TL;DR: Opting for a quiet coffee grinder is always a good idea, especially if you live in a busy household with different morning schedules. However, all coffee grinders produce some level of noise unless you opt for a manual appliance. It’s important to seek out coffee grinders that mention a quieter operation as part of their features, but know that your expectations may need to be adjusted based on just how loud electric coffee grinders can be!

As a coffee fanatic who keeps a very different schedule from their spouse, I understand the importance of finding a quiet coffee grinder. Not only am I wide awake and ready for coffee at 6 a.m., but I also know what I’m looking for in a good coffee grinder thanks to my former experience as a barista in Portland, OR. But quality coffee grinders can get loud, which is why I struggled to find an option for my own home.

Thankfully, I’ve done the work so you don’t have to. If you’re also on the hunt for a quiet coffee grinder that won’t wake up your entire household first thing in the morning, you’re in the right place. We’ll go over what you should consider when shopping for a quiet coffee grinder as well as some potential options befitting any peaceful morning. Let’s get started!

Oh, and if none of these stellar options fits the bill or if you have additional questions, a Curated Coffee and Espresso Expert is standing by to help you get the answers you’re looking for.

Types of Coffee Grinders

Before we dive into the ins and outs of coffee grinder shopping, it’s important to understand the basic types of grinders you might be shopping for. Here’s a quick rundown of what you should expect out of the two primary types of coffee grinders.

Blade Grinder

Utilizing a similar blade system as standard blenders or grinders for spices, blade grinders are affordable and quick. While perfectly priced for the entry-level coffee enthusiast, blade grinders lack the precision and specificity that are often needed for quality coffee grounds. It’s an ideal starter grinder for those just dipping their toes into freshly ground coffee but may not be a suitable choice for long-term or more precise use.

Burr Grinder

Known for being the industry standard, particularly in commercial settings involving high-quality espresso, burr grinders are efficient and uniform, utilizing one rotating burr and one stationary burr. Given that burr grinders are often preferred over blade grinders, especially for espresso-ground coffee, it’s important to touch on the two main types of burr grinders. These coffee grinders come in both conical and flat blade types.

Conical burrs are cylindrical or cone-shaped. They can struggle when it comes to producing a more consistent grind, but they excel in efficiency and reliability. Flat-burr grinders are symmetrical and flat, as the name implies, which helps achieve a more evenly consistent grind ideal for tailor-made espresso. However, flat burrs can struggle to keep up in high-volume cafés, often overheating and affecting the quality of beans if used frequently.

What to Consider When Shopping for a Quiet Coffee Grinder

Now that you understand the basics at work when it comes to coffee grinder types, what else should you consider before shopping? Here are some potential things to think about.

Manual vs. Electric

One of the easiest decisions to make when shopping for any type of coffee grinder is whether or not you want a manual or an electric option. However, while electric coffee grinders may seem like the obvious choice, manual coffee grinders beat out electric options in two major ways: portability and quiet operation.

If you want freshly ground coffee while camping or traveling, opting for a manual grinder is your best bet. This is also the case if you need a truly quiet coffee-grinding experience. Manual grinders will win against electric options every time.

Electric grinders are also typically far more expensive compared to manual options. However, if you plan on grinding a large amount of coffee on a daily basis, manual grinders may make you feel fatigued and impatient in the long run. These are all important things to keep in mind.

Desired Price Point

Regardless of the type you choose, both manual and electric coffee grinders range in price. Some options cost as little as $40, while others exceed $1,000. Chances are, you won’t need a grinder found at either end of this spectrum. However, it’s important to be realistic about your budget for a coffee grinder. It’s easier than you think to overspend!

Ease of Use

If you’re new to freshly ground coffee, you may want to keep an eye out for a grinder that’s simplistic or otherwise straightforward in its operation. Dialing in your coffee grinder so that your espresso shots are full of flavor and well-balanced crema can be more difficult than you think, especially if you’re among novice coffee lovers.

Some coffee grinders make their capabilities clearer than others. If you know how to dial in your espresso machines already, you may not need to worry about how easy your grinder is to use. But, especially if you’re unfamiliar with how coffee grinders work, choosing one with clear instructions and capabilities may be wise.

Size of Appliance

Your coffee grinder will likely become a mainstay appliance in your kitchen, especially if it’s nice and quiet. That’s why it’s important to choose an option that fits your countertop, kitchen space, or wherever else you plan on keeping it. Certain coffee grinders are larger than others, especially when you consider the bean hopper capacity. Take some measurements and make sure you don’t choose something too large for your kitchen!

Ease of Cleaning

While coffee grinders are designed with convenience in mind, these appliances can be notoriously difficult to clean. If you’re worried about maintaining and cleaning your quiet coffee grinder, keeping an eye out for easier-to-clean options may be a good idea. Coffee oil and particles can get everywhere when grinding, and some materials (such as stainless steel) can be difficult to clean. You may want a machine that’s both easy to clean and doesn’t create too much mess as it operates — but remember that grinders are rarely dishwasher safe.

Grind Settings

Do you want a coffee grinder that’s capable of grinding for multiple types of coffee drinks? If you know you’ll be grinding your coffee beans for pour-over, cold brew, French press, and espresso in equal measure, opting for a machine with plenty of grind settings is a good idea.

There are many coffee grinders made specifically for espresso-ground coffee. More often than not, these appliances won’t produce coarse grinds for French press or other coffee options. However, espresso grinders can adjust minutely and accomplish the precise grind most espresso enthusiasts are after. It all depends on your needs, but make sure your desired coffee grinder can handle all of the different types of coffee you want to drink.

Noise Level

Ultimately, if you’re shopping for a quiet coffee grinder, the noise level or decibels of your appliance should be considered. However, as previously mentioned, it’s a bit unrealistic to expect an electric coffee grinder to be silent or otherwise undetectable while it’s grinding. Keep an eye on reviews mentioning quietness while shopping for coffee grinders, but know that only a manual option will be incredibly quiet.

Additional Accessories

Chances are, you may need some additional accessories to complete your coffee grinding setup. One of the most important accessories to consider purchasing alongside your new grinder is an anti-static bin or grinding bowl for your grounds. Freshly ground coffee produces static and often sticks to the sides of the chute and certain containers awaiting the grounds. You may also need cleaning tools, a tamper, or a mat to help keep your coffee station orderly. Keep this in mind, especially in terms of your budget.

Here Are 6 of the Best Quiet Coffee Grinders in 2024

From reliable brands to aesthetic options, here are six quiet coffee grinders for you to consider. And, if none of these is quite what you’re looking for, a Curated Coffee and Espresso Expert is standing by to help you find your perfect fit!

Best for Espresso: Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder

With a fair price tag and a compact footprint, the Baratza Encore ESP is a straightforward grinder for any coffee enthusiast hoping to take their espresso game to the next level. While not an ideal fit for those seeking a grinder for multiple styles of coffee, the Baratza Encore ESP is an approachable and attractive appliance for espresso lovers of all skill levels.

Consistency and precision are important hallmarks of the Encore ESP. It has a modern, sleek design available in either black or white and is generally compact enough for any kitchen. Plus, the Encore ESP is durable, reliable, and quiet, utilizing advanced espresso-grinding technology to achieve an ideal grind day after day.

Compact Footprint: Fellow Ode Brew Grinder

While not made for espresso-ground coffee, the Ode Brew Grinder from Fellow is a unique, advanced choice for any other style of coffee. Not only has it been optimized with quietness in mind, but this grinder has upgraded burrs, bins, and so much more to make your mornings seamless and stress free.

With an auto-stop function, 31 grind steps, two-stage grinding geometry, and anti-static technology, the Ode grinder is full of features. It also offers a compact build, with the dimensions for this Fellow grinder under 10 inches, making it an ideal fit for any kitchen. Available in white or black, this grinder is a standout fit for anyone seeking a small, efficient, and pleasantly quiet grinder.

Aesthetically Pleasing: Zwilling Enfinigy Coffee Bean Grinder

Whether you opt for the Enfinigy in either black or silver, this grinder from Zwilling is going to look good. Not only is the Enfinigy quiet, but it’s capable and stunning in any kitchen. There’s a fair price on this option as well, making it well rounded and suitable for most budgets. While there are plenty of grind settings to choose from, this option may lose some precision when grinding for espresso; it’s primarily designed for drip coffee or coarser settings.

Entry-Level Price Point: Espressione Conical Burr Coffee Grinder

Ideal for drip coffee or other types of coarse coffee drinks, the Espressione conical burr grinder is a fantastic entry-level choice for both new baristas and budget-conscious individuals. The design of the Espressione grinder is simple, easy to intuit, and generally quiet, especially for the price.

With an anti-static bin with a dedicated storage lid and 15 grind sizes, this option from Espressione is ideal for those seeking efficient and evenly ground drip coffee grounds. Plus, there’s an integrated timer that measures your grounds based on how many cups of coffee you plan on brewing. It is fairly straightforward and comes complete with an easy button — a good trait to have in a coffee grinder!

Manual Option: BRUTREK Hand Grinder

Capable of holding up to 40 grams of freshly ground coffee, the BRUTREK hand grinder is a durable and manual option. Given its mode of operation, this grinder is virtually silent, making it an excellent choice for households needing some extra quiet in the morning, Plus, it’s portable and durable, ideal for camping or bringing your coffee outdoors. The only downside? You have to grind everything manually.

Most Grind Settings: Breville Smart Grinder Pro Coffee & Espresso Grinder

Not only does the Breville Smart Grinder Pro have enough grind settings for multiple types of coffee and espresso, but it can dose the grinds for you. With roughly 60 grind settings to customize, the Breville Smart Grinder Pro is a versatile and quiet fit for any kitchen. The conical burr design of this grinder helps keep your coffee consistent, lending to flavorful extractions. And the hopper can hold plenty of whole beans without taking up too much space on the average counter.

The Breville Smart Grinder Pro gives home baristas the option to grind into a container or directly into a portafilter. It works efficiently without clogging time and again, lending it a reliable reputation. Plus, its price point is fair for most budgets, making it an ideal upgrade for the well-rounded coffee drinker.

Let Curated Find the Quietest Coffee Grinder for You

Sometimes, seeking the advice of an expert makes a big difference. If you’re still questioning which quiet coffee grinder is best for your needs, reach out to a Curated Coffee and Espresso Expert for additional advice today!