Food & Cooking

Verified calculator with a transparent formula

Food & Cooking

Coffee Grind Size Calculator.

Estimates a recommended coffee grind size setting based on brew method and roast level.

Results update live as you type.
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Your inputs

How it works

  1. 1

    Select your brew method from the dropdown.

  2. 2

    Select your roast level from the dropdown.

  3. 3

    The calculator outputs a recommended grind size setting on a scale from 1 (fine) to 7 (coarse).

((brew_method == 'espresso') ? 1 : (brew_method == 'moka') ? 2 : (brew_method == 'pour_over') ? 3 : (brew_method == 'french_press') ? 4 : 5) + ((roast_level == 'light') ? 0 : (roast_level == 'medium') ? 1 : 2)

Frequently asked questions

What does the grind size number mean?

It's a relative scale from 1 (very fine, like espresso) to 7 (very coarse, like cold brew). Adjust based on your grinder's settings.

Why does roast level affect grind size?

Darker roasts are more porous and extract faster, so they often need a slightly coarser grind to avoid over-extraction.

Is this calculator accurate for all grinders?

No, it's a starting point. Grinder calibration varies, so taste and adjust from the suggested setting.

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Results

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Grind Size Setting

0(1-7)

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Estimate for general guidance only — verify important decisions with an appropriate professional.

How it works

Estimates a recommended coffee grind size setting based on brew method and roast level.

  1. Select your brew method from the dropdown.
  2. Select your roast level from the dropdown.
  3. The calculator outputs a recommended grind size setting on a scale from 1 (fine) to 7 (coarse).

Formulas

The math behind this calculator, written out so you can verify the result.

Base grind by method

Espresso=1, Moka=2, Pour Over=3, French Press=4, Cold Brew=5

Each brew method has a typical grind fineness range.

Roast adjustment

Light=0, Medium=+1, Dark=+2

Darker roasts shift the grind coarser.

Real-world use cases

Where this calculation shows up in everyday life.

Brewing at home

Get a starting grind size when trying a new brew method.

Example: Switching from French press to pour over.

Dialing in a new grinder

Use the suggested setting as a baseline for calibration.

Example: First use of a new burr grinder.

Adjusting for roast

Fine-tune grind when changing roast levels.

Example: Moving from medium to dark roast beans.

Tips and common mistakes

Tips

  • Always start with the suggested setting and adjust based on taste.
  • If coffee tastes sour, grind finer; if bitter, grind coarser.
  • Keep your grinder clean for consistent results.
  • Use a scale to measure coffee and water for reproducibility.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using the same grind for all brew methods.
  • Ignoring roast level when adjusting grind.
  • Not adjusting for grinder differences.

Assumptions and limitations

  • Use the stated inputs and units.
  • Results are estimates for planning and education.
  • Check measurements and source data before making an important decision.