Baratza Encore ESP

Equipment notes

The Encore ESP is an electric grinder from the US brand Baratza (acquired by Breville in 2020). It uses a stainless-steel conical burr and is a derivative that reworks the long-selling Encore to reach into espresso. The key difference from the original Encore is a re-mapped, denser set of steps in the fine range that makes espresso micro-adjustment easier. A 40mm-class conical burr is common for entry electrics, delivering conical body while its stepped settings cover a broad span from espresso to filter drip. Because adjustment resolution is concentrated at the fine end, espresso dial-in is easier than on the original even with a similar burr. Being stepped it is not as finely divisible as stepless, but the barrier to entry is low and it is easy to handle. It suits beginners trying home espresso for the first time while also brewing filter, and users who want one electric grinder for all-round use.