Coffee Grind Size Guide

Coffee Grind Size Guide
How to Choose the Right Grind for Every Brew Method

Fresh coffee starts with the right grind. Even the best beans can taste bitter, sour, or flat if the grind size doesn’t match your brewing method.
This guide breaks down exactly which grind size to use, why it matters, and how to get consistent results at home—whether you’re just starting out or dialing in your daily brew.

Why Grind Size Matters
Grind size controls extraction—how quickly water pulls flavor from coffee. Matching grind size to brew method helps you get the most out of fresh, air-roasted coffee.

  • Too fine → bitter, harsh flavors
  • Too coarse → weak, sour coffee
  •  Just right → balanced, flavorful cup

Coffee Grind Size Chart (Quick Reference)

💡 Tip: Burr grinders give more consistent results than blade grinders.

 


ESPRESSO

Grind: Espresso:  
Espresso requires pressure. A fine grind slows water flow, creating proper extraction and crema.
Too coarse: watery shots
Too fine: bitter, slow shots
👉 Works best with freshly roasted espresso blends.

POUR-OVER  (V60, Chemex, Kalita)

Grind: Auto drip: 
A medium grind allows even flow and clarity of flavor.
Tip: If your coffee tastes sour, go slightly finer. If bitter, go slightly coarser.

DRIP COFFEE MAKER

Grind: Auto drip: Most automatic brewers are designed for a medium grind for balanced extraction.


MOKA POT (Stovetop Espresso)

Grind: Medium-Fine
: Moka pots brew with pressure, but not as much as espresso. A medium-fine grind keeps the flow steady and gives you a bold, rich cup without choking the filter.
💡 Tip: Pack the basket level (don’t tamp like espresso). If it tastes harsh, go a touch coarser or lower the heat.

AEROPRESS

Grind: Medium-Fine: (depends on recipe)
AeroPress is flexible: you can brew fast like espresso-style or slower like pour-over. Start at medium-fine for a short brew (1–2 minutes) and go medium for longer brew times or cleaner cups.

FRENCH PRESS

Grind: Coarse
 :A coarse grind prevents sediment and over-extraction during immersion brewing.
Avoid: fine grinds — they create sludge and bitterness.

COLD BREW

Grind: Coarse
: Cold brew steeps for 18–20 hours. A coarse grind keeps the flavor smooth and low-acid.
👉 Great for iced coffee and concentrate recipes.

Should You Grind at Home or Buy Pre-Ground? When it comes to choosing between pre-ground coffee and grinding at home, it really depends on what matters most to you. Grinding your coffee at home offers the best flavor and aroma because the beans are ground just before brewing, preserving the coffee’s natural oils. It also gives you more control, allowing you to adjust the grind size to perfectly match your brew method—whether that’s espresso, pour-over, or French press. Pre-ground coffee, on the other hand, is all about convenience. It’s a great option for busy mornings and works well when the grind is matched specifically to your brewing method. If you’re unsure which route to take, we’re always happy to grind your coffee for you to match your brewer, giving you the best balance of ease and quality.

Common Grind Size Mistakes

  1. Grinding too far in advance (coffee loses freshness quickly)
  2. Using one grind size for every method
  3. Using blade grinders that create uneven particles
  4. Ignoring water quality (filtered water matters!)

Recommended Air-roasted Coffees for Consistent Results

  • Medium roasts for pour-over and drip
  • Espresso blends for espresso & moka pot
  • Smooth Central American or Brazilian coffees for cold brew
    (You can link specific products here.)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use one grind size for everything?
 You can, but flavor will suffer. Matching grind size improves balance and consistency.
  • How often should I clean my grinder? 
Every 1–2 weeks for home use.
  • Does grind size affect caffeine?
Indirectly. Over- or under-extraction can change perceived strength.

Final Tip
Grind size is one of the easiest ways to improve your coffee at home. Pair the right grind with fresh, air-roasted beans and you’ll taste the difference immediately.
Explore our coffees and brew with confidence.