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22 Best Pepper Mills  [Tested and Reviewed]

22 Best Pepper Mills [Tested and Reviewed]

A pepper mill is indispensable for that fresh-cracked aroma you can't get from a shaker. With so many choices, like the famed Peugeot and Cole & Mason, and different materials and shapes, it can be tough to choose which to buy. So, we tested 22 of the bestselling pepper mills on sites like Amazon, Target, Walmart, and kitchen specialty stores.

We tested each product for the following:

  • Ease of use
  • How well did it grind pepper?

Which product ended up being the best of the best? In our buying guide, we'll also tell you how to pick the best Pepper Mills on your own, so read on for more shopping tips.

Last updated 08/30/2023
mybest US Editors
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mybest US Editors

mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.

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How We Tested the Products

Scroll to testing method
We gathered the 22 bestselling Pepper Mills and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Ease of Use

    1
    Ease of Use

    We looked at which pepper mills were the easiest to use, considering the following:How easy is it to fill with peppercorns?Does it feel good in the hand, with a reasonable size and weight?Is it easy to operate?Does it produce just the right amount of pepper with every grind?Does it leak pepper after use?

  2. How Well Did It Grind Pepper?

    2
    How Well Did It Grind Pepper?

    We tested both the finest and coarsest settings of each pepper mill. Products with a clear difference between the two settings got high marks. Those that produced consistently-sized grains of each coarseness also got high marks.For pepper mills that were not adjustable, we judged whether they produced uniform grains of moderate coarseness.

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility

Table of Contents

What's So Special About a Pepper Mill, Anyway?

What's So Special About a Pepper Mill, Anyway?

Pepper is helpful in all kinds of cuisines. It's often the finishing touch to complete a dish or complement the aroma of meat or fish. Pre-ground pepper is easy to buy, but the oils in the pepper oxidize after grinding. The aromatics and flavor compounds are not the same.


Grinding pepper with a mill right before serving and eating will allow you to enjoy it fully. This fresh fragrance and taste make this beloved spice so popular and versatile.

How to Choose a Pepper Mill - Buying Guide

Make sure you consider these seven points when trying to decide which pepper mill is right for you.
1

For Everyday Use, a Simple, Manual Mill Might Suffice

First, you should decide between a manual or an electric mill. The right one for you depends on how and where you'll use it, but manual might be better for most people.

Manual Mills Are Widely Available and Will Always Be Ready

Manual Mills Are Widely Available and Will Always Be Ready

The last thing you want is to sit down to eat only to find that your electric pepper mill's batteries are dead! A manual mill will always be ready to go. So it's suitable for busy households, forgetful people, and everyone in between.


They also come in a broader range of designs and sizes than electric ones. You'll have an easier time finding one to match your style and decor and getting the right size for your table.

Anyone Can Figure Out How to Use a Manual Mill

Anyone Can Figure Out How to Use a Manual Mill

Since most people are familiar with this type, it may be a safer choice to avoid embarrassing your guests. Although it takes both hands, the lever or twisting mechanism is not complicated for most diners.


You can accurately adjust how much comes out at a time. This gives you more control over the spice level than an electric one. For a solid, reliable gadget that suits a variety of situations, look into a manual pepper mill.

Clear Acrylic With a Simple Shape Is Most Convenient to Use

Clear Acrylic With a Simple Shape Is Most Convenient to Use

Wood has a warm feel and is smooth and comfortable to hold. But most wooden mills have a design that uses a core rod running through their center. This gets in the way when you try to pour in the peppercorns, and it's easy to make a mess.


If convenient use is a concern, consider these three tips.


First, check out other materials besides wood. With glass or clear plastic, you can see at a glance when you're running low. You can also use water to wash the hopper out when needed.


Second, check its shape. A design with a narrower waist makes a pepper mill easier to grasp firmly.


Third, look at how large the mouth of the hopper is. Anything over an inch in diameter should be easy to refill.

If You Need to Grind a Lot, Get One With a Crank

If You Need to Grind a Lot, Get One With a Crank

Mills with a crank at the top to rotate the burrs inside are lightweight and turn readily. They can also grind a lot at once and are comfortable even with continuous use. So if you need a few tablespoons of ground pepper for your spice mix, it will make short work of the task.


On the other hand, they are less suited to accurately dispensing a small amount. The centrifugal force tends to make them hard to control.

2

Electric Mills Require No Force to Use

For a zero-effort device, you can't beat an electric pepper mill. But they aren't without flaws, so before you jump ahead and buy one, keep reading.

They Offer One-Hand Use at the Touch of a Button or Even Automatically

They Offer One-Hand Use at the Touch of a Button or Even Automatically

There's no question electric pepper mills are the easiest to manipulate. First of all, they only require one hand to use. Some need the push of a button, while others start grinding the second you turn them upside down!


You can't use a manual mill if you don't have both hands free. So if one hand is wet, oily, or stirring something, you'll be better off reaching for an electric mill.

Electric Mills Aren't as Clear-Cut, and Don't Forget, They Need Batteries

Electric Mills Aren't as Clear-Cut, and Don't Forget, They Need Batteries

Although electric pepper mills are simple once you know how they work, it may not be evident at first glance. The ones that start and stop automatically by tilting will also do so if knocked over. So, you may want one with a power button to prevent accidental pepper discharge.


It's also harder to control the amount of pepper and the speed at which it comes out than with a manual one. So it can be less convenient when you need a large amount simultaneously. And depending on the type, you must ensure you have spare batteries on hand or remember to recharge it as needed.

3

We Recommend One With Adjustable Grind Settings

Most pepper mills nowadays have a way to adjust the grind size from fine to coarse. By altering this, you can get the right effect for your dishes.

The Coarseness Affects the Flavor and Mouthfeel

The Coarseness Affects the Flavor and Mouthfeel

Coarse-ground pepper has a more fragrant and pungent aroma and tastes spicier. Its intense flavor makes it suitable for finishing a dish. It works exceptionally well as an accent for meats.


With a fine grind, you won't have the mouthfeel that could interfere with smooth foods like sauces. This works well with simple foods that have fewer ingredients. You still get a strong flavor, but it's not as upfront, so kids and those who like milder foods may prefer a fine grind.


The best way to enjoy ground pepper is to adjust the coarseness according to the food and your palate. Many pepper mills allow you to adjust the coarseness so that you can try out a variety of grinds.

We Recommend a Dial With Settings

We Recommend a Dial With Settings

There are two types of coarseness adjustments: dial-type and knob-type. We suggest going with the dial type, which anyone can use to adjust the coarseness of the pepper grind. Just twist the dial to the desired setting, and voilà!


In addition to the dial type, some pepper mills allow coarseness adjustment via a knob. Without any settings, the knob type will enable you to adjust coarseness freely. But it takes a practiced hand for consistent results.


Our product testing found that the knob type often got clogged with pepper.

4

If You Want to Grind Rock Salt, Get One With Ceramic Burrs

If You Want to Grind Rock Salt, Get One With Ceramic Burrs

Pepper mills can have a steel, carbon steel, or ceramic grinding mechanism. You might want to grind rock salt as well. If so, you should go for a mechanism with ceramic burrs. Salt will quickly rust metal burrs.


However, metal burrs work well for cracking open hard peppercorns. To prevent rust, wipe the mechanism down frequently with a dry cloth. Be sure to store your pepper mill away from moisture.

5

Avoid Pepper Dust on Your Table With the Right Design

Avoid Pepper Dust on Your Table With the Right Design

Pepper mills can dispense from the bottom or the top. If the pepper comes out the top, you can be confident it won't leak any onto your dining table. Some also have a lid on them, which can keep dust out and prevent spills. If you plan to store it table-side, choose a pepper mill that won't spill easily for worry-free dining.


However, the advantage of one that dispenses from the bottom is that you can pick it up and use it immediately. A bottom-dispensing pepper mill is a fine choice if you set it on a tray or wipe away spills now and then.

6

Consider Your Decor

Consider Your Decor

Since a pepper mill is often stored in obvious areas, you might be picky about its appearance. And that's fine! Choose one with a design that you like. Here are some points to consider.


A wooden pepper mill adds warmth to place settings on a wood dining table and creates a homey atmosphere.


Stylish and sleek stainless steel or glass look great in the kitchen. They also have the advantage of being easy to wipe down, so splattered oil won't be hard to clean.


And for something unique, there are ones with interesting shapes and unusual designs. At first glance, you might wonder if they're even pepper mills! Something like this can make a thoughtful and unique gift.

7

For a Gift, Consider Well-Known Manufacturers

For a Gift, Consider Well-Known Manufacturers

Speaking of pepper mills as gifts, there are some well-known brands to impress your recipient.


Peugeot is an esteemed maker of pepper mills, and they've been making those longer than cars! They are known for their classic design and reputation for quality. They have a unique double spiral grinding mechanism. It takes only a light effort to operate. They also produce consistent grain sizes.


British manufacturer Cole & Mason also makes stylish pepper mills. They chop the pepper, rather than grinding, using a sharp blade. This allows the beautiful, heady aroma to be released clearly.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

22 Best Pepper Mills

Here are the best Pepper Mills we found after testing them. We ranked them after weighting each of our testing specs.
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Key features
Ranking spec
Details
Ease of use
How it grinds
Diameter
Height
Weight
Type
Coarseness Adjustability
Unit material
Blade material
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features
1

OXO

Good Grips Mess-Free Pepper Grinder‎11312500

OXO Good Grips Mess-Free Pepper Grinder 1
4.60

$25.70

Mid

mybest's Top Choice! Easy to Use and Grinds Pepper to Perfection

4.65
4.56

2.2 in.

5.5 in.

0.59 lbs.

Twist type

Adjustable: 5 settings

Stainless steel, plastic

Ceramic

unknown

2

AdHoc

Twin Mill Salt and Pepper Grinder SetMP125US

AdHoc Twin Mill Salt and Pepper Grinder Set 1
4.58

$49.95

High Mid

Easy to Refill and Grind, and Makes a Great Gift

4.61
4.56

2.76 in.

5.5 in.

0.34 lbs.

Twist type

Adjustable: 2 settings

Wood, resin

Stainless steel

Stylish

3

Sweet Alice

Gravity Electric Pepper Grinder546

Sweet Alice Gravity Electric Pepper Grinder 1
4.55

$19.97

Low Mid

An Electric Pepper Mill That's Easy to Grip and Doesn't Feel Heavy

4.86
4.29

2.72 in.

8.54 in.

0.7 lbs.

Twist type

Adjustable: 2 settings

Stainless steel, resin

Stainless steel

Stylish

4

LARS NYSØM

Stainless Steel Salt and Pepper Mills SetFR-D-GREY

LARS NYSØM Stainless Steel Salt and Pepper Mills Set 1
4.54

$24.99

Mid

Sleek Design and Precise Grind Levels

4.29
4.82

1.7 in.

4.6 in.

0.3 lbs.

Twist type

Adjustable: 2 settings

Stainless steel, resin

Ceramic

Stylish

5

Merazi Living

Wooden Salt and Pepper Grinder Set‎8541951789

Merazi Living Wooden Salt and Pepper Grinder Set 1
4.53

$49.00

High Mid

Perfect Coarse and Fine Grind Levels in a Hand-Friendly Wooden Pepper Mill

4.15
5.00

2.44 in.

8.5 in.

2.12 lbs.

Twist type

Freely adjustable (no settings)

Wood

Stainless steel

Stylish

6

Kitchen-GO

Pepper Grinder4335505247

Kitchen-GO Pepper Grinder 1
4.51

$15.95

Low Mid

Wide Jar-Like Opening for Easy Filling and Very Easy to Use

4.47
4.56

2.5 in.

5.5 in.

1 lb.

Twist type

Adjustable: 2 settings

Stainless steel, glass

Ceramic

unknown

7

Peugeot

Paris u’Select Pepper Mill39844

Peugeot Paris u’Select Pepper Mill 1
4.50

$52.12

High Mid

Having 6 Coarseness Levels Is Great, but It's Kind of Hard to Refill

4.22
4.82

2.32 in.

9 in.

0.6 lbs.

Twist type

Adjustable: 6 settings

Wood

Stainless steel

Stylish

7

Gulex

Wood Pepper Grinder

Gulex Wood Pepper Grinder 1
4.50

$12.99

Low Mid

Precise Coarseness Control, but Fine Grinding Takes Time

4.22
4.82

2.2 in.

8.5 in.

0.6 lbs.

Twist type

Adjustable: 2 settings

Wood, stainless steel

Ceramic

Stylish

9

Peugeot

Olivier Roellinger Pepper Mill25601

Peugeot Olivier Roellinger Pepper Mill 1
4.49

$75.15

High

Convenient for Large Amounts, but Hard to Adjust the Coarseness

4.43
4.56

5 in.

5.12 in.

1.1 lbs.

Grinder type

Adjustable: 2 settings

Wood

Stainless steel

Stylish

9

Rongyuxaun

Gravity Electronic Pepper Grinder

Rongyuxaun Gravity Electronic Pepper Grinder 1
4.49

$19.99

Low Mid

Easy to Replenish and Adjust the Grind, but Not Best for Uniformity

4.72
4.29

2.48 in.

7.87 in.

12.7 oz.

Electric type

Freely adjustable (no settings)

Stainless steel, resin

Ceramic

Stylish

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1
Top Choice Pepper Mills

OXOGood Grips Mess-Free Pepper Grinder‎11312500

mybest Score
4.60
Ease of use
4.65
How it grinds
4.56
View on Amazon
Good Grips Mess-Free Pepper Grinder 1
Lowest price
$25.70
Mid
Lowest price
$25.70
Mid

mybest's Top Choice! Easy to Use and Grinds Pepper to Perfection

The OXO Good Grips Pepper Mill is designed with universal use in mind and made with BPA-free plastic. The ergonomic design makes it easy to grip and comfortable to hold. This grinder boasts five levels of grind that can easily be adjusted with just one hand. Even though it takes a bit of muscle to achieve a fine grind, this grinder is designed to fit snugly in the palm of your hand. Plus, the rubber turning knob aids in giving you a firm grip so that you can grind with precision.


The transparent body is an added bonus, allowing you to keep a close eye on your peppercorns. During our testing, the fine grind produced pepper that had a silky, sand-like consistency, and the coarse grind produced pepper that consisted of large particles with a few fine particles mixed in. Regardless of the setting, however, we found that this pepper mill produced a distinct grind at each level.


When it came to filling the pepper grinder, the cross-like piece across the opening made us a bit cautious while refilling, but we wouldn't go as far as to call it stressful. Overall, the ease of grinding, adjusting, and the finish of the pepper are all top-notch, making this pepper grinder our first choice.

Diameter2.2 in.
Height5.5 in.
Weight0.59 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 5 settings
Unit materialStainless steel, plastic
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Featuresunknown
View all
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

AdHocTwin Mill Salt and Pepper Grinder SetMP125US

mybest Score
4.58
Ease of use
4.61
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$49.95
High Mid

Easy to Refill and Grind, and Makes a Great Gift

This Salt and Pepper Grinder Set by AdHoc is beautifully curved with a matte finish. This set consists of both a pepper mill and a salt mill.


Adjusting the grind on this pepper mill is a breeze. Just use the dial located on the underside of the grinder. You'll know you've changed the grind by the satisfying clicking sound you hear when you rotate it. The fine grind is super smooth, while the coarse grind has a great texture. There may be a few fine particles mixed in, but overall it switches between grinds like a pro!

This pepper mill is not only functional but also has a sleek and stylish design. It's perfect for those who appreciate a more muted look in their kitchen. It would make a fantastic gift for anyone who's particular about interior design.

Diameter2.76 in.
Height5.5 in.
Weight0.34 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialWood, resin
Blade materialStainless steel
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
FeaturesStylish
View all
No.3
No.1 in Ease of use

Sweet AliceGravity Electric Pepper Grinder546

mybest Score
4.55
Ease of use
4.86
How it grinds
4.29
Lowest price
$19.97
Low Mid

An Electric Pepper Mill That's Easy to Grip and Doesn't Feel Heavy

The Sweet Alice Gravity Electric Pepper Grinder is the perfect addition to any kitchen! This electric mill can grind all your favorite spices, and even has a cool blue LED light on the dispenser.


One of the best features is the wide hopper opening, which makes it a breeze to fill. The mill itself is easy to grip and lightweight, even with batteries in it. Plus, it's activated by tilting it, so no extra effort is required.

Adjusting the coarseness is as simple as twisting the dial on the bottom of the grinder. The fine grind produced a mix of powder-like pepper with some coarse grains. The coarse grind had a variety of particles. While it wasn't entirely uniform, the grinding mechanism does a great job of producing distinct grinds at each setting.


If you're in the market for an electric pepper grinder, this one is worth checking out. Just be careful not to accidentally knock it over, as it only needs to be tilted to activate.

Diameter2.72 in.
Height8.54 in.
Weight0.7 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialStainless steel, resin
Blade materialStainless steel
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.4

LARS NYSØMStainless Steel Salt and Pepper Mills SetFR-D-GREY

mybest Score
4.54
Ease of use
4.29
How it grinds
4.82
Lowest price
$24.99
Mid

Sleek Design and Precise Grind Levels

The LARS NYSØM Stainless Steel Salt and Pepper Mills Set is a great compact addition to any kitchen. These mills have a sleek matte finish. They make adjusting the coarseness a breeze with the dial on the bottom. You'll know you've switched coarseness levels because of the satisfying click. The fine grind produced extremely fine pepper. The coarse grind, while it did have some fine grains mixed in, was distinctly coarse.

One of the best things about this grinder is its wide mouth. This makes refilling a stress-free experience, despite the rod core. Its compact design makes this grinder a great space-saving option. But people with larger hands may have some difficulty using it. Sometimes you may need to use a bit of force when grinding.

The design of these salt and pepper mills is sleek and subdued. They make a great addition to any dining table without getting in the way.

Diameter1.7 in.
Height4.6 in.
Weight0.3 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialStainless steel, resin
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.5
No.1 in How it grinds

Merazi LivingWooden Salt and Pepper Grinder Set‎8541951789

mybest Score
4.53
Ease of use
4.15
How it grinds
5.00
Lowest price
$49.00
High Mid

Perfect Coarse and Fine Grind Levels in a Hand-Friendly Wooden Pepper Mill

The Merazi Living Wooden Salt and Pepper Grinder Set is a must-have grinder set. Made of beautiful acacia wood, these mills add a touch of elegance to your table. The knob on top allows you to easily adjust the coarseness of your grind from a fine, silky finish to a coarse, rustic texture. Both options produce consistent results with minimal variation in particle size.

Refilling the hopper can be a bit tricky, as the rod is about three-quarters of an inch thick. As long as you don't overdo it with the pouring, it should not be a problem. The slim, solid design of these mills feels great in your hand. One downside is that the grinding mechanism may occasionally get caught on a peppercorn.

However, you'll produce sufficient salt and pepper with just a light twist. If you're looking for a stylish wooden pepper mill, this model should be on your list.
Diameter2.44 in.
Height8.5 in.
Weight2.12 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityFreely adjustable (no settings)
Unit materialWood
Blade materialStainless steel
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.6

Kitchen-GOPepper Grinder4335505247

mybest Score
4.51
Ease of use
4.47
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$15.95
Low Mid

Wide Jar-Like Opening for Easy Filling and Very Easy to Use

The Kitchen-GO Pepper Grinder is a stylish brushed steel grinder. Its hourglass shape and ceramic grinding mechanism make it great for grinding a variety of spices, not just pepper. With its simple construction and a mouth as wide as a jam jar, it's very easy to fill with peppercorns. Though slightly bulky, the high-necked body provides a secure grip for easy twisting.

With a simple dial on the underside, we could easily adjust the coarseness to different preferences. The finely ground pepper had a silky, sand-like texture. The coarser option offered a mix of rough medium-sized particles and tiny sand-like particles. The result may not have been completely uniform, but there was a clear distinction between the coarseness levels.

Cleaning this grinder was a breeze. Refilling was just as easy thanks to the wide-mouthed opening. So, if you're looking for an all-around easy-to-use pepper grinder, this is the one.

Diameter2.5 in.
Height5.5 in.
Weight1 lb.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialStainless steel, glass
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Featuresunknown
View all
No.7

PeugeotParis u’Select Pepper Mill39844

mybest Score
4.50
Ease of use
4.22
How it grinds
4.82
Lowest price
$52.12
High Mid

Having 6 Coarseness Levels Is Great, but It's Kind of Hard to Refill

The Paris u'Select Pepper Mill by long-established French brand Peugeot is a chic grinder constructed out of hard beech wood.


The mill has six levels of coarseness which can be adjusted by rotating the bottom half of the unit. The fine grind produced a silky, sand-like finish. The coarse grind consisted of bold and rustic particles. Although the coarse grind had some fine particles mixed in, we felt the finished result was acceptable. Overall, this grinder does a great job of switching between grind levels.

The ergonomically-designed body of the mill feels great in your hand. However, the cross-like core rod inside the hopper made it a bit tricky to refill. A bit of force was needed to grind finely, and we found that if you're going to grind a lot, you'll need to twist several times.

Diameter2.32 in.
Height9 in.
Weight0.6 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 6 settings
Unit materialWood
Blade materialStainless steel
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.7

GulexWood Pepper Grinder

mybest Score
4.50
Ease of use
4.22
How it grinds
4.82
Lowest price
$12.99
Low Mid

Precise Coarseness Control, but Fine Grinding Takes Time

The Wood Pepper Grinder by Gulex is a stunning pepper grinder made of solid oak wood, which gives it a natural and elegant appearance. The ceramic grinding mechanism can handle a variety of spices, making for a balanced blend of style and functionality.


The knob on top allows you to easily adjust the grind to your preference. Finely ground pepper had a smooth and polished finish to each particle. Coarsely ground pepper had a few finer particles mixed in but consisted of bigger, bolder particles. We found this grinder excelled at adjusting to different grind levels. This made it easy to distinguish between the different levels of coarseness.


Filling this grinder can be a bit tricky as the mouth is only three-quarters of an inch in diameter. It also contains a rod core, so you'll need to take your time. The concave body of the grinder fits snugly in your hand. It's easier to apply pressure when twisting. It's also worth noting that this pepper grinder produces only a small amount of fine grind at once. It may take a little longer if you plan on grinding a large amount.

Diameter2.2 in.
Height8.5 in.
Weight0.6 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialWood, stainless steel
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.9

PeugeotOlivier Roellinger Pepper Mill25601

mybest Score
4.49
Ease of use
4.43
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$75.15
High

Convenient for Large Amounts, but Hard to Adjust the Coarseness

The Peugeot-designed Olivier Roellinger 5.25-Inch Pepper Mill is crafted from beech wood. The coffee grinder-like design deposits freshly ground pepper into a convenient drawer.


The fine grind gave a smooth and silky finish, with a few larger particles mixed in. The coarse grind produced larger particles with a few fine particles mixed in. Nevertheless, we found that the grind levels were clearly distinguishable. You only need a turn or two of the handle to get the perfect amount, making it convenient for grinding lots of pepper.


It's important to note that this pepper grinder doesn't have a non-slip bottom. You'll have to hold it while in use to keep it still. The thumbwheel that adjusts the grind can be a bit stiff, and the metal mouth of the mill is partially covered. Therefore, we recommend pouring in peppercorns little by little to avoid a mess.

Diameter5 in.
Height5.12 in.
Weight1.1 lbs.
TypeGrinder type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialWood
Blade materialStainless steel
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.9

RongyuxaunGravity Electronic Pepper Grinder

mybest Score
4.49
Ease of use
4.72
How it grinds
4.29
Lowest price
$19.99
Low Mid

Easy to Replenish and Adjust the Grind, but Not Best for Uniformity

The Rongyuxuan Gravity Electronic Pepper Grinder is a sleek copper-colored grinder. It features a cool blue LED light that illuminates when in use.


One of the best features of this grinder is its wide, easy-to-use cup-like mouth. It makes refilling peppercorns a breeze. The coarseness level can be adjusted with a simple, easy-to-turn knob located near the grinder's exit. Plus, with its tilt-activated design, you won't have to put in much effort to get started. Just be careful not to accidentally knock it over, as it will turn on.

We found the fine grind to be mostly smooth, but with a few slightly larger particles mixed in. The coarse grind also had a few fine particles mixed in. While there is a distinction between the two levels, the grind wasn't completely uniform.

Diameter2.48 in.
Height7.87 in.
Weight12.7 oz.
TypeElectric type
Coarseness AdjustabilityFreely adjustable (no settings)
Unit materialStainless steel, resin
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.11

TreblewindPepper Grinder

mybest Score
4.44
Ease of use
4.32
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$8.99
Low

Gently Curved Neck Makes It Easy to Grind, but Difficult to Fill

The Treblewind Pepper Grinder is a versatile and convenient grinder. It's made of BPA-free plastic and can be used for both pepper and salt.


With five different coarseness levels, it's a snap to adjust the grind to your preference. In our tests, the fine grind produced a powdery texture. The coarse grind had a large amount of bigger particles with some fine particles mixed in. Despite the mixture in the coarse grind, we still felt that this grinder distinguished between the levels well. The neck of the mill is curved to fit comfortably in your hand, making it easy to grind a lot of pepper with just one twist.

However, the mouth of the mill is a bit narrow, at approximately three-quarters of an inch in diameter. The protruding core rod and an obstructive cross-like piece inside made it tricky to refill. Therefore, we recommend only pouring in a small amount of peppercorns at a time. This was the main factor that hurt this grinder's rating.

Diameter2.37 in.
Height6.74 in.
Weight10.8 oz.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 5 settings
Unit materialResin
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Featuresunknown
View all
No.12

TrudeauGraviti Electric Salt & Pepper Mills

mybest Score
4.40
Ease of use
4.25
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$89.95
High

Easy-To-Grip Size, but Produces Small Amounts for Fine Grind

The Trudeau Graviti Electric Salt & Pepper Mill is a sleek and durable stainless steel mill set with a beautiful satin finish.


With its simple flip activation, grinding was pretty effortless. Despite its weight, we found this pepper grinder comfortable to hold and maneuver. The coarseness level can be adjusted by twisting the knob at the exit of the mill. During our testing, we noticed the fine grind had a few slightly larger pieces mixed in. The coarse grind had a mixture of fine and coarse particles. The grind wasn't completely uniform, but there was a clear distinction between coarseness levels.


One thing to note is that the rod core and capacity indicator did make it a bit tricky to refill. Furthermore, the fine grind worked slowly. The finer the setting, the less pepper the grinder produced.

Diameter-
Height7.5 in.
Weight-
TypeElectric type
Coarseness Adjustabilityunknown
Unit materialStainless steel, resin
Blade materialStainless steel
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.13

Rachael Ray 2 Piece Acacia Salt and Pepper Grinder Set56523

mybest Score
4.38
Ease of use
4.22
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$29.99
Mid

Easy to Grip and Lightweight, but Feels Like It's Catching When Grinding

This salt and pepper grinder set by Rachael Ray is constructed of beautiful acacia wood and features a transparent center. This pepper mill is about as thick as a flashlight, easy to grip, and very lightweight. The coarseness can be adjusted with a simple turn of the knob at the top of the grinder. However, we were disappointed that the fine grind had a few larger particles mixed in. The coarse grind had a mix of both fine and larger particles. This made it difficult to distinguish between grind settings.


On the other hand, the mouth on this grinder is only slightly obstructed by its protruding core rod. It's easy to add small amounts of peppercorns without any hassle. The only downside is that the grinding mechanism can be a bit stiff and requires a bit of force to grind. However, one twist is all it took to get a good amount of pepper.

Diameter2.5 in.
HeightMedium: 6.5 in., large: 7.5 in.
Weight0.8 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityFreely adjustable
Unit materialWood
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.14

Cole & MasonDerwent Pepper GrinderH59401G

mybest Score
4.36
Ease of use
4.18
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$49.95
High Mid

Great for Fine Grain, but a Challenge to Fill

The Derwent Pepper Grinder from Cole & Mason makes for a stylish functional addition to any kitchen.


The large hourglass-shaped grinder is surprisingly lightweight and easy to hold. Its slightly concave middle is a comfortable grip. Adjusting the coarseness was a breeze, with six different levels to choose from. Dispensing pepper took only a simple twist. During our testing, we found that the fine grind came out a bit clumped, but each particle was finely ground. The coarse grind was a mixture of fine and coarse particles and lacked uniformity.

Although it took a lot of force to grind, one twist was all we needed to produce a sufficient amount of pepper. Filling the grinder, though, proved to be a bit tricky due to the narrow mouth and rod core.

Diameter2.36 in.
Height7.5 in.
Weight0.66 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 6 settings
Unit materialStainless steel, acrylic
Blade materialStainless steel
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.14

PrimeElectric Salt and Pepper Grinder SetPRM21YMJ-Single

mybest Score
4.36
Ease of use
4.18
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$39.99
Mid

Superb Fine Grind, but Noticeably Loud

The rechargeable Electric Salt and Pepper Grinder by Prime is a versatile grinder. Its ceramic blade can handle a variety of spices. Plus, it comes with a handy charging base so you can keep it powered up and ready to go.


The wide, cup-like shape of the mouth made it easy to add peppercorns. The coarseness could be adjusted with the dial on the bottom. The fine grind was powdery and smooth, while the coarse grind had a mix of small and larger particles. Although the grind levels had some distinction, the coarse grind wasn't completely uniform.


Furthermore, we found this grinder to be a bit heavy. It only dispenses a small amount of pepper at one time, so it may take a bit longer if you're grinding a lot. Also, be prepared for a bit of noise while it's in operation.

Diameter2.2 in.
Height9.4 in.
Weight2.2 lbs.
TypeElectric type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialStainless steel, resin
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.16

Le CreusetPepper Mill‎96002700060000

mybest Score
4.32
Ease of use
3.93
How it grinds
4.82
Lowest price
$45.95
High Mid

Distinct Grind Levels, but Noticeably Thin Opening

The 16-inch Le Creuset Pepper Mill will make a striking addition to your countertop. Its glossy cherry-red finish and high-neck design are a joy to behold. It's easy to adjust the coarseness level with a simple turn of the knob on top. The fine grind produced smooth and powdery pepper. The coarse grind gave us bold and chunky particles.

Despite its large size, the pepper mill was comfortable to hold. It produced a good amount of pepper with minimal effort. However, refilling was a bit of a challenge as the refill port is only three-quarters of an inch wide. The internal mechanisms can also be somewhat obstructive. They make it difficult to add a large volume of peppercorns at once.

Diameter2.5 in.
Height8 in.
Weight0.6 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialPlastic
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.17

KalorikRechargeable Gravity Stainless Steel Salt and Pepper Grinder Set848052006300

mybest Score
4.31
Ease of use
4.11
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$38.55
Mid

Sufficient at Grinding, but Time-Consuming to Fill and Grind

As the name suggests, The Kalorik Rechargeable Gravity Stainless Steel Salt and Pepper Grinder makes it easy to grind your two favorite spices with a simple flip of the mill. This set includes a pepper grinder, salt grinder, and a dedicated charging base.


The coarseness level can be adjusted with a turn of the knob on the underside of the mill. During our testing, the fine grind had particles of different sizes mixed in but it was mostly finely ground. The coarse grind was uniformly coarse. The fine and coarse grind levels are easily distinguishable. Plus, a safety feature allows the grinder to only turn on when pointed down, providing a sense of security. Finally, even with the batteries installed, we found this grinder to be fairly lightweight.

On the flip side, the small refill port makes refilling a bit time-consuming. The grinding speed is not as fast as others, so it may not be ideal for grinding large amounts.

Diameter-
Height-
Weight-
TypeElectric type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 5 settings
Unit materialStainless steel
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Featuresunknown
View all
No.18

Cole & Mason Oslo Salt & Pepper Mills

mybest Score
4.30
Ease of use
4.07
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$44.59
High Mid

Easy Button Operation, but Difficult to Refill

The Oslo Salt & Pepper Mills by Cole & Mason is a stainless steel salt and pepper set that will add a contemporary look to any table. To grind pepper with this grinder, it's as easy as pressing the button on the top of the unit. If you want to adjust the coarseness, just turn the handy knob near the pepper outlet for a more precise grind. We love how the knob sticks out and is easy to grip.

The fine grind produced a fairly smooth and fine powdery pepper. However, the coarse grind was an equal mix of coarse and fine particles. Even though this grinder has distinct grind levels, we were disappointed about the lack of uniformity in the coarse grind. The mouth on this grinder is fairly narrow, and the core rod made it even more difficult to refill. Although we found this grinder to be easy to hold, it was somewhat heavy once the batteries were inserted.

Diameter1.93 in.
Height7.25 in.
Weight0.8 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityFreely adjustable (no settings)
Unit materialAcrylic
Blade materialStainless steel
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.19

Willow & EverettSalt and Pepper Grinder SetSYNCHKG108374

mybest Score
4.21
Ease of use
4.82
How it grinds
3.75
Lowest price
$13.47
Low Mid

Easy to Use, but Uneven Particle Sizes

The Willow & Everett Salt and Pepper Grinder Set comes with a handy stand and a separate salt mill. The design of the body is slightly concave and easy to grip and grind with minimal effort. The construction is simple and streamlined, making refilling a breeze. The knob for adjusting the coarseness is conveniently located on the bottom of the mill. Its protruding shape means it's easy to twist and adjust.

However, the grind levels weren't as distinct as we would have liked. The coarse grind had a mix of fine and coarse particles, and the same was true for the fine grind. The particle size wasn't uniform and we didn't see a clear distinction between the levels.

Diameter2.5 in.
Height7 in.
Weight1.7 lbs.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialStainless steel, glass
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Featuresunknown
View all
No.20

OXOGood Grips Radial Grinder Pepper Mill1188400

mybest Score
4.17
Ease of use
3.86
How it grinds
4.56
Lowest price
$14.95
Low Mid

Adjust From Fine to Coarse, but Difficult to Keep Steady

The OXO Good Grips Radial Grinder Pepper Mill is designed with universal use in mind. It's made with BPA-free resin. The ergonomic design makes it easy to grip and comfortable to hold, and the coarseness can easily be adjusted using the dial on the bottom. During our testing, we found that the fine grind produced a powdery pepper, while the coarse grind had a mix of fine and coarse particles, but was coarse overall.


While we found that you can grind a decent amount with just a rotation, the grinding mechanism felt a bit stiff and that made it hard to control where the pepper landed. Additionally, the transparent door on the side makes for easy refilling, but we feel that it may open and close too easily for some. Overall the mill is a good choice for those who are looking for a pepper grinder that is easy to use, and easy to clean.

Diameter4 in.
Height6.5 in.
Weight0.01 oz.
TypeGrinder type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialResin
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Featuresunknown
View all
No.21

Fletchers’ Mill Federal Pepper MillFED08PM12-14

mybest Score
4.12
Ease of use
3.97
How it grinds
4.29
Lowest price
$54.95
High Mid

Difficult to Refill and Uneven Grind Contributed to a Low Rating From Us

The Federal Pepper Mill by Fletchers' Mill is crafted of maple wood and has a smooth finish. The hourglass shape and smooth curves feel good in your hand, and it doesn't feel nearly as heavy as it looks. One twist is enough to grind a sufficient amount if you apply enough force.


However, it felt like the grinding mechanism kept getting caught. This prevented a smooth grinding experience. There's also an obstructive core rod and cross-like piece inside the grinder. This meant we could only pour a bit of peppercorn in at a time.

You can adjust the coarseness with the knob on the top of the grinder, but large particles were mixed in with the fine grind. Furthermore, in the coarse grind, there were particles of various sizes mixed in. The resulting pepper wasn't uniform.

Diameter2.75 in.
Height8 in.
Weight7.4 oz.
TypeTwist type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialWood
Blade materialunknown
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Features Stylish
View all
No.22

Kuhn Rikon Adjustable Ratchet Grinder25550

mybest Score
3.88
Ease of use
4.29
How it grinds
3.57
Lowest price
$23.60
Mid

Tricky to Operate, and the Settings Are Too Subtle

The Kuhn Rikon Adjustable Ratchet Grinder boasts effortless grinding with a simple back-and-forth motion of the handle. This versatile grinder can also be used for salt and other spices.


Its cylindrical shape makes this pepper grinder easy to hold. It fits comfortably in your hand. The side of the mill also features a convenient pull-out door for easy refilling. No pesky parts getting in the way!

Although innovative, the back-and-forth motion of the lever took some getting used to. We also had to be careful about keeping the grinder still. Furthermore, we found that the coarseness settings were not distinct. Large particles were mixed in with the fine grind and fine particles were mixed in with the coarse grind. This may not be ideal for those who are true pepper aficionados.

Diameter2.3 in.
Height8.5 in.
Weight0.2 lbs.
TypeGrinder type
Coarseness AdjustabilityAdjustable: 2 settings
Unit materialPlastic
Blade materialCeramic
Upward-facing blades (when stored)
Lid
Featuresunknown
View all

How We Tested the Pepper Mills

We picked out 22 of the top-selling pepper mills on various EC sites and put them to the test. We were looking for something easy to refill, that could be used with little force, and produced distinct fine and coarse grinds.


We rated the products on these factors: 

1. Ease of use
2. How well did it grind pepper?

Products we tested

  1. AdHocTwin Mill Salt and Pepper Grinder SetMP125US
  2. Cole & MasonDerwent Pepper GrinderH59401G
  3. Cole & Mason Oslo Salt & Pepper Mills
  4. Fletchers’ Mill Federal Pepper MillFED08PM12-14
  5. GulexWood Pepper Grinder
  6. KalorikRechargeable Gravity Stainless Steel Salt and Pepper Grinder Set848052006300
  7. Kitchen-GOPepper Grinder4335505247
  8. Kuhn Rikon Adjustable Ratchet Grinder25550
  9. LARS NYSØMStainless Steel Salt and Pepper Mills SetFR-D-GREY
  10. Le CreusetPepper Mill‎96002700060000
  11. Merazi LivingWooden Salt and Pepper Grinder Set‎8541951789
  12. OXOGood Grips Radial Grinder Pepper Mill1188400
  13. OXOGood Grips Mess-Free Pepper Grinder‎11312500
  14. PeugeotOlivier Roellinger Pepper Mill25601
  15. PeugeotParis u’Select Pepper Mill39844
  16. PrimeElectric Salt and Pepper Grinder SetPRM21YMJ-Single
  17. Rachael Ray 2 Piece Acacia Salt and Pepper Grinder Set56523
  18. RongyuxaunGravity Electronic Pepper Grinder
  19. Sweet AliceGravity Electric Pepper Grinder546
  20. TreblewindPepper Grinder
  21. TrudeauGraviti Electric Salt & Pepper Mills
  22. Willow & EverettSalt and Pepper Grinder SetSYNCHKG108374
1

Ease of Use

Ease of Use

We looked at which pepper mills were the easiest to use, considering the following:


  • How easy is it to fill with peppercorns?
  • Does it feel good in the hand, with a reasonable size and weight?
  • Is it easy to operate?
  • Does it produce just the right amount of pepper with every grind?
  • Does it leak pepper after use?
2

How Well Did It Grind Pepper?

How Well Did It Grind Pepper?

We tested both the finest and coarsest settings of each pepper mill. Products with a clear difference between the two settings got high marks. Those that produced consistently-sized grains of each coarseness also got high marks.


For pepper mills that were not adjustable, we judged whether they produced uniform grains of moderate coarseness.

Top 5 Pepper Mills

No. 1: OXOGood Grips Mess-Free Pepper Grinder‎11312500

No. 2: AdHocTwin Mill Salt and Pepper Grinder SetMP125US

No. 3: Sweet AliceGravity Electric Pepper Grinder546

No. 4: LARS NYSØMStainless Steel Salt and Pepper Mills SetFR-D-GREY

No. 5: Merazi LivingWooden Salt and Pepper Grinder Set‎8541951789

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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  4. 22 Best Pepper Mills [Tested and Reviewed]

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