Chronologically, the most antique coffee grinder is the mortar and pestle. The next step on the grinder’s evolution ladder is the millstone; afterwards came the roller mill, and finally, the electric coffee grinder.

There are two major types of electric coffee grinders, the blade and the burr coffee grinder.

The burr coffee grinder includes two versions: the flat wheel and the conical burr.

Conical Burr coffee grinders preservemost of the aromas and can grind the coffee to a very fine consistency. The intricate design of the steel burrs allows a high gear reduction to slow down the grinding speed. The slower the speed, lesser the heat imparted to the ground coffee, thus preserving maximum amount of aroma.

Because of the wide range of grind settings these grinders are ideal for all kinds of coffee equipment, Espresso, Drip, Percolators, French Press. The better Conical Burr coffee grinders can also grind the coffee, extra fine for preparation of Turkish coffee. Grinding speed is generally below 500 rpm.

Burr coffee grinders with flat wheel grind at a faster speed than conical burr coffee grinders and create a bit more warmth in the coffee (10,000 to 20,000 rpm). They are the most economical way of getting a consistent grind in a wide range of applications. They are well suited for most home pump espresso machines. However they do not grind as fine as Conical Burr Grinders.

Blade grinders consists of a sharp blade that spins within a barrel-shaped precinct. It is commonly known as the ‘coffee mill’ or the ‘spice mill’. It “smashes” the beans with a blade at very high speed (20,000 to 30,000 rpm). The ground coffee has larger and smaller particles and is warmer than ground coffee from burr coffee grinders. Blade coffee grinders create “coffee dust” which can clog up sieves in espresso machines and French presses. These type of coffee grinders are suitable for drip coffee makers. They also can do a great job for grinding spices and herbs. They are not recommended for use with pump espresso machines.