QUESTION
Should I buy the OXO Brew Conical Burr Grinder or Baratza Encore?
For most everyday coffee drinkers, the OXO Brew Conical Burr Grinder is the better buy because it offers strong grind consistency, easy operation, and better value at a lower price point — it’s commonly around $100.
Choose the Baratza Encore if you want a more long-term, enthusiast-friendly grinder. It costs more, feels more solid and sturdy, grinds a bit slower, and is especially known for being easy to repair and keep running for years.
Bottom line:
- Buy the OXO if you want the best value for drip, pour-over, and general everyday use.
- Buy the Encore if repairability and long-term ownership matter more to you.
Neither grinder is ideal for traditional high-pressure espresso machines out of the box. They’re both better suited to brewed coffee methods like drip, pour-over, French press, and cold brew. If you’re mainly making espresso, you’ll usually want a grinder designed specifically for espresso.