Is the Baratza Sette 270 Worth It?
Based on tests by America's Test Kitchen (Jul 2025). How we score
Save $200Depends. Baratza Encore ESP for most people.
Amazon prices as of Sep 29, 9:38 PM EDT (details)
Why
America's Test Kitchen's Best Upgrade: "If you're a serious espresso drinker, consider upgrading to the Baratza Sette 270 for the massive amount of additional settings on the finer end of the spectrum, which give you more runway to finesse your shots." It "yielded among the highest percentage of medium-size pieces" and grinds straight into a portafilter. For drip, pour-over or the occasional shot, ATK's winner, the Baratza Encore ESP, earned the same performance and versatility stars, still has 20 espresso settings, and costs much less.
Cheaper alternatives, scored against the Baratza Sette 270
Encore ESP Burr Grinder
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
America's Test Kitchen's winner and "one of the most consistent grinders we tested," though the Sette produced a higher share of medium-size grounds (79% vs 64%). "The new model has 40 settings, 20 of which are specifically designed for finer grind sizes with higher precision, catering to those interested in espresso", far fewer than the Sette's 270. No portafilter holder or programmable doses. ATK notes Baratza sells replacement parts for both; neither listing states a warranty.
| Criterion | Baratza Sette 270 | Baratza Encore ESP |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Ease of use | 2.5/3 | 3/3 |
| Cleanup | 3/3 | 2.5/3 |
| Versatility | 3/3 | 3/3 |
From America's Test Kitchen: The Best Burr Coffee Grinders (updated July 9, 2025)
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Burr Coffee Grinders (updated July 9, 2025)
Common questions
Baratza Sette 270 or Encore ESP?
America's Test Kitchen made the Encore ESP its winner and the Sette 270 its Best Upgrade for serious espresso drinkers. Both earned top performance and versatility stars; the Sette adds 270 settings, programmable doses and a portafilter holder.
Is the Baratza Encore ESP good for espresso?
Yes, for most home espresso. Twenty of its 40 settings are for finer, espresso-range grinds. America's Test Kitchen suggests the Sette 270 if you want more fine settings to dial in shots.
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Burr Coffee Grinders (updated July 9, 2025), Manufacturer specs via Amazon listing
