Baratza Encore ESP Pro Coffee Grinder

The ESP Pro replaces the original's stepped adjustment with fully stepless micro-adjustment, giving you far more precise control when dialing in espresso. It adds a metal case for improved durability and quieter operation, a digital grind setting display for repeatability, barista lights, and an auto-stop function. It's ideal for home baristas who've outgrown basic grinders and want espresso-focused precision without jumping to a prosumer price point. The feed control disc and single-dose capability make it especially appealing for intentional, hands-on workflows.

The stepless adjustment on the ESP Pro allows continuous, infinitely variable grind changes — there are no detents locking you into fixed positions. This matters enormously for espresso, where even tiny shifts in grind size change extraction time by several seconds. The digital display lets you note your exact setting and return to it reliably. While tagged as all-purpose, the ESP Pro is optimized for espresso-range grinding. It can handle coarser settings for pour-over or AeroPress, but its real strength is fine-tuning shots.

After each session, use a grinder vacuum to clear retained grounds from the burr chamber and chute — this prevents stale buildup that dulls flavor. Every two to four weeks, run Cafetto Grinder Cleaner tablets through the grinder to absorb oils that accumulate on the burrs and grinding path. Keep the ESP Pro away from moisture, including steam from your espresso machine, as humidity can cause grounds to clump and stick inside the grind path. These simple habits keep grind quality consistent long-term.

Yes — the auto-stop function detects when beans have cleared the burrs and halts the motor automatically, so you don't need to babysit single doses. Combined with the feed control disc, which regulates how quickly beans enter the burrs, it delivers a smoother, more even grind with less popcorning. You'll still want to weigh your dose before and after grinding for true precision, but the auto-stop makes the ESP Pro one of the most capable single-dose grinders at its price point.

The ESP Pro occupies the sweet spot between Baratza's entry-level grinders and their prosumer Sette and Vario lines. Its stepless adjustment and single-dose capability pair naturally with machines like the Breville Bambino Plus or Rancilio Silvia, where grind precision directly impacts shot quality. Clive's team uses every grinder they sell at their Portland headquarters, so they can speak to real-world pairing recommendations. If you're building your first serious espresso setup around $1,000–$1,500 total, the ESP Pro is a strong grinder foundation.