Using two revolving abrasive conical grinders to mill coffee beans or spices instead of a spinning blade, the Breville Conical Burr Grinder BCG450XL does not generate heat that can destroy the aroma and taste of the coffee or spices. In order to further guarantee that heat is kept to a minimum, the rotation of the grinders is kept slow. Coffee and spices are forced in between the two grinders where they are crushed with only negligible friction. The distance between these two can be pre-set by the user thus determining the texture or consistency of the grounds.
An additional advantage of burr grinders is that as the food is squeezed, it releases its oil making them more flavorful.
The grinder has an attractive design combining a stainless steel body with a vertical black trim and a polymer base. The clear plastic hopper rests at the top while another clear receptacle at the bottom right of the grinder catches the grounds. The hopper can hold up to half a pound of coffee or spices and it is removable making it easy to clean or wash. The receptacle at the bottom is likewise removable. At the base of the grinder is a storage area where you can keep the electric cord when not in use.
A grind selector control is mounted just under the hopper which allows the setting of the grounds’ texture, from super fine to coarse. Near the bottom are the power on/off button and a knob for setting the time for grinding. This can be as long as 30 seconds.
It is advisable, however, that if you use the Breville Conical Burr Grinder BCG450XL to grind spices, you have to clean it thoroughly before using it to grind coffee. Better yet, have one exclusively for spices and another for coffee.