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Motor type (DC vs AC)
Grinder motors are either direct current (DC, usually with a control board) or alternating current (AC, simpler, usually 1400 rpm).
Category: Grinders — Burrs & Build
DC motors run on direct current, have variable speed control, and can sustain lower RPMs without losing torque. AC motors run on alternating current at fixed speed (typically 1400 RPM), are simpler and cheaper, and dominate commercial-tier grinders.
Why it matters — Motor type affects grind heat, burr speed, and the kind of profile a grinder can produce. DC motors enable slow-spinning grinders (Mythos One, Mahlkönig E80 GBW, some Ceado) that produce cooler grinds and tighter distributions.
Good to know
- DC grinders often offer adjustable RPM, letting you tune burr speed for different coffees.
- AC grinders are simpler and more reliable long-term, but can't slow down without losing power.