Baratza Encore ESP vs OXO Conical Burr Grinder

Buy the Baratza Encore ESP if you pull espresso shots and want a grinder built to dial them in. Buy the OXO Brew Conical Burr if you brew drip, pour-over or French press and want a simple, reliable grinder. The Baratza has the better burrs and the espresso-focused adjustment, but owners report a fragile plastic burr holder ring and a rough start for espresso calibration. The OXO is simpler, has far more owner ratings and a much higher average score, but its 15 settings and timer-based dosing suit brewed coffee more than espresso.

• Choose the Baratza Encore ESP if you make espresso at home and need fine, repeatable steps between settings 1 and 20 plus a dosing cup for your portafilter.
• Choose the OXO Conical Burr if you mainly brew drip, pour-over or French press and want a set-and-forget grinder with a timer that remembers your last setting.