Stepped adjustment

A grind-adjustment system with fixed click-stops — for example, 40 distinct steps from espresso-fine to filter-coarse. Common on entry-level grinders.

Why it matters — Stepped grinders make it easy to return to a known setting (just count clicks). But for espresso, the steps may be too coarse to dial in precisely — one click can be the difference between a great shot and a slow choker.

Good to know

• Most stepped grinders perform fine on filter coffee, where small adjustments matter less.
• For espresso, stepless adjustment (or very fine stepped systems like 1Zpresso's "click" detents) gives much finer control.