What grind size should I use?
Quick answer
Match grind to contact time: coarse for French press (4 min immersion), medium-fine for pour over (2–3 min), fine for espresso (25–35 s). Wrong grind is the fastest way to get sour (too coarse) or bitter (too fine) coffee.
Grind size chart
| Grind | Looks like | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Extra coarse | Peppercorns | Cold brew (long steep) |
| Coarse | Sea salt | French press, cupping |
| Medium-coarse | Rough sand | Chemex, flat-bottom drip |
| Medium | Regular sand | Drip machines, some pour overs |
| Medium-fine | Table salt | V60, cone pour over |
| Fine | Fine salt | AeroPress (short steep), moka pot |
| Extra fine | Powder | Turkish, espresso |
How to fix taste with grind
- Sour, thin, sharp → grind finer (extract more)
- Bitter, harsh, dry → grind coarser (extract less)
Change one variable at a time. Pair grind fixes with the coffee troubleshooter.
Common questions
Can I use pre-ground coffee? Yes for beginners — buy grind labeled for your method.
Do I need an expensive grinder? A consistent burr grinder helps pour over and espresso most; French press is more forgiving.
What's the best grind for AeroPress? Start medium-fine, like table salt — adjust from there.
Use the method picker if you're still choosing equipment.