Best 5 Coffee Grinders for Cold Brew – Reviews & Buying Guide

Best Coffee Grinders for Cold Brew

Introduction

Cold brew coffee is smooth, sweet, and less bitter than hot coffee. But to make the perfect cold brew, you need the right coffee grinders for cold brew. The grind size makes all the difference. If it’s too fine, your drink will taste bitter. If it’s too coarse, the flavor will be weak.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about grinding coffee for cold brew. We’ll explain grind size, how grinders work, common mistakes, brewing tips, and storage advice. By the end, you’ll understand how to make a delicious cold brew at home.

What Is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold brew is coffee made by soaking ground beans in cold or room-temperature water for 12 to 24 hours. Unlike hot coffee, it does not use heat. This long, slow process pulls out sweet, smooth flavors while leaving out much of the bitterness.

Cold brew is popular because it is:

  • Smooth and mellow.
  • Less acidic, so easier on the stomach.
  • Naturally sweet, even without sugar.
  • Perfect for hot weather.
  • Easy to make in big batches.

But to get these benefits, the grind size must be right. That’s where the coffee grinders for cold brew comes in.

Why Grind Size Matters in Cold Brew

The grind size decides how your coffee will taste. Here’s why:

  • Fine grind (like sand): Over-extracted, bitter, and muddy.
  • Medium grind (like sugar): Still too strong for cold brew.
  • Coarse grind (like sea salt): Smooth, balanced, and perfect.

For cold brew, you want coarse, even grounds. This makes the water flow slowly and evenly, giving a sweet and rich taste.

Think of it like cooking pasta: too much heat burns it, too little leaves it raw. The grind size controls the “cooking” of your coffee.

What Is a Coffee Grinder?

A coffee grinder is a tool that turns whole beans into smaller pieces. Grinding increases surface area, allowing water to pull out flavors more effectively.

There are two main grinder types:

  1. Blade Grinder – Chops beans with fast blades. Cheap but uneven.
  2. Burr Grinder – Crushes beans between two burrs. Gives even, consistent grinds.

For cold brew, burr grinders are ideal because they create uniform coarse grounds.

Blade Grinders vs Burr Grinders: What’s Better for Cold Brew?

Before choosing your grinder, let’s understand the two main types.

Blade Grinders

  • Work like a blender with spinning metal blades
  • Chop beans quickly but unevenly
  • Cheaper and smaller
  • Suitable for beginners, but grind consistency can be tricky

Burr Grinders

  • Use two burrs (flat or conical) to crush beans evenly
  • Give you precise control over grind size
  • More expensive but much better for cold brew
  • The top choice for coffee lovers who want reliable results

Best Grind Size for Cold Brew

The best grind size for cold brew is coarse, like sea salt or breadcrumbs.

Why coarse is best:

  • Smooth taste without bitterness.
  • Easier to filter after brewing.
  • Keeps cold brew clear, not cloudy.
  • Stays fresh longer in storage.

If your grind is too fine:

  • Coffee tastes bitter.
  • Cold brew becomes cloudy.
  • Filtering takes forever.

So always choose a coarse grind when making cold brew.

5 Best Coffee Grinders for Cold Brew: Top Pick

Here are five grinders we’ve reviewed for cold brew fans. Each has unique strengths depending on your budget, style, and brewing needs.

1. BLACK+DECKER One Touch Coffee Grinder (CBG110S)

BLACK+DECKER Coffee Grinder for cold brew
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A compact and efficient grinder designed for quick, everyday use with versatile grinding options.

Key Features & Specifications

  • Blades: Stainless steel blades and bowl deliver uniform grinds with every use.
  • Capacity: 2/3 cup (approximately 56.6 grams), suitable for up to 5 cups of coffee.
  • Power: 150 watts for fast and efficient grinding.
  • Control: One-touch push-button operation for convenience and easy use.
  • Design: Sleek and modern stainless steel finish that complements any kitchen.
  • Safety: Lid must be securely in place for operation, ensuring safe grinding.
  • Cleaning: Removable grinding chamber for easy cleanup.
  • Warranty: 2-year limited warranty for peace of mind.

Best For: Home users who need a quick, reliable grinder for small batches of coffee, spices, or seeds. Perfect for single cups or small gatherings.

2. OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder – Silver

OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
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A solid mid-range burr grinder offering precise adjustment and a user-friendly timer for consistent results.

Key Features & Specifications

  • Burrs: Stainless steel conical burrs – durable and accurate
  • Adjustability: 15 main grind settings plus stepped micro-adjustments for precision
  • Timer: Programmable one-touch start with memory of last grind time for dose consistency
  • Bean Hopper Capacity: ~0.75 lb (~340 g) beans, sealed to preserve freshness
  • Grounds Bin: Removable, anti-static container holds up to 10 tablespoons of grounds
  • Noise Reduction: Sound-dampening design to reduce noise during use
  • Cleaning: Hopper and bin are dishwasher-safe; included cleaning brush
  • Safety: Auto-off when hopper or bin is removed or open

Best For: Enthusiasts wanting a reliable burr grinder to dial in an ideal coarse grind for cold brew and other brew methods.

3. Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder (Blade Grinder)

Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder
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An affordable, no-fuss grinder ideal for quick everyday grinding.

Key Features & Specifications

  • Blades: Heavy-duty stainless steel blades, blade type (thin, fast-spinning)
  • Capacity: ~30–40 g coffee beans (roughly 4–6 cups of coffee)
  • Motor: Basic electric motor, efficient but not rated in watts (typically ~150-180 W)
  • Operation: Simple push-down lid actuation – starts when the lid is pressed and stops when it is released
  • Design: Transparent lid to monitor grinding; compact plastic housing
  • Multi-Use: Can grind coffee beans, spices, and herbs
  • Cleaning: Wipe clean; not dishwasher safe
  • Safety: Prevents operation if the lid is not secured

Best For: Casual or budget users needing a small, easy-to-use grinder. It works best for coarse grind via pulsing, though it’s uneven for cold brew if used carelessly.

4. QJA Burr Coffee Grinder Electric, LCD Touch Screen

QJA Burr Coffee Grinder for cold brew
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A modern burr grinder offering maximum control and convenience, ideal for serious home brewers.

Key Features & Specifications

  • Grind Mechanism: Conical or flat stainless steel burrs (exact design varies)
  • Grind Settings: 60-step grind adjustment, from fine (espresso) to coarse (cold brew)
  • Timer: Digital 60-second timer for accurate dosing
  • Display: Full-color LCD touch screen for intuitive control and settings memory
  • Capacity: Adjustable for 1–8 cups or set gram weight (if model supports weight-based dosing)
  • Anti-Static: Coating or design reduces static cling and mess when grinding
  • Hopper: Sealed hopper to keep beans fresh, typically holding ~250–300 g
  • Build: Sturdy steel or metal housing with a rubber base to reduce vibration
  • Extras: Removable grounds bin and burr cleaning brush included

Best For: Lovers of tech-savvy brewing who want maximum grind precision and repeatability, especially useful for dialing in cold brew consistency.

5. SHARDOR Electric Burr Coffee Grinder 2.0

SHARDOR Electric Burr Coffee Grinder
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A dependable and stylish burr grinder with practical capacity and grind flexibility.

Key Features & Specifications

  • Burrs: Hardened steel burr mill, designed for longevity and consistent grind
  • Grind Settings: 16-step adjustment for various brew styles, including coarse cold brew
  • Capacity: Adjustable output from 2 to 14 cups (roughly 16–112 g), suitable for single cups or batch brewing
  • Timer: Manual dial or pulse control (varies by sub-model)
  • Design: Sleek matte black finish, LED indicator for power status
  • Hopper & Bin: Transparent bean hopper and removable grounds container for easy monitoring
  • Cleaning: Includes a cleaning brush; the hopper and bin are easy to detach
  • Safety: Grinding stops if the hopper or bin is removed

Best For: Home users seeking a mid-priced burr grinder with flexibility in quantity and grind size, especially suited for batch cold brew.

Comparison Table

ModelTypeCapacityBest FeatureBest For
KRUPS PrecisionBlade3 ozCompact and powerfulBudget beginners
OXO Brew Conical BurrBurr0.75 lb hopperPrecise grind settingsDaily coffee lovers
Amazon Basics Electric GrinderBlade30–40 gAffordable and simpleCasual users
2025 Burr Grinder (LCD Touch)Burr1–8 cupsLCD screen + 60 settingsTech-savvy brewers
SHARDOR Electric Burr 2.0Burr2–14 cupsFlexible capacity + sleek designFamilies & batch brew

How to Grind Coffee for Cold Brew (Step-by-Step)

  1. Pick fresh beans – Fresh beans always taste better.
  2. Measure beans – Use about 1 cup for every 4 cups of water.
  3. Set grinder to coarse – Look for chunks like sea salt, not powder.
  4. Grind slowly – Don’t rush; consistency is key.
  5. Check texture – Grounds should be extensive and even.
  6. Brew – Add water, let sit 12–24 hours, strain, and enjoy.

Common Mistakes People Make

Many beginners struggle with cold brew. Here are mistakes to avoid:

  • Grinding too fine – Makes bitter, over-extracted coffee.
  • Grinding too little – Makes a weak, watery brew.
  • Not using fresh beans leads to dull flavors.
  • Soaking too short – Coffee tastes flat.
  • Not straining well – Leaves grit in your drink.

How Long to Grind for Cold Brew?

Grinding time depends on your grinder. Burr grinders usually take 30–60 seconds for a coarse grind. The key is not time, but texture. Always aim for large, even pieces.

Water-to-Coffee Ratio for Cold Brew

Another key to good cold brew is the ratio.

  • Standard ratio: 1 part coffee to 4 parts water.
  • Stronger ratio: 1 part coffee to 3 parts water.
  • Lighter ratio: 1 part coffee to 5 parts water.

You can adjust based on your taste.

Storing Ground Coffee for Cold Brew

Freshness matters. Here’s how to keep your grounds fresh:

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Keep in a cool, dark place.
  • Avoid moisture and heat.
  • Use within 1–2 weeks for the best flavor.

Health Benefits of Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew made with the right grind size can bring many benefits:

  • Lower acidity, gentle on the stomach.
  • Antioxidants that support health.
  • Less bitterness so that you may need less sugar.
  • Natural caffeine boost without jitters.

Environmental and Global View

Coffee is grown worldwide in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. The grind size you use for cold brew works the same no matter where your beans come from. A coarse grind will bring out the best flavors in your cold brew, whether your beans are from Brazil, Ethiopia, or Vietnam

(FAQ Section)

Q: What grind size should I use for cold brew?

A: Use a coarse grind, like sea salt.

Q: Can I use a fine grind for cold brew?

A: No. Fine grinds make bitter, cloudy coffee that is hard to filter.

Q: Do I need a burr grinder for cold brew?

A: A burr grinder is best because it makes even, coarse grounds.

Q: How long should I steep cold brew coffee?

A: Steep for 12 to 24 hours for the best taste.

Q: How much coffee do I need for cold brew?

A: Use about 1 cup of coarse coffee for every 4 cups of water.

Q: Can I make cold brew without a grinder?

A: You can buy pre-ground coarse coffee, but grinding fresh beans tastes better.

Quick Tips for Better Cold Brew

  • Always grind just before brewing.
  • Use filtered water for a cleaner taste.
  • Brew in the fridge for extra freshness.
  • Strain twice if you want a clearer drink.

Conclusion

Making cold brew is simple, but using the right coffee grinders for cold brew makes all the difference. You can enjoy smooth, rich, and refreshing cold brew at home with a coarse grind, fresh beans, and patience.

Remember:

  • Use a burr grinder if possible.
  • Always grind coarse, like sea salt.
  • Steep 12–24 hours for best results.

Cold brew is more than just a drink. It’s a refreshing, healthy, and enjoyable ritual. And it all starts with the grind.

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