The Best Herb Grinders You Can Get Today
There are two types of people who use herb grinder more often than others: people who smoke and people who enjoy cooking. In the first case, the herb grinder is used to shred tobacco. Many smokers prefer to make cigarettes on their own, combining tobacco in search of perfect and unique taste.
The other group are cooks: amateurs or professionals, they both use herb grinders for herbs and spices for cooking. If you’re into herb grinders, you’re on a great place: we’re going to help you find the best one for your kitchen!
What Are Herb Grinders?
Herb grinders are cylindrical devices with top and bottom halves. These halves can separate and have sharp pegs aligned in a way that, when turned at the same time they shred the material inside. They are typically made of wood, plastic or metal, and they come in different colors and designs. Top-quality grinders are made of stainless steel, titanium or anodized aluminum.
Many manufacturers use magnets to provide secure and simple lid closure system. In addition, a magnet that fastens the lid to the lower chamber and keeping it closed is very convenient when you need to transfer herbs, spices or tobacco in your pocket, backpack or handbag after shredding them.
For patients who suffer from arthritis, multiple sclerosis, gout or any other similar condition there are herb grinders with textured grips and ergonomic designs. Most commonly, herb grinders are used for shredding tobacco, weed, herbs or spices.
What to Look For In a Herb Grinder?
Compartments
Some herb grinders have more than one compartment. They can come with two or three compartments providing fine separation of bottom compartments from the compartments above.
Two-piece herb grinders have one compartment, also called one-compartment herb grinders. They are very easy for usage: just put the herb in it, shut it and turn it back and forth. The problem with this model is that sometimes (especially after using it for some time) it can be hard to remove all shredded pieces because only one compartment is used for both collecting and shredding tobacco/spices/herbs.
Three-piece herb grinders have two compartments, also called two-compartment herb grinders. These models have one additional compartment which is not used for shredding. The additional compartment is usually placed just below the grinding area. The purpose of this compartment is to collect the fine components that fall through during the grinding process. This way the shredded material is evenly spread.
Four-piece herb grinders have three compartments, also called three-compartment herb grinders. The third compartment is set apart from the rest, and it collects the kief (the crystals that contain THC).
Materials
There are four types of herb grinders:
1.Metal Herb Grinders
2.Plastic Herb Grinders
3.Wooden Herb Grinders
4.Electric Herb Grinders
Metal Grinders
Metal herb grinders are among the top quality grinders because they are almost indestructible and they last for extended periods. If you are planning to buy the metal herb grinder, think about buying the model with a coating on pegs. The coating provides extra hardness to the metal and sharpness of the pegs. This way the pegs will stay sharp much longer than regular pegs. The problem with metal grinders are:
- They are more expensive than other herb grinders’ models.
- They are pretty heavy and bulky.
Plastic Herb Grinders
A plastic herb grinder has many positive aspects, and that is why this grinder is very popular. Plastic grinders are very cheap but also very quality grinders. They are resistant and transparent (you can see through them into the grinding chamber). Also, plastic grinders are very light and easy for carrying in your pocket or purse.
There are not many problems with plastic herb grinders. If the low-quality plastic is used, the grinder can crack easily, so you will need to buy a new one. Also, static electricity causes persistent accumulation of extraneous remains from shredding. This means that if you have a plastic grinder, you need to clean it often (sometimes slapping of the both sides of the grinds together can help).
Wooden Herb Grinders
Wooden Herb Grinders have a very antique look. They are very light and practical for use. Also, wooden herb grinders feel comfortable in hand. There are two problems with wooden grinders:
1.Duration: After longer usage, the wooden pegs break.
2.Cleaning: Residual matter accumulates very quickly, so it needs to be cleaned all the time.
Electric Herb Grinders
Mostly used in the kitchen, they do the shredding of herbs and spices for you. Electric grinders use four AA batteries and have two speeds so you can choose between several levels of grind to get finer or more robust outcome.
The Best Herb Grinders Available Today Reviews
Let’s take a look at the reviews of the five Best Herb Grinders of our choice that you can get on the market today.
1. Platinum Grinders #1 Best Herb Grinder with Pollen Catcher – Large 2.5 Inch 4 Piece Black Aluminum
Platinum Grinders are created with the latest CNC technology with high-grade aluminum materials, which are built to last. These grinders are not painted but anodized, meaning they will not peel or flake. Powerful neodymium magnets will keep herbs in the grinder preventing odor and spillage. Friction is minimized with a thin Poly O-Ring, which will accommodate a very smooth milling process.
These grinders feature sharp cutting teeth, which are diamond-shaped allowing it to shred almost anything you put in the grinder. The SS mesh screen will filter finely ground pollen which is stored in the compartment below. It turned with ease scoring in the medium range for turning motion, as well as a finished product. However, we experienced some drawbacks concerning the herbs which were sticking to the teeth and were somewhat difficult to clean afterward.
This grinder proved to be an excellent product. The grind was good with a solid amount of herb to fit in the grinder. But be aware of the grooves around the teeth which managed to stick some herbs in them and opted for some advanced cleaning of the grinder. The cleaning itself was somewhat uneasy, unfortunately, but looking at the bright side – this grinder is very affordable and built to last placing it in the average category amongst other grinders on the market.
PROS
- Can last for a long time
- Optimum size of mesh screen
- Sharp metal teeth
- Affordable
CONS
- Herbs are sticking to the teeth
- Somewhat difficult to clean
- Small spices sometimes fall into the second compartment
2. Zip Grinders – Large Spice & Herb Grinder – Four Piece with Pollen Catcher – 3.25 Inches Tall – Premium Grade Aluminum (2.5″, Gold)
This grinder is 2.5 inch in diameter and 3.5 inches in height making it twice the size of an ordinary grinder. It has a big transparent chamber which can hold up to six tablespoons of herb allowing you to grind and store them at once. This grinder has easy-to-turn precision glide rings, which are combined with 49 sharp, diamond shaped teeth for smooth and consistent grinding. Also, it comes with a pollen scraper tool, 100-micron mesh screen, and a box.
This is one big grinder made with clear top and acrylic window. It has a transparent center section through which you can see herbals, tobaccos, and other ingredients as they drop into large collection chamber after being grinded. This device is sold with some tools to aid you with the grinding which we liked. The apparatus itself is performing in a smooth way allowing you to get enough herbs in the middle container. However, we noticed some metal shavings intermixed with weed after grinding which was troublesome and gave the unsafe impression of the product.
Considering the eye-catching design and some useful functionalities that it comes with, this grinder could easily come highly recommended. However, having said that, after a couple of uses we noticed some safety issues regarding the metal shavings intermixed with the weed giving the impression of the questionable quality of this particular grinder.
PROS
- Eye-catching design
- Comes with aiding tools
- Suitable for wide range of herbs
- Neodymium magnets on the lid
CONS
- Metal shavings intermixed with weed
- Questionable quality
- Too big and clunky
3. Golden Gate Grinders #1 Best Herb Grinder 2.5 Inch 4-piece Anodized Aluminum with Pollen Catcher – Large Black
The Golden Gate Grinders are made of anodized, aircraft-grade aluminum making them extremely durable. These grinders have CNC machined, diamond shaped and precisely cut teeth, which will grind the herbs finely without shredding them. They are made of four pieces and three compartments, and the fine Micron Stainless Steel Mesh should provide with the fine strain of the herbs.
Aircraft-grade anodized aluminum is a feature that we liked. It will allow you to go hard on the device, and still it will keep grinding without the concern that you will break the teeth or wear out after many uses. In addition, the sifter is made of steel mesh, which will allow any herb material to be extremely fine and great in quality after going through it. As for the design, it looks great, but some improvements could be made especially when it comes to size. The size is limited only to no more than 2.5-inch diameter and it only comes in one color.
Actually, there isn’t much to say negative about this grinder, although some improvements could be made regarding the size and color options which are not that important. What is important that it has good design and that it is quality-made with a lifetime warranty making it one of the best herb grinders on the market today.
PROS
- Aircraft-grade anodized aluminum
- Sifter is designed of steel mesh
- Good design and quality materials
- Lifetime warranty
CONS
- Some improvements could be made
- Limit in size measuring no more than 2.5 inches
- Comes in only one color
4. Masterdam 4-Piece 2.5-Inch Anodized Aluminum Herb Grinder with Pollen Catcher, Large, Purple
Masterdam Rolling Supplies was founded in Amsterdam with the goal of helping you achieve the best rolling experience. These grinders are made of aerospace-grade aluminum and 100% CNC machined pieces which should fit together perfectly. Included is the nylon ring which will prevent metal-to-metal aromatherapy as well as culinary infusions. Masterdam grinders are said to be easier on wrists.
This product features “Lion’s Tooth” sharp curved and diamond-shaped teeth, which can shred herbs with ease. Good-sized holes are ensuring only proper-size herbs will pass through them. However, it has been noted that it has some minor issues because it does not catch much pollen inside. Nevertheless, the teeth are sharp and grind well overall even though they are made of a cheap grade metal. It also features neodymium magnets in the lid for quick loading and securing herbs when grinding, but in our experience, they could be somewhat stronger. Overall, scratch-resistant and hard-anodized aluminum should ensure long-lasting durability.
This product proved to perform well when it comes to grinding which is, of course, its main purpose. It has a good size and is very lightweight and most importantly – it is cheap. But be aware of some minor drawbacks such as weak magnets and some faulty mechanic upon turning which could certainly be a deal breaker for some users. Also, it seems to catch a smaller amount of pollen, unfortunately.
PROS
- Very lightweight, nicely sized
- Sharp teeth, grinds well
- Good screen
- Cheap
CONS
- Does not catch much pollen
- Faulty mechanic upon turning
- Cheap grade of metal
- Magnets could be stronger
5. TOP Premium 5 PIECE Herb Grinder in Stylish Giftbox by FC- Unique 2.5” Aircraft Aluminum Mill with Diamond Teeth & Pollen Catcher for Spice Weed Tobacco. FREE Luxury Pouch, EBook & Scraper
These lightweight and durable five-piece grinders, made by Finest Collection, are designed to ensure that they will stand out in terms of quality and design respectively. Each FC Herb Grinder is milled from the one-piece aluminum using the latest CNC technology which will ensure that all parts will fit together tightly so they could be used interchangeably.
This means you can use this grinder as three or four-piece grinder when you want to bring a smaller grinder with you. This five-piece grinder has two filtration stainless steel mesh screens for fine pollen and the new octagon lid as well as the poly O-ring design which will provide better grip for easier grinding. However, the double screen setup will require frequent cleaning of both screens, which could be somewhat annoying. Also, the teeth feel a bit flimsy, but they are still sturdy enough and not easily broken.
Overall, this grinder does a good job when it comes to breaking down your herbs into an easily rollable and smoked product. The lid also has a nice fit which is held with strong neodymium magnets. However, this is a fairly large five-piece product which can bother some users, and it seems a bit cheaply made but still proves to be durable enough.
PROS
- The lid has a nice fit with neodymium magnets
- Performs well when breaking down the weed
- Design allows you to leave out a screen or even both
CONS
- Fairly large five-piece configuration
- Double screen set up require frequent cleaning of both screens
- The teeth are flimsy
Conclusion & Our Recommendation
After testing all five products, we’ve come to the conclusion that the best herb grinder of our choice is Golden Gate Grinders #1 Best Herb Grinder 2.5 Inch 4-piece Anodized Aluminum with Pollen Catcher – Large Black. This exceptional herb grinder is made of anodized, aircraft-grade aluminum which has proven to be extremely durable. It is made of four pieces and three compartments, and the fine Micron Stainless Steel Mesh should provide with the fine strain of the herbs.
The teeth of this product are diamond-shaped, CNC-machined and precisely cut; they grind herbs finely and without shredding them. This is also possible due to the steel mesh sifter allowing any herb material to be extremely fine and great in quality. Also, it comes with a lifetime warranty which gives us additional trust in this product.
When it comes to the design, we liked it very much since this product is made of quality materials. Of course, some improvements could be made since we would like to see more sizes since this grinder comes only in one size that is 2.5-inch in diameter and only in one color. Other than this minor drawback, there is nothing else negative to say about this grinder, and it does the excellent job making it our top choice and the best herb grinder on the market today.