Description
When it comes to espresso brewing, we need to be crystal clear about the original Encore’s capabilities.
Our extensive testing shows it works adequately with pressurised portafilters and dual-walled baskets.
However, for traditional baskets—which are essential for achieving premium espresso—we strongly recommend considering either the new Baratza Encore ESP or exploring alternatives like the Sage Dose Control Pro or Smart Grinder Pro.
Key Specifications:
- 40 distinct grind settings
- Premium 40mm Etzinger conical steel burrs
- Straightforward operation with on/off switch and pulse button
- Compact design: 12cm width, 15cm depth, 34cm height
While you’ll find several conical burr grinders at slightly lower price points offering comparable performance, we believe spending a bit more on the Baratza Encore makes sense.
It’s a robust machine from a reputable manufacturer known for outstanding customer support.
For espresso enthusiasts using traditional baskets, we particularly recommend investigating the newer ESP version.
Here’s why: The original Encore features 40 uniformly-spaced grind settings.
This means you won’t get the precise adjustment control typically needed for dialling in espresso.
The ESP variant introduces two significant improvements.
First, it uses sharper M3 steel burrs with modified geometry.
Second—and most crucially—it employs a variable thread pitch system.
The first 20 settings provide ultra-fine 9-micron adjustments per click, perfect for espresso.
The remaining 20 settings shift to larger 45-micron steps, ideal for manual brewing methods.
This clever design effectively gives you 20 precise espresso settings plus 20 broader adjustments for other brewing techniques.
The original Encore, while not specialised for espresso, excels as a reliable burr grinder for manual brewing methods.
It offers remarkable value for its price point.
For coffee enthusiasts prioritising build quality and performance in manual brewing—while working within a budget—the Baratza Encore stands out as an exceptional choice.
For a comprehensive look at other grinding options, please visit our detailed guide:
Best Coffee Grinders Review
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