The Best Commercial Single-Dose Coffee Grinders in 2025: Precision, Versatility, and Performance

When it comes to delivering exceptional coffee, precision is key, and single-dose grinders are the cornerstone of achieving unparalleled consistency and flavour clarity. Designed to minimise retention, facilitate multiple coffee offerings, and prevent cross-contamination, these grinders are essential tools for cafés and coffee enthusiasts.

In this article, we review six top-performing single-dose grinders in 2024, scoring them across five key criteria: value for money, ease of use, grind consistency, speed and retention, and flavour clarity. Use this guide to select the best grinder for your café.

1. Mahlkönig EK43

– RRP in Australia: AUD 4,500

The Mahlkönig EK43 is a workhorse known for its durability and outstanding grind consistency. With 98mm flat burrs, it delivers uniform particle sizes that enhance nuanced flavours. However, its bulk and size might not suit smaller spaces.

Scores
– Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
– Grind Consistency: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Speed and Retention: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Flavour Clarity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Summary of Critique:
The EK43 is celebrated for its grind quality and durability, making it a great choice for cafés focusing on single-origin coffees and filter brewing. However, its size and price might be limiting for smaller operations.

Overall Score: 4.2/5

2. Mahlkönig EK Omnia

– RRP in Australia: AUD 6,000

Photo by bluecottagecoffeemy

The EK Omnia builds on the EK43’s legacy, integrating advanced features tailored for single-dosing. Its touch interface allows for recipe saving, and its 98mm burrs deliver exceptional consistency. While innovative, its interface may feel complex for some users.

Scores:
– Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
– Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
– Grind Consistency: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
– Speed and Retention: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
– Flavour Clarity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Summary of Critique:
The EK Omnia is designed for versatility and precision, making it ideal for high-end operations. However, its premium price and learning curve might deter smaller cafés.

Overall Score: 4.2/5

3. Mazzer ZM

– RRP in Australia: AUD 5,000

Photo by Mazzer official

The Mazzer ZM is engineered for precision and low retention. Its digital grind adjustments allow for repeatable settings, making it an excellent choice for cafés serving single-origin coffees. However, its grind consistency, while good, is not the absolute best.

Scores
– Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
– Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
– Grind Consistency: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
– Speed and Retention: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Flavour Clarity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Summary of Critique:
The ZM stands out for its precision settings and low retention but falls slightly short in grind consistency compared to other grinders at this price point.

Overall Score: 3.4/5

4. Bentwood Vertical 63

– RRP in Australia: AUD 4,300

Photo by Roaststaetteberlin

The Bentwood Vertical 63 blends stylish design with reliable functionality. Its 63mm flat burrs ensure even grinding, while its compact design suits smaller spaces. However, it doesn’t match the speed or clarity of its competitors.

Scores:
– Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
– Grind Consistency: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Speed and Retention: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
– Flavour Clarity: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)

Summary of Critique:
While the Bentwood Vertical 63 is stylish and compact, its performance isn’t as competitive in terms of speed or flavour clarity compared to other grinders in its class.

Overall Score: 3.4/5

5. Lagom P100

– RRP in Australia: AUD 4,500

Photo by Option O

The Lagom P100 is a compact grinder that balances versatility and performance. Its 98mm flat burrs and variable RPM control allow users to tweak flavour profiles, while its low retention and quiet operation make it practical for small spaces.</span>

Scores:
– Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Grind Consistency: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
– Speed and Retention: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
– Flavour Clarity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Summary of Critique:
Compact and versatile, the Lagom P100 is an excellent all-rounder for home and café use. Its advanced features and design justify the price, though its grind clarity could be slightly better.

Overall Score: 4.4/5

6. Mazzer Philos

– RRP in Australia: AUD 2,500

Photo by @bpla_cafe

The Mazzer Philos is designed for affordability and precision. Its zero-retention design and 64mm flat burrs provide reliable performance for espresso and filter brewing, making it an excellent entry-level single-dose grinder.

Scores:
– Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
– Ease of Use: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Grind Consistency: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
– Speed and Retention: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
– Flavour Clarity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Summary of Critique:
The Mazzer Philos offers strong value for cafés and home users. While not the fastest grinder, its zero-retention design and precision make it a solid budget-friendly choice.

Overall Score: 4.0/5

Conclusion

Each grinder on this list serves specific needs. The EK Omnia is an advanced option for high-end operations, while the Lagom P100 balances versatility and performance. The Mazzer Philos stands out for its affordability, and the EK43 remains a reliable industry benchmark.

Selecting the right grinder depends on your café’s budget, space, and operational priorities. A single-dose grinder is an investment that enhances your coffee programme, ensuring every cup reflects the highest standards of quality.

Need Advice on Setting Up Your Café?
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