11+ Best Commercial Coffee Grinders in 2024

This guide is a round-up of the best coffee and espresso grinders for businesses. Keep reading to learn more.

Using my extensive experience helping select coffee grinders for businesses. I’ve compiled my top recommendations into this guide.

I chose the Fiorenzato F64 as the top pick because it’s not too pricey, it has a decent burr size, and it employs cooling technology. All these features are essential to coffee shops that need to grind beans quickly while preserving their machine’s life.

These burrs aren’t ideal for very high-traffic shops, smaller businesses, or industrial use. I’ll provide alternatives for those use cases and more throughout this guide.

Let’s optimize your coffee business.

Best Professional Coffee & Espresso Grinders

1. Fiorenzato F64 EVO: Top pick
2. Fiorenzato F4 EVO: Cheapest
3. Mahlkönig EK43: Best and priciest
4. CEADO E37Z: Best grinder for espresso
5. Mahlkönig E80 GbW: Best GbW grinder
6. Mahlkönig DK27 LVH: Best for industrial use
7. CEADO E37S V2: Quietest
8. Mahlkönig Guatemala 2.0: Best conical burr grinder
9. Mahlkönig GH2 All-Ground: Best for restaurants and bars
10. Mahlkönig E65S GbW: Best prosumer grinder
11. Etzinger EtzMAN W Manual GbW: Best manual grinder
12. Mazzer Super Jolly V Up: Best grinder with doser

Coffee vs. Espresso Grinders: Read First

Espresso grinders often feature stepless settings, while coffee grinders usually have stepped settings.

Stepless grinders allow for limitless adjustments. They enable precise control over grind size. This is vital for espresso, where small changes impact extraction and, by extension, flavor.

Stepped grinders have preset levels (e.g., 30 settings). They offer less precision but are user-friendly because you don’t need to remember specific settings.

Such design choice makes them ideal for various brewing methods requiring coarser grinds. Think drip coffee or cold brew.

Summary: Stepless settings provide the flexibility needed for perfect espresso shots. Stepped settings suit diverse brewing styles, ensuring consistent results each time.

Best Espresso & Coffee Grinders for Business Use

I’ll go over these factors throughout the when reviewing these machines:

• Specifications: price, materials, etc.
• Pros and cons
• Who it’s best for
• Overview of features and design choices
• Diving deeper into the pros and cons

Most of these grinders will use flat burrs and will have stepless settings, which is excellent for all coffee shops.

Let’s dive in.

1. Fiorenzato F64 EVO: Best Overall

The Fiorenzato F64 Evo is ideal for coffee shops, cafés, and coffee carts who prioritize quality and efficiency in their espresso preparation.

Its robust features do well in high-volume environments.

The massive hopper capacity caters to busy periods without constant refilling.

And the machine’s durable construction promises longevity. Since it’s an Italy-made machine, it’ll last longer because those machines typically have better craftsmanship.

The grinder operates quietly (78 dB) a crucial feature in a loud coffee shop environment [1]. This quiet operation ensures better communication between team members and customers, enhancing the overall service experience.

The stepless (unlimited) settings give you the most precise settings with your grinds. This helps you achieve a uniform grind, which is crucial for even extraction and clumpless grounds.

Such clump-free coffee is optimal for avoiding espresso channeling, which will lead to sour or bitter coffee. And wasted time.

The burrs on this machine will run well until after grinding around 1,300 pounds of coffee. After which, you’ll need to replace it. This isn’t bad, considering the burr size.

Why does burr size affect this? Larger burrs (75 mm or more) produce less heat, which helps with longevity.

If you want a model with longer-lasting and larger burrs, consider the Fiorenzato F83 E Pro. It has 83 mm burrs and will grind up to 2,000 pounds. But it’s almost double the price.

Speaking of.

This machine’s a bit pricey, but it’s one of the more affordable high-quality Italian espresso grinders you can get.

Here’s a more affordable Fiorenzato grinder to consider if money is an issue.

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2. Fiorenzato F4 EVO: Most Affordable

The Fiorenzato F4 EVO is a well-suited grinder for low-traffic coffee shops, cafés, and coffee carts.

This grinder is notable for its EVO technology, which includes a temperature control system. This system manages the heat from the motor, protecting the coffee beans from overheating. Overheated beans result in bitter-tasting coffee.

The grinder needs this feature, considering it uses 58 mm burrs. Larger burrs typically produce less heat and don’t need to rely as much on heat mitigation technology.

58 mm burrs also aren’t the best for high-traffic coffee shops since larger burrs (more than 68 mm) grind much quicker.

For instance, this machine grinds 1.5 grams of coffee per second. The next model, with 98 mm burrs, grinds at 21–25 grams per second.

See what I mean?

With a hopper capacity of 1.1 pounds, the F4 Evo is ideal for establishments with moderate coffee demand. This sizable hopper means less frequent refilling, saving time and improving productivity, especially during busy hours.

The capacity is large enough to handle daily demands without being excessive for smaller operations.

Weighing around 19 pounds, the F4 Evo is lightweight for a commercial grinder. This weight is great for coffee carts and small cafés where space is limited, or reconfiguration is frequent.

The grinder’s portability allows for easy relocation, making it an excellent fit for dynamic or space-constrained environments. 

Its advanced features and manageable size and weight cater to most needs of lower-volume establishments.

You’ll need a much more powerful machine if you’re a larger business. Keep reading to learn more.

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3. Mahlkönig EK43: Best Expensive Machine

The Mahlkönig EK43 is the best choice for high-traffic coffee shops and cafés that want to focus on multiple brewing methods.

I said “multiple” because it has variable revolutions per minute (RPM). The slower RPM is better for grinding coarse grinds. Since the machine runs slower, you’ll have more uneven grounds.

The higher RPMs work better for espresso and Turkish coffee because it leads to better particle distribution. Creating a more consistent grind is essential for extraction and preventing phenomena like espresso channeling.

Because espresso channeling comes from uneven grinds.

If you want to focus on Turkish coffee, I recommend the Mahlkönig Guatemala 2.0. I’ll talk about it later.

It has large 98 mm burrs, much larger than many competitors. These large burrs enable the EK43 to grind at a rate of 21–25 grams per second. This quick grind time is great for high-traffic environments, minimizing wait times.

Larger burrs often contribute to a more uniform grind and produce less heat due to a larger surface area. Both perks contribute to more consistent, better-tasting coffee and espresso.

Its hopper capacity is ample for handling large quantities of coffee, reducing the need for frequent refills during peak hours. 

However, there’s an absence of a portafilter fork.

Baristas can’t directly grind into the portafilter. This lack might slow the workflow in a busy environment, requiring another step of transferring grinds from a container to the portafilter.

While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s a consideration for businesses prioritizing speed and efficiency in their service.

It’s also the grinder of choice for many Starbucks locations [2]. Say what you will about Starbucks, but they know how to choose the best devices.

Maybe they choose it because this beastly grinder has a throughput of 14,300 pounds before requiring a burr replacement. That’s 10 times the amount of beans as to what the previous grinders could grind.

Such durability also saves you money on hiring technicians to replace the burrs.

You may want to focus your business on espresso-based drinks. Keep reading for a possible better recommendation.

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4. CEADO E37Z: Best Grinder for Espresso

The CEADO E37Z is optimal for high-volume coffee shops that focus on espresso due to its high RPMs.

The 83 mm burrs are ideal due to their massive surface area. They preserve coffee taste and extend machine life due to producing less heat. Because of this, they can handle high volumes.

The specific lifespan of the burrs in the CEADO E37Z varies based on usage and maintenance. I mean this in terms of the number of pounds of coffee they can grind before needing replacement,

However, it’s typical for high-quality steel burrs in commercial grinders to last for grinding around 1,199–1,499 pounds of coffee. 

Its variable RPM adapts to multiple brewing methods (e.g., coarse and fine). For instance, 1480 RPM at 50 hertz is great for coarse grounds since the machine will run slower.

This flexibility is perfect for diverse coffee menus.

High RPMs increase power consumption (900 watts), though. Such an energy vampire could lead to higher electricity bills.

Zero retention is due to its precise settings. This ensures all grounds go through the chute without getting stuck in the machine, reducing waste.

The E37Z offers a 3-year warranty. It provides businesses with long-term reliability and peace of mind because CEADO will have your back if something goes wrong with the machine during that time frame.

This grinder may not produce as precise of grounds as grind by weight grinders. If this bothers you, check out the next pick.

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5. Mahlkönig E80S GbW: Best Grind by Weight Grinder

The Mahlkönig E80S GbW is an excellent choice for high-volume coffee shops, cafés, and restaurants, especially those focusing on espresso.

What is “grind by weight?”

A timed dose grinder measures the grinding time to estimate the amount of coffee, which can vary in weight due to factors like bean density and size.

A grind-by-weight grinder uses scales to grind a specific weight of coffee beans, ensuring accuracy and consistency in every dose. It enhances accuracy and flavor consistency.

For businesses not prioritizing precision in taste, this feature might be more than necessary, potentially complicating operations without significant benefits. And this machine’s quite pricey.

One of the E80S GbW’s standout features is its temperature control system, ensuring the beans aren’t overheated during grinding. This system preserves the beans’ flavor and quality.

The grinder’s 80 mm burrs also contribute to heat reduction. Larger burrs require fewer rotations to grind the same amount of coffee. Generating less heat and maintaining the beans’ quality.

Its special steel flat burrs ensure consistent grind size, reducing the chance of coffee clumping together.

The RPM control of the grinder also contributes, assuring the beans are ground at an optimal speed to avoid excess heat and static, which can lead to clumping.

Speaking of burrs. How long do these last?

They’ll last for up to 2,645 pounds before potentially requiring a replacement. Due to the temperature and burr size, these will last for much longer than many other machines on this list.

I wouldn’t use this machine for industrial purposes, though. You’ll need the next grinder for that.

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6. Mahlkönig DK27 LVH: Best Industrial Co<ffee Grinder

The Mahlkönig DK27 LVH is an excellent choice for roasteries and coffee wholesalers who need to grind tens of pounds of beans quickly.

Tungsten carbide, known for its extreme hardness, ensures consistent grinding over prolonged periods without losing sharpness. This makes the DK27 LVH suitable for applications where high-volume, continuous grinding is essential.

Think of small roasteries or wholesale environments. However, it’s not optimal for coffee factories. You’d need much larger machines from specialized vendors.

These burrs enable the DK27 LVH to grind up to 616 pounds per hour. This capacity is a game-changer for wholesalers and small roasteries that require efficient processing of large coffee batches.

Such a high grinding capacity ensures you can meet increased demands without sacrificing grind quality.

These burrs will grind up to 35–40 tons before requiring a replacement if you use median settings. That’ll last you a while.

Part of why these burrs last so long is due to the temperature control.

The feature works by monitoring the temperature within the grinding chamber. It then adjusts the grinding speed or activates cooling mechanisms (fans) to maintain an optimal temperature range.

This preserves the life of your machine and the burrs while preventing bitter coffee beans. Because machines operating at capacities like this produce a lot of heat due to their intense motor.

And the motor on this thing is loud. I wouldn’t put it anywhere near customers. Otherwise, you risk communication issues between your team and them.

Because you know, you have a vrooming motor preventing your team from hearing your customers’ orders.

If you’re a high-traffic shop that needs a quieter machine, check out our next pick.

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7. CEADO E37S V2: Quietest Machine

The CEADO E37S V2 is a fantastic coffee grinder for high-traffic coffee shops and prosumer home use.

The massive burrs make it exceptional for businesses since they have less heat and friction during grinding. Preserving the coffee’s flavor and aroma. 

While the specific decibel level of the E37S V2 is not available online, many users have noted its quiet operation. A quieter grinder is an advantage for coffee shops aiming to create a calm, relaxing atmosphere. 

It reduces noise pollution, allowing for more comfortable conversations. And since it’s quiet, you could use it at home as a high-end device.

The E37S V2 also retains grind size settings after cleaning. It keeps the grinding adjustment mechanism and burrs aligned after disassembly for cleaning.

There’s no need to recalibrate the grinder after maintenance, saving time and ensuring consistent grind quality.

The power button is tricky to access and sits in a less convenient spot on the machine. This design choice can be inconvenient, especially in a busy coffee shop setting where quick access and ease of use are critical for operation.

Your shop may want a grinder that’s better for multiple grind methods. Consider this next option in that case.

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8. Mahlkönig Guatemala 2.0: Best Conical Burr Grinder for Businesses

The Mahlkönig Guatemala 2.0 is a great grinder for medium- and high-traffic coffee shops that need various settings for different brewing methods.

The large 71 mm conical burrs are beneficial due to their efficiency in grinding large quantities of coffee quickly. They also produce less heat. Less heat means you’ll have less damage to your beans and machine.

These burrs will also grind up to 6,600 pounds of coffee before requiring a replacement. That’ll last much longer than other grinders you could get. So long as you properly take care of it.

While conical burrs have less of an impact on flavor separation compared to flat burrs, they are more forgiving in puck preparation. Reducing the likelihood of channeling during espresso extraction.

Advantageous in a busy retail or coffee shop setting, where consistency in preparing various coffee drinks are crucial.

The Guatemala 2.0’s high RPM is effective for grinding Turkish coffee, which requires a very fine grind. This high speed ensures the grinder can produce the ultra-fine consistency necessary for Turkish coffee.

The grinder’s ability to handle coarse, fine, and super-fine grinds makes it adaptable for various brewing methods, from French press to espresso. Catering to a wide range of customer preferences in coffee shops.

If you’re a restaurant or a bar that wants to offer various drink options, you may find this too expensive. Consider the next option.

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9. Mahlkönig GH2 All-Ground: Best for Restaurants & Bars

The Mahlkönig GH2 All-Ground is a great and versatile grinder suitable for small to medium cafés, coffee roasters, and depots.

Restaurants and bars may want to consider a super-automatic espresso machine, which has a built-in grinder. Because if you opt for a semi-automatic machine with a separate grinder, you’ll need to teach your team how to become a barista.

Super-automatic machines only require pressing a button.

Large burrs are advantageous for businesses as they can handle high volumes of coffee quickly and consistently. Their ability to handle high amounts of heat without damaging the machine or beans comes from their surface area.

However, conical burrs aren’t the best at separating flavors. And they’re not optimal for producing consistent grinds, which could affect flavor. 

Despite this, conical burrs are quieter than flat burrs, which could prove beneficial for some businesses trying to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Due to the machine’s price, it’ll grind fewer beans (2,000 pounds) before requiring a replacement compared to, for instance, the Guatemala.

The GH2 All-Ground is the only Mahlkönig grinder made in China, contrasting with others made in countries known for their coffee equipment, like the United States, Italy, and Germany.

This might raise concerns for some regarding the perceived quality and durability, as grinders from these countries often have a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and reliability.

However, Mahlkönig maintains its standards of quality across its product line. Ensuring the GH2 All-Ground meets the needs of demanding coffee shop environments.

It’s great for multiple brewing methods, from coarse to fine grinds. The flexibility comes from its 1400 RPM at 50 hertz and 1600 at 60 hertz. Lower speeds are better for coarse grounds, and faster for fine. 

This flexibility allows establishments to offer various coffee and espresso drinks.

The large hopper capacity, available in 2.2 lbs, 3.3 lbs, and 5.5 lbs options, ensures continuous operation during peak hours. Since your team won’t have to constantly refill the hopper.

Consider the next option if you’re a smaller shop or a home user looking for a prosumer device.

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10. Mahlkönig E65S GbW: Best Prosumer Grinder

The Mahlkönig E65S GbW works perfectly for small- and medium-volume businesses along with enthusiasts at home.

The use of grind-by-weight over timed dosing and compact size makes it an excellent pick for both use cases. So long as you have the budget to get such a machine.

Timed dosing grinds for set periods. Grind-by-weight measures exact amounts. The latter ensures accuracy, which is ideal for quality-focused settings. However, it might be excessive for casual use.

If you’re a larger business, you’ll need bigger burrs to ensure your machine will keep up with the large amounts of foot traffic. Opt for the Mahlkönig E80S GbW at that point.

I reviewed this machine in this guide.

The E65S GbW’s design reduces mess, likely through precise grinding and chute design. This is vital for maintaining cleanliness and efficiency. Since your team won’t need to clean the machine as often.

I’d provide more information, but it shares many traits with the E80S GbW. I don’t want to repeat myself.

Consider the next option if you’re a coffee cart or someone wanting more control over your grinds.

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11. Etzinger EtzMAN W Manual GbW: Best Manual Coffee Grinder

The Etziner EtzMAN W is ideal for businesses that enjoy the manual grinding and seek precise control over their coffee grounds. It’s also great for coffee carts with little access to electricity.

It’s a grind-by-weight grinder that uses a battery-powered scale. Most coffee shops won’t find this practical and are better off going with the Mahlkönig models for GbW models. But it’s great for coffee carts since you likely will run off a generator.

Pair this with a lever espresso machine, or one that’s energy-efficient, and you’re golden.

And since this is a “manual” coffee grinder, it’ll grind as fast as you can move your arms. Expect a workout for you and your team whenever using it. 

Because you’re using your arms, you risk inconsistent grinds since the machine isn’t automatically grinding. Thus, you may have inconsistent-tasting coffee. Or worse, coffee with clumps that’ll lead to espresso channeling.

Manual commercial grinders are for specific use cases and aren’t recommended overall. But if this type of grinder is what you need, I recommend this model.

I couldn’t find how long these burrs last.

The burrs aren’t large, which means they will generate more heat. But there’s no motor; thus, the burr won’t heat as much. Regardless, it should probably grind a couple hundred pounds of beans before needing a replacement.

Here’s a more practical grinder for your business.

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12. CEADO E6X: Best With a Doser

The CEADO E6X is well-suited for medium-volume professional environments like cafés and restaurants.

The CEADO E6X has a dosing chamber. It dispenses pre-measured grounds for consistency. Ideal for maintaining quality in medium-volume shops.

Doser grinders portion coffee per pull. Doserless grinders grind per demand, offering freshness. Modern grinders with electronic dosing provide precision, making dosers less relevant.

We compare both types of grinders in a separate guide.

I’d love to dive deeper into the differences here, but it would take too much time to write.

However, you should know that dosing “chambers” add another component to your machine. You’ll need to clean this and replace parts when needed frequently. That’s not efficient for shops trying to focus on speed.

The massive bean hopper will help you with speed, though. You won’t need to replace this as frequently, which’ll help your team manage their time better.

The E6X’s low cost and small size benefit smaller shops trying to save money or divert funds into different areas. These features aid in managing space and expenses efficiently.

We have one more grinder to go.

Let’s move on to the buyer’s guide.

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Commercial Coffee & Espresso Grinder Buying Guide

Consider these factors when shopping for a commercial coffee grinder:

Factor	Importance
Price	Budget alignment is crucial to financial resources.
Brand	Reputation and reliability build trust in products.
Features	Assess suitability for unique operational needs.
Manual vs. Electric	Workflow efficiency and grind consistency matter.
Bean Hopper Capacity	Influence on batch size capability can’t be ignored.
Burr Size	Consistency of grind relies heavily on burr size.
Burr Material	Burr material affects both durability and grind quality.
Burr vs. Blade	Quality uniformity hinges on burr vs. blade selection.
Grinder Speed	Grinding efficiency plays a significant role in production.
Grinder Size	Physical space and portability need consideration.
Noise Level	Workplace comfort is linked to noise level control.
Industrial vs. Commercial	Workload and durability dictate industrial vs. commercial choice.
Post-Sale Support	Warranty and troubleshooting offer peace of mind.
Certifications	Compliance with industry standards is essential.
Where it’s Made	Manufacturing quality can vary by origin.
Timed Grinding vs. Grind by Weight	Precision and consistency influence coffee quality.

I’ll dive deeper into all the points above throughout the following section.

Let’s begin.

1. Price

Avg. price:

• For smaller shops: $1,000–$3,000
• Medium-to-high-traffic shops: $1,500–$4,000
• Industrial: $5,000–$20,000

These prices vary based on capacity, durability, and brand reputation.

Brand recognition often dictates cost. Renowned brands charge more.

Features like grind-by-weight or timed grinding also affect price. Grind-by-weight offers precision which improves the workflow, but also leads to a higher cost. Timed grinding provides consistency, often at a lower price.

Additional features like durability, speed, and aesthetic design also influence pricing. I’ll talk about these throughout the buying guide.

For now, let’s move on to brands.

2. Brand

Some brands (e.g., Mahlkönig) charge more for their commercial coffee grinders due to their established reputation. Brands with a long history in coffee-making or grinder manufacturing often command higher prices.

Customers trust these brands for their proven track record in delivering durable, high-performance grinders. This trust, built over time, justifies their premium pricing.

Brands specifically focusing on coffee-making or grinders typically invest more in research and development, further enhancing their products’ value.

Here are typical brands you’ll find that offer commercial coffee grinders:

Mahlkönig	CEADO	Fiorenzato	Anfim
Brentwood	Newco	Pinecone	Macap
Etzinger	Mazzer	Leon

Many features that these brands will offer on their machines will differ. Let’s explore.

Summary: Some brands will charge more due to investing more into research and by being a trusted brand.

3. Features

Look out for these features with commercial coffee and espresso grinders:

Feature	Function
Precise Grind Adjustment	Tailors grind size accurately.
High-speed Grinding	Reduces wait time.
Large Hopper Capacity	Holds more beans.
Grind-by-Weight Technology	Ensures consistent doses.
Low Heat Generation	Preserves flavor integrity.
Quiet Operation	Minimizes noise pollution.

Precise Grind Adjustment

• Function: Enables fine-tuning of grind size.
• Benefits: Enhances flavor precision for various brews.
• Typical Inclusion: Common in most commercial grinders.

High-speed Grinding

• Function: Grinds beans quickly.
• Benefits: Increases efficiency, serves more customers.
• Typical Inclusion: Found in high-end and industrial models.

Large Hopper Capacity

• Function: Stores more coffee beans.
• Benefits: Reduces refill frequency, maintains workflow.
• Typical Inclusion: Standard in most commercial grinders.

Grind-by-Weight Technology

• Function: Dispenses precise bean weight.
• Benefits: Guarantees consistency in coffee strength.
• Typical Inclusion: More common in advanced, expensive models.

Low Heat Generation

• Function: Grinds without excessive heat.
• Benefits: Preserves beans’ flavor and aroma.
• Typical Inclusion: Featured in high-quality grinders.

Quiet Operation

• Function: Operates with minimal noise.
• Benefits: Improves ambiance, customer experience.
• Typical Inclusion: Varied, more common in premium models.

We have a lot to cover. Let’s move on.

Summary: Most entry-level commercial grinders will include high-speed grinding and precise grind adjustments (stepless settings). Higher-end grinders will include device cooling and grind by weight technology.

4. Manual vs. Electric

	Manual Grinder	Electric Grinder
Price	Cheaper	More expensive
Features	None	Multiple grind settings, timers, hoppers, etc.
Consistency	Less consistent	More consistent
Volume	Quieter	Louder
Control	More control	Less control

Manual coffee grinders aren’t ideal for businesses due to their time and labor intensity. Grinding coffee manually for each order is inefficient, slowing down service. This impacts the ability to serve many customers quickly.

Also, manual grinders often lack the precision and consistency of electric models. This inconsistency can lead to varying coffee quality.

Almost all commercial grinders are electric, except for a select few from brands like Etzinger.

Electric grinders offer speed, consistency, and ease of use. These features are crucial for businesses aiming to maintain high standards and efficiency. They handle high volumes, a must for busy coffee shops.

Let’s keep moving.

Summary: Almost all coffee grinders for businesses are electric. Manual grinders aren’t practical for handling rushes.

5. Bean Hopper Capacity

Common bean hopper sizes for commercial coffee grinders range around 1 to 3 pounds. Large bean hoppers are better for high-traffic businesses. They hold more beans, reducing the frequency of refills. This maintains a steady workflow during peak hours.

Smaller-capacity hoppers suit smaller businesses.They serve fewer people, so beans sit longer. 

Longer exposure to air and light in the hopper leads to flavor loss. This is due to oxidation and UV exposure. Oxidation is when oxygen in the air reacts with coffee oils. It degrades the flavor.

UV exposure also harms the beans. It breaks down organic compounds in coffee, altering taste. 

Moving onto machine burr size.

Summary: Most hoppers fit 1–3 pounds of coffee beans. If you’re a smaller business, consider the lower-end of that range to preserve the freshness of your coffee beans.

6. Burr Size

Ideal burr size per use-case:

• Small business: 58–65 mm
• Large business: 65–85 mm
• Industrial: >85 mm

Larger burrs grind coffee beans more efficiently. This efficiency is due to a larger surface area, which processes more beans in less time.

They also generate less heat during grinding. Heat can adversely affect coffee’s flavor profile. Lower heat ensures the beans’ essential oils and flavors remain intact.

Because of the less heat generation, larger burrs often have a longer lifespan. They handle high-volume grinding with less wear and tear. This durability is crucial for busy environments where grinders operate continuously.

The material of your burrs will also impact their lifespan.

Summary: Larger burrs are better for any coffee business because they grind quicker and generate less heat, but they’re expensive.

7. Burr Material

You’ll typically find steel, ceramic, and tungsten used for commercial coffee grinder burrs. Ceramic burrs aren’t widely used in commercial settings. Their fragility under high-volume, high-stress conditions is a key factor.

However, let’s compare ceramic and steel, first:

• Durability: Steel burrs are more durable than ceramic. They resist wear and damage better.
• Heat Conductivity: Steel conducts heat more, which can slightly warm the beans.
  • Ceramic burrs stay cooler, preserving flavor.
• Sharpness: Ceramic burrs remain sharp longer but are prone to chipping.
• Cost: Steel burrs are generally less expensive.

If you opt for steel, you’ll find the following variations:

	Features	Lifespan
Tool / Special Steel	Highly durable and maintains sharpness.	Up to 750–1,000 pounds
Regular Steel	Standard durability, less costly.	500–750 pounds
Cast Steel	Lower durability but cost-effective.	Around 500 pounds

Then there’s tungsten burrs. Some grinders for smaller businesses will include these, but they’re mostly for industrial use due to their high cost and extreme hardness. They’ll typically grind more than 3,000 pounds of beans before requiring a replacement.

Now we’ll dive into burrs versus blades.

Summary: Opt for steel burrs for large and small businesses. Shoot for tungsten if you need a grinder for industrial use.

8. Burr vs. Blade

Burr grinders are better than blade grinders for business use for several reasons:

• Consistency: Burr grinders provide a uniform grind size.
• Control: They allow precise control over grind size, essential for different brewing methods.
• Heat: Burr grinders produce less heat, preserving the coffee’s flavor and aroma.
• Efficiency: They are more efficient for handling high volumes of coffee.

No commercial coffee grinders use blades over burrs due to these factors.

Blade grinders lack precision, producing uneven grinds. This inconsistency can drastically affect the taste and quality of the coffee. Unacceptable in a business setting where consistency is vital.

Blade grinders also generate more heat, risking alteration of the coffee’s flavor profile. For businesses focusing on quality and customer satisfaction, burr grinders are the only choice.

This next factor is something that’ll differ by grinder, though.

Summary: No commercial coffee and espresso grinders will use blades.

9. Grinder Speed

RPM requirements:

• Espresso Grinders: 1,350 to 1,500 RPM.
• Coarse Grind Grinders: Under 1,500 RPM.

These amounts aren’t required for producing fine and coarse grounds, but some baristas have suggested that such speeds produce optimal results.

Faster grinders with higher RPM (revolutions per minute) are better for producing finer grounds due to their efficiency in cutting and grinding the beans into smaller particles quickly.

The high speed allows the burrs to slice through the beans effectively, creating a fine and consistent grind that’s ideal for espresso. Finer grinds require this precision to ensure even extraction, crucial for the rich and concentrated flavor of espresso.

Summary: Grinders with higher RPMs (typically >1500 RPM) are better for finer grinds used in espresso and Turkish coffee.

10. Grinder Size

Large grinders usually offer more features but require more space. Businesses with ample space can accommodate these grinders, benefiting from their many features.

Small grinders, in contrast, fit better in compact areas. They are ideal for establishments with limited space, such as small cafés or kiosks. However, they don’t have as many features.

Your grinder’s noise is also another factor to consider.

Summary: Smaller grinders are better for small cafés, coffee carts, and stands. Large grinders are better for businesses with ample space and who need features.

11. Noise Level

Commercial coffee grinders typically operate within a range of 70 to 80 decibels. This noise level is comparable to that of a vacuum cleaner.

A quieter grinder prove advantageous for customers and employees for these reasons:

• Customer Experience: Customers can enjoy their coffee and conversations without loud, disruptive background noise.
• Employee Comfort: A quieter grinder helps in maintaining a more focused and pleasant workspace.
• Communication: A quieter grinder aids in better communication between staff and with customers, ensuring efficient service and reducing order mistakes.

Investing in a grinder with lower noise output can contribute positively to the overall atmosphere of a coffee business, enhancing customer satisfaction and employee well-being.

The next type of grinders we’ll talk about aren’t quiet at all.

Summary: Quieter coffee grinders are nice for businesses because they improve communication among team members and customers due to the lack of noise.

12. Industrial vs. Commercial Grinders

Industrial grinders are larger, built to handle high volumes required for wholesale or mass production. They typically have more robust construction and can operate continuously without overheating.

This makes them ideal for wholesale use, where large quantities of coffee need consistent grinding.

Grinders in regular coffee shops are smaller, designed for less frequent use throughout the day. While capable for a coffee shop’s demand, they lack the capacity and endurance for the heavy-duty requirements of wholesale grinding.

Summary: Industrial coffee grinders are better for wholesale use.

13. Post-Sale Support

Warranties for commercial coffee grinders typically span a year. They’re important for businesses because they provide protection against defects and malfunctions. This assurance is crucial for maintaining consistent operations and managing costs.

A warranty ensures that if a grinder encounters a problem, it can be repaired or replaced without significant expense.

Beyond warranties, businesses should consider several post-sale support options for commercial coffee grinders:

• Technical Support: Access to expert advice for troubleshooting and maintenance is crucial. It ensures the grinder operates optimally.
• Maintenance Services: Regular professional maintenance can prolong the grinder’s life and maintain its performance.
• Parts Availability: Easy access to replacement parts is essential for quick repairs, reducing downtime.
• Training: Some suppliers offer training on using and maintaining the grinder, which is valuable for staff to handle the equipment effectively and safely.
• Upgrades: Information on and access to upgrades can keep the grinder current with new technology or features.

We have a few more sections.

Summary: Warranties for commercial coffee grinders are typically a year. You’ll also need to consider technical support and maintenance services when shopping.

14. Certifications

Certifications are crucial when shopping for a commercial coffee grinder because they indicate quality, safety, and compliance with industry standards. Some cities may require specific certifications, though this will vary by area.

Certifications such as NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) indicate that the grinder complies with health and sanitation standards, which is crucial for food service equipment. ETL (originally Edison Testing Laboratories).

Onto the next factor.

Summary: Check the certifications for the grinder and see whether they match your local government’s requirements.

15. Where It’s Made

Commercial coffee grinders are typically manufactured in Italy, Germany, and the United States.

The manufacturing origin can impact various aspects of the grinder, like:

• Parts and Maintenance Availability: Grinders made in countries with established coffee equipment industries usually have better support networks.
  • This means easier access to parts and maintenance services.
• Engineering and Design: Manufacturers from countries with strong engineering traditions often incorporate advanced technology and ergonomic designs in their grinders.
• Regulatory Standards: Grinders from these countries are likely to meet high safety and quality standards, adhering to international regulatory requirements.
• Price: The cost may be higher for grinders from these regions, reflecting the quality and engineering precision.

One more factor.

Summary: Commercial coffee grinders are typically made in Germany, Italy, and the United States.

16. Timed Grinding vs. Grind by Weight (GbW)

Timed grinding grinders operate on set times, offering speed and ease. They suit busy cafés with high customer flow. Grind-by-weight grinders ensure precise amounts by weight, ideal for quality-focused specialty coffee shops.

Summary: The choice depends on whether a business prioritizes efficiency (timed grinding) or precision (grind-by-weight).

When to Consider Coffee Makers with Built-in Grinders

You should consider automatic and super-automatic espresso machines with built-in grinders if you run one of these types of businesses:

• Restaurants: Staff can easily make quality espresso without specialized barista skills.
• Office Buildings: The ease of use and minimal maintenance make them ideal for self-service environments.
• Buffets: These machines cater to a variety of preferences with consistent results.

Most espresso machines are semi-automatic. Thus, you won’t find many with integrated grinders. However, it’s a factor that you should consider.

In these scenarios, the combination of a built-in grinder and automated brewing processes ensures high-quality espresso with minimal manual intervention

Why You Should Also Consider Automatic Tampers

You should consider using an automatic espresso tamper with their commercial coffee grinder for consistency and efficiency.

An automatic tamper applies uniform pressure to each espresso shot. This consistency ensures each cup of coffee has the same quality and taste. It also speeds up the espresso-making process.

It also reduces strain on baristas, enhancing workflow and reducing the risk of repetitive stress injuries.

Here are some automatic tampers that I recommend:

• PUQpress MINI: Affordable and practical
• Mazzer Easy Tamper: Allows some control over tamping.
• PUQpress Q1: Longer-lasting warranty and works great as a standalone tamper

Otherwise, that’s all for now. I hope these recommendations helped.

Conclusion

Here’s a recap of our top picks:

1. Fiorenzato F64 EVO: Balances affordability and precision
2. Fiorenzato F4 EVO: Affordable and compact.
3. Mahlkönig EK43: Burrs last forever and it’s great for multiple grind methods.

The Fiorenzato F64 Evo stands out as an exceptional grinder for businesses due to its precise, stepless grind adjustment and robust, durable construction.

These features ensure consistent, high-quality grinding, essential for busy commercial environments.