Conical Burr Grinder

When looking for a coffee grinder for home use, most people agree that a conical burr grinder is the best possible choice.  In years past prices have been quite high for these types of grinders, with the cost of a conical burr grinder actually double or even triple the price of a good automatic coffee maker.

Why Are Conical Burr Grinders The Best?

The method the conical burr grinder uses to grind is what makes them so effective.  Using a combination of gravity and specially placed grooves or burrs, the coffee beans are slowly crushed into the desired size grind.  Most versions are adjustable by moving the distance between the inside cone and the outside cylinder.  More distance only grinds to that size before the grounds fall through into the hopper below.  A smaller distance and you get coffee that is more finely ground.

Are There Downsides To A Conical Burr Grinder?

Being easier to clean, causing less static buildup, less heat from friction and being extremely adjustable are all the great features of a typical conical burr grinder.  The only possible downside is in price, but recent drops have put these style grinders in the hands of most consumers.  Where a conical burr grinder used to cost well over $200, there are now many great models in the $75-$80 price range.