FellowOpus
8.0Fellow Researched
Opus
Fellow's all-rounder: a wide espresso-to-cold-brew range and a design that earns its counter space.
Looks + rangeAll brew methods
$180Read review →
Baratza Researched
Encore ESP
The grinder most people should buy first — it does espresso and filter, and Baratza will fix it forever.
First grinderEspresso + filterLegendary support
8.1
BrewSift Score
Excellent
$200
Approximate — verify the latest price
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Should you buy it?
Buy it if
- First grinder
- Espresso + filter
- Legendary support
- Genuine espresso + filter range
Skip it if
- Stepped adjustment (not stepless)
- A bit of retention
- Not silent
Not for you? Consider the Fellow Opus — or see all coffee grinders .
The verdict
An espresso-capable update to the beloved Encore: 40mm conical burrs, a finer adjustment range that reaches true espresso, and Baratza's legendary parts-and-repair support. The best balance of price, performance, and longevity for a first real grinder.
BrewSift Score breakdown
Scored across the dimensions that matter for grinders. The overall is a weighted average — see the formula.
Grind consistency8.2
Espresso range8.0
Brew range8.4
Low retention7.4
Quiet operation7.0
Workflow8.0
Value9.0
Pros & cons
What we like
- Genuine espresso + filter range
- Baratza repair/parts support
- Best all-round value
Watch-outs
- Stepped adjustment (not stepless)
- A bit of retention
- Not silent
Specifications
- Burrs
- 40mm conical
- Range
- Espresso → French press
- Settings
- Stepped
What owners say
Praised as the grinder you buy once; espresso users sometimes upgrade burrs later.
Complete your setup
The gear that pairs with the Encore ESP to make a complete, working setup.
Add a scale
Hario
V60 Drip Scale (VST-2000B)
Weighing your dose and yield is what makes a good cup repeatable, shot after shot.
$59Buy
Keep beans fresh
Fellow
Atmos Vacuum Canister
An airtight, opaque canister protects the beans you just bought from going flat within days.
$40Buy
Compare it head-to-head
Alternatives to consider
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The best filter-only grinder: 64mm flat burrs, near-zero retention, and an exceptionally clean cup.
Filter coffee onlyClean cup
$400Read review →
EurekaMignon Specialità
8.6Eureka Researched
Mignon Specialità
A quiet, stepless, Italian-built espresso grinder that holds a dial-in shot after shot.
Dedicated espressoQuiet operation
$299Read review →