Baratza Encore Review [2026]
By Marvin Smit
Baratza ZCG485BLK
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Quick verdict
Consider the Encore for a simple drip or pour-over setup; choose the ESP when buying for standard-basket espresso. This is a buying review based on product documentation, not an in-house performance test.
Buy it if: Drip, pour-over and French press without espresso plans.
Skip it if: You are budgeting for an espresso machine with a non-pressurized basket.
Pros
- Baratza positions the Encore for filter brewing.
- A straightforward option when espresso is not part of your setup.
Cons
- Our choice for filter, not for buying into standard-basket espresso.
- No programmable dose timer.
Key specifications
- Brew-method fit
- Filter first
- Type
- Electric, conical burr
- Burrs
- Steel conical
- Adjustment
- Stepped hopper adjustment
- Espresso-capable
- Choose the ESP for standard espresso baskets
- Hopper
- Bean hopper with grounds bin
Sources: Baratza — Encore
Who should buy the Encore?
A filter-only household is the clearest fit. If you want a straightforward electric grinder for a drip brewer or pour-over setup, put the Encore on your shortlist.
We base this recommendation on its intended use and workflow. We have not measured its grind distribution, noise or retained grounds, and do not treat measurements of the ESP Pro as Encore test results.
When to choose the ESP instead
If you are buying for espresso with a non-pressurized basket, our recommendation is the Encore ESP. The adjustment required for espresso is the reason to choose a different model, rather than assuming every burr grinder will suit the job.
A pressurized basket is more forgiving. If you already own an Encore, judge your current results before buying another grinder. We do not claim that every Encore produces the same shot time or has the same calibration.
Before deciding on an upgrade, read whether a separate espresso grinder fits your workflow and distinguish a real adjustment limitation from a recipe problem.
The daily workflow
Plan to check the amount of coffee with a scale. The Encore is not our recommendation for someone seeking programmable timed portions. If that is your priority, compare the Smart Grinder Pro in the grinder guide.
Allow room to load beans and remove the grounds bin. Check the current model’s dimensions and lid clearance before choosing a tight shelf.
Maintenance and upgrades
Use the current manual for cleaning and order parts by model. A change in grind output calls for troubleshooting before buying replacement burrs or gears.
Do not assume an Encore can become an ESP through a simple adjustment-ring swap. We have not verified that conversion. Confirm compatibility with Baratza for any proposed modification.
Alternatives worth comparing
Choose the ESP for an espresso plan, the OXO for another filter-first electric option, or the Opus 2 for mixed-method single dosing. These are workflow alternatives; we are not claiming they are faster, quieter or better tasting without a direct test.
Alternatives worth a look
Baratza Encore ESP
A first separate grinder for a Bambino or similar espresso machine.
$$
Fellow Opus 2
A household that weighs each dose and brews both espresso and filter.
$$
OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
Drip and pour-over drinkers seeking a simple budget electric option.
$
Frequently asked questions
Is the Encore worth buying for filter coffee?
It belongs on a shortlist for a simple filter-only setup. Compare it with the OXO and choose around workflow and current availability.
Source: Baratza — Encore
Should I buy an Encore for espresso?
When buying specifically for a non-pressurized espresso basket, our recommendation is the ESP. If you already own an Encore, evaluate your current basket and results before replacing it.
Source: Baratza — Encore, Baratza — Encore ESP
How loud is the standard Encore?
We have not measured it. We removed estimates inferred from other models because an ESP or ESP Pro test does not establish the standard Encore’s noise level.
How much coffee does it retain?
We have not verified a repeatable measurement for this model. Weigh beans and output in your own routine rather than relying on a fixed estimate.
Final recommendation
Consider the Encore for a simple drip or pour-over setup; choose the ESP when buying for standard-basket espresso. This is a buying review based on product documentation, not an in-house performance test.