Best Coffee Grinder for French Press: Electric, Automatic & Manual Grinders

The Best 3 Coffee Grinders for French PressJust because French Press coffee calls for coarse grinds, it doesn’t mean that’s so easily achieved.

Just ask the many so-called coffee pros that served up sludge, floating grinds, and bitter cups of crud that had you running for the hills!

But, if you’re intimidated by the process or you haven’t quite found the right grinder, we’re happy to help you out!

Our top picks of the best coffee grinders for French Press will give you affordable options that’ll give you coarse grinds without wobbling all over the place or pumping out chunks mixed with fine grains!

And, we’ll also make sure you’re well-informed with knowing why fresh is best, what a French Press really is, and how it compares to other grinds so as not to embarrass yourself the next time you serve up friends.

So, get the hubby on board as your guinea pig and get grinding!

Top 3 Best Coffee Grinders for French Press

KRUPS Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder Review

krups-electric-spice-and-coffee-grinderThe KRUPS Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder is your all-round, versatile, and electric coffee grinder that’ll get even the most elementary coffee newbie grinding away in a jiffy!

Its stainless steel blades provides versatility in grinding anything from herbs and spices to nuts and grains. It’s strong and powerful with its 200-watt motor that can whiz up your coffee beans faster than you can get done yawning!

And, if you’re not the only one waiting in line for a cup of Joe, then you’re in luck. It can hold up to 3 full ounces of beans to produce 12 cups of coffee within seconds!

There’s no need to be afraid of chopping fingers off with the blades either. A safety mechanism has been installed to make using the KRUPS as user-friendly as possible – no blades can spin if the lid isn’t securely in place.

Do you want fine enough grinds for espresso or coarse enough for French Press? With no settings, no dials, and no clicks, it couldn’t be easier to push down on the button on the lid to control the amount of grind you want! Just a few seconds, and you’ve got the perfect size for a perfect French Press coffee morning!

Main Benefits:

  • Electric
  • 3 oz capacity
  • Lid safety switch
  • Versatile
  • Price

Main Drawbacks:

  • Loud
  • Base accumulation of grounds
  • Can’t take apart grinder

Customer Reviews:

The KRUPS Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder is an extremely popular coffee grinder, that’s why it’s earned itself “best seller” status!

Several thousand users of the KRUPS agree that it’s an excellent grinder if you’re wanting beans coarse enough for a French Press, and for the price, it really can’t be beat!

The downside with an electric 200-watt motor is the loud whirring. But, if you’re getting high quality coffee grounds in a matter of a few seconds, a loud shock to your ears should be well worth it.

Popular Questions (and Answers)

How to get the Best French Press Grind from the KRUPS?

Depending on strength and volume preferences, you may want to fill the hopper only half way to allow for more room for grinds to spin to control for a more coarser grind.

Or, fill the hopper to the top and grind for only a few seconds, say 4-5 without over-grinding.

Why am I Getting Uneven Grinds for French Press?

You will need to experiment with the amount of coffee beans you’re using to get even, uniform, and consistent grounds.

grinding-coffee

How do you Clean the KRUPS Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder Between Uses?

The most popular way is to fill the hopper with rice and grind it in the machine to pick up and absorb any residue oils and grounds.

You can also use a paper towel that’s been double folded to dry wipe blades and sides of the hopper.

Are the Hopper Cups Removable?

No. The hopper is built into the grinder and is not removable.

Can the Cord Retract Back into the KRUPS Electric Coffee Grinder?

No, it doesn’t have any retracting abilities.

KRUPS Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder Features:

  • Easy to use
  • Super fast
  • Makes a lot
  • Consistent grinder
  • Extremely affordable

Cuisinart Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill Review

cuisinart-supreme-grind-automatic-burr-millIf you’re not the only caffeine-addicted devotee in the house, then the Cuisinart Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill is the best coffee grinder for you!

It has an extremely large 8 ounce capacity hopper (that’s removable too!) that will get perfectly sized coffee grounds faster than Speedy Gonzales with a lead foot! The entire house will get their fix before overnight withdrawls set in.

And, if that’s not enough to impress you, there’s more! This Cuisinart grinder is feature-packed with every convenient element you could want from a grinder.

It has an electric timer that will automatically shut off when grinding is done. It has a click setting dial for you to select the grind size and how many cups you want. Then just tap the one-touch power bar and voila! – freshly ground coffee in an instant!

You don’t have to worry about mess and rogue, spilling grounds all over the countertop. The grind chamber is easily removable with – get this – its lid cleverly still in place! No spilling and no wiping equals a mess-free grinding and professional experience!

Main Benefits:

  • Automatic timer
  • 8 oz capacity
  • One-touch power bar
  • Clicking dial
  • Clearly marked

Main Drawbacks:

  • Short life
  • Inefficient for fine grind

Customer Reviews:

The Cuisinart Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill is a best seller product, and there are thousands of satisfied users.

And, according to the same caffeine-content users, it’s the best grinder when it specifically comes to coarse grinds for French Press coffee!

But, there has been quite some complaint about not quite getting a year’s worth of use from it before it decides to go kaput! But, that’s still a year of good coffee than without, right?

Popular Questions (and Answers)

Can you Grind Just One Cup of Coffee Versus an Entire Hopper Full?

Yes! You can experiment with the amount of beans you need to use to ensure the grinder isn’t left grinding without any beans in the hopper.

Where is the Cuisinart Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill Made?

Made in China.

Can the Cuisinart Burr Mill Grind Other Foods?

It’s an excellent grinder for coffee beans, grains, and seeds. According to reviews, it’s a very proficient grinder for getting flaxseed meal from flaxseeds.

Can you Use the Burr Mill for Spices?

It’s not recommended to use this Cuisinart Mill for spices. The warranty will list that spices can destroy the grinder.

How Many Click Settings does the Grinder Have?

It has 18 click settings ranging from ultra-fine to ultra-coarse.

Can the Cuisinart Supreme Automatic Burr Mill Grinder Grind Oily Beans?

Yes, and without issue. Although, manual coffee grinders are best for oily beans since they won’t heat up the beans during the process.

Cuisinart Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill Features:

  • Feature-packed
  • 32-cup grind chamber
  • Stainless steel grinder
  • 18 grind settings
  • Automatic grind timer

Bröyêur Hand Crank Ceramic Mill Grinder Review

broyeur-hand-crank-ceramic-mill-grinderOnly true coffee snobs will appreciate the excellence and high quality freshness that a manual coffee grinder can provide. And, if you’re a true coffee connoisseur, then the Bröyêur Hand Crank Ceramic Mill Grinder is definitely a grinder to consider!

No electricity required, practically silent during use, and it’s robustly built while still being slim and compact in design.

It’s made with ceramic conical burrs for a real and professional grinding experience to provide the utmost and freshest ground coffee full of flavor and aroma. And, the entire body is made out of premium-grade, rust-free, and impact resistant stainless steel.

The heavy duty extra-long crank is easy to use, and the adjustment knob is found on the base of the grinder with a knurly and easy to grip design to change grind settings.

It even has a built-in window to conveniently see the grounds of your labor. It’s also portable and lightweight for those who can’t bear to leave freshly ground coffee behind while on a trip, camping, or cruise.

Perfectly designed to fit an aeropress and espresso maker, it’s one of the newest and best coffee grinders for French Press coffee you’ll find in the market today!

Main Benefits:

  • Manual
  • Stainless steel
  • Easy access to adjustments
  • Conical ceramic burrs
  • Price

Main Drawbacks:

  • Plastic component

Customer Reviews

Although the Bröyêur Hand Crank Ceramic Mill Grinder is still new to the market and is yet to accumulate a higher reviewer base, current users are ecstatic with the manual coffee grinder!

They love that while it’s simple to use and compact and portable in design, it’s also a champ in providing high quality grinds – no matter the size!

But, the internal plastic piece is prone to breakage, rendering the grinder useless. However, the Bröyêur team is dedicated to outstanding customer service, so you can get your grinder replaced or refunded without issue!

Popular Questions (and Answers)

What are the Dimensions of the Bröyêur Hand Crank Ceramic Mill Grinder?

The grinder is 7.5 (L) x 1.9 (W) inches. It also weighs only 8.9 ounces. The handle crank is 7.5 inches in length.

What is Included in the Bröyêur Grinder Purchase?

The grinder also comes with a waterproof carry bag, cleaning brush, and a complete guide that includes coffee recipes and a grinding guide for perfect grounds.

How do You Know if You Have the Right Grind?

The Bröyêur Grinder also comes with a complete guide to instruct you on grind settings. The grinding setting knob also has “clicks” to aid in positive adjustments.

How Many Cup does the Hand Crank Ceramic Mill Grinder Grind in One Batch?

This burr grinder can grind enough coffee beans to produce 2-3 cups of coffee that may take approximately 2-4 minutes to grind.

How do You Receive the Recipes Guide?

It’s an online or e-book version that the manufacturer emails to you after purchase.

Bröyêur Hand Crank Ceramic Mill Grinder Features:

  • No assembly required
  • Easy to adjust grind settings
  • Comes with extra accessories
  • Fits aeropress and espresso makers
  • Extremely affordable

Which Is The Best Coffee Grinder for French Press?

When it comes to getting the perfect French Press coffee grinds, it’s all about how coarse you can get the beans with a consistent and uniform grind. And, while most coffee grinders tout they can do it, very few can actually perform up to French Press standards!

So, don’t waste your money on the grinders with the flattering marketing techniques! Instead, look to the ones that other users have rated as the best grinder for French Press grinds!

Feature-Packed

If you’re into gizmos and gadgets, then the Cuisinart Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill is the coffee-grinding version of your techie dreams!

While it doesn’t take rocket science know-how to use the grinder, it’s loaded with automatic settings that’ll grind up your beans without you even being in the room! And, it can even make a cup or two for everyone that can appreciate fresh ground coffee in the morning.

Wallet-Friendly

There’s nothing quite like scoring a coffee grinder that’s easy on the eyes and easy on the wallet. And, the KRUPS Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder does both very well!

But, as far as its coffee grinding abilities, it’s got what it takes as an entry level grinder to get you up and on the go for the day! Oh, you have spices you need to grind today too? No problem! The KRUPS is a self-proclaimed know-it-all!

Our Top Pick

The Bröyêur Hand Crank Ceramic Mill Grinder takes the winning spot for offering the best price for the highest quality grounds you can get! Not to mention its portability, ability to retain freshness and draw out subtle flavor profiles, and its efficiency for its wide range of grinding settings.

Coffee Grinder for French Press Buying Guide

coffee grinder, beans, spoon and bag of grinds

Fresh vs Pre-Ground Coffee

If you’re well-accustomed to drinking the luxurious flavor profiles of fresh ground coffee beans, then you very well know that there’s truly no debate here. Fresh ground coffee is by far superior to pre-ground!

While pre-ground coffee certainly has its benefits such as being convenient to use, instant, readily available and accessible, and very cheap to buy, it just can’t compare to “real” coffee. Why not?

All the flavors are locked in the oils of the coffee bean. When they’re ground, they’re immediately prone to oxidation, degrading the delicate flavor profiles and freshness that coffee connoisseurs cherish. To get the best cup of Joe every time, is going to have to take some prep work to get it.

So, here’s some very convincing benefits as to why you’ll never go back to stale, old, pre-ground coffee ever again!

  • Most fresh
  • Can ground coffee beans for any brewing method you want
  • Retains all the natural oils for maximum flavor
  • Incomparable in taste versus pre-ground
  • Optimum health and nutrition benefits

Oh, and there’s one more! Grinding your own coffee beans makes you look like a coffee pro in front of your friends! Go ahead, time to impress!

Electric vs Manual Coffee Grinders

Electric coffee grinders are extremely handy machines. I mean, it’s just way too easy to use! Plug it in, push a button and you’re done! Fresh coffee thanks to present-day technology and electricity!

But, how convenient are they really?…

  • Grind beans faster versus manual grinders
  • Typically have larger capacity hoppers
  • Doesn’t require any manual cranking and arm strength

Sounds quite dandy right? But, do you want to know what the real pros use? They use manual coffee grinders to limit the drawbacks that come with using electric grinders.

Plus, some manual ones can really give your kitchen an antique and modern blend that will really be a conversation starter for when you have dinner guests… or coffee parties instead of tea parties – bleh!

So, what’s so great about hand-cranking your own beans?

  • No noise!
  • Relatively cheaper versus electronic grinders
  • No electricity required
  • Compact and slim design
  • Portable
  • Easy to clean
  • Retains freshness and flavor integrity of beans
  • Extremely efficient at grinding
  • Doesn’t heat beans during grinding

What is a French Press?

Ah! The $64,000 question that many amateurs and dilettantes are asking! A French Press is actually not a grinder. It’s a coffee maker of sorts…

It has a plunger system to literally press the grounds into the base of the jug to extract all the flavors without the grit of the grounds. What you’re left with is the very essence of the grounds.

So, why do you need a grinder?

The grinder allows you to use whole beans to make your own coffee grounds to use in a French Press coffee maker. But, to make high quality and excellent French Press coffee depends on how you grind your beans.

Tips for Using a Coffee Grinder for French Press Grinds

  • Loosen the adjustment knob on a manual hand crank coffee grinder.
  • Don’t push down so hard on touch-button electric grinders.
  • Some electric models only require 4-5 seconds of grinding.
  • Don’t fill the hopper to the top. More room to grind may give you more control over coarseness.
  • If you’re getting uneven grinds, try a slightly tighter or finer setting.

French Press Grinds vs Other Grinds

French Press grinds are well-known for their coarse texture. Think something along the lines of kosher and sea salt or even instant coffee grounds.

But, many people aren’t even aware that they may be grinding sub-par French Press grounds instead of superior, eclat grounds. The trick to getting high quality coarseness truly lies in the consistency and uniformity of the ground particles. Yes, the grind size definitely matters.

Uneven, too big, too fine, and depending too much on built-in “French Press” coarseness settings can all negatively affect your end result.

Too big and your brew will be too weak.

Too fine and you’ll end up with sludge.

Uneven grounds can cause particles to slip through the mesh of the French Press, leaking into your cup.

So, here are a few grind types matched with their preferred brewing methods.

Extra Coarse

Grinds are distinct, chunky, and broken up – similar to steel cut oats.
Brewing Methods: Toddy, Cold Brew

Coarse

Grinds are distinct, even, and similar to kosher salt.
Brewing Methods: French Press

Medium Coarse

Grinds are gritty – similar to coarse sand.
Brewing Methods: Flat-bottomed filters, All-Purpose Automatic Coffee Makers (ex. Keurig or drip-pot)

Medium

Grinds are slightly smooth, but just barely smaller than table salt.
Brewing Methods: Cone-shaped filters, All-Purpose Automatic Coffee Makers

Fine

Grinds are smooth, similar to granulated sugar.
Brewing Methods: Espresso

Extra Fine

Grinds are powder-like, no trace of grit or individual particles, extremely difficult to achieve.
Brewing Methods: Turkish

Trial and Error

Don’t be afraid to get snazzy and jazzy with your grinder! Experimentation is key to becoming a coffee grinding expert, and that can’t happen if you’re afraid to get your hands a little dirty.

But, once you’ve figured out the right amount of beans, the right grind setting, and the right amount of hot water to use, you’ll be a pro who survived the trial and error stage!

You can now upgrade your hubby from guinea pig status to an enjoyer of your grinding efforts! You’re now fit to serve coffee up like a true aficionado!