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Coffee Gear Scout

Baratza Encore ESP vs 1Zpresso J-Ultra

Both can grind for espresso. One is an electric countertop grinder that also handles filter coffee; the other is a precise, portable hand grinder.

By Coffee Gear Scout Editors · Specs checked · Researched from manufacturer specifications, not hands-on tested

Quick answer

Choose the Baratza Encore ESP if you make several drinks a day or also brew filter coffee: it's electric and covers both ranges. Choose the 1Zpresso J-Ultra if you make one or two espressos a day and want very fine adjustment (8 microns per click, per 1Zpresso) in a compact, portable grinder.

Choose the Encore ESP Coffee Grinder if…

  • You make several drinks a day
  • You also brew pour-over or drip
  • You want push-button grinding
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Choose the J-Ultra Manual Coffee Grinder if…

  • You make one or two espressos a day
  • You want very fine adjustment
  • You have a small kitchen or want to travel with it
  • You prefer a quiet grinder
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Side-by-side comparison

Baratza Encore ESP vs 1Zpresso J-Ultra: side-by-side comparison
Attribute Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder (opens Amazon in a new tab) Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder Researched 1Zpresso J-Ultra Manual Coffee Grinder (opens Amazon in a new tab) 1Zpresso J-Ultra Manual Coffee Grinder Researched
PowerElectric (120V)Hand-cranked
AdjustmentMicro-steps 1–20 for espresso, 21–40 for filterExternal dial, 8 microns per click
Best forEspresso and filterEspresso (and finer)
CapacityCountertop hopperMagnetic catch cup holds 35–40 g
PortabilityStays on the counterFolding handle and travel case
CleaningQuick-release burrTool-free disassembly; brush and blower included
Dimensions (W × D × H)130 × 150 × 340 mm—
Weight2.52 kg—
Voltage (US version)120V—
MakesEspresso, Filter coffeeEspresso
MaintenanceLowLow
Learning curveBeginnerIntermediate
Best forFirst espresso setups that also want one grinder for pour-over or drip.Espresso drinkers on a budget, small kitchens and travel.
Where to buy

$199.95 on Amazon

Price as of – Details

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

View on Amazon.com (opens Amazon.com in a new tab, affiliate link)

Check the current price on the retailer's site. Affiliate link.

$199.00 on Amazon

Price as of – Details

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

View on Amazon.com (opens Amazon.com in a new tab, affiliate link)

Check the current price on the retailer's site. Affiliate link.

Which should you choose?

The Baratza Encore ESP wins on convenience and versatility: press a button, and switch to filter settings at the weekend. The 1Zpresso J-Ultra wins on fine adjustment and portability, as long as you don't mind grinding each shot by hand.

Pair either with a scale to weigh your doses, and follow our guide to dialling in espresso.

Frequently asked questions

Is a hand grinder better than an electric grinder for espresso?

Not better, different. A hand grinder like the J-Ultra offers very fine adjustment and is quiet and portable; an electric grinder like the Encore ESP is faster and easier for several drinks a day.

Can the 1Zpresso J-Ultra grind for French press?

It is tuned for espresso and finer grinds, so it isn't the best choice for coarse French press grinds.

How much coffee does the J-Ultra hold?

Its magnetic catch cup holds about 35–40 g of grounds, enough for one or two shots.

Which is easier to clean?

Both are easy: the Encore ESP has a quick-release burr, and the J-Ultra comes apart without tools and includes a brush and air blower.

Which grinder should I pair with a Breville Bambino Plus?

Either works. Choose the Encore ESP for several milk drinks a day; choose the J-Ultra for one or two shots a day in a small kitchen.

Encore ESP Coffee Grinder (view on Amazon.com, opens in a new tab, affiliate link) J-Ultra Manual Coffee Grinder (view on Amazon.com, opens in a new tab, affiliate link)