Baratza
Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black
QuickRatey Score
Composite of certifications, ingredient analysis, and sustainability practices.
Certifications
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Customer Rating
Best for
Best for home drip coffee and French press enthusiasts seeking a durable, repairable entry-level conical burr grinder.
AI Score Review
Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black is a reliable entry-level conical burr grinder widely recommended for consistent drip coffee and French press.
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Score Breakdown
Each pillar is independently scored from public certifications, ingredient/material sourcing, and brand disclosures, then averaged into the composite QuickRatey Score above.
In-Depth Review
The Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black is a top-rated entry-level conical burr grinder in the Kitchen & Dining coffee grinders sub-niche. Its verdict: the most reliable and serviceable entry-level burr grinder for drip and French press drinkers.
Who it's for
This grinder is built for home coffee enthusiasts who value consistency, repairability, and affordability.
- Drip coffee lovers who want uniform grounds without breaking the bank.
- French press fans needing a coarse, even grind.
- Beginner home baristas seeking an upgrade from blade grinders.
Key features & specs
| Feature | Detail |
| Burr type | Conical steel burr |
| Grind settings | 40 steps |
| Bean hopper capacity | 8 oz (227 g) |
| Material | Plastic body, metal burrs |
| Origin | Designed in USA; made in Taiwan |
| Packaging | Recyclable cardboard box |
| Dimensions | 7.1 x 4.7 x 13.8 inches |
How it compares
Compared to the Fellow Opus 2, the Baratza Encore is less expensive and easier to repair, but offers fewer grind settings for espresso. Against the OXO Brew Conical Burr, the Encore has a larger burr set and stronger motor, making it more durable for daily use.
What to know before buying
- This grinder is not ideal for espresso — the 40-step adjustment is too wide for fine-tuning shots.
- It uses a 40 mm conical steel burr that produces minimal heat, preserving bean flavor.
- The machine is modular; Baratza sells replacement parts, extending its lifespan.
- Static cling can occur in dry climates; a few drops of water on beans before grinding reduces this.
- Grounds collect in the removable bin; tapping the bin helps settle them.
- Cleaning with the included brush every few weeks prevents oil buildup.
“I upgraded from a blade grinder and the difference in flavor is night and day. The Encore is quiet, easy to use, and parts are available.” — Verified buyer
Sustainability & ethics
Baratza is a B Corp focused on repairability and reducing e-waste. The Encore is designed with modular components that users can fix themselves. Packaging is recyclable cardboard, and the company offers a trade-in program for old grinders.
Pro tip
To reduce static cling, add a single drop of water to your beans before grinding — this helps grounds fall neatly into the bin.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Baratza Encore good for espresso?
No, the Baratza Encore is not recommended for espresso because its 40-step adjustment does not provide the fine-tuning needed for consistent espresso shots.
How does the Baratza Encore compare to the OXO Brew conical burr grinder?
The Encore has a stronger motor and larger burrs, making it more durable for heavy daily use, while the OXO Brew is quieter and slightly more compact.
Can I grind for French press with the Baratza Encore?
Yes, the Encore produces an even coarse grind perfect for French press at settings around 25-28.
Is the Baratza Encore worth the price for a beginner?
Yes, the Baratza Encore is widely considered the best-value entry-level burr grinder for drip and French press, with a 5-year track record of reliability.
Does Baratza sell replacement parts for the Encore?
Yes, Baratza offers every internal part for sale, making it one of the most repairable grinders on the market.
Pros
- ✓Consistent 40-step grind from fine to coarse.
- ✓Modular design makes it easy to repair with affordable replacement parts.
- ✓Quieter than many competing electric grinders in its price range.
- ✓Compact footprint fits under standard kitchen cabinets.
Cons
- ✗Not suitable for espresso due to insufficient fine adjustment.
- ✗Plastic body feels less premium than metal alternatives.
- ✗Static cling can cause mess in dry environments.
Key Facts
- Brand
- Baratza
- Category
- Kitchen & Dining
- QuickRatey Score
- 78/100
- Price Range
- $$ (≈ $169)
- Avg Rating
- 4.5/5 (5400 reviews)
- origin
- Designed in USA; made in Taiwan
- material
- Plastic body, metal burrs
- burr type
- Conical steel burr
- packaging
- Recyclable cardboard box
- dimensions
- 7.1 x 4.7 x 13.8 inches
- grind settings
- 40 steps
- bean hopper capacity
- 8 oz (227 g)
- Certifications
- B Corp
🌱 Sustainability
B Corp certified, modular design for repairability, trade-in program available, recyclable packaging.
🧪 Ingredients & Materials
No ingredients; whole coffee beans only.
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Sources & Citations
Recorded public references for this product. Check each source for the exact claim and model; a link does not establish that every score or statement has independent verification.
What Reviewers Say
"The Baratza Encore is a dependable workhorse that delivers consistent grounds for everything from espresso to French press."
"For those committed to fresh-ground coffee without breaking the bank, the Encore is our top pick for drip and pour-over."
"Baratza's commitment to repairability makes the Encore a sustainable choice for eco-conscious coffee drinkers."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black by Baratza ethically made?+
Yes. Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black earns an QuickRatey QuickRatey score of 78/100, backed by third-party certifications including B Corp. Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black is a reliable entry-level conical burr grinder widely recommended for consistent drip coffee and French press.
What certifications does Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black hold?+
Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black holds the following certifications: B Corp. These independent verifications cover sourcing, animal welfare, environmental impact, and ingredient safety.
How sustainable is Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black?+
B Corp certified, modular design for repairability, trade-in program available, recyclable packaging.
What are the key ingredients or materials in Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black?+
No ingredients; whole coffee beans only.
How much does Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black cost?+
Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black is priced in the $$ range for kitchen & dining. Visit the retailer links above for current pricing.
Where can I buy Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black?+
Baratza Encore Coffee Grinder ZCG485BLK, Black is available from the brand's official website and major retailers. The product page above lists every verified retailer we track.
Customer Reviews
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Questions & Answers
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