My New Life-Changing Coffee Bean Grinder

Today, my coffee game went to the next level. My new DeLonghi coffee bean grinder arrived! It’s been nothing short of transformative. After reading about how quickly the flavour of pre-ground coffee deteriorates, I decided it was time to invest in my first grinder. Until now, I’d been using pre-ground coffee with my French press, but the results were disappointing. The coffee was flat and bitter, and needed copious amounts of milk to make it palatable. My research suggested that the pre-ground coffee was likely causing this, so I decided to take the plunge and remedy the situation.

The DeLonghi Coffee Grinder

Why I Chose the DeLonghi Grinder

The DeLonghi grinder caught my attention during a Black Friday sale as it was nearly half off (yes, I’m a sucker for being manipulated by sales). After some digging, I learned it’s highly recommended as an affordable yet quality option for beginners. One crucial tip I discovered in my research was the importance of choosing a burr grinder over a blade grinder. Unlike blade grinders, which act more like blenders and often produce inconsistent grounds, burr grinders use two cog-like mechanisms to achieve even grinding. This consistency is key for balanced percolation and, ultimately, a better-tasting cup. While burr grinders are slightly pricier, the improvement in flavour makes them well worth the investment.

Setting It Up - Surprisingly Simple

When my grinder arrived, I was thrilled to find it easy to set up. A quick rinse of the removable containers and a simple wipe-down of the interior, and it was good to go. The controls are refreshingly intuitive too. A side dial lets you adjust the grind size, while a front dial sets the number of cups to grind. The minimum grind setting is two cups, but if you’re only making one, the extra grounds can be stored in a container in the freezer for later. Make sure you put them in the freezer as that’s the best way to maintain the freshly-ground taste. Apparently ground coffee flavour can deteriorate in a matter of hours!

The First Grind

From the moment the grinder started humming, I could tell this was going to be a game-changer. The fresh coffee aroma was absolutely incredible and so much better than anything I’ve experienced with pre-ground coffee. When I brewed my first cup in the French press, the difference was night and day. Gone was the harsh, bitter flavour I’d been tolerating; instead, I enjoyed a delicate, faintly fruity profile.

Even more surprising? I could drink it black—something I’ve never been able to do with pre-ground coffee. Typically, I drown my coffee in milk if needed to mask the bitterness, but this time, I didn’t need to. It was smooth, flavourful and incredibly satisfying on its own.

Why a Grinder is Worth It

If you’re serious about coffee, investing in a burr grinder like the DeLonghi is a no-brainer. It’s an affordable way to elevate your morning ritual and enjoy coffee as it’s meant to taste. Whether you’re new to grinding your own beans or just looking for a budget-friendly option, I highly recommend this machine.

For me, this marks the start of a whole new coffee experience. If my first cup is any indication, I don’t think I’ll ever go back to pre-ground coffee again.