Graef Coffee Grinders: Every Model, History and Alternatives
Graef is a century-old German appliance company with one of the broadest grinder lists in its home market. Its catalog ranges from small coffee-and-spice devices to espresso-oriented on-demand grinders. Because many names begin with “CM,” the model number—not the family label—is essential.
Editorial note: Espresso Outlet does not sell Graef grinders. Graef distribution is strongest in Europe, and colors may carry separate reference numbers. This directory uses the official catalog reviewed in September 2026.
Graef alternatives at a glance
| Graef family | Role | Espresso Outlet alternative | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| CM702 / CM800 | Entry stepped espresso/brew | Turin SK40 | SK40 provides stepless single-dose espresso adjustment. |
| EliteGrindX / CM8002 family | Premium all-purpose home grinder | Turin DF54 | DF54 emphasizes flat-burr low-retention specialty workflow. |
| CM1012 / CM1116 | 50 mm on-demand espresso | Eureka Mignon Specialita | Compare burr size, timer interface, anti-clump design, and service network. |
Graef history
Gebr. Graef GmbH & Co. KG was founded in 1920 and remains associated with Arnsberg, Germany. The family company built its reputation on slicing machines and expanded into kitchen appliances, including a sizable “CoffeeKitchen” system of grinders, brewers, milk equipment, and espresso machines. German domestic distribution explains why Graef can be unfamiliar to North American specialty buyers despite the depth of its range.
Current Graef grinder directory
| Model/family | Grinding design | Key role |
|---|---|---|
| CM1103 / CM1111 / CM1118 | New-generation disk/flat-burr family; trim and color variants | Modern home espresso and brewed coffee |
| MCM12 | Compact contemporary grinder | Measured home preparation |
| CM252 | Entry burr grinder | Filter and general home use |
| CM702 | Conical-burr stepped grinder | Value home espresso and brew |
| CM802 / CM800 | Conical-burr CM800 platform | Traditional home grinder |
| EliteGrindX: CM8002, CM8007, CM8011 | Premium conical platform; color/reference variants | Broad home brew range |
| CM1012 | 50 mm hardened-steel flat burrs | On-demand espresso with timer/manual modes |
| CM1116 | 50 mm hardened-steel flat burrs, stepless | Touch-controlled on-demand espresso |
| CM1104 | New catalog variant | Home espresso/brew |
| CM102 | Coffee-and-spice chopping/grinding appliance | Casual multipurpose use |
CM702 and CM800 family
These are the Graef models most often found outside Germany. They use conical burrs and a stepped collar, with removable components and portafilter holders on espresso-oriented configurations. The CM800 family includes numerous finish or package codes; similarly shaped machines should not be assumed identical without the base label.
EliteGrindX
EliteGrindX is a newer premium home family. CM8002, CM8007, and CM8011 designate color presentations such as black, pistachio, and dipped-sand rather than three unrelated grinding concepts. This matters for SEO and shopping: a color-specific model code may appear to be a separate grinder in retailer listings.
CM1012 and CM1116
These 50 mm hardened-steel flat-burr models move closest to dedicated espresso grinders. Graef lists on-demand operation, timer control, and manual mode; CM1116 adds a touch interface and stepless adjustment. Graef cites approximately 1–1.5 grams per second and an ACE system intended to address static and clumping. Actual output depends on coffee and setting.
Entry and multipurpose models
CM252 and newer CM1100-series machines broaden Graef’s household range, while CM102 crosses into coffee-and-spice use. Multipurpose convenience is not equivalent to a calibrated espresso burr system. Keep spices out of a dedicated coffee burr grinder because aroma and oils can contaminate future doses.
Documented legacy Graef grinders
Older references include CM80/CM81, CM90/CM95, CM900, CM820, and CM850 families, plus earlier finish-specific derivatives. Used-market naming is inconsistent. Confirm voltage, burr type, adjustment parts, hopper safety tabs, and whether the portafilter bracket is included.
Graef grinder FAQs
Is Graef a German company?
Yes. The family company was founded in 1920 and is based in Arnsberg, Germany.
Are all CM800 numbers different grinders?
No. Some numbers represent colors, finishes, or revisions within a shared platform. Compare official specifications for the exact reference.
Which Graef grinder is best for espresso?
CM1116 and CM1012 are the clearest espresso-focused flat-burr on-demand models in the current range. The correct choice still depends on regional availability and support.
What is the Graef ACE system?
It is Graef’s anti-clump/anti-static approach intended to improve grounds delivery. It cannot eliminate all static under every humidity and roast condition.
Can Graef grinders run on US voltage?
Most European examples are designed for 220–240 V. Do not use a plug adapter as a substitute for correct voltage and frequency; obtain a properly certified regional unit.
What is the closest Espresso Outlet alternative?
SK40 fits compact stepless value; DF54 fits single-dose flat-burr use; Specialita is closest to an electronic hopper-fed home espresso workflow.
Final perspective
Graef’s range is best understood in layers: basic household models, longstanding CM700/800 conical grinders, the newer EliteGrindX family, and more espresso-specific 50 mm flat-burr machines. Resolve the exact model and voltage before comparing it with Espresso Outlet’s home grinder selection.
Sources and further reading
- Graef official coffee grinder catalog
- Graef CM1116 official specifications
- Graef CM1012 official specifications
- Graef EliteGrindX official product page
- Graef company history
Last reviewed: September 2026.
