Alright, friend — pull up a chair and grab a mug. Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough credit in the home coffee world: grind size. You can buy the best beans on the planet, but if your grind’s off? Well… that cup’s gonna be a little sideways.
Think of this as your no-nonsense, no-snobbery coffee grind size guide — straight from Ol’ Man Dilworth himself.
So… What Is Coffee Grind Size, Anyway?
Grind size is exactly what it sounds like: how fine or coarse your coffee beans are after grinding. But here’s the kicker — grind size controls how fast water extracts flavor from coffee.
- Too fine? Bitter city.
- Too coarse? Sour and sad.
- Just right? That's the good stuff.
Different brew methods need different grind sizes because water hangs out with the coffee for different amounts of time. Espresso’s a quick handshake. French press is a long, slow conversation.
Why Grind Size Matters (More Than You Think)
Here’s the deal: coffee brewing is all about extraction — pulling the good flavors out of the bean.
- Fine grounds slow water down → stronger, more intense extraction
- Coarse grinds let water pass quickly → lighter, cleaner cups
If your coffee tastes:
- Bitter or harsh → grind’s probably too fine
- Weak or sour → grind's likely too coarse
Nine times outta ten, when someone says “my coffee tastes off,” the grind size is the culprit sneaking around in the background.
Matching Grind Size to Brew Method
We've made a printable guide for you to use at home to master the size of the grind.
Coffee Grind Sizes (From Fine to Coarse)
Here’s the Ol’ Man Dilworth breakdown — no charts taped to the fridge required.
Extra Fine Grind
Feels like: Powdered sugar
Best for: Turkish coffee
Unless you’re brewing coffee the old-old-school way with sand and patience, you probably won’t need this one.
Ol’ Man Dilworth’s take:
“Respect the history, but maybe sit this one out unless you know what you’re doing.”
Fine Grind
Feels like: Table salt
Best for: Espresso
Fine grinds create resistance, which is exactly what espresso needs. Pressure + fine coffee = rich, syrupy magic.
Dilworth tip:
Too fine and your shot chokes. Too coarse and it runs like a scared dog. Dial it in.
Medium-Fine Grind
Feels like: Slightly gritty sand
Best for: Pour-over (Kalita, Chemex), AeroPress (short brew)
This is where clarity lives. Bright flavors, balanced cups, and happy mornings.
Medium Grind
Feels like: Regular beach sand
Best for: Drip coffee makers, Aeropress (standard brew)
If you’re brewing coffee at home with a standard machine, this is your sweet spot.
Ol’ Man Dilworth’s take:
“The blue jeans of grind sizes. Reliable, comfortable, and always appropriate.”
Medium-Coarse Grind
Feels like: Rough sand
Best for: Chemex (longer brews)
Chemex filters are thick, so this grind keeps things from getting muddy while letting flavors shine.
Coarse Grind
Feels like: Chunky sea salt
Best for: French press, cold brew
Big grinds, long brews, bold flavor. No paper filter means oils stay right where they belong — in your cup.
Dilworth wisdom:
“If your French press tastes gritty, slow down and go coarser.”
Whole Bean vs Pre-Ground: What Should You Buy?
Here's Ol' Man Dilworth being honest with you:
- Whole bean = freshest flavor
- Grinding right before brewing = better coffee
- Pre-ground = convenient, but less flexible and becomes stale
If you're serious about improving your coffee at home, a burr grinder is one of the best upgrades you can make. Doesn't have to be fancy—just consistent.
Troubleshooting: Fixing a Bad Cup Fast
Before you blame the beans, ask yourself:
- Is it too bitter? Grind a little coarser
- Is it too sour or thin? Grind a little finer
- Is it inconsistent every time? Your grinder might be the issue
Small adjustments go a long way. Coffee's forgiving—it just wants your attention.
Final Sip from Ol' Man Dilworth
Grind size isn't about rules—it's about control. Once you understand it, you can tweak your brew to match your taste, your morning, your mug.
Use this printable coffee grind size guide as your starting point, then trust your taste buds. They've got opinions, and frankly, they're usually right.
Now go grind something good.
