Baratza Encore ESP vs Fellow Opus 2
Updated November 13, 2026
The biggest difference: the Fellow Opus 2 is a single-dose grinder that keeps little old coffee inside, while the Baratza Encore ESP is built around a bean hopper. Also, the Fellow Opus 2 has larger burrs (48 mm versus 40 mm); and the Fellow Opus 2 adjusts steplessly, while the Baratza Encore ESP has 40 fixed settings.
Baratza Encore ESP
Choose it if: Beginners who want an affordable, repairable grinder that can handle both espresso and filter coffee.
Skip it if: People who single-dose different beans every day or want precise stepless control for light-roast espresso.
- The lower half of the dial uses finer steps sized for dialing in espresso
- Strong repair support, with spare parts sold directly by Baratza
- Covers espresso through French press on one simple machine
- Stepped adjustment means you can't land between two settings
- Built around a hopper, so it holds more grounds than true single-dose grinders
Fellow Opus 2
Choose it if: Home baristas who want one fast, low-mess grinder for espresso plus everyday filter brewing.
Skip it if: Filter-coffee purists or anyone wary of plastic parts in the grind path.
- Fast grinding, with an espresso dose done in roughly nine seconds
- Low retention and an ionizer keep single dosing tidy
- A single stepless dial moves easily between espresso and brew
- Grind chamber and impeller are plastic, which raises long-term wear questions
- Filter cup quality is described as acceptable rather than standout
Specs side by side
| Spec | Encore ESP (ZCG495) | Opus 2 Conical Burr Grinder |
|---|---|---|
| Burrs | conical, 40 mm | conical, 48 mm |
| Grind settings | 40 | Stepless |
| Single-dose design | No | Yes |
| Fine enough for espresso | Yes | Yes |
| List price | $199.95 | $199.95 |
Highlighted cells mark the better figure where one is clearly better. Specs come from the manufacturers; we don't run hands-on tests. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Baratza Encore ESP and the Fellow Opus 2?
The biggest difference: the Fellow Opus 2 is a single-dose grinder that keeps little old coffee inside, while the Baratza Encore ESP is built around a bean hopper. Also, the Fellow Opus 2 has larger burrs (48 mm versus 40 mm); and the Fellow Opus 2 adjusts steplessly, while the Baratza Encore ESP has 40 fixed settings.
Is the Baratza Encore ESP or the Fellow Opus 2 better?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose the Baratza Encore ESP if you want: Beginners who want an affordable, repairable grinder that can handle both espresso and filter coffee. Choose the Fellow Opus 2 if you want: Home baristas who want one fast, low-mess grinder for espresso plus everyday filter brewing.