our choice for entry level espresso machines, and you’ll have a home kit that rivals $3,000 setups from 10 years ago. Heavily recommended, and our review content for this grinder is in the works.
1ZPresso X-UltraBest of Class Manual
Name: X-Ultra
Maker: 1Zpresso
MSRP: $199USD
Typical Sale Price: $169USD
Introduced: Fall, 2023
Features: manual grinder with external grind adjustment; hundreds of grind settings available; 40mm custom conical burr, multipurpose; magnetic attached grinds cup; folding handle design; very easy to crank; easy to take apart for cleaning; three colour choices available; designed for multipurpose grinding; can do full turkish grind.
Among the many manual grinders we tested, the 1Zpresso X-Ultra really stands out for its balance of price, performance, and build quality. Designed as a true multipurpose grinder, it delivers precise grind consistency across the full range, from espresso to press pot. It is our choice as manual grinder of the year in our Best Coffee and Espresso Gear for 2024 guide.
1Zpresso offers three flagship models: the J-Ultra, optimized for espresso; the K-Ultra, designed primarily for brew methods; and the X-Ultra, which excels at both espresso and other brewing styles. The X-Ultra is also the most compact and affordable of the three, making it an excellent all-around choice at $170.
The grind adjustment system is exceptionally precise, with 12.5-micron increments per click, allowing for fine-tuned espresso adjustments. The burr set is designed specifically for multipurpose grinding but leans slightly toward espresso performance over the K-Ultra. Grinding 18g for espresso takes just 40 to 55 seconds, making it one of the faster manual grinders available.
Everything about the X-Ultra reflects quality and thoughtful engineering. The grinder is easy to calibrate, fully disassembles without tools, and features a thick central spindle for added stability. It even allows for power drill operation if you prefer to automate the process. The packaging includes a carrying case, a blow bulb, and a cleaning brush, adding to its long-term usability.
For those considering a premium manual grinder, the X-Ultra competes with electric models priced over $700 when it comes to the output it produces, making it one of the best values in high-end coffee grinding today.
Fellow Opus GrinderStylish Choice
Name: Opus Conical Burr Grinder
Maker: Fellow Products
MSRP: $195USD / $265CAD
Typical Sale Price: $179
Introduced: Summer, 2023
Features: 41 grind settings plus micro-adjust available to fine tune; custom 6 blade 40mm conical burr; very high torque motor; very quiet grinder; single dose, but hopper accommodates up to 100g of coffee; ion generator to reduce static; push button multi-timer; easy to adjust grind system; includes grinds bin and dosing cup for portafilters; lid doubles as a two-size measuring cup.
Last year, we published a First Look at the Fellow Opus and were impressed by its performance, especially given Fellow’s previous grinders, the Ode and Ode II. It stood out so much that we named it the best entry-level multipurpose grinder in our Best Coffee and Espresso Gear of 2024 Guide.
The Opus is Fellow’s first true multipurpose grinder. It produces a proper espresso grind and handles nearly every other brewing method with consistency. As a single-dose grinder, it holds up to 100 grams per session, making it well-suited for both precision espresso and large 12-cup auto-drip brews.
Equipped with a powerful motor, the Opus can even grind unroasted green coffee (don’t try this). It operates quietly at a reasonable speed and includes nice features like a multi-press timer, a magnetized grinds bin, a dosing cup insert, and a hopper lid that doubles as a dual-size measuring cup.
Among the budget-friendly grinders on this list, only the Opus and the DF54 include an ionizer, also known as a plasma generator. This built-in coil activates while grinding, significantly reducing static.
One drawback is retention: like most single-dose grinders at this price, it holds onto more grounds than ideal. The build is primarily plastic, but the materials feel solid, and the sleek, modern design fits well in any kitchen.
Fellow backs the Opus with a two-year warranty, extendable to three years with product registration, adding extra value to an already well-rounded grinder.
Timemore C3 ESP ProBest Bang for the Buck
Name: Chestnut C3 ESP Pro
Maker: Timemore
MSRP: $109USD
Typical Sale Price: $99USD
Introduced: Spring, 2023
Features: custom 38mm conical burr set, very well designed; unique folding handle makes it easier for travel; handle when extended is easy to use and very fluid; all metal construction top to bottom; no burr wobble thanks to 2 anchor point spindle; silicone bottom for counter stability; extra grind settings, 20 micron adjustments; easy to disassemble and clean; no static issues, no retention; grind speed is good for manual grinder.
Our Senior Editor has been a longtime fan of the Timemore Chestnut series, starting with the C2 model. The C3 ESP Pro refines the design further, bringing premium features to the $100 price range for manual grinders.
One of its standout features is the folding handle, which is among the best designs in any manual grinder. It locks securely into place, folds smoothly for storage, and adds to the overall precision of the build. The cranking motion is fluid, and every component fits together with a high level of craftsmanship.
The ESP Pro version offers a wider range of grind adjustments than the standard C3. The adjustment dial has 30 clicks per rotation and allows multiple full turns. Moving from espresso to French press takes just over two full rotations, with each click adjusting the burrs by approximately 18 to 20 microns. This level of control provides better fine-tuning for espresso compared to the standard C3 models.
Beyond espresso, the C3 ESP Pro performs well for pour-over, siphon, and auto-drip brewing. It handles coarser grinds better than some electric models. While 1Zpresso grinders have surpassed it in grind quality over the past year, the C3 ESP Pro still delivers consistently excellent results. Grinding 18 grams for espresso takes about 50 seconds, producing high-quality, even particle sizes for your shot pulls.
With an all-metal design, the C3 ESP Pro weighs 525 grams, making it sturdy yet portable. It holds up to 25 grams of coffee and can be fully disassembled for deep cleaning. For larger brews, refilling is necessary, with each grind cycle taking about 35 to 40 seconds at maximum speed.
Baratza Encore ESPThe Durability Champion
Name: Encore ESP Grinder
Maker: Baratza
MSRP: $199USD / $279CAD
Typical Sale Price: $179
Introduced: Spring, 2023
Features: A dual stage grind selection system; the first 20 clicks are within the turkish to coarse espresso range; the next 20 clicks cover AeroPress to Press Pot grinds; 38mm Etzinger “M2” conical burr; On demand grinder; 250g capacity bean hopper; on/off switch and pulse button up front; includes both a grinds bin and dosing cup; can be converted to single dose with optional accessory; two colours available; DC motor with innovative gearing system.
Baratza, more than any other grinder company, has shaped the way home coffee enthusiasts approach grinding. Before their grinders hit the market, home options were often frustrating: blade grinders that delivered inconsistent results and burr grinders that created more dust than precision grounds. With the launch of the Maestro and Virtuoso in the early 2000s, Baratza raised the bar, proving that great coffee starts with a quality grind.
Fast forward to today, and the Encore ESP carries that legacy forward with modern engineering and thoughtful design. While it maintains a familiar form, the internals are entirely updated. At its core is the Etzinger M2 burrset, known for its precision and consistency. The Encore ESP features an intuitive grind adjustment system divided into two zones:
- Zone 1 (1-20): Designed for fine grinds, from near-Turkish to espresso, offering fine-tuned control for dialing in shots.
- Zone 2 (21-40): Covers everything else, from AeroPress to French press, with a wider adjustment range for quick, versatile changes.
This grinder is built for flexibility. It includes both a grinds bin and a dosing cup, allowing you to grind directly for espresso or other brew methods. It functions as a full-hopper grinder but can easily convert to single dosing with an optional add-on. A powerful DC motor and advanced gear system keep the Encore ESP running smoothly without stalling.
Another standout feature is Baratza’s approach to serviceability. The company provides easy access to replacement parts at reasonable prices, along with detailed repair guides and videos. Investing in a Baratza grinder means you’re not just buying a product—you’re getting long-term support.
The only real negative for the grinder is the lack of a timer, a glaring omission in 2025. In our full review, the Baratza Encore ESP earned 83 points and a strong recommendation, and also is a runner up in the best multipurpose entry level grinder category in our annual Best Coffee and Espresso Gear of 2024 guide.
Lagom Mini 2Unique and Hiqh Quality Output
Name: Lagom Mini 2
Maker: Option O
MSRP: $299USD / $425CAD
Typical Sale Price: $299USD
Introduced: Spring, 2025
Features: single dose, stepless grind adjustment, 48mm conical burrs, USB-C powered, auto off sensor, magnetized dosing cup, quiet operation, travel friendly, easy to disassemble for cleaning, low volume use, very low grind retention, all metal construction.
Option-O’s updated 2025 Lagom Mini 2 brings notable enhancements while remaining one of the most unique grinders on the market. Priced now at $300 (excluding a power source), the 2.0 version now runs on 100W USB-C power. Compatible with PD3.0 USB-C chargers, widely available for about $30, it offers flexibility and efficiency, and the charger you supply provides additional ports for other devices.
The Mini 2 introduces an auto-off function, shutting off 10 seconds after burr friction ends, and incorporates the Mizen 48mm conical burrs. These burrs, previously featured in the Casa grinder, mirror Option-O’s excellent Moonshine burrs in capability but use a new mounting system.
Compact and crafted from billet aluminum (also available in anodized black), the Mini 2 is both robust and elegant, occupying minimal counter space. Though its motor is modest, its grind output excels, producing consistent results from espresso to coarse filter settings, an area where many conical burr grinders struggle. Remarkably, it can also achieve ultra-fine Turkish coffee grinds.
With a 25-30g capacity, this single-dose grinder is tailored for precision-focused coffee enthusiasts. Its stepless adjustment mechanism ensures control over grind consistency, while the minimalist design enhances its appeal. However, limited production runs make the Mini 2 hard to acquire, often selling out quickly. While ordering directly from Option-O presents the grinder’s lowest price (both in US and CAD $), shipping from Australia adds expense. Canadian distributor Cafune offers competitive pricing for North American buyers.
The Lagom Mini 2 delivers exceptional grind quality, thoughtful upgrades, and a unique design, making it a standout choice for dedicated coffee aficionados. Also note: neither of the companies we link to for this grinder are CoffeeGeek advertisers; we don’t make any affiliate income from either of them.
1ZPresso Q AirLight, Inexpensive, Good Output
Name: Q Air Grinder
Maker: 1Zpresso
MSRP: $69USD
Typical Sale Price: $65USD
Introduced: Spring 2024
Features: manual grinder with internal grind adjustment in the 22-25um per click range;; 38mm custom heptagonal conical burr, multipurpose; espresso (barely) to press pot grind, 365g total weight; tool-less disassembly; all metal internal parts; wood handle crank; 18g max capacity.
The 1Zpresso Q Air is a fresh addition to our list this year, our budget champ at just $70. Weighing only 365 grams, this ultra-light travel grinder is perfect for brewing enthusiasts on the go or newcomers exploring specialty coffee. Its compact size allows it to fit neatly inside the plunger tube of an AeroPress (without the grinder’s silicone grip ring), making it a superb travel setup. Available in four colors, our Snapshot review is coming soon.
Featuring 38mm stainless steel heptagonal burrs and a dual-bearing shaft design, the Q Air performs best in the grind range for methods like AeroPress, pour-over, and Chemex. The hand crank is smooth and manageable for brew coffee, producing consistent grinds effortlessly. While it can achieve an espresso grind, the adjustment is limited, and turning the crank requires significant effort, taking over a minute for proper espresso grounds. A silicone collar is included for extra grip, which is helpful when grinding for espresso.
Built with aluminum alloy, stainless steel, and plastic components, the Q Air strikes a balance between durability and portability. Its 30-click adjustment system offers fine control over grind size. 1Zpresso doesn’t list the micron adjust range, but one reviewer estimated it at 25 microns per click. Testing shows each click shifts espresso extraction time by around six seconds. The grinder holds 15 to 20 grams of coffee, which may be restrictive for some of your favourite brew recipes.
Performance-wise, it delivers remarkable results for brew coffee, matching or even surpassing the Timemore C3 ESP Pro, particularly in brew grinding. It also significantly outshines the entry-level OXO Brew electric grinder when output is compared.
For just $70, the 1Zpresso Q Air offers excellent value; it is a perfectly priced entry point into quality coffee in the home or while on the go.
Breville Smart Grinder ProFeature Laden
Name: Smart Grinder Pro
Maker: Breville
MSRP: $199USD / $279CAD
Typical Sale Price: $169USD / $189CAD
Introduced: Spring, 2014
Features: 60 grind selections; feature packed digital display with multiple timers, grind settings indicator and more; removable bean lock hopper; on demand grinder holding 450g of coffee in bean hopper; micro adjustment available for fine tuning; includes both an advanced grinds bin and portafilter forks; one press grinding into portafilters; comes in many colours.
Despite being introduced over a decade ago, the Breville Smart Grinder Pro remains a compelling choice in 2025. Originally launched in 2014 at $230 (around $310 today), it now retails for $199 and often goes on sale for as low as $160. At its regular price, it delivers great value, and at any lower price, it’s one of the most cost-effective grinders available.
Compared to the Encore ESP – another top pick on our list – the Smart Grinder Pro takes a different approach. It offers a robust set of features while saving costs on its internal motor, burr setup, and housing, areas where the Encore ESP invests more heavily.
The Smart Grinder Pro shines with its 46 individually programmable timer settings (!!!) and 60 grind adjustments, expandable through micro-adjustments in the burr housing. It includes a unique grinds bin and dual portafilter forks for versatility. Its on-demand grinding feature accommodates up to a pound of coffee, while a convenient auto-grind button simplifies use when grinding directly into a portafilter.
In terms of grind quality, the Smart Grinder Pro performs well across various brewing methods. It does well for espresso and is dependable for AeroPress to Chemex preparations. Like many conical burr grinders, it struggles with consistent particle size for French press, but remains a versatile option for most home brewing needs.
Available in a range of colours – including a standout white model – the Smart Grinder Pro blends functionality with style. In our Full Review of the Smart Grinder Pro, we scored it 85.5 points, with a Very Recommended status.
Blade R3 GrinderManual Grinder with a Trick
Name: Blade R3
Maker: MHW-3Bomber
MSRP: $100USD
Typical Sale Price: $90USD
Introduced: Summer 2024
Features: Manual grinder with external grind selection; 60 click, 16um per click; 48mm heptagonal burrs; 3-axis stability spindle; all metal construction; magnetized catch cup; shaker lid included; sieve system for sifting out fines, 5 different sieves included; 18-20g capacity with sieve system, 25-30g capacity without.
The MHW-3Bomber Blade R3 manual grinder is unique for three key reasons: it costs under $100 (sometimes as low as $90), features a well-engineered external grind adjustment system, and includes a built-in sieving setup. Its exceptional build quality and magnets galore defies its price, with a sturdy all-metal construction that feels on par with grinders costing two times as much.
A key highlight is its external click dial for grind adjustment. Each click shifts the burr vertically by 16 microns, offering precise control over grind size. This level of accuracy rivals flagship models from competitors like 1Zpresso, even at twice the price. The burrs, reportedly designed and manufactured by 3Bomber, seem optimized for both espresso and brew methods, making this grinder highly versatile.
Another noteworthy feature is the sieving system, which comes with five sieves of varying sizes. These allow users to sift out fines, resulting in a more uniform grind. This feature shines when brewing with methods like Chemex or press pot, delivering unexpected clarity. Sieving can also reduce over-extraction issues in full immersion brews by minimizing fines in the cup.
There are a couple of minor drawbacks. The sieving process adds an extra step, which may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the mix of metals in the design can contribute to static issues, making RDT (a light misting of the beans) a recommended practice.
Overall, the MHW-3Bomber Blade R3 offers outstanding value, delivering precision, durability, and versatility. For coffee enthusiasts looking to elevate their brewing game without breaking the bank, it is a top-tier contender.
OXO Brew GrinderLowest Price Point
Name: Brew Conical Burr Grinder
Maker: OXO
MSRP: $129USD
Typical Sale Price: $89USD
Introduced: Spring, 2021
Features: 42 grind settings plus additional micro-adjustments; electro-mechanical timer; one touch grinding remembers last timer setting; 250g capacity bean hopper; on demand grinder; can grind direct into portafilter (don’t do this); Bin, body made from stainless steel; hopper has bean shut off for removal with beans inside; good for non espresso brew methods only.
We picked up the OXO Brew Grinder two summers ago to see if it could earn a spot on our Under $100 Holiday Gift List that year. While it doesn’t make the cut for espresso, it impressed us with its performance across most other brewing methods.
The grinder is typically available for under $100, though its MSRP is higher. Given its grind quality for everything from moka pot to Chemex, it makes our list as the lowest priced electric grinder we feel comfortable recommending.
Its feature set is solid. The OXO Brew Grinder has a mechanical dial timer that lets you preset grind time from 1 to 30 seconds, and it remembers your setting. At zero, the grind button functions as a pulse button, giving manual control. The 15 numbered grind settings, with two micro-adjustments between each, offer a total of 42 adjustments. The bean hopper holds 250 grams of coffee and includes a shutoff for easy removal. The brushed metal grinds bin has a secure lid, and the grinder won’t operate without it in place. It also runs quieter than similar Baratza models.
For espresso, this grinder isn’t an option. It won’t grind fine enough, and it doesn’t achieve the same coarse consistency as the Baratza Encore for French press. Its high RPM motor grinds quickly at 2.8 grams per second for pour-over but generates more fines in the process.
If espresso isn’t a priority, the OXO Brew Grinder is the best budget-friendly choice today, offering solid performance for non-espresso brewing and a noticeable improvement over other sub-$100 grinders.
Turin SD40sPrecision + Performance Under $200
Name: Turin SD40s
Maker: Unknown (white label product)
MSRP: $249USD
Usual Sale Price: $199
Introduced: Winter 2023
Features: fully stepless single dose grinder; 40mm advanced design conical burrs; quiet operation; high RPMs, (espresso grind about 1.5g/sec); all metal construction, very robust; easy to clean and take apart; includes magnetized dosing cup that fits 58mm filter baskets; includes bellows system (needed); comes in black or white.
The Turin SD40S is a new standards-setter for home coffee enthusiasts looking for a precise and user-friendly grinder at $200 or less. Building on the success of previous models, the SD40S brings thoughtful improvements, including an upgraded adjustment collar that allows for smooth, stepless grind size changes, perfect for dialing in espresso or switching to brew coffee.
Its 40mm stainless steel conical burrs deliver consistent grinds with impressive accuracy. Whether you’re brewing a well balanced espresso or a precise pour over, this grinder delivers a good range and decent particle distribution. The angled exit chute facilitates grinds falling into the dosing cup, as does the bellows system, but the grinder does have some retention and static issues, so RDT’ing the beans on this model is a real help.
The aluminum body feels solid and durable, while the compact footprint fits neatly on any countertop. The dosing cup is magnetized, but not as strong as some competing models. Despite its powerful 150W motor, the SD40S operates quietly compared to many grinders in its class. Probably the worst thing about the machine is the power button, which sometimes requires a long press for it to register you turning the grinder on or off.
Overall, the SD40S combines the best features of high-end grinders at an accessible price point. With its clean design, precision-focused grinding capabilities, and thoughtful user-friendly features, it’s an excellent choice for espresso-primary home baristas who want to brew the occasional pour over coffee.
Baratza EncoreThe Best Seller
Name: Encore Grinder
Maker: Baratza
MSRP: $149USD / $199CAD
Typical Sale Price: $139
Introduced: Spring, 2007
Features: Etzinger M3 40mm conical burr group (not suited for espresso); 250g hopper capacity, pulse button grinding; on-off button for hands off grinding; relatively fast grinder (2.2g/sec pour over); available in 2 colour choices; optional single dose hopper available; $30 cheaper than a few years ago; dc direct drive motor with excellent gearing system; wide availability of parts.
Baratza continues to sell the Encore Grinder even after introducing its successor, the Encore ESP, over two years ago. The Encore remains a staple in home coffee grinding, offering reliability and consistent performance at an accessible price.
At $150, the Encore carries the legacy of the 2002 Baratza Maestro, a grinder that redefined home coffee grinding. The Maestro evolved into the Maestro Plus, and in 2012, Baratza introduced the Encore with a redesigned motor, improved gearing system, and the first Etzinger-designed burrs. More than a decade later, it remains one of the most trusted consumer grinders.
Its durability is well established. A 2012 Encore we use for cupping analysis is still running strong after 13 years, now on its third set of burrs but with the original motor and gears performing like new. Baratza builds its grinders to last, and replacement parts are readily available for easy home repair.
While the Encore is not an espresso grinder, it performs slightly better than the OXO Brew Grinder in that range. It can grind fine enough for pressurized baskets in espresso machines, but precision dialing is limited. Upgrading to Baratza’s M2 burr set improves its espresso performance, though it is primarily designed for brew methods.
As a brew grinder, the Encore excels, producing high-quality grounds for moka pot, pour-over, and Chemex. It also outperforms the OXO and Smart Grinder Pro for coarse French press grinding, thanks to its lower burr speed.
Reliable, well-built, and focused on grind quality, the Encore remains an outstanding multipurpose grinder. It is also technically cheaper today than it was when it was introduced ($130 in 2012, which in today’s dollars is $182).
Budget GrindersNot On This List
There are several quite capable grinders that are not on this list. The only reason for their omission is because we do not have direct experience with these grinders. It is crucial for the credibility of our recommendations that we have used, owned, tested, or reviewed the products we advise you as the best available today.
Grinders that would likely make the list include the lower end offerings from Eureka, the Varia VS3, The OXO Brew Scale Grinder, the Solis Scala Zero Grinder, and possibly the KitchenAid Burr Grinder (one tech fellow we know on social media loves his). There are also a few manual grinders we could easily include, based on their reputations.
There are also several grinders out there that are very close to being on our list, but don’t quite make the cut. For instance, we love a lot of things about the Baratza Sette 30 grinder, but at around $300, the lack of fine tuning on espresso kept it from the list. Also, while the Baratza Virtuoso+ is a very good all arounder, it too just missed making this list based on price and lack of espresso grind tuning.
We plan on updating this list several times this year, as new grinders come to market, and we are able to test and evaluate certain models. We know of several new grinders coming this spring and summer that would definitely be candidates for this list.
If your company makes a grinder you feel should be on this list, feel free to contact us (use the Request a Product form) and get the ball rolling.
4 Responses
I have been waiting for this guide to come out since you wrote about it (working on it) on Threads a few weeks ago. I’m in the market for a grinder that will change my coffee appreciation and ability in home. We’ve been using this combo blade grinder thing for years now, with a caveat that we have to replace it every few years because it develops a high pitched whine and is painful to the ears to use. Every few years: $45. And our coffee isn’t great. We use it for the auto drip machine and when I feel fancy, a press pot.
This is my long about way to say thank you for the information sharing and experience! Based on what is here, my choice is narrowing down to the Opus or the Encore ESP. Of the two, and based on our main use of auto drip in the morning, press pot for the fancy, which would you recommend?
Hi Keith, and thanks for the kind words and for reading!
This is tough: I’m leaning towards the Encore ESP as the choice for you, mainly because it seems like longevity in the grinder purchase is key for you, and Baratza’s excellent after sales service, and availability of parts are really fair rates down the road mean if you purchase an Encore ESP today, you can be reasonably assured it will remain working for well over a dozen or more years. The lack of a timer is an issue, but the output is fantastic. Also, you might want to consider the Smart Grinder Pro. It’s not going to be as good or fine tuned on output grind quality as the Encore ESP, but it offers a lot more options on timers, ability, and range for your use scenarios.
This list isn’t terribly budget priced, budget would be like under 100, several good choices available under 100 and that would be my idea of budget friendly.
With the exception of the OXO grinder recommended, there are no quality grinders on the market under $100 with a motor. There are plenty of Aliexpress style grinders available, but they are not machines we could recommend. The goal of our website is to promote excellent coffee; the grinder is a keystone of this tenant, and getting a good one, with milled and engineered burrs, will dramatically improve your home coffee and espresso. If you buy any of the typical sub $100 grinders on the market, you’re getting pressed burrs (very bad), blade grinders (worse), and a wildly varying grind distribution pattern.