recommendation for inexpensive espresso grinder

[magreen]

Hey guys

I'm looking for a decent coffee grinder for making espresso, in the $40-$75 price range. I know, I know, some caffei-ophiles will say that can't be done. Well, it sure as hell can be done better than the grinder at the supermarket that I use right now, can't it?

Any recommendations? I want it where I can adjust the grind for the weather, humidity, etc... (so if its finest setting is for "espresso" then it probably won't be good, since if that's not fine enough then I'm screwed)

thanks!

 

[Born2bwire]

Originally posted by: magreen
Hey guys

I'm looking for a decent coffee grinder for making espresso, in the $40-$75 price range. I know, I know, some caffei-ophiles will say that can't be done. Well, it sure as hell can be done better than the grinder at the supermarket that I use right now, can't it?

Any recommendations? I want it where I can adjust the grind for the weather, humidity, etc... (so if its finest setting is for "espresso" then it probably won't be good, since if that's not fine enough then I'm screwed)

thanks!

I went with a Bodum Antigua grinder which will run you around $80-$90. At the very least you want to be looking for a burr grinder, but the picking are slim with that budget. I would try to look around at some of the coffee websites and see what they say. But do not expect much, I think you'll have to make a compromise with something. The Bodum's problem is that the ground catcher is plastic and can pick up a static charge which will repel the grounds, makes a bit of a mess.

 

[h8red]

I know you are going to hate what I have to say but you really should spend maybe 2x-3X that amount. The grinder is THE most important part of making espresso, followed by bean freshness, barista expertise, and then finally the espresso machine itself. If you need to stick to your budget you can get The Baratza Maestro $99. I think its pretty well received but it is a "cheap" grinder. You may have better success buying a used grinder from either e-bay or going to an espresso forum under buy and sell

 

[kalrith]

The Maestro is your best bet. I've been using mine for a few years now, and it works great.

And you could enter any hobby and have people state that you need to spend $300 on a grinder or there's no point in making espresso. However, the choice is often between a $75 grinder or no grinder at all. Try to stretch your budget for the Maestro or shop around on ebay for a used one.