Grind Size Guide
BrewingMaster the art of coffee grinding with our comprehensive visual guide. The right grind size is crucial for proper extraction and optimal flavor.
← Back to ToolsCoffee Grind Size Chart
Extra Coarse
Like sea salt or breadcrumbs
Coarse
Like kosher salt
Medium-Coarse
Like coarse sand
Medium
Like table salt
Medium-Fine
Like fine sand
Fine
Like powdered sugar
Extra Fine
Like flour
Grind Size Troubleshooting
Too Fine?
Too Coarse?
Just Right!
Pro Tips
How To Use This Tool
Grind size controls contact area and flow rate, so it is usually the fastest way to fix extraction. This guide helps you match particle size to each brew method.
- 1
Filter by your brew method
Each method needs a different particle size because immersion and percolation extract differently.
- 2
Compare your current grind to the guide
Use it as a reference point even if your grinder does not use the same number scale.
- 3
Adjust based on taste and drawdown
If coffee tastes sour or watery, go finer. If it tastes bitter or the brew runs too slowly, go coarser.
Common Questions
Click a question to expand the answer.
Why do grinder numbers not match between brands?
Manufacturers use different burr sets, zero points, and adjustment ranges, so the same number rarely represents the same particle size.
Should I change grind before changing ratio?
Usually yes. Grind size tends to have the biggest impact on extraction quality, while ratio changes strength more directly.
How do I know if my grind is too fine for pour over?
Common signs include a slow drawdown, muddy cup, bitterness, and stalled flow even when your pour technique is reasonable.
Does stale coffee affect how grind changes taste?
Yes. Older coffee can behave differently in the brewer, so grind adjustments may feel less predictable than they do with fresher beans.