Baratza Encore vs Lido 3: Which is Better for You?
When it comes to buying a coffee grinder for home use, the Baratza Encore and the Lido 3 are two popular options that often come up in conversation. However, despite both being aimed at filter coffee brewing, these grinders are quite different and cater to distinct use cases. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Baratza Encore and Lido 3, comparing their features, performance, and overall value to help you decide which one is the better choice for your needs.
At a Glance
| Feature | Baratza Encore | Lido 3 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grind Consistency | Good | Excellent | Lido 3 |
| Price | $150 | $200 | Baratza Encore |
| Grind Settings | 40 | Stepless | Lido 3 |
| Grind Speed | 1 g/sec | 1 g/sec | Tie |
| Hopper Capacity | 8 oz | 2.5 oz | Baratza Encore |
| Portability | Low | High | Lido 3 |
| Ease of Use | High | Moderate | Baratza Encore |
| Ease of Cleaning | Moderate | High | Lido 3 |
Overview of the Baratza Encore
The Baratza Encore is an entry-level electric burr grinder designed for home use. It features 40mm conical steel burrs, 40 grind settings, and a powerful DC motor that can grind at a speed of 1 g/sec. The Encore is known for its reliability, consistency, and ease of use, making it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts who are just starting their home brewing journey.
One of the standout features of the Encore is its wide range of grind settings, which allows users to dial in their grind size for various brewing methods, from French press to pour-over. The grinder also has a large 8 oz hopper and a grounds bin that can hold up to 5 oz of ground coffee, making it convenient for those who brew larger batches.
The Encore’s simple design and straightforward operation make it an attractive option for users who prioritize ease of use over advanced features. The grinder has an on/off switch and a pulse button for quick grinding, and the grind size can be adjusted using a numbered collar on the side of the machine.
Overview of the Lido 3
The Lido 3 is a premium manual burr grinder designed and manufactured by Orphan Espresso. It features 48mm conical steel burrs, a stepless grind adjustment system, and a folding handle for easy portability. The Lido 3 is known for its exceptional grind quality, build quality, and versatility, making it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts who value precision and are willing to put in the manual effort.
One of the key advantages of the Lido 3 is its stepless grind adjustment, which allows users to make infinitely small adjustments to the grind size. This level of precision is particularly useful for espresso and other brewing methods that require a fine-tuned grind. The grinder also has a large set of 48mm conical burrs, which contribute to its excellent grind consistency and speed.
Another notable feature of the Lido 3 is its portability. The grinder has a compact design and a folding handle, making it easy to pack and take on the go. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers, campers, and anyone who wants to enjoy freshly ground coffee wherever they are.
The Lido 3’s build quality is also worth mentioning. The grinder is made from high-quality materials, including a stainless steel body, a BPA-free plastic hopper, and a solid aluminum handle. This attention to detail and durability justifies the grinder’s premium price point and ensures that it will last for many years with proper care.
Baratza Encore vs Lido 3
Price
When it comes to price, the Baratza Encore has a clear advantage over the Lido 3. The Encore retails for around $150, while the Lido 3 costs approximately $200. This significant price difference can be a deciding factor for many users, especially those on a tighter budget.
As of this writing, the Lido 3 is out of stock in a lot of places. That means that you might see elevated prices until stock increases.
Winner: Baratza Encore
Grind Consistency
Grind consistency is one of the most crucial factors in brewing a great cup of coffee. In this regard, the Lido 3 outperforms the Baratza Encore. The Lido 3’s larger 48mm conical burrs and stepless adjustment system allow for more precise and consistent grinds across the entire range, from coarse to fine.
The Encore, while still providing good grind consistency for its price point, can struggle with finer grinds and may produce more fines and boulders compared to the Lido 3. This can lead to uneven extraction and a less balanced cup of coffee.
Winner: Lido 3
Upgradability
The Baratza Encore has a slight edge when it comes to upgradability. Baratza offers a range of burr upgrades for the Encore, including the M2 and the MP burrs, which can improve grind quality and consistency. These upgrades are relatively easy to install and can extend the life of the grinder.
The Lido 3, being a manual grinder, doesn’t have any official upgrades available. However, the grinder’s high-quality components and durable construction mean that it is likely to perform well for many years without the need for upgrades.
Winner: Baratza Encore
Ease of Use
In terms of ease of use, the Baratza Encore is the clear winner. As an electric grinder, the Encore requires minimal effort from the user. Simply load the beans into the hopper, choose your grind setting, and press the on/off switch or the pulse button. The grinder does the rest of the work for you.
The Lido 3, being a manual grinder, requires more effort from the user. You’ll need to manually crank the handle to grind the beans, which can take some time and physical effort, especially for larger batches. However, many users find the manual grinding process enjoyable and appreciate the control it provides over the grind size.
Winner: Baratza Encore
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is an essential part of maintaining your grinder’s performance and longevity. The Lido 3 has an advantage in this category due to its simple design and easy disassembly. The grinder can be quickly taken apart for cleaning, and the burrs can be easily accessed and brushed clean.
The Baratza Encore, while still relatively easy to clean, has more parts and crevices where coffee grounds can accumulate. The grinder also requires occasional deep cleaning, which involves removing the burr assembly and cleaning the interior of the machine.
Winner: Lido 3
Bottom Line
The Baratza Encore and the Lido 3 cater to different types of users and use cases. The Encore is an excellent choice for home brewers who prioritize ease of use, affordability, and reliability. Its wide range of grind settings and consistent performance make it a solid entry-level grinder for those exploring different brewing methods.
On the other hand, the Lido 3 is ideal for coffee enthusiasts who value precision, versatility, and portability. Its stepless adjustment system, large conical burrs, and exceptional build quality make it a top choice for those who want the best possible grind quality and are willing to invest time and effort into the manual grinding process.
Ultimately, the choice between the Baratza Encore and the Lido 3 comes down to your personal preferences, budget, and brewing needs. Both grinders are capable of producing great coffee, but they do so in different ways and at different price points.
FAQs
Can the Baratza Encore grind for espresso?
While the Encore can grind fine enough for espresso, it may not provide the level of precision and consistency required for optimal espresso extraction. The grinder is better suited for filter coffee brewing methods.
Is the Lido 3 suitable for travel?
Yes, the Lido 3 is designed with portability in mind. Its compact size, folding handle, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for travelers and campers who want to enjoy freshly ground coffee on the go.
How long does it take to grind coffee with the Lido 3?
The grinding time with the Lido 3 depends on the grind size and the amount of coffee you’re grinding. On average, it takes about 30 seconds to grind a single serving of coffee (around 20g) at a medium grind size.
Can I grind spices or herbs with the Baratza Encore?
It is not recommended to grind spices or herbs with the Baratza Encore or any coffee grinder. Doing so can damage the burrs and leave residual flavors that may affect the taste of your coffee.
How often should I clean my coffee grinder?
It’s a good practice to clean your grinder every few weeks to maintain its performance and prevent oil and residue buildup. For the Baratza Encore, a quick cleaning can be done by running some grinder cleaning pellets or rice through the machine. For the Lido 3, disassemble and brush the burrs and interior clean. A deep cleaning should be performed every few months or as needed.