The coffee grinder market has become a technology battleground, according to WIRED's latest review. The publication, which tested dozens of models over five years, places the Baratza Encore ESP at the top of its list for most people, citing its $200 price, durability, and ability to handle everything from espresso to cold brew.
The most direct competition comes from Fellow's Opus 2, also $200, released September 2026. WIRED notes it matches the Encore ESP's capabilities while offering a quieter, more modern design with a stepless adjustment knob. The two models represent a split between function-first engineering and design-led innovation.
WIRED's testing methodology combines particle size analysis with actual tasting across multiple brewing methods. The review also highlights a broader market: Fellow's Ode Gen 2 at $400 for pour-over enthusiasts, Oxo's $110 conical burr grinder for budget buyers, and the $1,595 Mazzer Philos at the high end. The takeaway: at the $200 price point, buyers now have two strong options that push the category forward.