Buying a Proctor Silex coffee grinder is like buying a Hamilton Beach grinder, except for a few differences. Given that Proctor-Silex’s parent company is Hamilton Beach, you should expect much of the same from their products. Their grinders are designed with the entry-level consumer in mind, and are typically some of the least expensive products in their range.
They adhere to standards set by competitors, but accomplish their goal at 50-75% of the cost to consumers. Surprisingly, Proctor Silex grinders are quite a bit more durable than their Hamilton Beach counterparts, with some reportedly lasting a decade or more.
About Proctor Silex coffee grinders
- Company info
- History
- Manufacturing
- Design
Proctor-Silex products focus on affordability, convenience, and aesthetics. The vast majority of Proctor-Silex products are constructed from plastic, with a minority featuring metallic trims or enclosures. Their design motifs include curved, futuristic silhouettes, which typically result in sleek and aesthetically pleasing appliances. Flat colors are also common with Proctor Silex products, with most designs featuring a glossy finish in either white or black.
The Best Proctor Silex Coffee Grinder of 2018
After wading through many existing coffee grinder reviews and product information, we have compiled a list that shows you the best Proctor Silex coffee grinder.
Based on features, convenience, performance, excellent build quality and great value for your money, we present you:
The Best Proctor Silex Grinder of 2018
1. Proctor Silex E160BY Fresh Grind Coffee Grinder
Not only is this the #1 Proctor Silex coffee grinder, it's also the only one you will find :-)
The E160BY is one of two Proctor Silex entry-level blade grinders. This particular model is the white version of the Fresh Grind, although its black counterpart is also available for purchase on the same Amazon listing. This Proctor Silex coffee grinder features a sleek, futuristic design, an aesthetic that will make most of your kitchen appliances look quaint in comparison.
Because the E160BY is a standard, entry-level blade grinder, its features are also fairly standard. Its high RPM motor and stainless steel blades pulverize your beans very quickly. Its firing mechanism, taking the form of a sleek little button on the side of the machine, can be fired in pulses to moderate grind coarseness.
The machine’s cord can be extended by pulling on it, or retracted by rotating the lid. For its inexpensive price, the machine is fairly durable, with customers reporting a life span of five years or longer.
This machine is competent at producing grinds for drip, espresso, and Turkish pot.
The drawbacks of this Proctor Silex coffee grinder are aplenty, mostly owing themselves to the fact that this is a blade grinder. Its high RPM motor degrades the aroma of your beans, the pulsing mechanism does not yield very consistent results, and grind uniformity is poor on anything but the finest grind. Static cling is also a recurring problem, with grinds either sticking to the lid or jumping out at the most inconvenient of times. The bowl is also a little smaller than most blade grinders, producing less than 10 cups of coffee in one session. The combination of small bowl size and an abundance of curved ridges in the design make this grinder fairly hard to clean.
Conclusion
The Proctor Silex E160BY is fairly standard, as far as blade grinders go. Given the device’s low price and apparent longevity, however, it is one of the best grinders under $20.
Pros
- Attractive futuristic design
- High RPM motor grinds quickly
- Stainless steel blades
- One of the cheapest grinders available
- urprisingly durable for price range
Cons
- High RPM motor degrades bean aroma
- Inconsistent grind results
- Poor grind uniformity
- Static cling leads to mess, hard to clean
- Small grinding bowl
Alternatives to the Proctor Silex coffee grinders
Top 10: The Best Selling Coffee Grinders
Based on sales figures and popularity, this list offers some of the best alternatives to the Proctor Silex grinders.
Top 10: Price vs. Quality Coffee Grinders
If you want to get the best bang for your buck then this is your list, no matter what budget you might be on.
The Best Coffee Grinder under $100
If you are willing to spend a bit more on a better grinder but don't want to spend too much, you're gonna love this list.
2. Proctor Silex E167CYR Fresh Grind Coffee Grinder
The E167CY is the second Proctor Silex entry-level blade grinder, identical to the E160BY in everything but color—which is now black. Although the machine still sports a sleek, futuristic form, its black plastic finish looks more standard, and will most likely fit in better alongside your other kitchen appliances.
The features list of the E167CY is identical to the previously outlined E160BY. It uses the same motor, the same stainless steel blades, the same sized grinding bowl, and the same pulse firing mechanism.
The retractable cord design is identical, as is the cord length. The only distinguish feature is the machine’s color, which may be a benefit to those looking to maintain a consistent style amongst their kitchen appliances.
As outlined in the E160BY article, this Proctor-Silex coffee grinder suffers from all the drawbacks associated with blade grinders. Degradation of coffee beans, inconsistent grinds, poor uniformity, and static cling are all issues here. The cord is still too short, and the grinds bowl still too small.
Although the device is still difficult to clean, its black color masks some of the buildup. It doesn't look quite as attractive as the white finish, however.
Conclusion
Given the low price and decent reliability of this Proctor-Silex coffee grinder, it offers a great value. Choosing between this model and the E160BY should come down to personal preference.
If you want a standout aesthetic that beckons the eye, go for the white. If you want a discreet device that fits in with the rest of your appliances, go for the black.
Pros
- Cheapest electrical blade grinder available
- Lid safety lock
- One button operation
- Convenient cord storage
- Competent for drip, espresso, and Turkish coffee
Cons
- Poor build quality and short shelf life
- Grinds are not uniform
- Toggle button is less convenient than “pulse” switches
- Not ideal for French press or cold brew
Other brands you might like
Cuisinart
Cuisinart has a number of budget grinders which are an excellent alternative for the Proctor Silex grinders.
Bodum
If you are searching for a great looking coffee grinder, Bodum has an excellent selection of good looking grinders.
Capresso
If you are willing to spend a bit more for your coffee grinder, Capresso offers a couple of excellent coffee grinders.