Best Grinders under $250? DF54 vs Baratza Encore ESP

Summary

This video compares two popular medium-priced coffee grinders, the Baratza Encore ESP and the De'Longhi KG89, within the $2 to $250 range. Both grinders are capable of handling both pour-over and espresso, but the script focuses on their performance, build quality, and user experience. The Baratza Encore ESP impresses with its M2 bur upgrade, offering improved flavor clarity for pour-over coffee. However, the De'Longhi KG89 stands out for its robust build, lower noise levels, and superior retention and dosing consistency. While the Encore ESP is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the KG89 is deemed the top choice under $300 for its all-around performance and durability.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video compares two popular grinders in the medium price range, suitable for both pour-over and espresso.
• 🔍 The Baratza Encore ESP has been upgraded with the M2 bur, previously only available in higher-end models.
• 🆚 In blind taste tests, the Ditting 54 (DF 54) was found to be superior for pour-over coffee, offering a more consistent aftertaste.
• 🏆 The DF 54 is praised for its build quality, being made of aluminum with a powder-coated finish, compared to the plastic body of the Encore ESP.
• 🔊 Noise levels are lower and sound quality is better in the DF 54, which is less hollow and echoey than the Encore ESP.
• ⚖️ The DF 54 has less retention of coffee grounds, with only 0.2g measured, versus 1.1g in the Encore ESP.
• 🚫 The Encore ESP has issues with dose consistency and retention, especially when switching between espresso and filter coffee.
• 🔥 The Encore ESP can generate excessive heat when grinding fine, which can affect the quality of the coffee grounds.
• 🛠️ The Encore ESP's plastic parts, like the impeller arms, may wear down over time, potentially mixing with the coffee grounds.
• 🌟 For espresso, the Encore ESP's conical bur profile is appreciated for its body and lift, while the DF 54 offers a thinner and more balanced profile.

Q & A

What is the price range discussed for grinders in the video?

The video discusses grinders in the medium price range, specifically between $200 to $250.

What are the two grinders being compared in the video?

The two grinders being compared are the Baratza Encore ESP and the Ditting 54.

What is the main improvement in the Baratza Encore ESP compared to the older model?

The main improvement in the Baratza Encore ESP is the inclusion of the M2 bur, which was previously only available in more expensive models.

How does the Baratza Encore ESP perform for drip coffee?

The Baratza Encore ESP performs well for drip coffee, offering decent flavor clarity, body, and balance, making it adequate for various brewing methods like AeroPress and French press.

What is the comparison outcome for drip coffee between the Baratza Encore ESP and the Ditting 54?

After tweaking the grind settings, the Ditting 54 was found to be a better grinder for drip coffee, providing a more continuous and less watery aftertaste compared to the Baratza Encore ESP.

How do the build materials of the two grinders differ?

The Baratza Encore ESP is made of plastic, which gives a hollow sound when knocked, while the Ditting 54 is made of aluminum with a powder-coated finish, providing a more substantial feel.

What is the difference in noise levels between the two grinders?

While the noise levels measured with a decibel meter are similar, the Ditting 54 has a more pleasant sound quality due to its silent motor and better pitch, compared to the plastic sounds from the Baratza Encore ESP.

What is the retention issue discussed in the video?

The retention issue refers to the amount of coffee grounds retained in the grinder after use. The Ditting 54 has less retention and better evacuation of grounds, with only 0.2g retained, compared to 1.1g in the Baratza Encore ESP.

How does the Ditting 54 handle fine grinds for espresso?

The Ditting 54 handles fine grinds for espresso without issues, even for lighter roasts, and does not have problems with retention, clumping, or excessive heat.

What is the overall verdict on the two grinders for espresso quality?

The Baratza Encore ESP is considered superior for espresso quality, offering a shot with a decent body and a lift in the acidic region. However, the Ditting 54 also performs well for espresso, with a more balanced profile.

What is the final recommendation regarding the two grinders?

The final recommendation is that the Ditting 54 is the top choice under $300 for both espresso and drip coffee due to its superior performance and build quality, while the Baratza Encore ESP is a good option, especially in the US where Baratza's customer service is strong.