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Overview
The Baratza Encore is one of the most recommended entry-level burr grinders in the world, and for good reason. Its 40mm conical steel burrs deliver consistent grinds across a wide range of settings, from fine espresso-adjacent to coarse French press. The simple push-button operation and 40-step adjustment ring make it accessible for beginners, while the quality of the grind satisfies more experienced users. Baratza commitment to repairability and customer service is legendary — parts are readily available and affordable, and the company actively supports DIY repair. The Encore has introduced more people to quality coffee grinding than perhaps any other grinder, and its combination of performance, simplicity, and value remains unmatched at its price point.
The Baratza Encore features a 40mm conical burr set, crafted from steel. The burrs spin at 550 RPM, balancing grinding speed with heat management. Grind retention is approximately 1.5g, typical for a hopper-fed workflow.
At $170, the Baratza Encore is aimed at home baristas seeking a solid grinder without a premium price tag. With a 230g hopper, it's designed for a traditional hopper-fed workflow. The conical burr design is known for producing a slightly bimodal grind distribution, which many enjoy for its body and complexity in espresso.
The Baratza Encore is weighing 3.1 kg, manufactured in USA, powered by a 110W motor. Its footprint measures 120 x 170 x 350 mm (W×D×H).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Conical burr design offers a bimodal grind profile that many enjoy for its body and complexity
- Excellent value for money — capable espresso grinding at an accessible price point
- Well-regarded in the home espresso community for consistent grind quality in its price bracket
Cons
- Stepped grind adjustment may not allow fine enough tuning between settings for espresso
- Not optimized for single dosing — hopper-fed design may result in some grind exchange between doses
Full Specifications
| Brand | Baratza |
|---|---|
| Model | Baratza Encore |
| Category | Conical Burr |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Year Introduced | 2013 |
| Burr Size | 40 mm |
| Burr Material | Steel |
| Burr Type | 40mm conical |
| Grind Speed | 550 RPM |
| Retention | 1.5 g |
| Single Dose | No |
| Stepless Adjustment | No |
| Hopper Capacity | 230 g |
| Motor Wattage | 110 W |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 120 x 170 x 350 mm |
| Weight | 3.1 kg (6.8 lbs) |
| MSRP | $170 |
Our Verdict
The Baratza Encore from Baratza is a solid option in the budget grinder segment. Conical burrs are a popular choice for home espresso, offering good grind quality with generally lower noise and less heat buildup than flat burrs. The slightly bimodal grind distribution can produce espresso with more body and texture. Remember the golden rule: the grinder is at least as important as the espresso machine. A great grinder paired with a modest machine will outperform a modest grinder paired with a great machine every time. At this price, it's a capable starting point that will serve you well as you learn your espresso workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Baratza Encore grind fine enough for espresso?
Yes, the Baratza Encore is capable of grinding fine enough for espresso. You may need to experiment with the stepped settings to find the sweet spot for your beans.
How do the conical burrs in the Baratza Encore affect espresso?
Conical burrs produce a slightly bimodal grind distribution, which creates espresso with more body, texture, and complexity compared to flat burrs. Many espresso lovers prefer this characteristic — it produces a richer, more traditional espresso profile.
How do I maintain the Baratza Encore?
Clean out retained grounds after each use with a brush or bellows. Deep clean the burrs every 2-4 weeks by removing them and brushing away oil buildup. For the motor, occasional use of grinder cleaning tablets (like Grindz) helps remove coffee oil buildup. Never wash burrs with water.