Coffee enthusiasts understand that the grind quality of your coffee beans plays a crucial role in the flavor and aroma of your daily brew.
When choosing a reliable burr grinder for your home coffee setup, two popular contenders on the market are the Baratza Encore and the Capresso Infinity.
Both are well-regarded and similarly priced, making choosing between them a bit more tricky.
Both grinders also offer a range of features and advantages, but they have distinct differences that may make one a better fit for your specific preferences.
In this post, we’ll dive into a head-to-head comparison of these two grinders to help you decide which grinder is the better choice for you.
| Feature | Baratza Encore | Capresso Infinity |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Around $150 | Around $100 |
| Grind Settings | 40 settings | 16 settings |
| Auto Shut-Off | No (Optional) | Yes |
| Hopper Capacity | 8 oz | 8.8 oz (4 oz in use) |
| Build Quality | Durable, plastic parts | ABS plastic or zinc |
| Customer Service | Exceptional support | Limited parts access |
| Preferred Brew Styles | Versatile enthusiasts | Casual and simple |
| Value for Money | Excellent for precision | Good for user-friendliness |
Background On Baratza
Baratza is a company hailing from the United States and started back in 1999 when two coffee enthusiasts, Kyle Anderson and Kyra Kennedy, set out on a mission.
Their goal? Crafting top-notch coffee grinders for everyday folks to enjoy at home.
Fast forward to today, and Baratza has firmly established itself as a trusted name in the world of coffee-grinding gear.
What makes Baratza stand out? Well, they’re all about providing coffee lovers with affordable, high-quality grinders that are a breeze to use.
Their grinders are like precision instruments, finely grinding your coffee beans, and they’re built to go the distance.
When you invest in a Baratza grinder, you’re investing in the long haul.
One of the cool things about Baratza is their commitment to making life easier for you.
If your grinder ever needs a little TLC, they’ve got you covered.
They’ve got how-to videos on their YouTube channel to help you with DIY repairs, so you can keep that beloved grinder of yours in tip-top shape.
On the production front, Baratza cranks out roughly 150,000 grinders each year, all thanks to a team of around 20 passionate individuals.
And here’s an interesting tidbit: In 2020, the company found itself under the wing of Breville, another well-known name in the world of kitchen appliances.
Background On Capresso
Capresso isn’t just about coffee grinders – they’ve got a whole lineup of high-end coffee gear for your home.
Think coffeemakers, espresso machines, grinders, electric kettles, and frothers.
They’ve been at it since 1994, on a mission to bring that European coffee charm to American homes.
Now, what’s interesting is where the name “Capresso” comes from.
It’s not a combo of fancy words; it’s a fusion of “cappuccino” and “espresso.”
Pretty clever, right? These folks have a knack for being pioneers in the coffee world.
They’ve rolled out innovations like the CoffeeTEAM line, where coffeemakers team up with conical burr grinders for the perfect brew.
But that’s not all.
Capresso has been whipping up some cool espresso makers, water kettles, and milk frothers that are a cut above the rest. T
They’re all about making your coffee experience top-notch with their advanced features.
When it comes to recognition, Capresso has bagged a whopping 80 design awards, including 9 shiny iF Product Design Awards from 2007 to 2018.
Their products are all about delivering top performance, convenience, and reliability.
And guess what? You might have spotted Capresso in the media, too. They’re no strangers to the spotlight!
Now, let’s briefly take a look at the Baratza Encore and Capresso Infinity before moving on to comparing them head-to-head!
The Baratza Encore
The Baratza Encore, though tagged as an entry-level burr coffee grinder, sets itself apart with its quality, even if it comes with a slightly higher price tag than some competitors.
With a whopping 40 grind settings, it’s versatile and a cinch to use and adjust.
You can trust it to grind your beans quickly and consistently for just about any coffee style, except for the more advanced espresso-making.
One cool thing about the Encore is how hassle-free it is to clean, maintain, and even repair, which means this grinder could be your trusty sidekick for years to come.
It’s speedy, too – grinding enough beans for a pot of coffee takes less than a minute.
Plus, it’s got handy features like a toggle on/off switch, a pulse button, adjustment levels, and a ground bin.
Baratza has nailed the art of efficiency and simplicity with the Encore.
It’s designed to be user-friendly from the get-go.
While it might lean a bit more on the pricey side among entry-level grinders, it makes up for it with its top-notch build quality and long-lasting durability.
Speaking of upgrades, the Encore recently got a facelift.
The changes mostly involve simplifying the buttons and knobs and giving it an overall sleeker look.
When it comes to the grind size, it’s impressively consistent, leaving cheap grinders in the dust.
Whether you’re into AeroPress, drip, or French press, the Encore handles it all like a champ.
Plus, it keeps your coffee beans tasting fresh even during those longer grind sessions.
How does it achieve this grind perfection? By combining electric and gear speed reducers to slow the burr down to a smooth 450 revolutions per minute (RPM).
So basically, in 2023, the Baratza Encore is still a solid choice.
Pros
- 40 grind settings for versatility
- Quick and even grinding
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Durable and long-lasting
- Sleek and upgraded design
- Consistent grind size
- Suitable for various brewing methods
- Budget-friendly with Baratza quality at a reasonable price
Cons
- Lacks convenience features (timed grinding, dose control, automatic shutoff)
- Contains several plastic components
- Noisier than desired
- Limited adjustments for espresso grind
The Capresso Infinity
The Capresso Infinity is another electric burr grinder that covers all your grinding needs for various coffee styles.
Its conical steel burrs are meticulously hand-assembled in Switzerland, ensuring precision.
This grinder stands out with its slow grind speed (less than 450 rpm), minimizing heat buildup, which can impact coffee extraction and taste.
With 16 grind settings, simplicity takes center stage.
Four distinct categories (extra fine, fine, regular, and coarse) are clearly marked.
You can set the timer from 5 to 60 seconds for your desired grind, and an on/off button lets you stop the process whenever you like.
The Capresso Infinity boasts a unique yet functional stainless steel design, fitting well into any kitchen decor.
Its sturdy construction ensures durability with proper maintenance, making it a long-lasting choice.
Pros
- Wide range of precision grinding
- Slowest grind speed for minimized heat
- 16 grind settings with four distinct grind categories
- Timer for customized grinding
- Durable stainless steel construction
- User-friendly
- The compact design will fit in most kitchens
- Great value for money
Cons
- Inconsistent at coarser settings (e.g., French Press, cold brew)
- Prone to static
- Not the most suitable for espresso grinding
- Burrs are difficult to detach, leading to cleaning challenges
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Head-To-Head
Now that you know a little bit more about each grinder, let’s pit them against each other to help you decide which grinder is the best choice for your brewing needs.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Design And Build Quality
In terms of build quality, both the Baratza Encore and Capresso Infinity are on par.
They offer good quality at reasonable prices by judiciously using high-quality metal components where necessary and integrating durable, cost-effective plastic elements where suitable.
Both grinders are also designed with aesthetics and space efficiency in mind.
The Baratza Encore boasts a simple and classic design, while the Capresso Infinity leans toward a modern look.
The Encore is primarily plastic but feels sturdy, whereas the Infinity offers a heavy-duty zinc die-cast housing option.
Both feature a sleek black exterior and a transparent hopper to showcase your coffee beans in a compact form atop the grinders.
The Encore’s design is straightforward and user-friendly, with just a pulse button on its black plastic body and an on-off switch on the side.
It won’t steal the show in your kitchen and doesn’t look the most fancy, but it seamlessly blends in, exuding a sense of functional simplicity.
On the other hand, the Infinity has a slightly more quirkier and modernized design.
Its mostly dark plastic body is complemented by a transparent grounds bin, which some might find less uniform.
The front sports a cup selector knob, with the company logo separating it from the grounds bin.
The grind setting indicator is more noticeable than the Encore.
While it doesn’t flow as smoothly in appearance as the Baratza grinder, it still flows well with most kitchen appliances.
The Baratza Encore boasts a sleek and slim design reminiscent of coffee shop grinders, but design preferences are subjective.
The final choice boils down to your personal taste.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Durability
Both the Baratza Encore and Capresso Infinity are known for their durability, but they differ in their construction.
The Baratza Encore boasts high-quality plastic components, ensuring a long lifespan. It’s a robust grinder that can last for many years.
On the other hand, the Capresso Infinity’s housing is made of ABS plastic, which may not withstand rough handling as well as the Encore.
However, it’s worth noting that Capresso offers an Infinity model with a heavy-duty zinc die-cast housing, providing a more durable option than the standard ABS plastic model.
Another significant advantage of choosing the Encore is the exceptional customer service provided by Baratza.
They offer readily available and affordable replacement parts through their official website.
Additionally, there is a wealth of YouTube tutorial videos that can guide you through DIY repairs for the Encore.
In contrast, if the Infinity experiences a breakdown, finding replacement parts can be challenging, and your only recourse might be to just purchase a new coffee grinder.
Many users have reported owning Encore grinders for over a decade and still being satisfied with their performance.
This level of quality for the price is truly exceptional and hard to surpass.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Ease Of Use
Both the Baratza Encore and Capresso Infinity are user-friendly, requiring little to no manual consultation.
They each have two switches: on/off and pulse grinding.
Adjusting the grind size on the Baratza is a breeze – simply turn the plastic bean hopper to set the desired coarseness.
It’s marked from 0 to 40, with lower numbers for fine grinds like Turkish or espresso and higher ones for coarser grinds like French press or cold brew.
The Infinity keeps things simple with a cup selector dial on top, although the numbers (1-12) can be a bit cryptic.
They indicate the number of cups it will grind for, but you’ll likely need to weigh your grounds to get the right dose.
However, the main difference between these grinders is the auto-shutoff feature.
The Capresso Infinity comes with a timer switch, allowing you to grind for up to 60 seconds before it automatically stops – not as precise as weight-based shut-off, but still handy.
The Baratza Encore lacks this feature, requiring manual shutdown.
So, does having a timer make life easier? It’s a bit of a mixed bag.
While the auto-shutoff is convenient, nailing the exact grinding time can be tricky.
Your grinder might run too long, or you’ll have to pulse grind until you’re satisfied.
The Encore doesn’t face this issue but demands you to remember to switch it off.
If you can’t live without an auto-shutoff, you can grab the Baratza Esatto accessory, which adds this feature to the Encore.
For this round, we’re leaning toward the Infinity, mainly because we’ve all had those moments when we forget about the beans.
The auto-shutoff comes to the rescue in such situations.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Performance
The Baratza Encore is equipped with 40mm stainless steel conical burrs driven by a low-speed motor using low-reduction technology.
These burrs are robust and designed for longevity, rotating at a controlled 550 RPM.
The grinder also features a high-torque DC motor with a thermal cut-off switch.
On the other hand, the Capresso Infinity Plus employs commercial-grade stainless steel conical burrs that operate at a slower 450 RPM, which is lower than the Baratza Encore.
The Capresso Infinity also boasts 40mm stainless steel conical burrs, precisely hand-assembled in Switzerland as matched pairs, reducing heat and preventing premature oil extraction from the coffee beans.
Additionally, its motor and gear system run relatively quietly.
Both grinders have burr sets of the same size and are highly precise.
The lower RPM of the Capresso Infinity results in reduced static and heat, contributing to a quieter grinding process.
While both grinders emit some noise, they are quieter than many cheaper models with higher RPMs.
In terms of grinding performance, there’s little to differentiate between the two, as both offer quality burr sets and motors that deliver excellent results for their respective price points.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Grind Consistency
Baratza grinders are renowned for their remarkable grind consistency, which is all about minimizing those fine coffee particles that can make your brew thicker.
Both the Baratza Encore and Capresso Infinity shine when it comes to delivering consistent grinds, especially for fine to medium textures.
This makes them ideal for pretty much any brewing method.
For medium grinds, the Baratza Encore edges out the Capresso Infinity slightly.
When it comes to fine grinds, both perform exceptionally well.
The resulting consistent grind ensures that each cup of coffee is excellent, whether you choose the Encore or the Infinity.
However, the Capresso Infinity encounters some challenges with grind consistency, particularly in coarser settings.
On the other hand, the Encore performs much better at coarser grind settings and provides more room for adjustments to enhance the consistency of finer grinds.
When it comes to fine grinds for espresso, both grinders produce fluffy grounds suitable for pressurized portafilters.
But they might not offer the precision required for Turkish coffee, leaving the grounds a bit too coarse.
Another downside of the Infinity is that it tends to hold grounds in the chute that don’t fall into the container, causing some mess when you remove the container.
In summary, the Baratza Encore offers a broader range of grind settings while maintaining slightly better consistency.
However, both grinders produce top-quality grounds that can significantly improve your coffee compared to cheaper conical burr or blade grinders.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Grind Settings
The Baratza Encore offers a wide range of 40 grind settings, from very coarse (setting 40) to very fine (setting 1).
In the Encore ESP model, the first 20 settings are for precise micro-adjustments, changing as little as 20 microns in burr spacing, allowing you to control your grind size with great detail.
The remaining 20 settings (21-40) cover a broader range, from fine Aeropress to chunky French press grinds.
This level of micro-adjustments is not available in the original Baratza Encore.
The Baratza Encore grinding motor can be manually adjusted between 200 and 299 RPM for even more consistency, and its grind range spans from 250 to 1200 microns.
On the other hand, the Capresso Infinity offers 16 grind settings, divided into four categories: coarse, medium, fine, and extra-fine, with four choices in each.
The machine operates at less than 250 RPM, staying cool and relatively quiet.
The grind range on the Capresso Infinity is from 300 to 1200 microns.
Adjusting the grind setting for either grinder is a simple twist of the hopper to align with your preference.
If you’re a coffee enthusiast looking to dive into the world of home brewing and experiment with grind sizes, the Baratza’s extensive options, and manual adjustments are your go-to.
But for casual coffee drinkers who prefer simplicity, the 16 settings on the Capresso Infinity should suffice.
Overall, the Encore wins this round with its variety of grind settings and manual adjustment features.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Capacity
While both burr grinders feature a hopper for coffee bean storage before grinding, they differ in their storage capacity.
The Baratza Encore comes with an 8-ounce hopper and a 5-ounce grounds bin.
On the other hand, the Capresso Infinity has a slightly larger 8.8-ounce hopper but can hold up to 4 ounces of ground coffee.
Now, even though the Baratza’s hopper is a bit smaller, it’s typically sufficient for a pot of coffee or single doses.
Baratza even recommends their grinders for single-dose grinding, staying true to their style.
To add more storage, they offer an accessory that can be placed on top of the hopper, giving you an extra 9 ounces of space.
Capresso doesn’t specify the number of doses but is better suited for single doses rather than large batches.
Another consideration is the design of the grounds container.
The Encore has a tall and narrow container, while the Infinity features a shallow and wide one.
In terms of storage options, the Encore takes the lead due to its expandable capacity.
However, the Infinity remains the more compact choice.
Ultimately, both grinders offer sufficient capacities for home use, easily accommodating several cups of coffee a day.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Cleaning And Maintenance
Cleaning both grinders is a straightforward process.
Simply remove the hopper, take out the outer burr, and use a vacuum or brush to clear away coffee residue.
There’s no significant difference between them when it comes to cleaning.
Both grinders are low-maintenance and a breeze to keep clean.
Baratza Encore vs Capresso Infinity: Value For Money
When it comes to assessing the value for money offered by the Baratza Encore and Capresso Infinity, both priced around $150, it’s important to weigh the benefits of each grinder at this price point.
High-end manual grinders can yield exceptional grinds due to their focus on the burr set rather than motors or electronics.
However, electric grinders bring greater convenience to the table.
Considering the price, both the Baratza Encore and Capresso devices deliver remarkable value for money, far surpassing the performance of blade grinders.
Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to your specific preferences and needs, whether you prioritize grind quality or the convenience of an electric grinder.
Our Preferred Choice: The Baratza Encore
While both grinders have their merits, we favor the Baratza Encore as our top pick due to its versatility, manual adjustment options, and exceptional customer service.
With a wide range of grind settings and the ability to fine-tune your grind, the Encore caters to coffee enthusiasts looking for precision.
Its reputation for durability and the availability of replacement parts set it apart, making it a reliable choice that can last for many years.
Whether you’re a brewing aficionado or just seeking a high-quality coffee grinder, the Baratza Encore delivers an excellent grinding experience that’s hard to beat in its price range.
Who Should Choose The Capresso Infinity?
The Capresso Infinity is ideal for those who desire a straightforward and user-friendly grinding experience.
Its 16 grind settings cover the essentials without overwhelming you with choices.
The Capresso Infinity is perfect for casual coffee drinkers who don’t require an array of grind settings.
It’s designed for simplicity and is well-suited for those who prefer hassle-free brewing.
The other thing to consider is that if you’re on a budget, The Capresso Infinity is slightly cheaper than the Baratza Encore but still a great choice.
FAQ’s
Is Baratza Encore good enough?
Yes, the Baratza Encore is highly regarded for its grind consistency, durability, and versatility.
It’s an excellent choice for a wide range of coffee brewing methods, making it a suitable option for many coffee enthusiasts.
Can Capresso Infinity do espresso?
The Capresso Infinity can produce a fine grind suitable for espresso brewing.
However, it may not offer the same level of precision and adjustment as some high-end espresso-focused grinders.
It can work well for espresso, especially if you’re not overly particular about grind size.
Is the Baratza coffee grinder worth it?
Yes, Baratza coffee grinders are generally considered worth the investment.
They offer quality, durability, and excellent customer support, making them a favorite among coffee enthusiasts.
The Baratza Encore, in particular, provides a great balance of performance and price.
How long do Baratza Encore grinders last?
Many users have reported owning their Encore grinders for over a decade and still being satisfied with their performance.
With proper care and maintenance, these grinders can last for many years.
Can Baratza Encore grind fine enough for espresso?
Yes, the Baratza Encore can grind fine enough for espresso.
It offers a wide range of grind settings, including those suitable for espresso brewing.
While it may not provide the same level of precision as specialized espresso grinders, it’s more than capable of producing quality espresso grounds.
Is Baratza Encore slow?
The Baratza Encore has a motor that runs at a relatively low speed, which can be seen as both an advantage and a potential drawback.
The slower speed is designed to reduce heat and friction during grinding, which is beneficial for preserving the flavor of your coffee.
However, this may result in a slightly slower grinding process compared to some high-speed grinders.
It’s not excessively slow, but it prioritizes grind quality over speed.
Where is the Capresso coffee grinder made?
Capresso coffee grinders are produced with conical burrs that are hand-assembled in Switzerland for precise fit.
Where is the Baratza Encore made?
The Baratza Encore coffee grinder is produced in Taiwan, while the design and engineering teams for Baratza grinders operate from their headquarters in Seattle.
