10 Best Pepper Mill – With a Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Last Updated on October 13, 2021 by Boniface Muriuki

Are you aware that fresh ground pepper makes simple soups a little spicy? Well, a finely seasoned pepper-crusted steak is always a fan favorite. 

Did you also know that pre-ground pepper or commercially ground pepper has a shelf life and oxidation? Making it lose most of its health benefits. The whole peppercorn does not have a shelf life.

While pre-ground pepper is exposed to oxidation, fresh ground pepper remains intact, retaining much of its flavor and health benefits. 

The amazing health benefits of whole pepper include: helping in the digestion process, helping cure vertigo, and helping in fighting infections.

To get amazing flavors out peppers, go for whole peppercorns and crank them yourself in the best pepper mill.

You’d be excited to know that cranking your whole peppercorn will allow you to experience the full power of ground pepper. 

We’ve taken the time to test and review many of the best pepper mills on the market today. We’ve created this list of the 7 best from our research.

Plenty of pepper mills do an adequate job of grinding pepper, but these 7 best pepper mills do an excellent job of grinding fine to coarse pepper.

Best Pepper Mills – Comparison

Image	Name	Features
	Peugeot Paris U’ Select Pepper Mill	-Warranty- Lifetime on the mechanism, 5 years on the body of the mill -Proprietary 2-stage pepper grinding mechanism made of case-hardened steel specially treated to keep the teeth razor sharp and protect from corrosion -Safe, comfortable grip helps get high, consistent output with minimal effort
	Cole and Mason Capstan Wood Pepper Grinder	-Machine cut carbon steel precision mechanism creates a smooth and even turn -Easily fill the pepper grinder by removing the top -Conveniently select between fine or coarse granules by adjusting the knob on top -Traditional 12.5 inch tall wooden design with premium balance and weight -Lifetime Guarantee, hand wash with damp cloth, do not submerge
	Le Creuset MG600-17 Pepper Mill	-Ceramic grinder -Hand wash only -Size: 8" x 2 1/2" -Matches any decor in the kitchen -Limited 10-year warranty
	Cole and Mason Derwent Gourmet Precision Copper Salt and Pepper Mill Set	-High-quality clear acrylic salt and pepper mills with a stylish stainless-steel finish -The clear acrylic shaker body highlights the level of your spice and is easy to refill -Adjustable Settings: Up to 6 precise grinding levels that offer fine or coarse granules
	OLDE Thompson Imperial- Wood Pepper Mill	-10.5" walnut stained wood pepper mill -Professional quality carbon steel pepper grinder is fully adjustable -Lifetime guarantee!

Types of Pepper Mills   

There are three types of pepper mills you can choose from.

• Pepper mills with cranks- Instead of twisting a knob, this type of pepper mill makes you turn a crank to produce coarse or fine grinds.
• Pepper mills with knobs- you simply turn the knob to produce coarse or fine pepper.
• This type of pepper mill often comes with a small knob on top of the mill which you need to twist. It comes with a setting for the coarseness desired.
• Electric pepper mills- large or powder-like pepper can be produced with a push of a button.

10 Best Pepper Mills

1. Peugeot Paris U’ Select Pepper Mill

Do you want to attain good results of well ground pepper, and are willing to dig deeper into your pocket? Then you will love this pick for the best wooden pepper mill.

The Peugeot Paris U-select pepper mill easily grinds pepper to 6 different coarseness levels. 

When working with the Peugeot Paris pepper mill, simply turn the base to select the grind you want. 

The two-step steel mechanism in this pepper mill cracks the peppercorns first and then grinds them for more aromatic and flavorful pepper.

The Peugeot Paris U-select pepper mill has a coordinating salt mill, with a ceramic mechanism.

Do not put salt in this pepper mill, it will damage the grinder. One of the unique features of the pepper mill is the capacity and its simplicity.

Pros

• The pepper mill comes in a variety of sizes 
• Durable mechanisms
• The Peugeot Paris U-select pepper mill produces grinds ranging from a very coarse to powdery
• Leaves almost no trace after use

Cons

• The outer material is not durable

2. Cole and Mason Capstan Wood Pepper Grinder

If you want a superior pepper mill that’s aesthetic and matches with your counter, then you should get this Cole and Mason Wood Pepper Mill.

Cole and mason capstan wood pepper mill is very efficient at grinding pepper. 

The Cole and mason traditionally styled pepper mill features a steel grinding mechanism. 

The hardened steel makes quick work of peppercorns. 

The adjustable coarseness settings ensures that you get the right size of spices for specific recipes.

Coarseness adjustment is simple: just turn the nut on the top. The tighter the nut is adjusted, the finer the grind.

However, the pepper mill also has its pitfalls. If you are using pepper as a staple in your kitchen, the larger capacity reduces the frequency that you have to fill your pepper mill.

But if you’re using pepper often, you may find that peppercorns dry out, and lose flavor.

The Cole and mason 12.5-inch pepper mill is a great product for the price. It looks great on the counter, easy to use, and adjusts for a variety of grinds. 

Pros

• Refilling the pepper mill is easy
• The pepper mill comes with limited warranty
• Easy adjustment of grind settings

Cons

• Large for some small hands

3. Le Creuset MG600-17 Pepper Mill

If you’re looking for a pepper mill that is a bit flashier for your kitchen, then le Creuset MG600-17 gives you a great grinding capability in a flashy package. 

Le Creuset pepper mill is known for its French-inspired cookware, so by getting one, you know you’re getting a great product.

Le Creuset 8” pepper mill comes with a capacity of almost ¼ cup of peppercorns, you won’t have to constantly fill this pepper mill. 

However, the capacity is so great that your peppercorns go dry before you can use them.

The ceramic grinder mechanism is capable of grinding both pepper and salt.

These pepper mills are easier to clean, resist scratching and they’re a bit durable than their wood counterparts.

Le Creuset pepper mill comes in a variety of colors. The bright colors add beauty to your kitchen, while also being highly functional.

Pros

• The pepper mill comes with multiple colors to choose from
• Limited 10-year warranty
• Durable lightweight material 
• Holds 40 grams of peppercorns

Cons

• Its hand wash only
• Not wood

4. Cole and Mason Derwent Gourmet Precision Copper Salt and Pepper Mill Set

Cole and Mason Derwent’s gourmet pepper set is an attractive set featuring a grinder pepper mill and ceramic grinder salt mill. The set makes an attractive addition to any kitchen.

The set comes in three finishes that harmonize with any kitchen.

Cole and Mason Derwent feature a clear canister which allows you to know exactly when it’s time to refill.

This pepper mill also features a grind selection dial that makes picking the right grind for your needs easy.

The Cole and Mason Derwent gourmet pepper set is constructed with durable clear acrylic and stainless steel. The pepper mill weighs 15.2 ounces with dimensions of 2.4 x 2.4 x 7.5 inches.

Pros

• The pepper mill is durable and dependable
• It comes with a variety of grinds 
• The pepper mill is modern style and unique
• One-step easy refill

Cons

• Premium-priced

5. OLDE Thompson Imperial- Wood Pepper Mill

Olde Thompson imperial- wood is a 10.5 5 inch pepper mill is made of stained wood with a classic walnut design.

This pepper mill grinds peppercorn by twisting its body. Its grinding mechanisms are made of carbon steel making it easily adjustable. 

Olde Thompson imperial wood features a knob at the top to adjust the fineness or coarseness of the grind. The mill is easy to use. You do not need to apply twist hard to allow pepper grinds to flow.

The pepper mill is easy to load and refill. It’s also easy to clean and although made of wood, it will not discolor nor rot when dispersed in water.

This pepper mill has for decades been used by the best restaurants. This product comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Pros

• The pepper mill has easy fine to coarse grind adjustment
• It’s easy to use
• It comes with large peppercorn capacity
• Grinds smoothly
• The pepper mill comes with a lifetime guarantee

Cons

• Opening for peppercorn refill is not too big

6. OXO Good Grips Lewis Pepper Mill

The Oxo good grips Lewis pepper mill comes with a ceramic grinding mechanism. It also features 5 grinding settings ranging from very coarse to very fine ground pepper.

The ceramic grinding mechanism is more durable than any metallic grinder. Its corrosion resistance is thus safe to use.

Loading peppercorns is easy with its wide clear doors.

The Oxo good grips Lewis pepper mill features a non-slip handle and a crank for easy grinding.

The oversized crank makes grinding easy and fast. The knob easily grips and turns.

Pros

• The clear door allows you to see when peppercorns need to be reloaded
• Made of BPA –free material
• Easy to operate 
• The wide door makes it easy to load peppercorns
• The handle has a non-slip grip
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Its long arms make storing difficult

7. Electric – Latent Epicure Battery Operated Salt and Pepper Grinder Set

This is an attractive pepper stainless steel and acrylic pepper and salt mill set. 

The ceramic grinder mechanism makes quick work of both peppercorns and rock salt for fresh, aromatic seasoning for your favorite dishes.

Latent epicure battery operated salt and pepper grinder includes a tray that keeps salt and pepper from pilling on your counter.

Each mill uses 4-AA batteries, which last a pretty long time, but the batteries are not rechargeable.

The pepper mill also features an LED lighted bottom that illuminates the food surface so you don’t have to worry about over or under seasoning your foods. 

Pros

• Complimentary mill tray keeps things tidy
• Easy to refill
• Simple one-touch button control

Cons

• Requires 4 AA batteries (not included)

8. Zassenhaus Speyer 5.1- inch Dark Stained Beech the Best Wooden Pepper Mill

The rustic looking pepper mill has had the same design for over 100 years coming from Germany.

The body is constructed of dark stained beech wood, while the grinding system is made of high-quality ceramic which is guaranteed to last 25 years according to the company.

The product is solidly built and has some weight to it.

The pepper mill features a 6-position changer for the coarseness of the grind.

Additionally, it is operated by a brass handled crank which is ergonomic and very easy to use for everyone.

The pepper mill is a bit expensive but it’s worth it in the long run.

Pros

• The inner grinding system is ceramic which comes with a 25-year guarantee from the company 
• There is a six-position changer for the coarseness of the grind and is easily operated with the brass handle cranking system
• The pepper mill comes from a company in Germany that has been making the same pepper mill for over 100 years.

Cons

• The pepper mill is a little heavier than other pepper mills
• The pepper mill may be harder to clean and has a very outdated design

9. Fletchers’ Mill Federal Pepper Mill – The Old School Pepper Grinder

Fletchers’ mill federal pepper mill is constructed of wood and comes in many different colors available.

The pepper mill is not cheap but it comes with a lifetime warranty to protect it.

The body of the pepper mill is constructed of heavily stained wood which provides stability and durability. 

The pepper mill also features several different settings for coarseness. If you plan on cracking a lot of pepper, then this is not the best for you because it will make you work.

Pros

• The body is constructed of hard stained wood to provide extra strong durability
• Very affordable and comes with a lifetime warranty
• It has 6 different coarseness configurations

Cons

• The pepper mill can be quite heavy to use and may make your arms tired if you plan on using it a lot
• The pepper mill will be a little more difficult to clean than most other pepper mills

10. Epare’ Salt or Pepper Grinder

Epare’ salt or pepper grinder is a battery-operated pepper mill that is pretty handy.

The pepper mill is also very affordable and also comes with a lifetime warranty to protect it.

The body of this pepper mill is made of clear acrylic for easy refilling. The inner grinding system comprise non- corrosive ceramic material, which ensures a proper grind on all spices. 

Epare’ salt or pepper grinder is easily operated with just the push of a button and is easy to clean as well.

This pepper mill features a bright LED light that turns on when you’re seasoning food. 

The LED light helps you to see how much you’re putting if you’re in a dim room or the dark.

Pros

• Operating the pepper mill is straightforward: requires a simple push of a button. 
• It is easy to clean
• The body is made of clear acrylic and the grinding system is made of non-corrosive ceramic for long-lasting use
• The unit is only $ 20 and comes with a lifetime warranty

Cons

• It is electric so when the batteries die, you can’t grind it by hand

Do you need more salt and pepper grinders? Check here for a comprehensive user’s guide.

How to Choose the Best Pepper Mill- Buying Guide

If you want to buy the best pepper mill, you must be careful to evaluate all its features. This will enable you to get that which will meet all your needs effortlessly. 

In this section, we’ll take into consideration all the features you’ll need when shopping for the best pepper mill.

Factors You Need to Consider When Buying the Best Pepper Mill

• Materials

The materials of construction of your best pepper mill will determine its durability and efficacy. When it comes to materials, there are two parts of the pepper mill that you need to consider: the body and the grinder.

Body. This is the part of the pepper mill that is visible. The most common materials for the pepper mill body are wood, stainless steel, and plastic, or a combination of these.

Well-made wood pepper mills can last a long time. However, wood can crack if not cared for properly.

Stainless steel pepper mills are also durable and you don’t have to worry much when you pick a stainless steel pepper mill.

If you’re looking at an electric pepper mill, you’ll want to go with stainless steel.

Grinder– you have two options when it comes to the material for the grinder: steel or ceramic. Both work well. As such, the material for your best pepper mill will largely be based on your preferences. 

• Type

Your options when it comes to your best pepper mill types are manual and electric. 

Among electric grinders, you will find those running on rechargeable batteries and those powered by normal batteries that need replacement once in a while.

If you have arthritis or other types of joint pains, you might want something that is easy to operate and requires little effort. 

An electric grinder is an ideal option in such a case. However, electric grinders are higher in price compared to a manual product.

• Ease of use

How easy is it to use your best pepper mill? Always ensure that the pepper grinder you are going to buy is easy to use. It should boast ergonomic features to improve ease of use, for example, a comfortable grip.

Also check the ease of making adjustments, refilling, and cleaning as well.

• Adjustability 

This refers to the coarseness settings. Check if your best pepper mill allows you to change the grinding size at your disposal or not. 

High-end products will have a lot of grinding options from fine to coarse.

• Price

You need to consider the price of your best pepper mill. You cannot buy something that your budget doesn’t allow.

However, you should not compromise on your desired features. Instead, you can wait a little long to ensure that your best pepper mill has all your desired features.

Best Pepper Mills – The Bottom Line

Purchasing the best pepper mill is the right step if you want to get the unique flavor that comes with freshly grounded pepper.

Whether you like the idea of a traditional wood mill or you want something a bit more high tech, there’s always a pepper mill out there for your kitchen and your cooking style.

No matter what pepper mill you decide works best for you, always make sure that you are comfortable using it and know how to take care of it properly. This way, you can be sure that your best pepper mill will offer the exceptional service that commensurate with your investment. 

Also, ensure that your best pepper mill is well constructed and will last a lifetime. 

If you want to start improving your cooking game and are ready to start using fresh herbs and spices for better-tasting meals. Then its time you invest in the best pepper mill.