Manual vs Electric Coffee Grinder - Difference, Pros & Cons
When shopping for a coffee grinder, what factors should you consider? You can base your decision on your budget or the grinder’s features, such as ease of use and convenience. Before shopping for grinders, it will be best to know what you want, as it makes the process easier.
Are you shopping for a coffee grinder and debating whether to get a manual or an electric coffee grinder? While both can serve you, there are different factors to consider to ensure you choose one that will suit you best. Keep reading to learn what type of grinder will best serve you.
What Is A Manual Coffee Grinder?
Manual coffee grinders are small and portable and do not require electricity to function. You have to crank a manual grinder for it to work, so it may not be the best choice for making coffee for a group of individuals. A manual coffee grinder is consistent and produces uniform coffee grounds, which is vital to having a delicious and balanced cup of coffee. It is consistent for all grind sizes, from espresso to French press.
Manual grinders are simple machines that last a long time. A manual coffee grinder is an excellent choice if you do not mind hand grinding. They are reasonably affordable, so you can brew coffee without breaking the bank.
What Is An Electric Coffee Grinder?
An electric coffee grinder requires minimal effort to grind a lot of coffee in a short period. It is an excellent choice if you would like to serve fresh coffee to a group of people. They require electricity to function, are bulky, and are expensive if you want one that is consistent. Low-end electric grinders act more like dull blade grinders. Most electric grinders are noisy, which can be very irritating.
How Does A Manual Coffee Grinder Work?
A manual coffee grinder has a tiny hopper that stores the coffee beans and a set of burrs that grinds the coffee beans as they fall through. There is a collection chamber at its bottom that collects the ground coffee. All the parts are connected by one rod, which turns the burrs and connects to the handle. You will be grinding the coffee by turning the handle, ultimately getting fresh ground coffee.
How Does An Electric Coffee Grinder Work?
An electric grinder grinds your coffee at the press of a button giving you great coffee. A high-end electric grinder has over 40 grind settings ranging from French press to espresso, allowing micro-adjustments. With an electric coffee grinder, you have to fill the hopper with your coffee beans, choose your preferred grind size, press the switch, and you will have fresh ground coffee ready for brewing in a few seconds.
Differences Between A Manual And Electric Coffee Grinder
There are considerable differences between manual coffee grinders and electric coffee grinders. The differences include:
- Electric coffee grinders have different grind sized setting, unlike manual grinders, which have none.
- Manual grinders require you to hand grind your coffee beans, while you can quickly grind your coffee beans at the touch of a button in a matter of seconds when using electric grinders.
- Unlike electric coffee grinders, manual grinders are more affordable, and durable and do not require electricity to function.
- Electric coffee grinders are more convenient, and unlike manual coffee grinders, you can easily brew fresh coffee for a group of people in a short period of time.
Manual And Electric Coffee Grinder Pros
Manual Grinder Pros
- Relatively affordable
- Durable
- Portable
- Consistently sized grounds
- Does not need electricity to function
Electric Grinder Pros
- Different grind sized settings
- High-end grinders are durable
- Convenient
- High performance
Manual And Electric Coffee Grinder Cons
Manual Grinders Cons
- Does not allow micro-adjustments
- Takes time
- Is not ideal for grinding large amounts
- Hand grinders require a bit of muscle
Electric Grinders Cons
- Requires electricity
- Great performing ones are expensive
- Noisy
- Low-end models are poorly built
Final Thoughts: Which One To Choose?
The debate between manual and electric coffee grinders can be hard to settle, but it ultimately comes down to your individual needs. The brewing method you prefer and your morning coffee routine should help inform you whether manual or electric would suit you best. Although, with both grinders, you do not have to drink pre-ground coffee and can instead enjoy freshly brewed coffee.
A manual coffee grinder is an excellent choice if you do not want to break the bank but still want to drink a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Manual grinders last longer and are a better alternative to a low-end electric model. An electric grinder is a better choice if you like the convenience and are willing to spend on a high-end model that will serve you longer. It is also an excellent choice if you want to save time and will be making coffee for a group of people.
Get Your Own Coffee Equipment And Tools From The Artisan Barista!
You need to invest in excellent coffee equipment and tools to make great coffee. There are plenty of models to choose from in the market, but the Artisan Barista has the best coffee equipment and tools. At Artisan Barista, we have a wide selection you can choose from for personal and commercial use. Our goal is to offer our clients the best coffee gear and tools regardless of whether they are home baristas or world-class baristas. No matter where you are on your journey, we have the right coffee equipment and tools for you.
Please feel free to browse our selection of coffee equipment, and don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.