Everyone knows the ritual: Groggy and grumpy; you pull up to the drive-through speaker on your way to work and roll down the window.”Medium, two cream, two sugar.” You grab your coffee on the go and slug it down, readying yourself for another day.That used to be my morning ritual too until I gave it an upgrade. My wife gave me the best hand coffee grinder there is for my birthday, and I haven’t looked in the rear-view mirror since. The smell, the process, the quality, the price – there’s no area a hand coffee grinder doesn’t cover better than what I used to think of as convenience.You must be thinking, “Sure, but a manual coffee grinder? An automatic coffee bean grinder saves time.” Maybe it saves you a bit of time, but at what cost? Well, keep reading and gain a little perspective, as I did.

Why Should You Trust Us to Get the Best Hand Coffee Grinder?

In four years of reporting and updating this site, we’ve not only considered over 20 brands of home coffee grinder, but we’ve also tested them. To help you choose a quality product to get all the coffee health benefits, here’s our take on the top 10 best hand coffee grinders. We spent over 55 hours on web research and a week using community-based and personal testing techniques. Comparing and contrasting the different brands across over 30 different dimensions (such as reviews, price, consistency, and noise) took a lot of care and effort, but we had to:

Our goal is to help you select the best product – not to promote any particular product.

With this in mind – considering their most important features, we picked out the best hand coffee grinder on the market, just for you! But first, we promised to tell you why hand coffee grinders are superior, in many ways, to other types of coffee grinders, didn’t we?

Types of Coffee Grinder

The grinder styles you can choose from are the electric mill grinder, the blade grinder, and the manual burr grinder. A manual mill grinder is also called a hand coffee grinder.

Blade Grinders

The most common type of coffee grinder is the blade grinder. They don’t cost much and are compact in size. Blind tasting tests have shown, however, that the inconsistent grind they produce can have a very negative impact on the coffee’s taste.

Electric Burr Grinders

Electric burr grinders are well known for their consistent grind sizes. They have their downsides as well; they are very expensive, and their size and noise production can be serious drawbacks.

Hand Coffee Grinders

The best hand coffee grinders of both types of styles offer an even grind for far less money. They are the first choice of an ever-growing group in the specialty coffee world because of their flexibility, reliability, and practical appeal.

Hand Grinder: The Right Choice for You

A hand coffee grinder, in our opinion, is the best option for you. But what if you’re still not convinced? Let’s go into a little more detail.

Grind Consistency

Coffee grounds taste best when they are all the same size, that way they dissolve into the water at the same speed. An uneven grind will leave some chunks large and others small, making your coffee taste gritty and sour!

Price

Hand coffee grinders deliver grind consistency at far lower prices than their automatic competitors. Instead of all that money going into a motor, that you don’t need, it goes into quality burrs, grinders that guarantee a delicious cup every time.

Mobility

Nothing beats a hand coffee grinder on the road – they are the only type light enough to fit snugly into a travel bag. Try hiking through the Alps with an electric grinder. Don’t forget your batteries!

Noise Level

No motor, naturally, means a lot less noise. Wouldn’t you rather not deal with loud noises during your new morning ritual? What about your family? We thought so.

Ease of Use

Slow is smooth and smooth is fast. Slow down your morning ritual and relax, collect your thoughts and focus on something simple to start off your day. Grinding your coffee is a straightforward and rewarding way to start your day off on the right foot.

How Grinders Affect the Coffee

Coffee flavor is all about ground consistency and temperature. We’re not talking about how hot you like your coffee, but how hot the beans get during the grinding process.

Motorized grinders can heat your beans up, leading to an inferior-tasting product.

You know how you can rub a balloon on your shirt and stick it on your head? That’s static electricity. Motorized grinders, with all their whirring parts, can produce enough of that stuff to spit beans right out of the machine! Do not worry about any of these things with a hand coffee grinder.

Grind size, coarse, medium, medium-fine to fine – all these make a big difference depending on the style of coffee you are looking to enjoy. For instance, Fine is used in espresso whereas Coarse for a French press.

Why Grind Coffee by Hand?

Alright, at this point you might be reaching information overload. Let’s slow down for a bit (like we should in the morning) and recap what makes hand grinders so great in one sentence:

Hand coffee grinders are a portable means for consistent grounds quietly and at a low price, which adds to your overall quality of life.

Now that you’re sure you know what to consider before choosing a coffee grinder and convinced hand coffee grinders are the best way to go, let’s get back to determine which one is the best hand coffee grinder for you.

Should You Upgrade Your Grinder?

What you want out of your hand coffee grinder effects your choice on whether to upgrade. The more expensive, the more likely you are to get a better grind and therefore a better taste. It is all really up to you and your preferences.

To make an informed choice, you need a lot more information.

Considerations are numerous, but we’ve put a lot of work into simplifying things for you. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of it!

Our Testing Procedure

Our selection process included gathering functional testing data produced by numerous volunteers. Remember, in the four years we have spent on reporting on and updating this guide, we’ve looked at and tested over 30 brands of hand coffee grinder. Look, to be completely honest, none of these products are perfect, but they are the best hand coffee grinder ones out there.

We spent close to two months testing these products in a community-based way, to see how well they performed within and without their operational guidelines. We tried to push their capabilities to their limits to see how they responded, and carefully measured their performance to get a good idea of how they compared to one another. We meticulously analyzed their capacity, durability, versatility, manufacturing, performance, usability and many other of their most important features. After going through all of this, we chose the following products to be in our top 10. We have done the work to be completely confident the hand coffee grinder mentioned below is the best hand coffee grinder on the market. Our extensive report backs up everything we have to say.

Our Top Ten Product List

We have analyzed 38 of the most important features for each product on sale in today’s commercial market that we have selected as a top ten. Our research report is open for you to see the full results of our study and is intended to help you in choosing the best product for your use and lifestyle needs.

Our Pick: JavaPresse Coffee Company Manual Coffee Grinder

Why is this product our pick?

Again, we analyzed every brand across 30 dimensions. This product has the largest number of positive attributes, not to mention a unique combination of characteristics that no other product can claim. That this is the best hand coffee grinder is evident from our extensive research report. This product has a built-in, modifiable grind-selector boasting 18 settings, ensuring you have total control over the size of your grounds.

1. Remarkably, though this brand has, by far, the most beneficial features, it sits in a very affordable price range. It sells for about $25!
2. We compared the rating frequency of each of the products for its most recent 30 ratings and found that this product received high ratings extremely quickly. It received ten ratings over only three days, far surpassing the popularity of any other brand.
3. Not only does this product maintain a rare combination of the most important features in contrast to its competition, but it is the only product which has a convenient hand crank mechanism, totally removable, that gets rid of 9/10 of the noise made by electric grinders produce.
4. Once in a while, the grind is not always perfect and it can be a little tricky to use.
5. It takes minimal effort to grind with this device- no hardship at all. It’s easy to clean, the customer service is unbelievable and it holds a lot of beans for its size.

Detailed Review

This grinder has outstanding value! I always considered myself a bit of a coffee snob by my friends – I always had to have the biggest, fanciest electric machine. Well, this product proves that the more expensive is not always, the better!

For around 25$, you get a machine with 18 different settings, allowing you to grind exactly the way you want, whenever you want. There is no cord or anything; it’s handheld and easily portable. I bought an extra one to take on all my business trips. No more hotel coffee!

Honestly, being a real coffee snob, the grind isn’t always completely perfect. It’s not always as consistent as my 500$ machine. For this price though, the value is entirely unmatched. One other thing: remember to hold the bottom of the device while grinding or you will make a mess.

The customer service: this is what truly puts this device over the top. I had a little trouble with my first machine – it fell off the table, the handle broke, and it couldn’t fit back into its setting anymore. It had nothing to do with the craftsmanship or anything; totally my mistake. I emailed them and they responded extremely quickly. Not only did they send me a new machine, but they sent an upgraded one with a better mill, free of charge.

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Budget Pick: EZE Hand Burr Coffee Grinder & Coffee Press

Why Is This Product Our Budget Pick?

This product is the lowest price – that’s why we have selected it as our budget pick. It has a new and improved plastic burr component, made out of out of stronger, more flexible plastic to avoid cracking use after use. Made of high-quality, rust-free stainless steel, it has with an extra-long hand-crank.

It remains low-cost though very sturdily built, reducing the overall cost of making coffee. It was reviewed very often, which speaks to its popularity.

Detailed Review

I have been a long time previous user of electric grinders, and I have to say that this is my first experience with a manual grinder, and it was pretty good. What struck me initially was how easy it was to adjust the setup. No learning curve at all. It is also incredibly easy to load.

It’s unbelievably inexpensive! How can you beat such a low price?

The grounds are extremely consistent for its price. No complaints.

It is compact; I don’t have to worry about it taking up too much space on the counter and it is stylish and fits in well with my décor. While it can take a while to use and be a little tricky to hold, I kind of like how quickly you can get your grounds with an ‘old-fashioned’ electric grinder. Sometimes a minute or more of grinding early in the morning can get to you, but I shouldn’t complain.

Oh, another little hassle. It’s easy to use, but you have to pay attention to how you hold it, or it will come apart as you are using it. Another thing to think about early in the morning.

I recommend this machine to anybody who wants excellent value for their money.

The pros heavily outweigh the cons, and, when you factor in the bargain barrel price, the decision is an easy one. I’ll be giving these as gifts for some time to come.

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Best For Traveling: Hunt Brother’s Coffee Grinder

Why Is This Product Best for Travel?

Our research report shows this is the best hand coffee grinder for road travelers and those who can’t live without coffee with a superior taste, wherever they are. This grinder also comes with its own environment-friendly organic cotton string pouch to make it even more portable.

This handheld machine is inexpensive at approximately $20. Our reports show it was quite popular in terms of reviews. This hand grinder is lightweight, portable and static-free, making it our top pick for travelers.

Detailed Review

I love going on vacation! Well, who doesn’t? Let me tell you; there is nothing I need more in the morning than a good, hot cup of joe. And not any old joe will do. Hotel coffee just doesn’t cut the mustard, but this inexpensive hand grinder does.

It’s constructed out of metal, not plastic, making it more durable for all those trips in my suitcase. It also comes with a great-looking box and bag to help keep things stylish!

It is incredibly easy to clean, so not a lot of extra time is put into doing anything but using the machine for something other than its primary purpose. After cleaning, it’s easy to put back together.

It can take a while to use. I wish there were a handheld, portable electric grinder, but there isn’t. All in all, grinding out a cup for myself isn’t that bad. You almost feel like you’ve earned it! Most of your effort goes into holding the grinder stationary when you are cranking. Again, not a big deal, but it could be a little easier to use.

The other half of my life, when not on vacation or on the road… I spend in the office. And this handheld machine is handy there, too! I can crank out myself a cup in the morning and stay at my desk enjoying any type of coffee I want. The taste is a lot better than what they brew in the communal machine anyway. I use this thing everywhere and could barely be happier!

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List of 7 Other Products We Reviewed

No. 4: KONA Manual Coffee Grinder Review

I’m always careful about accurately evaluating the things that I buy. There are a lot of false reviews out there that muddy the waters, but it’s critical for a customer to have all the information they need before making a purchase! Bad reviews are why the world fills with so much useless junk!

I may be old, but I’m not too old to grind my coffee without a coffee grinder, and this handheld machine provides great value for its price (I even get a little exercise!).

There aren’t many cons, but the one I find is that the hopper is too small. It takes two full loads of beans to fill a glass receptacle. Minor, but that’s something. The handle broke off pretty quickly, leaving me with no grinder for a while. The whole unit was replaced soon, but still, that was an inconvenience.

All in all, I would recommend this machine to anyone else. I think it’s just as good as anything else on the market for around the same price, so why mess around?

Price

This machine clocks in at around 20$.

Settings and Crank

Heavy-duty, ergonomic handle guarantees longevity.

Grind

Industrial ceramic conical burrs allow for an even grind at any setting.

Practicality

Easy to clean and use. Static-free glass jar can store 50g.

Durability

Durable.
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No. 5: Hario Skerton Ceramic Coffee Mill (100g) Review

I love using my French press. My wife didn’t want to break the bank to give me an expensive, electric grinder, but the one she chose with a little caveat was a great gift indeed. A French press requires coarse, consistent grounds; and I haven’t been able to get any, certainly not for this price, as good as the ones this machine provides.

The stabilizer doesn’t come with the machine; you have to buy it extra. Without the stabilizer, the machine isn’t anything special. It’s prime selling point the even coarse grounds you can grind. It should come with the device.

If I want to begin my coffee preparation early in the morning, it takes a while to crank out. But my wife isn’t picky, so this isn’t a big deal. I had friends over, and it took about 15 minutes to mill out a 12-ounce bag. That is a rare situation though.

Honestly, for the price, this machine is unbeatable. I would recommend it to anyone, and if you love your french press as much as I do, you shouldn’t get anything else!

Price

This machine clocks in at around 40$.

Settings and Crank

Very easily adjustable to fine tune your preferred grind, giving you a lot of control over your brew.

Grind

It produces an even grind at any setting.

Practicality

Cordless, portable, lightweight and compact. Easy to clean and use. Professional experience.

Durability

Durable

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No. 6: Culinary Prestige Premium Manual Coffee Grinder Review

Like other machines, there is a plastic disk in it that helps work the burrs. This, like in other machines, tends to crack or break. The good thing is, I hear Culinary Prestige has excellent customer service. Who knows, though, because I use mine all the time and it is still working great.

This handheld machine, for price, manufacturing, quality of grind, everything, it stands up against the others. This coffee grinder may put any vending machine company out of business! Every cup is a little something to focus on and enjoy every few hours, with all the health benefits of drinking coffee.

Price

This machine clocks in at around 20$.

Settings and Crank

Very easily adjustable to fine tune your preferred grind, giving you a lot of control over your brew. 18 settings.

Grind

It produces an even grind at any setting.

Practicality

Cordless, portable, lightweight and compact.

Easy to clean and use. Can be stored without its handle.

Durability

Ceramic mill prevents rust and guarantees longevity.

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No. 7: Hario Mini Mill Slim Hand Coffee Grinder Review

I work as an ER physician for extended shifts, whatever it takes, you know? My shifts are busy, so I need a little something to keep the pep in my step. Hospital coffee, like the food, is probably one of the main things keeping people here! But seriously, I’ve grown accustomed to a good cup of coffee, and for that, this machine has been a real blessing.

This thing is quiet and doesn’t take too long (I never have too much time on shift), and man does it deliver a great (strong!) cup of coffee when you need it. One out of one doctor (me), prescribes this thing for you, STAT!

Price

This machine clocks in at around 40$.

Settings and Crank

Very easily adjustable to fine tune your preferred grind, giving you a lot of control over your brew. Removable handle.

Grind

It produces an even grind at any setting.

Practicality

Cordless, portable, lightweight and compact. Easy to clean and use. Can be stored without its handle.

Durability

Ceramic mill prevents rust and guarantees longevity.

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No. 8: Cozyna Manual Coffee Grinder Ceramic Burr Review

I really like this machine and wanted to share why so people could make their own informed decision. A pet peeve: the little plastic cup has a groove in it that traps fine grounds. I always have to tap the darn thing to get them all out. Not a big deal, but something they should fix next time for convenience.

I enjoy this machine very much. It has a few flaws, but I know from my work that nothing is perfect. Worth the price!

Price

This machine clocks in at around 30$.

Settings and Crank

Very easily adjustable to fine tune your preferred grind, giving you a lot of control over your brew.

Grind

It produces an even grind at any setting. From espresso fine to French press coarse, you won’t be disappointed.

Practicality

Cordless, portable, lightweight and compact. Fully compatible with AeroPress.

Durability

Stainless steel construction prevents rust and guarantees longevity.

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No. 9: Silva Manual Coffee Grinder with Hand Crank Review

I can’t get over what good deal this machine is for the price! It produces far better-quality brews than my old electric machine. I’m even really getting into different types of coffee now that I can control the ground size. I like the fact that I mill exactly enough for what I need – no leftovers. Also, using this machine is a lot more relaxing than the loud motorized one I had previously. It is easy to clean, and I just can’t say enough good things about it. It has made my life much better. And for so little money!

Price

At around 30$, it’s hard to get much more inexpensive than this little handheld machine.

Settings and Crank

This grinder comes with 18 different settings, more than enough to be able to precisely choose the ground size that is perfect for you and what you are drinking. The hand crank is extremely quiet and removable for ease of use and portability.

Grind

It produces an even grind at any setting. Guaranteed not to clump, clog or leave chunks of bean behind.

Practicality

For such a versatile and powerful machine, you can take these anywhere because of their diminutive size. It fits right in the palm of your hand.

Durability

Stainless steel construction prevents rust and guarantees longevity.

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No. 10: Steel Coffee Manual Conical Burr Coffee Grinder Review

This is a great little grinder. I’ve recently begun experimenting with different types of grinds and various types of drinks, and this machine has been a lifesaver. For the price, it cannot be beaten. First, for such a handheld grinder, I can easily make enough for my girlfriend and me, and it doesn’t take that long. I type of like the process. Far more intimate – you can put real loving care into your morning cup. Disassembly is a little tricky, but just keep track of all the parts, and you’re golden. Easy to put together and take apart. Can’t get enough! Maybe I’ll use it right now…

Price

At around 20$, this machine is an absolute treasure for its price.

Settings and Crank

Very easily adjustable to fine tune your preferred grind. It comes with a removable crank.

Grind

It produces an even grind at any setting. From espresso fine to French press coarse, you won’t be disappointed.

Practicality

Cordless, portable, lightweight and compact. Compatible with AeroPress, french press, pour over and drip.

Durability

Stainless steel construction prevents rust and guarantees longevity. Handle designed to last.
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A List of Other Products We Tested

• Manual Ceramic Hand-crank Coffee Mill by Kuissential>>>7 Positive Features as seen on our research report
• Brillante Manual Coffee Grinder>>>9 Positive Features as seen on our research report
• Porlex JP-30 Stainless Steel Coffee Grinder>>>7 Positive Features as seen on our research report
• Norpro Coffee Grinder>>>4 Positive Features as seen on our research report
• Porlex Mini Stainless Steel Coffee Grinder>>>2 Positive Features as seen on our research report
• Khaw-Fee HG1B Manual Coffee Grinder with Conical Ceramic Burr>>>6 Positive Features as seen on our research report
• Premium Ceramic Burr Manual Coffee Grinder. Large 100g Capacity Coffee Mill>>>6 Positive Features as seen on our research report

Care and Maintenance of Your Best Hand Coffee Grinder

Cleaning your grinder is an important part of using it and maintaining it. A dirty mill won’t produce that top-notch quality brew you want. Coffee oil and dust can be pretty tricky to deal with.

One possible method used is running rice through your grinder. It can pick up a lot of the oil and dust without you having to disassemble the machine. Watch out, though, because rice might damage your device. Rice is hard and starchy – some machines can’t handle it.

Generally, it is best to disassemble your machine, wash all the pieces carefully with water, soap and a cloth (don’t use a paper towel, it might leave bits of paper inside your machine). These simple steps work for basically any machine of any kind. It should take around 12 minutes to do.

A good cleaning routine and proper maintenance will make sure you get the most out of your machine.

Wrapping it Up

Manual coffee grinders are the way to go to make the best coffee ever. There are a wide variety of low-priced options out there for you.

Our report contains a lot of information, and it should be pretty clear why we picked the Java Presse Coffee Company Manual Coffee Grinder as our best hand coffee grinder pick.

It came away easily with the most beneficial features and is very reasonably priced. It blows away the competition, as you can easily see in our comprehensive report.

Its next best hand coffee grinder competition had only a little over half the virtues of the JavaPresse Coffee Company Manual Coffee Grinder. With value like that, what are you waiting for? Upgrade your morning ritual today for a measly 25$! You’ll thank us later (and save money at the drive-thru!).

Check All The Discounted Coffee Grinders!