Le Compact Burr Mill

How long does it take to grind enough for one cup?

About 60 to 90 seconds for a single cup, depending on grind size and how fast you crank. Finer grinds take a little longer. Coarse grinds go faster.

Why ceramic burrs instead of steel?

Ceramic stays cool while you grind, so it won't heat the grounds and push out bitter notes. It also holds its edge far longer than stainless steel and runs quieter.

How do I change the grind size?

Turn the numbered adjustment dial under the hopper. Lower numbers tighten the burrs for fine espresso grinds, higher numbers open them up for coarse French press. Empty the chamber before adjusting, then load fresh beans.

How does the catch jar attach?

The clear catch jar twist-locks onto the base, lining up the open and closed padlock marks on the body. Twist to lock it while you grind, twist back to lift it off and pour.

Does the red, silver or brown Le Compact Burr Mill grind differently?

No. All three finishes share the same ceramic conical burr and 304 stainless steel body, so the grind is identical. Silver is brushed stainless, wood-grain brown looks warmer, red stands out on the counter.

Can I grind pepper or spices in it?

Yes. It is made for coffee beans, pepper, spices and grains. Grind a tablespoon of raw white rice and rinse the burr chamber before going back to coffee, so flavors do not mix.

Is the 340 g Le Compact Burr Mill small enough for a backpack?

Yes. It is 18 cm tall and 5.1 cm wide (18 x 5.2 cm) and weighs about 340 g. The crank handle folds flat or comes off for packing.

Can I wash it with soap?

Not the burrs. Rinse them with warm water and a brush only, since ceramic is porous and can hold detergent. The clear catch jar can go in warm soapy water.

How do I clean a manual coffee grinder?

Tap out the grounds after each use and brush the burrs dry. Once a month, take it apart and brush out the fines. Water depends on the burr: the Kona's cast iron burr and the Voyager's steel burr should stay dry to avoid rust, while the Le Compact Burr Mill can be rinsed without soap and dried fully. The Precision Manual Grinder is hand wash only, never the dishwasher. Each page has care steps.

I need a light hand grinder for backpacking. How heavy are yours?

The lightest is the Le Compact Burr Mill, about 340 g, 18 cm tall, with ceramic conical burrs and a folding crank. The Voyager Hand Grinder weighs about 640 g, with a conical steel burr, a numbered click dial and a crank that folds against the body; it takes about 15 g per fill, roughly one cup.

Is there a coffee grinder that fits in a backpack for travel?

Yes. The Le Compact Burr Mill is 18 cm tall, about 350 ml, with ceramic conical burrs and a 304 stainless body. The Voyager Hand Grinder has a folding crank and packs flat, about 15 g per fill. The Precision Manual Grinder has a handle that folds and lifts off. More: our portable grinders.

Gift for a coffee lover who travels a lot?

The Le Compact Burr Mill is about 340 g with ceramic burrs and a folding crank. For espresso on the road, the Nomad Capsule Press charges over USB-C and pulls an 18-bar shot with hot water. A simpler gift is the Nomad Press Mug. See our travel coffee makers.