Coffee Bean Grinder at Target: What's Available and Is It Worth Buying There?
Target carries a decent selection of coffee bean grinders, typically ranging from $20 blade grinders up to $100 burr grinders. If you're looking for a quick pickup without waiting for shipping, it's a reasonable option. But the selection is limited compared to what you'll find online, and the models Target stocks tend to be entry-level.
I've bought two grinders from Target over the years, and I've browsed their coffee aisle more times than I can count. Here's my honest take on what you can expect to find, which models are worth grabbing, and when you'd be better off ordering from somewhere else.
What Coffee Grinders Does Target Usually Stock?
Target's grinder selection rotates, but certain brands show up consistently. You'll almost always find these on the shelf or available for same-day delivery:
Blade Grinders ($15-$30)
- Mr. Coffee blade grinders - The most common option. Usually around $20. They work, but blade grinders chop beans unevenly. You'll get a mix of powder and chunks in every batch.
- Hamilton Beach blade grinders - Similar price range and performance to Mr. Coffee. Nothing special, but functional for basic drip coffee.
Burr Grinders ($40-$100)
- Mr. Coffee Burr Grinder - Around $40-50. This is a flat burr grinder that produces more consistent grounds than any blade option. For drip coffee, it's perfectly acceptable.
- Cuisinart DBM-8 - Usually stocked around $50-60. A decent entry-level burr grinder. I owned one for about a year and it served me well for French press and drip.
- OXO Brew Conical Burr Grinder - When Target has it, this runs about $100. It's the best grinder you'll reliably find in the store and a solid choice for anyone starting their grinding journey.
Target's website sometimes shows additional options available for shipping, including models from Baratza and Breville that you won't find on the physical shelf.
Is Buying a Grinder at Target a Good Deal?
Here's the truth: Target's prices on grinders are competitive with Amazon for the models they carry. The Mr. Coffee blade grinder at $20 is the same $20 everywhere. Where Target falls short is selection, not pricing.
When Target Makes Sense
- You need a grinder today (same-day pickup is a real advantage)
- You want to see and hold the grinder before buying
- You have a Target gift card or RedCard for the 5% discount
- You're buying an entry-level grinder under $60
When You Should Shop Elsewhere
- You want a mid-range or high-end burr grinder (Target rarely stocks anything above $100)
- You're looking for specific models from Baratza, Fellow, or Breville
- You want to compare 15+ options side by side
- You're willing to wait 2-3 days for delivery
The 5% RedCard discount does stack with Target Circle deals, which occasionally include small appliances. I've seen coffee grinders included in "spend $50 on kitchen, get $10 back" promotions a few times per year.
Blade vs. Burr: Why It Matters for Your Purchase
If you're standing in the Target aisle trying to decide between a $20 blade grinder and a $50 burr grinder, go with the burr grinder every time. Here's why.
Blade grinders use a spinning blade (like a tiny blender) to chop beans. The result is wildly inconsistent particle sizes. Some beans get pulverized into dust while others barely get nicked. This inconsistency means your coffee extracts unevenly, producing a cup that's simultaneously bitter and weak.
Burr grinders crush beans between two abrasive surfaces set at a specific distance apart. Every particle comes out roughly the same size. The difference in your cup is immediately noticeable, especially with pour-over or French press.
Even the cheapest burr grinder at Target will produce better results than the most expensive blade grinder. I made the switch from blade to burr about eight years ago and the improvement was like going from instant coffee to fresh-brewed.
For a deeper comparison of the best burr grinders across all price ranges, check out our Best Coffee Bean Grinder guide.
Target's Coffee Grinder Return Policy
One advantage of buying at Target is their return policy. You get 90 days to return most small kitchen appliances, and if you have a RedCard, that extends to 120 days. That's a generous window to decide if a grinder works for you.
I've returned one grinder to Target (a blade grinder that I quickly realized wasn't cutting it). The process was painless. Brought it back in the box with my receipt and had my refund in five minutes.
What to Watch For
- Keep the original box and receipt for the full return window
- Target accepts returns without a receipt, but you'll get a store credit at the lowest recent price
- Opened grinders are still returnable within the window
- Check the specific model's return policy online, as some brands have different terms
Alternatives to Buying at Target
If Target's selection doesn't have what you need, here are the best alternatives:
Amazon - Largest selection by far. Most grinders ship in 1-2 days with Prime. You'll find everything from $15 blade grinders to $500+ premium burr grinders. The reviews are helpful for comparing models.
Bed Bath & Beyond / HomeGoods - Sometimes carries mid-range grinders at discount prices. Hit or miss on selection.
Specialty coffee retailers (Seattle Coffee Gear, Prima Coffee) - Best for high-end grinders. Staff actually knows coffee and can help you choose. Prices are the same as Amazon for most models.
Costco - Occasionally stocks excellent deals on Baratza and Cuisinart grinders. Worth checking if you have a membership.
If you're looking for espresso-specific grinding, our Best Espresso Bean Grinder roundup covers models that Target definitely won't have in stock.
My Recommendation for Target Grinder Shoppers
If you're set on buying from Target today, here's exactly what I'd do:
- Budget under $30: Skip the blade grinders. Save up for a burr grinder instead. If you absolutely must buy today, the Mr. Coffee blade grinder is the least bad option.
- Budget $40-60: Grab the Cuisinart DBM-8 or Mr. Coffee burr grinder. Both are solid entry-level choices for drip and French press.
- Budget $80-100: Get the OXO Brew if they have it. This is the sweet spot for Target's grinder selection.
- Budget over $100: Don't buy at Target. Order from Amazon or a specialty retailer where you'll have much better options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Target sell Baratza grinders?
Target.com occasionally lists Baratza models for shipping, but physical stores almost never stock them. If you want a Baratza, order directly from Baratza's website or Amazon for the best selection.
Can I use Target's price match policy for grinders?
Yes. Target price matches Amazon, Walmart, and several other retailers on identical items. Bring up the lower price on your phone at checkout and they'll match it. This applies to grinders as long as the model number is the same.
Are Target's store-brand coffee grinders any good?
Target doesn't currently sell coffee grinders under their Threshold or Room Essentials brands. All grinders at Target are from established appliance brands like Mr. Coffee, Cuisinart, and Hamilton Beach.
When does Target put coffee grinders on sale?
The best deals on small kitchen appliances at Target happen during Black Friday (November), Target Circle Week (usually spring and fall), and back-to-college season (August). You can save 20-30% during these events.
Final Thoughts
Target is a fine place to buy a basic coffee grinder, especially if you value same-day pickup and a generous return policy. Just know that you're choosing from a limited selection of mostly entry-level models. For anything above the beginner tier, you'll want to shop online where the full range of grinders is available. The best grinder is the one you'll actually use every morning, and if that means picking one up at Target on your next grocery run, there's nothing wrong with that approach.