Whether it’s part of your daily routine or an exotic indulgence, the way you grind those beans makes all the difference in the world. Manual or electric Turkish coffee grinders – that’s the eternal question. Here we will explore the pros and cons of both types, so you can see if modern grinders beat ancient ones or if they will need a few centuries more.
No matter which one you choose after reading this article, make sure to check out our recommendation for the best Turkish coffee grinders, there you will find both manual and electric ones.
Manual Turkish coffee grinders
While electric grinders offer convenience and speed, manual grinders represent craftsmanship and authenticity. Let’s take a closer look at how they work and the benefits and drawbacks of using them.
How do manual grinders work?
A manual grinder consists of a set of burrs or grinding mechanisms that crush the coffee beans when the handle is turned. The grind size can often be adjusted by tightening or loosening the burrs, allowing for a highly customized texture.
Here’s a quick step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Add beans: Place the desired amount of coffee beans in the top chamber.
Step 2: Adjust grind size: Adjust the grind size to your preference by manipulating the burrs.
Step 3: Turn the handle: Begin turning the handle in a rhythmic manner. This action forces the beans between the burrs, crushing them into a fine powder.
Step 4: Collect the grounds: Once the beans are ground, you can collect the coffee from the bottom compartment.
Pros and cons of manual Turkish coffee grinders
Let’s take a look at what are the good and bad sides when it comes to this type of grinder.
Pros
Authenticity: Manual grinders are considered the traditional way to grind Turkish coffee. You will find coffee shops in Istanbul that still use this centuries-old method to grind fresh coffee.
Control: The ability to control the grind size is crucial for a perfect cup of Turkish coffee because of the powder-like consistency that it requires.
No electricity needed: These grinders are perfect for outdoor activities. No matter if you are camping, hiking, or fishing, you can still enjoy a cup of fresh coffee.
Aesthetically pleasing: Thanks to their intricate design, manual grinders will be beautiful additions to your kitchen decor.
Cons
Time-consuming: Grinding by hand takes effort and time, which may not be ideal for everyone, especially during busy mornings.
Inconsistent grinds: You may need more practice until you figure out how to get a perfect grind size.
Physical effort: If you suffer from wrist or hand issues, the manual grinding process may be challenging.
Electric Turkish coffee grinders
The electric coffee grinder is the perfect example of hassle-free coffee making. It’s all about speed and simplicity. Just plug it in, add your beans, and with a push of a button, you have perfectly ground coffee in no time. No elbow grease needed!
If you’re someone with a busy schedule but you still want to enjoy freshly ground coffee, then an electric grinder is for you.
How do electric coffee grinders work?
At their core, they work on a simple principle – you add your coffee beans, select your desired grind size, and hit a button. Voila! Your coffee beans are ground to perfection. The grinder uses an electric motor to rotate the blades or burrs at high speed to crush the beans. The result is a quick, consistent grind that’s ready for brewing in seconds.
Pros and cons of electric Turkish coffee grinders
Now, let’s delve into the pros and cons of these high-tech grinding machines:
Pros
Speed and efficiency: Electric grinders are fast. They can grind a large quantity of coffee beans in a fraction of the time it would take a manual grinder.
Consistency: Electric grinders are known for their consistent grind. This consistency ensures that your coffee will taste the same every time.
Ease of use: With just a push of a button, you can get perfectly ground coffee, making them an excellent choice for coffee novices.
Cons
Noise: Some electric grinders can be quite noisy, which might not be ideal if you’re an early riser and don’t want to wake up the whole household.
Lack of control: While electric grinders offer consistency, they don’t provide the same level of control as manual grinders. If you’re a coffee lover who likes to fine-tune your grind size, this could be a drawback.
Durability: Electric grinders have more moving parts and rely on electricity, which could potentially lead to more breakdowns and a shorter lifespan compared to the robust, simple design of manual grinders.
Which one should you choose?
This question ultimately boils down to your personal lifestyle and coffee preferences. Both types of grinders can provide a good coffee grind, but they cater to different types of coffee lovers.
If you’re someone who values convenience, speed, and consistency above all else, an electric grinder is the way to go.
It’s perfect for busy individuals who don’t have the luxury of time in the morning. Just pop in your beans, press a button, and you’ve got perfectly ground coffee in seconds.
It’s also a wonderful choice for those who need to make several cups of coffee at once or for those just starting their coffee journey and want something easy to use.
On the other hand, if you’re a coffee enthusiast who enjoys the ritualistic aspect of coffee brewing, a manual grinder might be more up your alley. The manual grinding process allows you to connect with your coffee on a deeper level. However, if you want to go even a step further, there is an even older method for grinding Turkish coffee with mortar and pestle.
It gives you full control over the grind size, enabling you to fine-tune your coffee to your exact preference. Plus, the physical act of grinding can be quite therapeutic and rewarding.
Manual grinders are also a great choice for those who value portability and sustainability. Since they don’t require electricity, they’re perfect for camping trips or travel.
And because they have fewer parts that could potentially break down, they tend to last longer, making them a more sustainable choice in the long run.
My journey through renowned bars and coffee shops over five years, as a barista, coffee aficionado, and former bartender, has honed my pursuit for the perfect cup. My passion for coffee isn’t just about the brew—it’s about sharing the knowledge and insights I’ve gleaned along the way.
