New testing reveals the best coffee grinders
Extensive testing of 21 coffee grinders identifies top performers for flavor clarity and grind consistency, with the Baratza Virtuoso+ and a Breville model
New testing of 21 coffee grinders pinpoints the best models for pour over, French press, and espresso. The Baratza Virtuoso+ and a Breville grinder produced so few ultra-fine particles, or fines, that the testing scale could not register them, a key factor in superior flavor clarity across brewing methods. The Baratza Encore came just under these two top picks for taste performance.
How the grinders compare on settings, build and usability
While the Baratza Virtuoso+, Baratza Encore, and OXO Brew Conical Burr Grinder all offer 40 grind settings, differences in build, noise, and assembly affect real-world use. The Baratza Virtuoso+ is recommended for bean enthusiasts seeking extensive control. The Baratza Encore is notably loud, a point confirmed during retesting. Its assembly is straightforward: users twist a dial to select grind size and turn a side knob. In contrast, the Virtuoso+ has a more complex assembly process that requires stretching a rubber gasket and precisely aligning parts. The OXO grinder's analog display is intuitive, allowing users to twist to choose a grind time of up to 30 seconds and push a button to start.
| Model | Grind Settings | Dimensions (inches) | Weight | Burrs | Warranty | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Brew Conical Burr Grinder | 40 | 4.7 x 13.7 x 6 | 8 lbs | 40mm stainless steel conical | 1 year | Digital timer, backlit grounds bin, UV-blocking tint, hopper holds 12oz beans |
| Baratza Virtuoso+ | 40 | 7.5 x 5.25 x 12.5 | 4.5 lbs | Stainless steel conical | 2 years | UV-blocking tint |
| Baratza Encore | 40 | 4.7 x 13.7 x 6 | 7 lbs | 40mm stainless steel conical | Not specified | Hopper holds 8oz beans, plastic body |
The Breville grinder features a large dial on the right side and a digital screen that displays grind settings and ranges for different brew styles. The Baratza Encore is about $100 less than the Virtuoso+ and its plastic body can be prone to bouncing on the counter.
Real-world performance varies by brewing style and bean type
Grind consistency and particle size are critical for flavor, with ideal ranges shifting from French press to espresso. Testing included a grind screening analysis using a Kruve sifter at coarse, middle, and fine settings, followed by taste tests brewing various beans with multiple methods. Steve Rhinehart of Acaia recommended ideal grind sizes: over 1,000 microns for French press, 600-800 for drip and pour-over, 400-600 for AeroPress and moka pots, and 300-400 for espresso. Blade grinders pulverize beans unevenly, while burr grinders cut uniformly, creating fewer ultra-fine particles. However, uniformly sized grounds can sometimes worsen dark roasts, bringing out harsher, charred flavors. The OXO grinder performed less well in grind consistency and range analysis compared to the top picks.
Practical considerations: maintenance, design and long-term use
Factors like static, chaff buildup, warranty length, and ease of cleaning influence daily satisfaction beyond initial performance. Coffee bean chaff can build up in the chute of the Virtuoso+ and become dislodged when removing the grounds basket. Baratza grounds bins are made from anti-static plastic but require about 40 seconds of waiting for static to dissipate. The OXO grinder's stainless steel grounds container resists static cling. The OXO Conical Burr Grinder offers strong performance for less than half the price of the top picks. The Baratza Encore is considered a good investment as it can be upgraded with new burrs. Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm noted, "If you like to try various brewing styles and want a coffee grinder you can tinker with to your heart's content, the Virtuoso+ delivers." The Baratza Virtuoso+ has a 2-year warranty, while the OXO has a 1-year warranty.
