Espresso adjustment without giving up filter brewing
The Baratza Encore ESP is an electric burr grinder designed for both espresso and everyday filter brewing. Its distinguishing feature is a dual-range adjustment mechanism: smaller changes in the espresso range and broader steps for coarser methods.
This overview is adapted from our existing equipment review, not a hands-on testing report. Specifications and manufacturer claims below reflect that source, not independently measured performance. Check the current UK model and package before buying.
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Check current price on Amazon UK →. Price and availability may change.
Why consider the Encore ESP?
Espresso can require small grind changes to alter how water passes through the coffee. The Encore ESP addresses this with higher-resolution adjustment at settings 1–20, while settings 21–40 cover coarser brewing methods.
That makes it relevant to someone who wants a separate grinder for espresso while continuing to brew pour-over, filter coffee or French press. The ESP is the model covered here; do not assume every Encore variant has the same adjustment mechanism.
Key specifications
- 40mm M2 conical steel burrs.
- 40 stepped grind settings: 1–20 intended for espresso and 21–40 for filter and coarser brewing.
- 300g bean hopper and approximately 120g grounds bin.
- Manual dosing, with pulse button and hands-free on/off operation.
- Quick-release burr mount.
- Manufacturer-listed no-load burr speed of 550 RPM.
- Source grinding-speed claims of approximately 1.3–2.2g per second depending on setting.
- Source UK electrical specification: 220–240V AC, 50/60Hz, 70W.
- Approximate dimensions: 13cm wide × 15cm deep × 34cm high.
- The original review records a two-year UK manufacturer warranty; confirm current terms and seller eligibility.
We have not independently tested these specifications, grind distribution or throughput.
Dual-range grind adjustment
Within the finer half of its range, the mechanism makes smaller burr-position changes useful for dialling in espresso. The coarser half moves through a broader range for filter and immersion brewing.
It remains a stepped grinder, not a stepless specialist model. The useful distinction is how those steps are allocated, not simply the total number printed on the collar.
Settings are starting points, not guaranteed recipes. Beans, roast, dose, equipment and desired results affect where you end up.
40mm M2 conical burrs
The source review identifies Baratza's 40mm M2 steel conical burr set and records claimed speeds of around 1.3g per second at setting 10 and 2.2g per second at setting 30.
Those figures are manufacturer specifications rather than our timing results. For ownership, the quick-release burr arrangement is also relevant because it provides access for routine cleaning.
Dosing cup and portafilter workflow
The original review lists a supplied dosing cup suitable for 54mm portafilters and a 58mm adapter. Confirm current package contents and compatibility with your equipment.
The cup is intended to simplify transferring grounds into a portafilter. A separate-grinder machine such as the Sage Bambino Plus or a Gaggia Classic E24 makes grinder choice an important part of the whole setup.
Manual dosing, not integrated weighing
The Encore ESP does not have an integrated scale or programmable electronic dosing system. Use the pulse button or on/off control, then measure your coffee separately if you want a recipe-based workflow.
Weighing beans before grinding or checking the resulting dose is useful, but do not assume input and output will always match exactly. We have not measured retention for this article.
Hopper and single-dose use
The standard hopper holds up to 300g. There is no need to keep it full if smaller quantities better suit how often you brew or change coffees.
The original review also records compatibility with Baratza's optional Single Dose Hopper. Treat that as an accessory to check separately rather than assuming it is included.
Cleaning and maintenance
The quick-release burr arrangement allows access for routine cleaning. Coffee particles and oils accumulate over time, so follow Baratza's cleaning and reassembly instructions.
The source review notes manufacturer documentation, support and replacement parts. Check current local availability before relying on any particular part or service, and do not treat serviceability as a guarantee of a specific lifespan.
Who is it best for?
Consider the Encore ESP if you want to use a traditional espresso machine and also brew filter, pour-over, AeroPress or French press. It is especially relevant if espresso adjustment matters more to you than automatic dosing.
It can form part of a separate-grinder espresso setup without being limited to that one brewing method.
Who should look elsewhere?
If you only want a basic electric grinder for occasional filter or cafetière brewing, a simpler model may cover your needs. Compare current prices rather than assuming the extra espresso-focused adjustment is essential.
If you specifically want integrated weighing, programmable timed dosing or fully stepless adjustment, the Encore ESP does not provide those features. Those are different buying requirements, not tasks solved by its dual-range collar.
Encore ESP versus Melitta Calibra
The Melitta Calibra emphasises integrated weight-based dosing and broad adjustment for home brewing. The Encore ESP leaves weighing to you and instead dedicates finer adjustment steps to espresso.
For filter brewing with dosing convenience, the Calibra is worth comparing. For a traditional espresso setup alongside filter use, the Encore ESP's adjustment design may be more relevant.
For a simpler first grinder, see our Melitta Molino overview.
Our take
The Encore ESP offers a practical middle ground between a general home grinder and a more specialised espresso model. Its appeal is the combination of espresso-focused adjustment and a coarser range for other brewing methods.
You still handle weighing and dosing decisions yourself. Choose it for that combination of control and versatility, not for automatic weighing or electronic recipes it does not have.
Check current price on Amazon UK →. Confirm the Encore ESP model and supplied accessories.
Develop your brewing skills
For espresso preparation and extraction, explore our Espresso Mastery digital guide. For pour-over brewing, see Pour-Over Perfection.