How to grind coffee to perfection

In the world of coffee, one of the most important aspects is undoubtedly knowing how to grind coffee to perfection. Whether you’re a home brewing enthusiast or a professional barista, understanding the importance of the right grind size is essential to achieve a balanced, aromatic, and well-extracted cup. Discover on CaffèLab the best quality coffee beans and professional grinders to enjoy the pleasure of freshly ground coffee, just like at the café — in the comfort of your own home!

Why is coffee grinding so important?

Coffee is a living substance, and every stage of its cycle — from harvesting to roasting and finally grinding — affects the final result in the cup. Grinding is the contact point between the bean and water: it determines the exposed surface area for extraction and, consequently, the time and quality with which aromas and soluble substances are released.

A grind that is too coarse leads to under-extraction: the coffee will be weak, sour, and lacking body. On the other hand, a grind that is too fine causes over-extraction, resulting in bitter and astringent notes that mask the coffee’s aromatic complexity.

The golden rule: each method has its own grind

There’s no such thing as a “perfect grind” in absolute terms: the grind size should be calibrated according to the brewing method used, the blend, the roast level, and even the ambient humidity. Below is an overview of the main extraction methods and their recommended grind sizes:

• Filter coffee (V60, Chemex, Pour Over): medium-coarse grind, similar to raw sugar.
• French press: coarse grind, similar to sea salt.
• Espresso: fine grind, like flour, with the possibility of micro-adjustments depending on the machine and the coffee.
• Moka pot: medium-fine grind, slightly coarser than espresso.
• Turkish coffee: extra-fine grind, almost powdery, like talcum.

How to choose the right coffee grinder for the grind you want

On our website, you’ll find a wide selection of automatic coffee grinders — ideal for those who want to grind beans on demand and enjoy coffee that’s always fresh and aromatic. These devices, designed for both home and professional use, offer various features to meet the needs of every coffee lover.

The Lelit Fred is a compact and sturdy grinder, available in two versions: one with manual activation and the other with electronic dose adjustment. Equipped with 38 mm conical burrs and micrometric grind adjustment, it’s perfect for those who seek precision and quality in their coffee preparation.

For those seeking a higher-end product, the Quamar Nemo-Q is an excellent choice. Available in manual or electronic version with touch display, this grinder features 54 mm flat burrs and offers micrometric grind size adjustment, making it ideal for different extraction methods — from espresso to filter coffee.

The De’Longhi KG79 is a more affordable option, ideal for moka pots and filter coffee. With a simple and functional design, it ensures a consistent grind while preserving the coffee’s aroma.

Finally, the Hario Electric Coffee Grinder Compact is a new addition, designed for those looking for a compact and practical grinder. With a modern and functional design, it suits those who want an efficient product without compromising on style.

Choosing an automatic grinder from CaffèLab means investing in the quality of your coffee break, guaranteeing freshness and aroma in every cup.

The main factors that affect coffee grinding

Grinding is not an exact science but a dynamic practice that requires observation and continuous adjustments. Some factors to consider:

• Type of coffee: Arabica or Robusta, single-origin or blends.
• Roast level: the darker the roast, the more brittle the bean.
• Brewing method: each system requires a different contact time between water and coffee.
• Environmental conditions: humidity and temperature affect storage and extraction.
• Grinder usage frequency: heavy use generates heat, which can alter the aromas.

Coffee grinding is a technical art, just as fundamental as choosing the right blend or the quality of water. Learning to recognize the proper grind size for each extraction method, using the right tools, and paying attention to the variables at play is the first step toward elevating your coffee experience.

At CaffèLab, you’ll find everything you need to start or refine your journey as a barista — from professional coffee grinders to espresso academies, along with specialty coffee selections tailored to each brewing method. Because every cup deserves the best, starting with the grind.

Discover our coffee grinders for the perfect ground coffee!