Baratza Encore ESP vs Fellow Opus
Side-by-side grinder comparison
| Specification | Baratza Encore ESP | Fellow Opus |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Baratza | Fellow |
| Price (MSRP) | $199 | $195 |
| Category | Conical Burr | Conical Burr |
| Burr Size | 40 mm | 40 mm |
| Burr Material | Steel | Steel |
| Burr Type | 40mm conical | 40mm conical |
| Grind Speed | 550 RPM | 550 RPM |
| Retention | 1.5 g | 1.0 g |
| Single Dose | No | No |
| Stepless | No | No |
| Hopper | 230 g | 110 g |
| Motor | 110W | 120W |
| Dimensions | 120 x 170 x 350 mm | 120 x 190 x 320 mm |
| Weight | 3.2 kg (7.1 lbs) | 3.2 kg (7.1 lbs) |
Expert Analysis
The Baratza Encore and Fellow Opus are the two most recommended entry-level electric burr grinders, both targeting the home brewer who wants significantly better coffee than a blade grinder provides. At $170 versus $195, both are accessible, but they reflect very different company philosophies.
The Baratza Encore has been the default entry-level recommendation for over a decade. Its 40mm conical steel burrs, 40 stepped grind settings, and simple on/off switch produce consistent grinds from French press through drip. Baratza's reputation rests on two pillars: the Encore's reliable performance and the company's exceptional customer support — replacement parts are cheap, repair guides are free, and the machine is designed to be user-serviceable. It's not pretty, but it works.
The Fellow Opus ($195) is the stylish newcomer. Its 40mm conical burrs, 41 grind settings (with a wider range than the Encore), anti-static technology, and magnetic catch cup represent Fellow's design-forward approach. The Opus looks significantly better on the counter — Fellow's industrial design team clearly earned their keep. The anti-static system reduces mess, and the lid-activated grind mechanism is clever.
Grind quality for filter brewing is comparable. The Opus has a slight edge in particle uniformity at coarser settings, while the Encore is marginally more consistent in the medium range. Neither produces truly espresso-quality grinds — both are filter-focused grinders.
Noise levels favor the Opus, which is noticeably quieter during operation. The Encore's motor produces a higher-pitched whine that some find bothersome.
The Encore's advantage is proven longevity and repairability. Encores routinely last 5-10 years with minimal maintenance, and when something breaks, a $10 part and a YouTube video fix it. The Opus is too new to have a comparable track record.
**Verdict:** The Fellow Opus is the better grinder for most new buyers — quieter, better-looking, less messy, slightly wider grind range. The Baratza Encore is for buyers who prioritize proven reliability, repairability, and saving $25. Both are excellent entry points into quality home grinding.
Retention: The Fellow Opus retains only 1.0 g of grounds compared to 1.5 g for the Baratza Encore ESP. Lower retention means less waste and more consistent doses, which is especially important for single-dosing workflows.
Our Verdict
The choice between the Baratza Encore ESP and the Fellow Opus comes down to your priorities and budget. The Fellow Opus is the more affordable option and offers great value. The Baratza Encore ESP, while pricier, may justify the investment with superior grind quality and features. Both grinders are capable of producing excellent espresso grinds when properly dialed in.