Baratza Encore ESP
A solid, durable espresso-grade grinder that balances performance with price.
Consolidated from 45 cited sources across 34 outlets
Where the cited sources landed, as we read them
- 29 positive sources
- 9 neutral sources
- 3 unconvinced sources
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Pros & cons
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Consistent grind for espresso
- ✓ Affordably priced
- ✓ entry-level burr grinder
- ✓ consistent performance
- ✗ Fewer settings than higher-end models
- ✗ Not as quiet as some competitors
The sources behind this ranking
We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.
Evidence 18 articles, 24 video reviews and 3 community sources
29 positive sources
The Baratza Encore ESP Pro is a high quality, uptuned version of Baratza's classic Encore coffee grinder. Suitable for slow brew and espresso, this grinder is the Encore's first foray into stepless grind adjust. The challenge with stepless grinders typically is that they are challenging to find reference points and specific settings for, as they move infinitely like a screw.Read S
A must-see for coffee enthusiasts looking for a versatile, high-quality grinder.Watch C
The Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder is optimised for precision, delivering the grind resolution you need to brew creamy, syrupy shots of espresso. With simple turn-of-the hopper adjustments and the included dosing cup, the Encore ESP simplifies your espresso workflow. Start grinding with a single press of the pulse button or run hands-free with a turn of the on/off knob.Read W
An exciting update to a long-time fan favorite home grinder that sees an increased emphasis on grinding for espresso.Watch T
The Baratza Encore ESP is our best grinder for espresso. There are two versions of the Encore: the ESP and the Encore (no ESP). You will want the Encore ESP, as the original does not grind fine enough for espresso. And as of early 2026, Baratza released the Encore ESP Pro , which didn't live up to our expectations when we tested it.Read T
These two grinders represent in my honest opinion the absolute best value for getting into home espresso and coffee (the next step up would be something from the Eureka line).Watch E
If you have any doubts about its quality, don’t: the Baratza Encore ESP Pro grinds exceptionally well , and it pairs perfectly with coffee machines such as the Bambino Plus, which it manages to get the most out of thanks to the traditional espresso flavor profile that both devices achieve together.Read C
As you'll see, this grinder surprised the heck out of me!Watch E
It makes an excellent pairing with a grinder like the Baratza Encore ESP Pro , creating a compact yet capable espresso setup. Using the Bambino Plus with pressurized baskets or pre-ground supermarket coffee would be a waste of a genuinely capable machine.Read A
It is the perfect upgrade for homebrewers looking for an espresso grinder.Watch C
Is the Baratza Encore ESP worth it? Yes, for most home brewers who want a reliable electric burr grinder for drip coffee, pour over, AeroPress, or French press — and want the option to grind for espresso as well.Read A
Now, I may have come into this review with a somewhat subpar expectation, but I am here to say that I have been pleasantly surprised by the Encore ESP Pro. So, in this review, I'll aim to cover off everything about this grinder, plus add a comparison of grinders that you may well have in mind yourself going up against the Encore ESP Pro.Watch C
For most home brewers, though, the Encore ESP sits in a sweet spot that's hard to argue with. Browse the full Coffee Hit grinder range if you'd like to compare options before deciding.Read F
The Baratza Encore ESP Espresso Coffee Grinder is the perfect tool for making great espresso at home.Watch S
We'd describe both of these models as "no frills." While they're really well made and easy to use, they don't have too many fancy extra features.Read F
We'll talk about the benefits of the Encore's 40 grind settings, and how to use the included grind settings chart to figure out the right grind size for your preferred brewing method. We'll also show you how the Baratza Encore ESP can help you get the most out of your coffee beans.Watch B
I didn’t love the regular Baratza Encore when I tested it, but the ESP was a different story.Read F
Exceptional coffee experience, affordable priceWatch E r/espresso u/Spiritual-Snow179 · owner
Baratza Encore ESP Pro, it's what cured my rage after the Fellow Opus.Read thread F
Look no further than the Baratza Encore ESP!Watch C
Baratza Encore ESP: The First Espresso Grinder I'd Actually RecommendRead H
The new Baratza Encore ESP is an entry-level grinder that can effectively and efficiently grind for both filter AND espresso without any modifications to the machine. Let's see how it compares to the built-in grinder on my Breville Barista Pro.Watch C
One of the best “first proper espresso” bundles for the moneyRead E
And we love it. I I'm a really big fan of this guy here. So, again, 40 grind sizes, but half of them are for strictly espresso. So, you've got 1 through 20 is espresso, and then 21 through 40 is for your um pourover or drip up to cold brew. So, perfect overall. Yeah.Watch G
Baratza Encore ESP coffee grinder is a Top Choice for home Baristas who demand Precision ease of use and durability whether you're Brewing espresso or pourover this grinder has you covered unlock the perfect GrindWatch M
Baratza Encore ESP Grinder: Affordable, Espresso-ReadyWatch B
From filter coffee to espresso, this could be your next home grinder. Dario discusses the grinder's price point, cup quality, what's-in-the-box and how the Encore ESP compares to other home grinders.Watch R
The Baratza Encore ESP is a major step up from the already reliable original Encore grinder. After years of using a salvaged Encore with a DIY motor replacement, I didn't think I'd be in a rush to upgrade, but the ESP changes the game. It builds on everything that made the original great. Reliability, simplicity, and solid build quality.Watch B
Baratza Encore ESP represents a significant evolution in the world of entry-level coffee grinding.Watch
9 neutral sources
The baratza encore ESP is a good grinder but for espresso it basically “does espresso” but it doesn’t do it particularly well compared to grinders designed for it as a primary function. It’s a good grinder for its price range and it’s versatile but it’s a bit of a jack of all trades but master of none.Read thread P
Both grinders have their strengths and weaknesses but ultimately yield impressive results. Join us as we break down both grinders and compare them side-by-side in an effort to help you make the right choice for your home setup.Watch P
For most espresso drinkers who want the best grind and plan to keep improving, the Mahlkonig X54 is the grinder to buy. Choose the Baratza Encore ESP if you are new to espresso, working to a budget, or setting up a compact kitchen.Read T
One of my biggest pet peeves with the Baratza Encore ESP is the hopper because this lid is very loose and it can fly off while grinding sometimes. Not like fly, but it'll pop off and roll off.Watch T
I’m a bit conflicted on the Baratza Encore ESP. On one hand it does both espresso and filter coffee quite well for a grinder at this price point. In terms of price-to-taste ratio it’s a very compelling offer.Read E
Noise : Some users report that the grinder can be noisy, especially when used for espresso, which could be an issue for those who prefer quieter appliances.Read F Facebook Facebook post
And I wasn't overly enamored with the Encore ESP Pro when I tested it, which is. well, weird, because I loved its predecessor.View post T
Retention climbs noticeably after a couple of months of use.Read W
For me, the Baratza Encore ESP Pro gets my recommendationRead
3 unconvinced sources
What we didn’t like: Although Baratza boasts that the Pro uses “new ion generating technology” to reduce static and improve retention, it still held onto a small amount of grounds after using the Single Dose Mode. You can’t use a portafilter with the Single Dose Mode, but the dosing cup method is relatively neat.Read C
Is grinds retention a problem on the Baratza Encore ESP? Not so much for pour over and AeroPress but definitely an issue when grinding for espresso. Have a look.Watch B
Issue number one, inconsistent grind size. Many users said the grind consistency isn't as precise as advertised, especially for espresso. You might get fine grounds one time and chunky bits the next. And for a grinder at this price, that's just not acceptable. Issue number two, weak motor or stalling. Some people notice the motor bogs down when grinding finer coffee.Watch
4 stance not read sources
Another Baratza that impressed our testing team was the Encore ESP , our top pick for grinding up espresso beans. Like the original Encore, this straightforward espresso grinder offers 40 different grind settings and a large 300-gram hopper size. It’s simple to operate, with only one push button, an on/off toggle and built-in hopper adjustment.Read S
Baratza has long been one of the champion brands for home coffee brewing let's check out the brand new Baratza Encore ESP coffee and espresso grinder The Encore ESP is a re-engineered version of Baratza's legendary Encore Precision grinder the esp's Burrs are 40 millimeter M2 conical steel for a wide range of grime levels a powerful high&Watch L
Lance Hedrickk here and today I'm so excited to talk about the new Baratza Encore ESP. Now, like so many of you, my first experience with a home coffee grinder was the Bratz Encore. It's kind of the hallmark of home coffee. Over the years, I fell out of love with the Encore's cut profile. I just no longer really enjoyed it as I continued to, I guess, develop my palette.Watch W
Learn about the exciting new Baratza Encore ESP Pro grinder from the floor of the Specialty Coffee Association Expo in Houston Texas. The Encore ESP Pro is an all-purpose grinder with expanded range in espresso compared to the original Encore ESP.Watch
Frequently asked questions
It ranks #3 (B tier) on our consolidated coffee grinders board, drawn from 45 cited sources across 34 outlets.
Fewer settings than higher-end models. Not as quiet as some competitors.
The Baratza Encore ESP is for people starting out in home espresso who want a durable, consistent grinder at an entry-level cost. The research found it balances performance with price and grinds consistently for espresso. If you mostly brew filter coffee, the OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder in A tier is the better buy. If you want the best all-round grinder on the board, that is the Baratza Virtuoso+.
Yes, for home espresso. Reviewers rated the Baratza Encore ESP consistent for espresso and it is the espresso-grade entry point on our board. It has fewer settings than higher-end models, so very fine adjustments are coarser steps than on the Niche Zero Coffee Grinder or the Eureka Mignon Specialita, both premium B tier picks for dedicated espresso drinkers.
Buy the Baratza Encore ESP if you make espresso. It ranks third in B tier on our board, while the Baratza Encore sits in D tier with settings that are limited for espresso. If you only brew drip or pour-over, the two behave similarly, but the research gave the Baratza Encore ESP the edge on consistency and value.
The research credits the Baratza Encore ESP with durable construction and consistent performance, and no failure pattern was reported. Baratza is the most reliable brand on our board overall. Regular brushing of the burrs keeps the grind consistent.
It is not as quiet as some competitors. Reviewers noted the noise but did not treat it as a fault. If quiet matters, the Niche Zero Coffee Grinder and the Eureka Mignon Specialita are the quiet electric grinders on our board, at a higher cost.
Ranked nearby in Coffee Grinders
S tier #1 Baratza Virtuoso+
A tier #2 OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
B tier #4 1 of 5 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Niche Zero Coffee Grinder
B tier #5 Eureka Mignon Specialita
B tier #6 1 of 7 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Breville Smart Grinder Pro
C tier #7 1 of 4 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. 1Zpresso JX Manual Grinder
C tier #8 2 of 7 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Capresso Infinity Plus
D tier #11 2 of 4 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Krups F203
F tier #12 2 of 6 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Cuisinart Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Coffee Grinder
F tier #13 6 of 7 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick.