What grind size do I need for my coffee?

The size of the coffee grind can have a major impact on the flavour and strength of your brew. Here's a guide on how grind size affects your coffee, and how to choose the right grind size for your brewing method.


Grind size refers to the size of the particles that make up your coffee grounds. The finer the grind, the smaller the particles and the more surface area they have. This means that more flavour and caffeine can be extracted from the coffee grounds, resulting in a stronger and more intense cup of coffee. On the other hand, a coarser grind will produce a weaker, more mellow cup of coffee.
So how do you choose the right grind size for your coffee? It all depends on your brewing method.

Different grind size of coffee


For espresso; you'll want a very fine grind, almost like powder. This is because espresso is brewed under high pressure, and a finer grind will allow the water to extract more flavour and caffeine from the beans. If the grind is too coarse, the water will pass through the grounds too quickly, resulting in a weak and under-extracted shot.

For French press or cafetière; you'll want a coarser grind, as the longer steeping time allows the water to extract flavour from the beans even with larger particles. If the grind is too fine, it can seep through the press filter and create a muddy, over-extracted cup of coffee.

For drip coffee makers; you'll want a medium grind size. This allows the water to pass through the grounds at a moderate speed, extracting the right amount of flavour and caffeine without over-extracting. A finer grind can result in a bitter, over-extracted brew, while a coarser grind will produce a weak and under-extracted cup.

In summary, the grind size has a major impact on the strength and flavour of your coffee. To get the best results, be sure to match your grind size to your brewing method. Whether you prefer a strong and intense espresso or a mellow and smooth French press, the right grind size can make all the difference.