Best Small Coffee Grinders: Top 9 For Home And Travel

Coffee is significant today, powering many individuals to start their day positively. Making morning coffee brings a sense of calm and comfort to people’s lives.

Our Top Picks: Best Small Coffee Grinder

Ratings & Price on Amazon at the time of publication

Product	Price	Ratings	Details
#1. Best Small Coffee Grinder Overall	~$197	~5,505	See
#2. Best Budget Coffee Grinder Small	~$23	~195	See
#3. Smallest Handheld Grinder Coffee	~$58	~703	See
#4. Best Coffee Grinder Easiest To Use	~$17	~343	See
#5. Best For Larger Households	~$40	~3,033	See
#6. Best Small Coffee Grinder For Gifts	~$139	~1,151	See
#7. Best Small Coffee Grinder Most Silent Option	~$199	~1,044	See
#8. Best Small Coffee Grinder Sturdiest Design	~$28	~24,026	See
#9. Best Small Grinder Coffee Most Ergonomical	~$38	~5,010	See

For those who are frequently on the move or living in space-limited areas but still cherish the idea of brewing their exceptional coffee, a compact coffee grinder is a suitable option. These small-sized grinders are ideal for travel and do not occupy much space.

Consider the following factors to find the best small coffee grinder that suits your needs. Firstly, decide between a manual or electric grinder. For manual grinders, opt for one with a ceramic burr; for electric grinders, look for one with a USB charger. Additionally, ensure the grinder allows you to adjust your grind according to your preferences. Set a budget for the device and choose accordingly.

Remember that the following list of recommended coffee grinders is not ranked in any particular order, so pick the one that appeals to you the most. Keep reading to discover how to select the perfect compact coffee grinder that fits your space and coffee-drinking requirements.

#1. Best Small Coffee Grinder Overall

PROS	CONS
Intuitive LCD screen for accessible settings adjustment before grinding An 18-ounce bean hopper with ample capacity for a week’s worth of coffee beans Multiple grind destination options: portafilter, container, gold tone filter basket, or paper filter Backed by a 1-year warranty, ensuring good value for your money	Slightly more significant compared to some other models on this list.

Product Highlights

The Breville model is well-deserved on this list due to its impressive features. Notably, it comes with stainless steel conical burrs that effectively reduce heat during grinding. This versatile grinder offers 60 precise grind settings, allowing you to customize the size of your coffee particles according to your preferences. Additionally, you can select the correct dose for the type of coffee you want to make.

One of the standout features is the multiple options for where the ground coffee goes – you can choose between the portafilter, container, gold tone filter basket, or paper filter. Another advantage is the substantial 18-ounce bean hopper, which means you won’t need to refill it frequently, perhaps once a week.

Though this grinder is not the smallest in the market, it still qualifies as one of the more compact ones, measuring 8.5x6x15.5 inches.

#2. Best Budget Coffee Grinder Small

PROS	CONS
The long-lasting battery allows for on-the-go usage Simple single-button operation for ease of use Easy disassembly and cleaning of parts (except for the motor) Can grind enough coffee for up to 12 cups at once	The material used (ABS plastic) may not be the most durable option compared to metal grinders.

Product Highlights

You can use an electric grinder even without a nearby power output with models like the one offered by Paracity. This grinder features a DC motor and is rechargeable via a USB cable, making it convenient for travel or camping. Its 1250mAh lithium battery ensures hours of usage when fully charged.

One impressive aspect of this affordable coffee grinder is its ceramic cone-shaped burrs, a feature not commonly found in this price range. Operating the grinder is effortless with a single-button switch, and it automatically shuts down after grinding. Adjust the grind size manually before starting the process.

Cleaning the grinder is hassle-free as all parts are detachable, and you can use the included brush to remove leftover coffee grounds. Afterward, you can rinse the components with water (excluding the motor).

However, the build quality is not the most impressive, as the grinder is made of ABS plastic, which, while durable, is not as robust as metal.

#3. Smallest Handheld Grinder Coffee

PROS	CONS
Slim and compact design, perfect for travel Ceramic burrs resist heat, rust, and flavor absorption, ensuring great-tasting coffee Manual operation allows for high-speed grinding User-friendly and straightforward to use	Cleaning leftover grounds may require more effort due to its small size.

Product Highlights

Among small coffee grinders, this model stands out as one of the tiniest currently available in the market, measuring just 6×2.3×1.8 inches, even smaller than a can of soda. Despite its size, it can hold up to 0.7 grams of coffee, yielding around 1 to 3 cups per grind, which is quite reasonable.

Its compactness makes it the ideal grinder for travel as it can fit into a pocket in your backpack, and with a weight of only 0.5 pounds, it won’t burden you. While the small size does make cleaning a bit more challenging, its sturdiness negates the need for excessive protection during transport. It is constructed with stainless steel and can withstand rough handling, perfect for camping and outdoor adventures.

The coffee grinder’s simplicity adds to its appeal, as it offers an easy adjustment of grind settings, and all you need to do is add the coffee beans, turn the handle, and start grinding.

#4. Best Coffee Grinder Easiest To Use

PROS	CONS
Compact design is perfect for small spaces User-friendly single-button operation A 2-year warranty adds value and assurance Can grind enough coffee for around 5-6 cups at a time	Limited grind options may not allow fine-tuning coffee grounds according to specific preferences. Relatively heavy, considering its size

Product Highlights

Upon initial observation, this coffee grinder resembles a pepper mill but with the convenience of being electric, making it much easier to use than manually grinding pepper into your soup.

Select your desired grind size from the nine available settings covering the most common brewing methods like French press, espresso, and drip coffee to operate this grinder. However, you may need to experiment with slightly different sizes for ways like Chemex or Turkish coffee.

Using the grinder is as simple as pressing a single button after setting the grind size. It takes care of the rest.

With a one-ounce bean hopper capacity, this tabletop coffee grinder can produce around 5-6 cups at once, making it convenient for gatherings and entertaining guests.

The grinder’s compact design ensures it won’t occupy much counter space, but it is relatively heavy at 1.4 pounds, making it less suitable for carrying around while traveling.

#5. Best For Larger Households

PROS	CONS
Ability to grind a large batch of coffee grounds at once, suitable for multiple coffee drinkers Convenient wire storage beneath the grinder saves space and maintains tidy countertops. Metallic flat burrs guarantee even-sized ground particles Easy disassembly and cleaning of all parts with the included brush	The grinder offers fewer grind settings compared to most models on this list.

Product Highlights

If your household is full of coffee drinkers, the Shardor coffee grinder presents an excellent option. It allows you to grind a larger quantity of coffee at once, ranging from 2 to 14 cups, making it a time-saving and efficient choice for multiple people.

With 16 grind settings available, covering a range from coarse to fine, the Shardor grinder accommodates most brewing methods. While it may lack the fine-tuning capabilities of some other models, it still offers decent options for achieving the desired grind size.

An impressive feature of this coffee grinder is its metallic flat burrs, ensuring consistent particle size for your ground coffee. Considering its price range, having flat burrs is quite remarkable.

The purchase of this grinder includes a thin brush, allowing you to clean hard-to-reach places and remove all the coffee grounds effectively. Subsequently, rinsing the parts under the tap completes the cleaning process.

#6. Best Small Coffee Grinder For Gifts

PROS	CONS
Rubber band and wooden handle offer a secure grip during grinding 40 grind settings provide versatility for different brewing methods It comes with a 1-year limited warranty for assurance 30-ounce bean capacity allows grinding for multiple cups at once	It is slightly bulky and heavy for a handheld grinder, affecting portability.

Product Highlights

Let’s begin with the attractive modern appearance of this model. It features a cylindrical shape and a steel body with a sleek wooden handle, which is aesthetically pleasing and provides a comfortable grip for easy grinding.

The added rubber band around the top enhances the grip further, allowing for faster grinding. The package also includes a cleaning brush, making it a thoughtful and complete gift set for any coffee enthusiast.

With an impressive 40-grind setting, the 1Zpresso JX Manual coffee grinder allows precise customization of coffee ground size, catering to various brewing methods, from French press to Turkish coffee.

However, it’s essential to consider that while it’s a manual grinder, it may not be the most portable option. Its somewhat bulky design and 24-ounce weight make it noticeable in a backpack.

#7. Best Small Coffee Grinder Most Silent Option

PROS	CONS
Grinds the entire hopper of beans in just 20 seconds, providing quick results Quiet operation allows for use at any time of the day Professional-grade flat burr grinder ensures consistently even grounds Auto shut-off after grinding the last bean prevents overheating	The small bean hopper size might be inconvenient for households with multiple coffee drinkers.

Product Highlights

Let me start by saying there are several remarkable aspects to discuss about this coffee grinder. The first thing that catches the eye is its unique and stylish appearance. Unlike most coffee grinders with a retro design, this one boasts a futuristic and sleek look that seamlessly complements any kitchen decor.

Functionally, this grinder utilizes flat burrs, ensuring a consistent and even grind with each use. It offers 11 settings and 31 intermediate steps, allowing you to achieve virtually any grind size you desire. The burrs are secured magnetically, contributing to the grinder’s quiet operation. This feature makes it ideal for early morning coffee preparation without disturbing the household’s peace.

The coffee grinder features a relatively small bean hopper, accommodating only 2.3 ounces of beans. This design aims to promote the use of fresh beans for the best-tasting coffee. However, this small hopper size might be inconvenient for households needing to make coffee for multiple people.

#8. Best Small Coffee Grinder Sturdiest Design

PROS	CONS
The stainless steel body ensures durability and sturdiness Offers 18 grind settings, suitable for various brewing methods Operates quietly, allowing usage even while the household is asleep It comes with a manufacturer warranty and a 100% money-back guarantee	The small capacity requires more time for grinding when making coffee in multiple cups.

Product Highlights

I am particularly fond of aesthetically pleasing coffee equipment, and the JavaPresse manual coffee grinder’s retro design has caught my attention. It evokes memories of my grandmother’s coffee grinder.

This manual grinder impressively offers 18 grind settings, catering to various brewing methods. It goes beyond just coffee and can be used for grinding spices and herbs at home, making it a versatile 2-in-1 tool.

Operating this hand grinder is straightforward. Adjusting the desired settings and turning the handle allows you to achieve a consistent and even grind every time without any complications.

One remarkable aspect of this coffee grinder is its exceptional silence. While manual grinders are generally quieter than electric ones, this one is possibly the quietest on the market.

Overall, the JavaPresse manual grinder is an excellent choice. However, its only drawback is its small capacity, making preparing fresh coffee for multiple people more time-consuming.

#9. Best Small Grinder Coffee Most Ergonomical

PROS	CONS
The ergonomic handle with a shaft ensures a secure grip while grinding. It comes with an affordable price tag that won’t strain your budget. The removable handle allows for easy storage. The conical burr grinder delivers consistent grounds every time.	The durability is not as high as some other options on this list.

Product Highlights

When it comes to handheld coffee grinders, having a comfortable grip is crucial. After all, if you can’t hold it steadily, achieving a consistent grind becomes challenging.

Thankfully, the Hario Mini-Slim Plus coffee grinder addresses this concern. An upgrade from the original version, this model features an ergonomic handle with a shaft that provides better traction during grinding.

Moreover, its slim and compact design makes it easy to hold, even with your non-dominant hand, making it ideal for travel. Additionally, the handle is removable, further reducing its storage space requirements.

The presence of ceramic conical burrs ensures precise and consistent grinding. Many customers praise this feature, highlighting the grinder’s precision and user-friendliness.

The only aspect I find slightly disappointing is the material used. The coffee grinder is made of acrylic, which, while durable, is not as robust as metal. Nevertheless, this drawback is not a significant concern considering its affordable price.

What is a Coffee Bean Grinder

Whether commercial or for home use, a coffee grinder grinds coffee beans into a consistent powder finely. Achieving the perfect consistency of coffee grounds is crucial in the coffee brewing process, as it directly impacts the flavor and aroma of the resulting beverage. Whether using an Espresso machine or a filter brew method, evenly ground coffee ensures optimal extraction and a more enjoyable coffee experience.

While pre-ground coffee and instant powders are readily available, they may not offer the same rich and full-bodied flavor as freshly ground coffee. By grinding your coffee beans, you have greater control over the grind size, allowing you to tailor it to your preferred brewing method.

Using a coffee grinder also presents cost-saving benefits, as buying whole coffee beans and grinding them yourself is often more economical in the long run. Moreover, grinding your beans unlocks the full potential of the coffee’s flavors and aromas, resulting in a more flavorful and satisfying cup of coffee. Whether you are an average coffee enthusiast or a passionate coffee lover, investing in a coffee grinder can significantly enhance your coffee-drinking experience.

Manual Coffee Grinders vs. Electric Coffee Grinders

If you have a true passion for coffee, you likely appreciate the unmatched freshness and natural flavor of using a manual coffee grinder. The manual process ensures that the quality of your freshly ground beans remains uncompromised, providing a superior taste in your brewed coffee compared to electric grinders.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge that manual burr grinders have drawbacks, and their use can be somewhat bothersome due to their bulkiness and labor-intensive operation. If you find the manual process less appealing and seek alternatives, it’s worth exploring the various types of coffee grinders available, specifically blade grinders and burr grinders.

You can refer to this source for a comprehensive Best Manual Coffee Grinders list.

When considering electric burr grinders, their crucial advantage lies in their ease of use. Unlike manual burr grinders, electric ones require less physical effort, making the grinding process smoother and more convenient. This aspect can be particularly appealing for individuals who find the manual grinding process akin to using a pepper mill, which might not be their preferred method.

Ultimately, the choice between manual and electric coffee grinders depends on your preferences and the effort you are willing to invest in achieving the perfect cup of coffee. Both types of grinders have their unique advantages and drawbacks, so finding the one that best suits your needs will lead to an enjoyable coffee experience tailored to your liking.

Blade Grinder Coffee or Burr Grinder Coffee

For those new to the coffee-making process, blade grinders may seem attractive. These grinders feature rotating blades that spin at high speeds, resulting in small and inconsistent ground coffee particles. Unfortunately, this inconsistency often leads to an undesirable taste in the brewed coffee, as the beans are prone to be burnt during grinding. On the other hand, burr grinders offer a more favorable alternative, producing grounds that are typically uniform and free from burning.

One drawback of blade grinders is that their blades can quickly become dull, affecting the grinding performance. In contrast, burr grinders operate differently, as the grinder’s motor moves their blades. There are two main types of burr grinders: manual and automatic. Manual burr grinders use crank motions to achieve the grinding motion, while automatic burr grinders employ electric motors and gears for the same purpose. Burr grinders are known for their superior microchipping abilities compared to blade grinders.

The quality of the grind depends directly on the type of grinder chosen. Blade grinders are often more affordable but produce uneven grounds that can harm the beans’ overall flavor. On the other hand, burr grinders may come with a higher price tag, but they excel at creating a consistent and uniform grind, eliminating any undesirable particle size variations. Moreover, burr grinders are more reliable and offer a longer service life, making them a worthwhile investment for coffee enthusiasts seeking the best brewing experience.

What to Consider When Choosing a Small Coffee Grinder

In the world of coffee enthusiasts, small coffee grinders have gained popularity due to their ease of use and convenience. When selecting the right grinder for your needs, there are several key features to remember to ensure a satisfying coffee experience.

Grinder Settings:

Adjusting the grind settings is essential for achieving the desired coffee consistency. Different brewing methods call for specific grind sizes, whether you need a coarse or fine grind. Consistency in grind texture is crucial for a perfect cup, and these settings allow you to achieve that. Additionally, consider the hardness or softness of the beans being ground, as it affects the grinding speed and the resulting taste.

Size of Coffee Bean Hopper:

The coffee bean hopper’s size directly impacts your grinder’s capacity and the number of cups you can grind at once. Ensuring the bean hopper matches your brewing needs and lifestyle is vital for efficient coffee preparation.

Build Quality:

Investing in a well-built coffee grinder is essential for achieving the best results. Poorly made models can burn beans and compromise the flavor of your coffee. Opting for quality materials and construction ensures a superior coffee grinding experience.

Ease of Maintenance:

An easy-to-maintain coffee grinder is a significant advantage, sparing you from constant cleaning and ensuring longevity. Some models possess features that facilitate effortless cleaning, while others might require more meticulous care.

Cleanup:

Easy cleanup is highly desirable, as it prevents damage to the grinder and maintains its performance. Ensuring your coffee grinder can be easily cleaned after each use is crucial for optimal functionality.

Price:

While various coffee grinders are available at different price points, it’s crucial to strike a balance between quality and budget. Finding a grinder with valuable features that align with its price is essential for a satisfying coffee-making experience.

By considering these features and making an informed decision, you can select the best small coffee grinder to cater to your coffee preferences and brewing needs.

Conclusion About Small Coffee Grinder

The Breville Smart Grinder Pro Coffee Bean Grinder is the top choice if you need a compact coffee grinder to fit your limited counter space.

Its user-friendly design and unique 60-grind settings offer versatility to cater to various brewing preferences. The generous bean hopper capacity ensures you can grind enough beans in one go, whether brewing for yourself or an enormous household.

Furthermore, the Breville Smart Grinder Pro provides the convenience of grinding coffee directly into a portafilter, filter basket, or container, minimizing mess during the grinding process. Overall, it’s a feature-packed and efficient coffee grinder with little to be desired.