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Quick verdict
Choose the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder if you want 40mm steel conical burrs produce consistent particle size across filter and light espresso settings. Choose the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder if you'd rather have espresso-capable grind range not available on the standard Encore. Overall we rank the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Coffee Grinders 2026 list.
Winner overall: Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder
Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder vs Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder compared
Every difference that matters, in one table.
Keep researching
- Best Coffee Grinders 2026
- Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder review
- Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder review
- All coffee grinders
Bottom line
Choose the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder if you want 40mm steel conical burrs produce consistent particle size across filter and light espresso settings. Choose the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder if you'd rather have espresso-capable grind range not available on the standard Encore. Overall we rank the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Coffee Grinders 2026 list.
Best OverallBaratza
40mm steel conical burrs produce consistent particle size across filter and light espresso settings
- 40mm steel conical burrs
- 40 grind settings
- DC motor
- Built-in timer
✓ Pros
- Espresso-capable grind range not available on the standard Encore
- 40mm conical burr produces consistent espresso particle sizes
- Baratza repair program extends the grinder's life well beyond competitors
- The correct entry-level espresso grinder to pair with every machine on this list
✕ Cons
- Not stepless, adjustment steps are larger than high-end grinders
- Not suitable for pour-over at the fine end of its range
Best EspressoBaratza
The Baratza Encore ESP is the correct entry-level espresso grinder.
- Espresso-capable range
- 40mm conical burr
- Simple operation
- Baratza support
✓ Pros
- Espresso-capable grind range not available on the standard Encore, the correct upgrade for home espresso
- 40mm conical burr set produces consistent espresso particle sizes
- Baratza repair program is the industry standard for grinder support
- The most recommended entry-level espresso grinder by the home espresso community
✕ Cons
- Step-based adjustment, not stepless like higher-end grinders
- Not optimized for filter coffee at the finest end of its range
FAQ
Common questions
Which is better, the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder or the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder?
Choose the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder if you want 40mm steel conical burrs produce consistent particle size across filter and light espresso settings. Choose the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder if you'd rather have espresso-capable grind range not available on the standard Encore. Overall we rank the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Coffee Grinders 2026 list.
What is the difference between the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder and the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder?
The Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder stands out because 40mm steel conical burrs produce consistent particle size across filter and light espresso settings, while the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder stands out because espresso-capable grind range not available on the standard Encore. The trade-offs differ too: the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder's ma in caveat is that not capable of true espresso-fine settings, the Encore ESP is the correct espresso grinder from Baratza, and the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder's is that not stepless, adjustment steps are larger than high-end grinders.
Is the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder worth it over the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder?
For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder instead if not capable of true espresso-fine settings, the Encore ESP is the correct espresso grinder from Baratza is a deal-breaker for you.
Who should buy the Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder instead of the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder?
The Baratza Encore ESP Conical Burr Grinder suits buyers whose priorities match its strengths, while the Baratza Virtuoso+ Conical Burr Grinder is best for buyers who want the best overall package.
Keep researching
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