Coffee grinding is an art, and the right grinder can make all the difference in achieving that perfect cup.
If you’ve been on the hunt for a high-quality coffee grinder, you’ve probably come across the Baratza Encore and its upgraded counterpart, the Baratza Encore ESP.
The Baratza Encore is a well-known and beloved grinder for coffee aficionados, but the Encore ESP comes with a higher price tag and a few enhancements.
But, is it worth the higher price tag?
In this comparison, we’ll explore the key distinctions between these two models and help you determine which one suits your coffee needs best.
| Specification | Baratza Encore | Baratza Encore ESP |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 13 x 15 x 34 cm | 13 x 15 x 34 cm |
| Weight | 7 lbs | 7.2 lbs |
| Voltage | 120V | 120V |
| Power | 120W | 70W |
| Burr Size | 40mm | 40mm |
| Grind Settings | 40 (excluding espresso) | 40 (calibrated for espresso) |
| Adjustment System | ABS, Linear | Metal, Dual-Range |
| Fine-tune adjustment | No | Yes |
| Dosing Cup | No | Yes (24 grams) |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 8 oz | 8 oz |
| Grounds Bin Capacity | 5 oz | 5 oz |
| Burr Removal | Fixed (Disassembly required) | Quick-release |
| Burrs | 40mm Steel M3 Conical Burr | 40mm Steel M2 Conical Burr |
| Recommended Use | Filtered Coffee, Pour Over, Chemex, and French Press | Espresso, Filtered Coffee, Pour Over, Chemex, and French Press |
| Color Options | Black and White | Black and White |
| Price | $149.99 | $199.95 |
Overview Of Baratza
Baratza is a U.S.-based company that has been perfecting home coffee grinding since 1999.
Founded by coffee enthusiasts Kyle Anderson and Kyra Kennedy, they’ve built a reputation for making affordable, top-quality coffee grinders that are a breeze to use.
Their grinders are trusted for their precise grinding and impressive durability, making them a top choice for coffee lovers.
Among their lineup, the Baratza Encore series stands out.
It boasts 40 grind settings, catering to various coffee preferences, from fine to coarse.
One of Encore’s strengths is its ability to deliver just the right grind for manual brewing methods like pour-over, Aeropress, Siphon, and Chemex.
If you’re into espresso, it doesn’t disappoint either, thanks to its specially designed burrs that ensure a balanced and flavorful extraction.
With a grind range spanning from 250 to 1200 microns, this grinder leaves little coffee behind, keeping your grounds fresh and ready for brewing.
Whether you’re crafting your morning pour-over or pulling a rich espresso shot, the Baratza Encore has you covered, making it an excellent choice for both manual brewing and espresso enthusiasts.
Baratza Encore vs Encore ESP: Overall Design
The Baratza Encore and Encore ESP share a lot in terms of their overall design and appearance.
Both grinders embrace a modern and practical look, seamlessly blending style with functionality.
They feature a similar profile and offer a choice of colors, presenting a refined and appealing appearance.
While the Encore ESP maintains many of these design elements, there are some subtle differences worth noting.
The ESP has a slightly altered body shape, with a slimmer outer body and a more compact back.
This shift transforms what used to be a full-back “shoulder” into a more streamlined “hump” design.
The branding on the ESP is more understated and contributes to an elegant look.
What truly sets the Encore ESP apart is its practical additions.
It comes with a dosing cup, which is not present in the original Encore.
This feature that has been gaining popularity among home baristas for its role in simplifying the grinding process and ensuring cleaner grounds distribution into your portafilter.
However, the differences in overall design and aesthetics between the Encore and Encore ESP are minimal.
Baratza Encore vs Encore ESP: Performance
The key dissimilarity lies in their intended use.
The Encore ESP is tailor-made for espresso grinding, while the original Encore is not designed for this purpose.
The Encore ESP offers a broad spectrum of 40 grind settings, with the first 20 settings finely tuned for espresso.
It can produce the ultra-fine consistency required for brewing espresso, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to coarser grinds suitable for slower brewing methods.
On the other hand, the Baratza Encore excels in brewing methods like pour-over, drip brewing, and French press.
It boasts 40 stepped grind settings and sturdy conical steel burrs, resulting in consistently uniform coffee grounds, a trait highly valued by coffee enthusiasts.
What sets the Encore ESP apart is its precision-focused grind setting, perfect for espresso lovers.
Baratza’s innovative macro-micro adjustment system ensures a grind resolution that’s ideal for crafting creamy, syrupy espresso shots.
The stainless steel 40 mm M2 conical burrs are sharper and more precise, enhancing the espresso grinding experience.
The Encore ESP is also notably faster than the original Encore, with early tests showing a 20% increase in grinding speed, reaching up to 2.4 grams per second for coarser grinds and around 1.2 grams per second for espresso.
Moreover, the Encore ESP’s ability to seamlessly switch between different brewing methods without sacrificing precision has made it a preferred choice for those seeking a versatile grinder.
Baratza Encore vs Encore ESP: Cleaning And Maintenance
Maintaining and cleaning both the Baratza Encore and Encore ESP is a breeze.
You can simply wash the hopper, rubber collar, and grind bin with warm, soapy water, ensuring they are thoroughly dried before putting them back in place.
For a deeper clean, you can purchase cleaning tablets that, when used every 4 to 5 weeks, help clear any unwanted residue from the machine.
Baratza is renowned for crafting grinders that are easy to service and repair.
They offer many of the replacement parts you might need, ensuring that with proper maintenance, your grinder can stand the test of time.
The Baratza Encore makes it convenient to access the burrs without needing any tools, allowing you to disassemble the grinder for cleaning with ease.
As for the Encore ESP, it boasts a quick-release burr system, making cleaning and maintenance simpler than ever.
Plus, the included dosing cup in the Encore ESP streamlines your espresso-making process and reduces mess, adding to its user-friendly design.
Key Similarities: Baratza Encore and Encore ESP
Both the Baratza Encore and Encore ESP share several key similarities that make them exceptional coffee grinders.
Here, we’ll explore these common features.
Burr Size and Grind Settings
One fundamental similarity between the Encore and Encore ESP is their 40mm burr size.
This size ensures consistent grinding for various brewing methods, even if the calibration differs.
Both grinders offer 40 grind settings, making them adaptable to a wide range of coffee styles, from French press to pour-over.
Design Aesthetics
Both grinders showcase a modern and utilitarian aesthetic that combines functionality with an attractive appearance.
They feature a sleek profile and provide two color options, allowing you to choose the one that complements your kitchen or coffee setup.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Maintaining the Encore and Encore ESP is hassle-free.
You can easily clean the hopper, rubber collar, and grind bin with warm, soapy water.
Additionally, both models offer the option of using cleaning tablets to ensure your grinder remains in optimal condition.
Baratza’s commitment to serviceability and repairability also applies to both grinders, providing access to replacement parts for long-term use.
Build Quality and Durability
Both the Encore and Encore ESP are built to last.
Their robust construction and durable components ensure they can withstand the rigors of daily coffee grinding.
The quality of these grinders has contributed to Baratza’s reputation for producing reliable coffee equipment.
The Verdict: Choosing Between the Baratza Encore vs Encore ESP
Deciding between the Baratza Encore and the Baratza Encore ESP comes down to your specific coffee needs and preferences.
Let’s break it down to help you make the right choice:
Baratza Encore: Versatile and Budget-Friendly
The Baratza Encore is an excellent option if you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade from a basic grinder.
It’s a versatile workhorse that handles various brewing methods exceptionally well, except for advanced espresso-making.
It’s user-friendly, easy to adjust, clean, maintain, and repair.
Moreover, its affordable price tag makes it an attractive choice, especially when compared to the Encore ESP.
Baratza Encore ESP: Espresso and More
The Baratza Encore ESP is a souped-up version of the original Encore, designed to address a common complaint – its inability to grind adequately for espresso.
This grinder builds upon the Encore’s legacy with significant improvements, including a new grind adjustment system and a redesigned burr housing for easier maintenance.
The Encore ESP is the ideal choice for those who want a versatile grinder suitable for all preparation methods, including espresso, moka pot, AeroPress, pour-over, and drip machines, all at an affordable price.
FAQ’s
What is the difference between Baratza Encore and Encore ESP?
The main difference is that the Encore ESP is designed for espresso grinding, while the Baratza Encore is not specifically built for this purpose.
The Encore ESP offers calibrated settings for espresso, making it a great choice for espresso lovers.
Is Baratza Encore good for pour-over coffee?
Absolutely! The Baratza Encore excels in pour-over coffee, drip brewing, and other slow brewing methods.
With 40 grind settings, it can produce the perfect consistency for your pour-over needs.
Should I buy a Baratza Encore?
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable grinder for a wide range of brewing methods, the Baratza Encore is a great choice.
Can you use Baratza Encore for espresso?
While it’s not designed for advanced espresso, you can still use the Baratza Encore for espresso.
However, if espresso is your primary focus, the Encore ESP may be a better fit.
Where is the Baratza Encore coffee grinder made?
Baratza coffee grinders, including the Encore, are made in the United States.
What setting should espresso be on Baratza Encore?
We would recommend between 8 and 10, then adjust as needed.
How much coffee does the Baratza Encore hold?
The Baratza Encore has a bean hopper capacity of 8 ounces and a grounds bin capacity of 5 ounces.
Is The Baratza Encore ESP worth it?
If you’re an espresso enthusiast or want a grinder that can handle both espresso and other brewing methods, the Baratza Encore ESP is worth considering, especially with its affordable price and added features like the dosing cup.
