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Grind Size Translator

Convert grind settings between popular hand and electric coffee grinders.

Comandante C40

24-28

clicks

Baratza Encore

15-20

numbers

Full Comparison

MethodComandante C40Baratza Encore
Turkish5-81-3
Espresso10-145-8
Moka Pot15-188-12
AeroPress20-2413-18
Pour Over24-2815-20
Chemex28-3020-25
French Press30-3426-30
Cold Brew34-3830-36

About Grind Size Translation

Every coffee grinder uses a different scale. Hand grinders like the Comandante C40 measure in clicks, while electric grinders like the Baratza Encore use a numbered dial. When you switch grinders or follow a recipe written for a different model, you need to translate the setting to your own equipment. This tool maps the approximate equivalent settings across seven popular grinders for eight common brew methods.

Keep in mind that grind size is only one variable. Bean origin, roast level, dose, water temperature, and brew time all interact with grind to determine extraction. Use these translations as a starting point and adjust based on taste. If your coffee tastes sour or watery, try grinding finer. If it tastes bitter or astringent, try grinding coarser.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I convert grind settings between grinders?
Select your current grinder in the "From" dropdown and the grinder you want to translate to in the "To" dropdown. Then pick a brew method. The tool shows both settings side by side so you can dial in the equivalent grind on your new grinder. The full comparison table below lets you see all brew methods at once.
Are grind size translations exact?
No. Grind translations are approximate guidelines, not precise conversions. Every grinder has a different burr geometry, adjustment mechanism, and calibration tolerance. Two grinders of the same model can produce slightly different results at the same setting. Use these numbers as a starting point, then adjust by taste. Brew a small test batch and fine-tune from there.
What grind size should I use for pour over?
Pour over typically calls for a medium to medium-fine grind, roughly the texture of table salt. On a Comandante C40 that is around 24-28 clicks, on a Baratza Encore around 15-20, and on a Niche Zero around 30-38. If your brew drains too fast, go finer. If it stalls or tastes bitter, go coarser.
What grind size should I use for espresso?
Espresso requires a fine grind, similar to powdered sugar. On a Comandante C40 that is around 10-14 clicks, on a 1Zpresso JX-Pro around 18-24 clicks, and on a Baratza Sette 270 around 3-9 on the dial. Espresso is the most grind-sensitive method, so small adjustments make a big difference. Aim for a 25-30 second shot pulling about 36g of liquid from 18g of coffee.
Why do different grinders need different settings?
Each grinder uses a different burr size, shape, and adjustment step size. A hand grinder like the Comandante uses small click increments, so 28 clicks produces a medium grind. An electric grinder like the Baratza Encore uses a numbered dial with larger steps, so the same medium grind might be around 15-20. The underlying particle size is similar, but the number on the dial depends entirely on the grinder design.
What is the best grinder for beginners?
For electric grinders, the Baratza Encore is widely recommended as a reliable, affordable starting point that covers filter brew methods well. For hand grinders, the Timemore C2 offers excellent value with consistent results across most methods. If you primarily make espresso and have a larger budget, the Niche Zero and Baratza Sette 270 are popular choices with precise fine-grind adjustment.