The right tamper

The right tamper for a perfect espresso: what you should look out for

A good espresso starts with the right tamper. If you want to get the best out of your ground coffee, there is no way around a high-quality tamper. But what really makes a tamper and how do you use it correctly?

Let's delve into the world of tamping together and find out how to take your espresso to the next level.

How to use a tamper correctly?

The first step to a successful espresso is correct tamping. Before you get started, you should distribute the coffee grounds evenly in the sieve. You can achieve this either by knocking or by lightly tapping with your finger. Once the grounds are evenly distributed, apply the tamper. Important: Press the tamper down with even pressure until you feel a slight resistance. Make sure that the tamper sits straight on the coffee powder to ensure even compression. A contact pressure of around 15 to 20 kilograms is considered optimal - but don't worry, you'll soon get the hang of it with a little practice.

What different tamper models are there?

Not all tamper models are the same. They come in different designs and materials. The simplest version is the classic manual tamper, often made of plastic - not exactly ideal, but better than nothing. There are a variety of tamper models that differ in their functionality, design and the way they are used. Here is an overview of the most common models:

Classic manual tamper: The standard tamper, which is used manually in most cases. These tamper are often made of stainless steel or aluminium and are available in various sizes. They are robust and ideal for everyday use. The handle can be made of wood, metal or plastic, depending on your preference.

Pressure-regulating tamper with spring: This tamper is equipped with an integrated spring that regulates the contact pressure. It ensures that the pressure remains constant, regardless of how hard you press. Particularly useful for those who want a consistent espresso without having to accurately gauge the pressure every time.

Pressure-regulating tamper with LED indicator: A further development of the pressure-regulating tamper, this tamper has an LED indicator that lights up as soon as the optimum pressure is reached. Ideal for perfectionists who want to ensure that every espresso is perfect.

Handleless tamper: This tamper is more compact and is used without a handle. Often adjustable in height, this type is particularly suitable for precise work as it allows very direct control over the contact pressure. It is also less prone to operating errors as the pressure is evenly distributed across the palm of the hand.

Convex tamper: Instead of a flat underside, this tamper has a slightly curved, convex surface. This compresses the ground coffee slightly more in the centre, which influences the extraction. Some baristas swear by it, while others prefer a classic flat tamper.

Lever tamper station: A tamper station with a lever function that simplifies the entire tamping process. You place the portafilter in the station, press down the lever and the ground coffee is tamped at a constant pressure. This is particularly practical if you need to prepare many espressos in a row.

Automatic tamper station: This sophisticated tamper station does the tamping for you at the touch of a button. The pressure can be preset so that you get a consistent result every time. Ideal for cafés or households that prioritise perfection and convenience.

When to use a leveller?

A leveller is a useful tool that you can use before tamping. Its job is to distribute the ground coffee evenly in the portafilter before the tamper is used. The result: an absolutely smooth surface and an even density throughout the portafilter. This ensures that the watercan flow evenlythrough the ground coffee and that no unpleasant flavours creep in. A leveller is a useful addition, especially for larger quantities of ground coffee or if you value perfection.

Accessories for correct tamping

There are a few useful accessories to help you get the best out of your tamper. A tamper mat not only protects your work surface, but also helps you to position the tamper safely and straight. A tamper station goes one step further and provides a stable base on which you can place the portafilter and tamp perfectly. For the waste, there is the knock-off container, also known as a knock box, into which you can dispose of the used coffee puck. All these tools make tamping easier and ensure a clean and professional result.

There are a number of useful accessories to help you get the best out of your tamper. Here are the most important ones:

• Tamper mat: A tamper mat not only protects your work surface from scratches and damage, but also ensures that you can position the tamper safely and straight. It provides a non-slip surface that gives you stability when tamping and reduces the risk of the tamper slipping or tilting. A tamper mat is indispensable, especially for sensitive surfaces.
• Tamper station: A tamper station provides a stable base on which you can place the portafilter and tamp perfectly. It allows you to apply the tamper straight and with constant pressure, which is particularly important for larger quantities of ground coffee. It also protects the portafilter by holding it in a fixed position and preventing it from slipping or being damaged.
• Knock-offcontainer (knock box): A knock-off container, also known as a knock box, is an indispensable tool for disposing of the used coffee puck cleanly and quickly. After tamping, simply knock the portafilter out over the knockbox and the coffee puck falls into the container. This saves time and keeps your work surface clean. Knock boxes with a non-slip base that stand securely on the work surface are particularly practical.
• Scale: A precise scale is important for measuring the right amount of coffee powder. This ensures even extraction and helps you to achieve consistent results. Some scales even have an integrated timer function that allows you to precisely control the brewing process.
• Tamper with pressure regulation: Tamper with integrated pressure regulation are available for perfect contact pressure. These tampers use a spring or mechanical device to give you feedback when the optimum pressure has been reached. This prevents you from pressing too hard or too lightly and ensures even extraction.

Which is your favourite tamper?

In the end, one thing counts above all: your personal taste and your feeling for the right tamper. Whether it's a classic manual tamper, a pressure-regulating tamper or a fully automatic tamper station - find out what works best for you. A tamper should sit comfortably in your hand, have the right weight and, of course, suit you visually. Try it out and discover which tamper takes your espresso to the next level.

Because the perfect espresso starts with the right tool - and that is the tamper that suits you perfectly.