Best Espresso Grinder Under $200 (2026)
1Zpresso JX-Pro ($159) matches $400+ electrics. Baratza Encore ESP ($199) is the best electric. Top budget grinder picks for real espresso.
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Take Our QuizYour grinder determines your espresso ceiling more than your machine. A $200 grinder with a $300 machine will outperform a $400 machine with a budget grinder every time. Here's what actually works under $200.
Quick picks
| Grinder | Price | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baratza Encore ESP | $199 | Electric | Best overall budget electric |
| 1Zpresso J-Max | $159 | Manual | Best manual, rivals $400 electrics |
| Timemore C3 ESP PRO | $79 | Manual | Budget manual option |
Best electric: Baratza Encore ESP ($199)
The Baratza Encore ESP is purpose-built for espresso. The standard Encore can't grind fine enough, but this ESP version has 40 micro-step adjustment specifically calibrated for espresso extraction.
Baratza's customer service is legendary. They'll troubleshoot problems over the phone and sell replacement parts at reasonable prices. The grinder is designed to be serviced for years, not discarded when something wears out.
Best manual: 1Zpresso J-Max ($159)
The 1Zpresso J-Max produces grind quality rivaling electric grinders costing $400+. The trade-off is 30-60 seconds of hand grinding per dose. Many people find this meditative rather than annoying.
With 400 grind settings, you can dial in with precision that budget electrics can't match. Zero retention means every ground goes into your portafilter, not stuck in the chute.
Budget manual: Timemore C3 ESP PRO ($79)
The Timemore C3 ESP PRO is the cheapest grinder we'd recommend for espresso. S2C burrs designed for espresso-fine grinding, full metal body, and enough adjustment range for proper extraction.
Perfect for testing whether espresso is for you without major investment. If you get serious, upgrade to the 1Zpresso or Baratza.
What to avoid
Generic blade grinders won't work for espresso. Period. Even cheap burr grinders marketed for "espresso" often can't grind fine enough.
Common questions
Is manual or electric better for espresso?
Manual grinders offer better value. The 1Zpresso at $159 matches $400+ electrics. Trade-off: 30-60 seconds of hand grinding. Electric is more convenient but costs more for equivalent quality.
Can you get a good grinder under $100?
The Timemore C3 ESP PRO at $79 is decent for beginners. For serious espresso, budget $150-200 minimum.
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Can you get a good espresso grinder for under $200?
Yes. The 1Zpresso J-Max manual (around $159) produces grind quality rivaling $400+ electric grinders. The Baratza Encore ESP (around $199) is the best electric option at this price.
Is manual or electric grinder better for espresso?
Manual grinders offer better value - the 1Zpresso J-Max at $159 matches $400+ electrics. Trade-off: 30-60 seconds of hand grinding per dose.
What's the cheapest grinder for good espresso?
The Timemore C3 ESP Pro at around $79 is decent for beginners. For serious espresso, the Baratza Encore ESP at $199 is the floor we'd recommend.
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