Can't grind fine enough for espresso…
Can't grind fine enough for espresso. I thought 40 settings meant espresso was in there somewhere but it's not — the finest setting is still too coarse for my machine.
Source: Amazon reviewerThe Baratza Encore is the benchmark entry-level conical burr grinder for home coffee enthusiasts, combining 40 grind settings with a low-RPM motor and Baratza's North American repair support into the most recommended first burr grinder under $200 CAD. Available on Amazon.ca (ASIN B007F183LK) at around $199 CAD.
| Burrs | 40mm conical steel burrs |
| Grind Settings | 40 — from coarse (French press) to medium-fine (drip/AeroPress) |
| Hopper Capacity | 8 oz (227g) beans |
| Ground Bin | 5 oz (142g) capacity |
| Motor | 110W DC motor, 450 RPM (low speed to reduce heat and static) |
| Dimensions | 4.7" W × 6.3" D × 13.75" H |
| Weight | 7 lb (3.2 kg) |
"The difference between this and my old blade grinder was immediate — my first pour-over tasted like a completely different coffee. Better extraction, no bitterness."
Source: Amazon reviewer
"I've had mine for four years, grinding every single morning. The burrs are still sharp and the motor hasn't slowed down."
Source: Amazon reviewer
"I use it on setting 24 for my drip machine and the results are consistently good. Set it once, never touched it since."
Source: Amazon reviewer
"Baratza shipped me replacement burrs two years in when mine showed wear. Fast, no hassle. That kind of support is why this brand has the reputation it does."
Source: Reddit
Can't grind fine enough for espresso…
Can't grind fine enough for espresso. I thought 40 settings meant espresso was in there somewhere but it's not — the finest setting is still too coarse for my machine.
Source: Amazon reviewerStatic makes grounds stick everywhere…
Static makes grounds stick to the inside of the bin and fly everywhere when I dump them out. Worse in winter. The wet bean trick helps but it's annoying to need a workaround.
Source: Amazon reviewerHopper isn't airtight for bean storage…
Hopper isn't airtight so I can't leave beans in it — I have to refill from a sealed canister each time. Fine if you know this going in.
Source: RedditGrinds slowly compared to nicer grinders…
Grinds slowly compared to nicer grinders. Takes 20-25 seconds for a full French press dose. Not a dealbreaker but worth knowing if speed matters.
Source: Amazon reviewerThe Baratza Encore is the standard recommendation for entry-level burr grinding in Canada because it does the job it's designed for consistently and backs it with real repair support. The improvement over a blade grinder in cup quality is immediate and significant for any manual or drip brewing method. The limitations — no espresso capability, static in dry climates, slow grind speed — are well-documented and unlikely to surprise buyers who research before purchasing. For pour-over, French press, drip, and AeroPress drinkers spending under $200 CAD, nothing at this price competes on grind consistency and longevity.


