Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder vs Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine (2026)
Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.
Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder
40mm burr, 40 grind settings, Micro M3 adjustment, 280g hopper. Entry espresso burr grinder.
Full Review
Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine
Slim 20cm, conical grinder, 3 strengths, energy-saving, espresso + lungo. The compact bean-to-cup.
Full ReviewAt a Glance
| Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder | Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine | |
|---|---|---|
| 247Verdict Score | 8.9/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Owner Rating | 4.5★ (8,400) | 4.4★ (6,800) |
| Verdict | Great | Great |
Quick Verdict
This is a genuine draw — both score within 0.15 points of each other. Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder: 40mm burr, 40 grind settings, Micro M3 adjustment, 280g hopper. Entry espresso burr grinder. Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine: Slim 20cm, conical grinder, 3 strengths, energy-saving, espresso + lungo. The compact bean-to-cup. Choose based on your specific needs. Check the current price on Amazon →
Pros & Cons Side by Side
Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder
- 40mm conical burrs produce consistent grounds for espresso through pour-over
- Micro M3 adjustment provides fine-tuning between standard settings for dialling in espresso
- 40 grind settings cover every brew method from Turkish fine to French press coarse
- Under £150 — the most accessible quality conical burr grinder reviewed
- Baratza's US specialty coffee brand heritage and repair-friendly modular design
- Plastic construction feels less premium than Fellow Ode Gen 2's aluminium
- 40mm burrs produce slightly less uniform particle distribution than 64mm alternatives
- Hopper holds 280g — requires more frequent refilling for heavy users
Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine
- Just 20cm wide — one of the slimmest bean-to-cup machines for narrow kitchens
- Conical steel grinder grinds fresh beans for each cup quietly
- 3 strength settings and adjustable volume for personalised black coffee
- Auto energy-saving and rinse cycles maintain the machine with minimal effort
- Melitta's German coffee heritage in an affordable compact format
- No milk system — black coffee only, milk frother needed separately
- Slim design limits bean hopper and water tank capacity
- Fewer drink options than larger bean-to-cup machines
FAQ
Which is better, Baratza Encore ESP Coffee or Melitta Caffeo Solo?
This is a genuine draw — both score within 0.15 points of each other. Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder: 40mm burr, 40 grind settings, Micro M3 adjustment, 280g hopper. Entry espresso burr grinder. Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine: Slim 20cm, conical grinder, 3 strengths, energy-saving, espresso + lungo. The compact bean-to-cup. Choose based on your specific needs.
Is the Baratza Encore ESP Coffee worth the extra cost?
The Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine matches or exceeds it at a potentially lower price point.
Who is the Baratza Encore ESP Coffee best suited to?
40mm burr, 40 grind settings, Micro M3 adjustment, 280g hopper. Entry espresso burr grinder.
Who is the Melitta Caffeo Solo best suited to?
Slim 20cm, conical grinder, 3 strengths, energy-saving, espresso + lungo. The compact bean-to-cup.
What are the main downsides of each?
Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder: Plastic construction feels less premium than Fellow Ode Gen 2's aluminium; 40mm burrs produce slightly less uniform particle distribution than 64mm alternatives. Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine: No milk system — black coffee only, milk frother needed separately; Slim design limits bean hopper and water tank capacity.
Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?
Largely, yes — Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder sits at 4.5★ from 8,400 verified Amazon owners, and Melitta Caffeo Solo Bean-to-Cup Machine at 4.4★ from 6,800.
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