Usually, no. If your espresso machine has a built-in grinder with adjustments that work for espresso, you can start with it. A separate grinder is optional—useful when your machine has no grinder or its range or workflow does not suit you, but not automatically a way to make better espresso.
How to decide whether you need another grinder
Check your machine and routine against these questions before buying anything:
- Does the machine include a grinder? Some machines are designed to grind directly into the portafilter. For example, Breville describes that setup on the Barista Express BES870XL: Breville Barista Express BES870XL.
- Can you adjust it finely enough for espresso? Espresso dialing-in often calls for small grind changes. Baratza advises changing the setting in small increments while keeping the dose consistent: Baratza’s guide to dialing in espresso.
- Does the workflow suit you? Consider how you want to dose and grind each day, and whether you also want to grind for coarser brewing methods.
If the built-in grinder gives you usable adjustments and a convenient routine, there is no need to add another one just because the machine is an espresso machine. If it cannot grind suitably for your shots, or your preferred workflow requires a different setup, a standalone espresso grinder is a reasonable option.
What a separate grinder can offer
A standalone grinder is an option when your machine has no grinder or the integrated one no longer meets your needs. Compare its espresso-range adjustability and its suitability for other brewing methods with what you actually make. For example, Baratza describes the Encore ESP Pro as covering espresso-fine to coarse settings and offering stepless adjustment. Those features make it one example to consider, not a universal recommendation or proof that a separate grinder produces better-tasting espresso.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
How to dial in the grinder you have
Baratza offers a starting recipe of 18 g of ground coffee yielding 36 g of espresso in 25–32 seconds. Treat it as a starting point, not a rule: the right result can vary with the coffee, machine, and your preferences.
- Start with a consistent dose and note the espresso yield and shot time.
- If the shot runs fast and tastes sour, Baratza’s guide suggests adjusting finer. If it runs slowly and tastes bitter, it suggests adjusting coarser.
- Make small grind changes, then pull another shot while keeping the dose consistent so you can judge the effect.
The Encore ESP manual describes a dedicated espresso adjustment range and says small changes may be needed to fine-tune a shot. Its suggested starting setting is based on a medium roast and an 18 g dose; roast and dose can change the appropriate setting. The manual is dated January 2023, version 1.0: Baratza Encore ESP operations manual.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Integrated or separate: a practical comparison
| Consideration | Integrated grinder | Separate grinder |
|---|---|---|
| Whether you need to buy one | May already be included; check your machine’s specifications. | Optional if the machine lacks a grinder or its current setup does not meet your needs. |
| Espresso adjustment | Check whether its range lets you make small enough changes for your shots. | Look for espresso-range adjustment; some models also cover coarser settings. |
| Daily workflow | Can grind directly into the portafilter on machines designed for that arrangement. | May suit a different dosing routine or let you keep grinding separate from the machine. |
| Other brew methods | Check whether its adjustment range also suits the methods you use. | Consider whether you want espresso-fine through coarse settings; the Encore ESP Pro is one cited example. |
Bottom line
Use the built-in grinder if it can be adjusted for your espresso and fits your routine. Buy a separate grinder only when you need its range or workflow—not because a second grinder is inherently required for espresso.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
