Overview
The Graef CM800 is a German-made grinder with 40 grind settings covering a wide range from espresso to French press. The flat burrs deliver consistent results, and the portafilter holder makes espresso grinding convenient. German build quality means reliable operation and durability above its price class. The CM800 is popular in European markets as a solid all-around home grinder with genuine German engineering pedigree.
The Graef CM800 features a 40mm flat burr set, crafted from steel. The burrs spin at 1400 RPM, offering fast grinding for high-volume use. Grind retention is approximately 2.0g, typical for a hopper-fed workflow.
At $120, the Graef CM800 is aimed at home baristas seeking a solid grinder without a premium price tag. With a 350g hopper, it's designed for a traditional hopper-fed workflow. The flat burr design produces a more uniform particle distribution, prized for clarity and sweetness in the cup.
The Graef CM800 is weighing 2.8 kg, manufactured in Germany, powered by a 128W motor. Its footprint measures 136 x 243 x 398 mm (W×D×H).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Flat burr geometry produces highly uniform particle distribution, prized for clarity and sweetness in espresso
- Excellent value for money — capable espresso grinding at an accessible price point
- Well-regarded in the home espresso community for consistent grind quality in its price bracket
Cons
- Stepped grind adjustment may not allow fine enough tuning between settings for espresso
- Not optimized for single dosing — hopper-fed design may result in some grind exchange between doses
Full Specifications
| Brand | Graef |
|---|---|
| Model | Graef CM800 |
| Category | Flat Burr |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Year Introduced | 2017 |
| Burr Size | 40 mm |
| Burr Material | Steel |
| Burr Type | 40mm flat |
| Grind Speed | 1400 RPM |
| Retention | 2.0 g |
| Single Dose | No |
| Stepless Adjustment | No |
| Hopper Capacity | 350 g |
| Motor Wattage | 128 W |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 136 x 243 x 398 mm |
| Weight | 2.8 kg (6.2 lbs) |
| MSRP | $120 |
Our Verdict
The Graef CM800 uses flat burrs, which are the preferred geometry for espresso among competition baristas and specialty coffee professionals. Flat burrs produce a more unimodal (uniform) particle distribution, which translates to cleaner, sweeter espresso with more clarity than conical alternatives. At under $500, it's an accessible entry into flat burr grinding. Pair it with a machine that does justice to the grind quality, and you'll taste the difference in every shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Graef CM800 grind fine enough for espresso?
Yes, the Graef CM800 is capable of grinding fine enough for espresso. You may need to experiment with the stepped settings to find the sweet spot for your beans.
Why choose flat burrs in the Graef CM800?
Flat burrs produce a more uniform (unimodal) particle distribution compared to conical burrs. This translates to cleaner, more transparent espresso flavors with pronounced sweetness and clarity. Many competition baristas and specialty roasters prefer flat burr grinders for this reason.
How do I maintain the Graef CM800?
Clean out retained grounds after each use with a brush or bellows. Deep clean the burrs every 2-4 weeks by removing them and brushing away oil buildup. For the motor, occasional use of grinder cleaning tablets (like Grindz) helps remove coffee oil buildup. Never wash burrs with water.