For UK coffee-drinkers, a good grinder is as integral as good beans. But with a host of options, it can be a challenge to find the right one. In this article, we will review the best coffee grinders available in the UK and why burr grinders are better than blade grinders for making that perfect cup.
Why You Should Grind Your Own Coffee
There’s a real difference with freshly ground coffee. Grinding immediately beforehand prevents volatile aromas and flavours, which quickly fade when beans are crushed, from being lost. And this results in a fuller-bodied, more flavourful cup.
Difference Between Burr Grinders and Blade Grinders
The difference is making the grinding. Blade grinders, also found in less expensive models, chop beans with spinning blades. This results in an incoherent grind of fine dust and coarse chunks that causes your brew to become unevenly extracted, yielding a bitter or weak cup.
Burr grinders, on the other hand, employ two abrasive surfaces (burrs) to crush the beans to a consistent size. This reliability lends itself to even extraction, producing a balanced, flavourful cup. Thus, burr grinders are the best choice for coffee lovers in the UK.
Types of Burr Grinders
Conical Burr Grinders: Typically quieter and cause less heat.
Flat Burr Grinders: These use a pair of flat, serrated burrs and produce a very consistent grind.
Top Burr Grinders in UK
The UK market has quite a few great burr grinders to suit all manner of needs and budgets.
Wilfa Svart: This is good quality grinder for the money. Well, it ensures a uniform grind for your coffee no matter what brewing method you use, thus making it a bit of a favourite amongst UK consumers.
Sage Smart Grinder Pro: A more versatile grinder with a much wider range of grind settings that can be dialled in for espresso, French press and everything in between. Good all rounder for UK homes.
Niche Zero: A high-end grinder built for single dosing; reducing waste and maximising freshness. It is a firm favourite with serious coffee lovers in the UK.
Fellow Ode: If you primarily brew filter coffee, this grinder is for you. It provides a consistent and accurate grind, perfect for the pour-over and drip coffee enthusiasts among us in the UK.
Manual or Electric Burr Grinders
You can cut costs by using a manual grinder instead. They are excellent for both being portable and sometimes usage. But they are manual work. The conveniences and speed of electric grinders make them perfect for daily use.
Key Features to Consider
Grind Consistency: Seek out a grinder that can create an uniform grind.
Variety of Grind Settings: Check how many grind settings the machine has.
Ease of Use: Pick a grinder that is simple to use and easier to clean.
Budget: Burr grinders can vary in price. Before you go shopping, set a budget.
