coffee guide

coffee grind size plays a fundamental role in unlocking your coffee’s full flavor potential. the right grind size ensures optimal extraction by controlling how water interacts with the coffee grounds during brewing. each brewing method works best with a specific grind size — too coarse or too fine can impact taste, resulting in under-extracted sourness or over-extracted bitterness.

understanding coffee grind sizes

grinding coffee beans is a critical step in brewing the perfect cup, as it directly affects extraction and flavor. different brewing methods require different grind sizes to optimize taste and balance.

why grind size matters

the grind size controls how much surface area of the coffee is exposed to water, influencing the brewing time and extraction quality. too coarse a grind can lead to under-extraction, resulting in weak, sour flavors. too fine a grind might cause over-extraction, producing bitterness and harshness.

coarse grind

resembles sea salt, with visible, chunky particles. ideal for french press, percolator, and coffee cupping

medium coarse

gritty texture, between coarse and medium, like rough sand. used for chemex and some specialty pour-over methods

medium

texture is more towards regular sand. common in pre-ground coffee for drip coffee makers and siphon brewers.

medium fine

smoother than sand but not powdery. suits cone-shaped pour-overs, aeropress (with 2-3 minute brew), and vacuum brewers.

fine

texture is smooth and floury, close to powdered sugar. essential for espresso machines at home or workplaces.

espresso fine

powdery, like flour. mostly used for turkish coffee, which requires a very fine grind to fully extract in a short time.

choosing the right grind size for your brew

matching your coffee grind size to the brewing method ensures balanced extraction, smooth flavor, and optimal aroma. using a burr grinder helps achieve consistent particle sizes, crucial for brewing excellence. experimenting within each grind size range can help you discover your perfect cup.