This is one of those questions that usually sounds bigger than it is. For most buyers, the answer is simple: metal grinders usually make more sense if you want something that feels better and lasts longer, while acrylic only really wins if your goal is spending as little as possible.
See grinder options on Amazon or browse grinder picks at Smoke Cartel.
Quick answer
Most people should buy metal. Acrylic only makes sense if the budget is extremely tight or you genuinely do not care much about long-term feel or durability.
Why metal usually wins
Metal grinders usually feel better, last longer, and make the whole purchase feel more settled instead of temporary.
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When acrylic makes sense
Acrylic only really makes sense when the budget is so tight that getting in cheaply matters more than overall feel.
What you are really paying for
With metal, you are mostly paying for a better day-to-day experience: better hand feel, more confidence, and less of that cheap temporary feel.
Who should not overthink this
If you already know you care about product quality at all, do not spend too long talking yourself into acrylic just because it is cheaper.
Bottom line
Most adults should buy metal. Acrylic is mostly the strict-budget answer.