Baratza Encore ESP Review: Is It a Good Espresso Grinder?
Editor’s Note: This is a research-based review built from Baratza’s current U.S. product information and support documentation. It is not a hands-on test, so our conclusions focus on the published design, specifications, workflow, and likely use cases.
The Baratza Encore ESP is designed for home users who want a grinder with a dedicated espresso range without moving straight into a more complicated or expensive setup. Baratza positions it as a precision-focused grinder with a 40mm conical steel burr set, a two-range adjustment system, and settings 1–20 optimized for espresso while 21–40 cover coarser brewing methods.
Baratza Encore ESP at a Glance
| Feature | Encore ESP |
|---|---|
| Grind range | 40 settings |
| Espresso-focused range | Settings 1–20 |
| Burrs | 40mm conical steel M2 |
| Dosing | Manual |
| Hopper capacity | 300g / 10.6 oz |
| Grounds bin capacity | 120g / 4.2 oz |
| Power | 70W, 100–120VAC |
| Dimensions | 13 × 15 × 34 cm |
| U.S. warranty | 1 year |
What Makes the Encore ESP Different?
The main idea is simple: give home espresso users finer adjustment where it matters, while keeping the grinder useful for filter coffee, French press, and cold brew. Baratza divides the 40-position range into two functional zones. Settings 1–20 provide the higher-resolution range intended for espresso, while 21–40 are intended for coarser brewing.
That makes the Encore ESP more versatile than a grinder designed only around one brewing method. It can also make sense for a home setup that uses an espresso machine during the week but switches to other brewing methods on different days.
Espresso Grinding
Espresso is unusually sensitive to grind size, so the usable adjustment range matters more than simply counting how many numbers appear on a dial. Baratza specifically designed the Encore ESP around higher-resolution espresso grinding, with the first 20 settings dedicated to that finer range.
The grinder uses 40mm conical steel M2 burrs. Baratza also describes its metal adjustment system as being built for daily use and says the burr system is quick-release for easier cleaning and maintenance. To understand how this burr design compares with flat burrs, see our conical vs flat burr grinder guide.
Workflow and Dosing
The Encore ESP uses manual dosing rather than an integrated electronic timer. Baratza includes a dosing cup, and the company notes that the grinder can feed grounds directly toward a 54mm portafilter with the included setup. A 58mm adapter is also included.
This means the grinder is straightforward rather than highly automated. For someone who prefers to weigh beans or doses independently, that simplicity can be useful. For someone who expects timed dosing at the touch of a button, the manual approach may feel less convenient.
Build, Size, and Counter Space
Product video: Watch the Baratza Encore ESP product video on Amazon. The video is hosted on Amazon; it may open in a new tab.
Baratza lists the Encore ESP at 13 × 15 × 34 cm. It is compact enough for many home coffee stations, but the dimensions still deserve a quick counter-space check before buying, especially where depth behind the espresso machine is limited.
The U.S. model uses 100–120VAC power, and Baratza lists a 70W motor. The current U.S. product page also lists a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Who Is the Encore ESP For?
- Home espresso beginners who want a grinder built with espresso adjustment in mind.
- Mixed-brew households that want one grinder for espresso and coarser brewing methods.
- Compact setups where a dedicated home grinder is preferred over a large commercial-style machine.
- Upgrade-minded users who want a straightforward grinder that can stay useful as their espresso workflow develops.
Who Might Want Something Different?
The Encore ESP may not be the right fit for someone who specifically wants advanced electronic dosing, built-in timing, or a more premium single-dose workflow. It also may not make sense for a household that already has a grinder they like and does not need another dedicated unit.
Encore ESP vs Encore: See the Difference
Not sure whether you need the espresso-focused Encore ESP or the standard Encore? Read our Baratza Encore vs Encore ESP comparison before choosing. If you are also weighing it against a similarly priced all-purpose option, see our Baratza Encore ESP vs Fellow Opus comparison.
Pairing It With the Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus is a particularly natural machine to consider alongside a separate grinder because it does not include an integrated grinder. Our Breville Bambino Plus review explains why that modular approach can be attractive for shoppers who want the machine and grinder to remain separate.
We also compare the Bambino Plus with the Barista Express in our Bambino Plus vs Barista Express comparison, which explains how an integrated grinder changes the overall workflow.
Our Take
On paper, the Baratza Encore ESP is a sensible starting point for home espresso users who want dedicated espresso-focused grind adjustment without jumping immediately to a more advanced grinder. Its strongest selling point is the way Baratza divides the grind range between fine espresso settings and coarser brewing methods.
The trade-off is simplicity. Manual dosing and a straightforward control system will appeal to some buyers and feel limited to others. That makes the Encore ESP a better fit for shoppers who value grind adjustment and flexibility more than automation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Baratza Encore ESP suitable for espresso?
Yes. Baratza specifically designed settings 1–20 for higher-resolution espresso grinding.
Can it grind for other brewing methods?
Yes. Baratza lists settings 21–40 for filter coffee, French press, cold brew, and other coarser brewing methods.
Does it have an integrated timer?
No. Baratza lists the Encore ESP dosing feature as manual.
Sources
- Baratza U.S. — Encore ESP product page
- Baratza — Encore ESP product and support documents
