If you're on the hunt for a coffee grinder, you may be shocked to find that some of the best-rated options cost hundreds of dollars. While the best coffee grinders under $100 won't compare to those top-tier models, they'll still get you a cup of brew that tastes fresher and much more flavorful than your favorite pre-ground coffee.
Manual Versus Electric
The first step in picking out the right grinder is to be honest with yourself about how much time and effort you're willing to put into a quality cup of coffee. Are you dedicated enough to meet the demands of a manual grinder or does the ease of an electric grinder seem more appealing? If you're an espresso-drinker, you'll need to get those beans to a fine consistency, which requires more muscle with a manual grinder. But if cold brew or French press coffee is your go-to, you'll need coarser grounds, which fortunately means less work for you. On the plus side, manual models are quieter, less expensive, and can be taken on-the-go.
Burrs Versus Blades
The next decision to make in your search is whether to go with a design that uses burrs or blades. A burr grinder will give you perfectly even grounds, which means better tasting coffee. A blade grinder, on the other hand, chops beans up into uneven pieces, which can lead to bitter and sour notes in your coffee. While burr grindersare much better at their job, blade grinders are way less expensive and, as a result, still a popular choice.
To help you find the right tool to aid in your daily grind, I've put together a list of the best coffee grinders, with something to fit nearly any morning routine.