Electric spice grinders have had a recent boom in popularity over manual models due to their speed, ease of use, and convenience. However with all that variety comes choice: there are many different kinds available for purchase these days. Here we’ll be going over the factors you should consider when buying one of these devices.

Capacity

Do you need to grind small amounts of spices? Are you grinding for large groups or high volume recipes? Some can only hold a few tablespoons of spice; others can hold an entire cup! There are also models that are designed for both dry and wet grinding, which means they’re useful in the kitchen and elsewhere. You should know that if you plan on using your grinder for other things like coffee beans, nuts, or seeds, it’s likely not going to be as effective these products as it is with herbs.

Power source

There are three main power sources to look for on an electric grinder: AC adapter, batteries, or a USB. An AC adapter is the most common choice because it’s useful in a variety of situations. Batteries are useful if you’ll mostly be using your device outdoors or on the go. USB is still uncommon, but can be quite handy if you travel a lot and want to take your spice grinder with you.

Construction

Not only does this factor affect how easy it is to use, but it also affects how easy it is to clean. Plastic and silicone construction is most common- they’re both dishwasher safe (with the exception of some plastic pieces), and can withstand hot temperatures. Stainless steel is just as easy to clean, but you should avoid putting it in the microwave or dishwasher. Wooden models are naturally the most eco-friendly, but they can be hard to find.

Price

Electric spice grinders can be priced anywhere from $20-$50. You should have no problem finding a suitable model for under $30, but if you’re looking for a high-quality device, expect to pay more. It can be hard to stay within your budget when there are so many options available, but do your research and you’ll find the perfect grinder soon enough!

Ease of Use

The ease of use is greatly affected by the type of construction your grinder has. Most models have a safety lock, making it difficult to accidentally turn it on while in storage. An LED or digital readout can make reading your measurements easier, but it’s not always necessary. If you’ll be using your grinder to grind both herbs and other products, like coffee beans or nuts, then the use of a separate compartment is ideal.

Storage

This factor may seem insignificant at first glance- after all, what’s the point in buying an electric spice grinder if you don’t plan on using it? However there are several devices out there designed for travelers who want to take their spice grinding experience with them wherever they go. They’re highly convenient, but may be less sturdy than their peers.

Do you need to grind herbs, coffee beans, or both?

This is one of the most important factors to consider. If you already have an electric spice mill but are looking for something a little more versatile, there are many models out there that can do the job. If you’re looking for a new electric grinder, make sure to take a look at models designed for grinding coffee beans and nuts.