7 Best Espresso Tampers (2021)
You just bought a nice espresso machine, but are disappointed in the flimsy, cheap tamper that came with it. You are not alone. We have all been there. So, what should you do? I suggest you throw that one away and buy one of the best espresso tampers that you can buy.
The sad thing is, most new home baristas think that a high-quality espresso tamper is something that is nice to have rather than some that you must have. However, if you want to make an espresso like your favorite coffee shop does, then you need to use the right tools to do so. Making great espresso at home can be difficult.
The last thing you want to do is make it even harder on yourself. I created this review guide to give you all of the information you need to find the best espresso tamper for you. When you are done reading this article you will know what to look for and how to choose the right coffee tamper for your needs. Let’s dive right in.
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Best Espresso Tampers to Buy:
While there are many, many espresso tampers on the market for you to buy. Most are not worth the price tag. I did a ton of research to give you the top 7 best ones you can get.
1. LuxHaus 49mm Calibrated Espresso Tamper
The LuxHaus Calibrated Espresso Tamper is the perfect choice for new users. It is simple to use and will take all of the guesswork out of the process for you. This tamper is constructed using stainless-steel, so it is durable and long-lasting. You won’t have to worry about it breaking on you.
It is also the proper weight so that you can easily apply the right amount of pressure while you are tamping. The calibration helps to correct the pressure for you, so you don’t mess things up. If you are looking for a strong, simple, and affordable espresso tamper then definitely get this one. This tamper comes in several sizes, so you can buy the one that fits your espresso machine.
The Blue Snail Stainless-Steel Coffee Tamper features a simple design. It is easy to use. While it isn’t calibrated, the weight is sufficient enough for you to have no trouble applying the correct amount of pressure while tamping.
The flat base helps you to tamp down the fresh ground espresso evenly. This espresso tamper measures 51mm in diameter. It is not only easy to use, but also quick and simple to clean. If you are looking for a tamper that is simple to use, long-lasting, and affordable then check this one out.
The Motta Professional Coffee Tamper has a sophisticated and stylish design. The handle is constructed using natural ash wood. The base is stainless-steel and measures 58mm in diameter. This espresso tamper is strong and durable.
It is lightweight enough to be easy to use, while still substantial enough to make tamping a breeze. You won’t have to use a lot of pressure to get an even tamping of the espresso grinds. The one downside is that this tamper is not dishwasher-safe, so you do have to clean it by hand.
If you are looking for an easy to clean option, I suggest you choose one of the stainless-steel tampers. Overall, this is a high-quality option for you to consider.
The LuxHaus Espresso Tamper is another high-quality option from this well-respected brand. The difference being that this one is not calibrated. If you love this brand but want a more affordable option, then get this one. The handle is ergonomically designed to be comfortable to grip and use.
The stainless-steel base is flat so that you get a consistently even tamp. It comes in several different sizes, so you can buy the one that works with your espresso machine.
The Omgogo Stainless-Steel Coffee Tamper has a sleek, stylish design. The aluminum handle is sturdy and comfortable to hold. It is ergonomically designed, so you don’t have to worry about getting hurt while using it. The base is constructed with stainless-steel. It is flat so that you can get a consistent, even tamping every time you use it.
Some buyers have stated that when they received it the handle was slightly askew. This is a bummer. It’s also important to note that this espresso tamper is not dishwasher safe. You will have to clean it by hand. However, overall, this is a great espresso tamper made of strong, solid materials.
It comes in several different sizes. This allows you to buy the one that is compatible with your espresso machine. If you are looking for a long-lasting, stylish tamper that is budget-friendly then consider this one.
The Vencino Dual-Sided Coffee Tamper is a great option if you need two different tamper sizes. This espresso tamper is dual-sided. One side measures 51mm in diameter and the other side measures 58mm in diameter.
This is a great option to use in a café that has several different espresso machines. It is easy to use, perfect for beginners. The coffee tamper is constructed with lightweight aluminum. It is comfortable to hold, yet still has enough weight to allow you to apply the needed pressure for tamping.
The flat surface of the handle allows you to use your palm instead of fingers when applying pressure. This makes it easier and more comfortable to use. It is dishwasher safe and easy to clean. If you are making espresso all day in a coffee shop, then this is the coffee tamper you want to buy.
The Motalius 58mm Espresso Tamper is constructed with solid stainless-steel. It is strong and durable, so it will last you many years. The tamper is comfortable to hold and use. Heavy enough to allow you to easily apply the needed pressure without being so heavy that it is uncomfortable to work with.
It measures 58mm in diameter, so be sure that it will fit in your portafilter before you buy it. The flat base allows you to get an even tamp with every use. If you want an espresso tamper that will last for years and is easy to use and clean, then check this one out. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee for extra peace of mind.
Buying Guide:
Before you choose which espresso tamper you should purchase, there are several key factors that you should consider. This will ensure that you buy the best one for your espresso machine. Here are the things you should consider before choosing:
Size:
You can find espresso tampers of various sizes. Most range in size from 48mm to 58mm in diameter. Choosing the correct size is important because you want to make sure that it fits in your machine’s portafilter. You want to choose the tamper that fits properly so that you get an even tamp with it.
The closer in size your espresso tamper is to the portafilter, the more even the tamp will be. Not sure what size you need. Just measure the inside of your portafilter. This way you will not what size diameter you should purchase. Many of the espresso tampers on this list come in several different sizes. You want to make sure that you buy the correct one for your espresso machine.
Weight:
The weight of the tamper is important because it will allow you to apply the correct amount of pressure during the process. The best espresso tampers weigh one to two pounds. This will allow you to apply pressure without pushing too hard.
Using one that is a little heavier will allow you to easily reach the 30 lbs. of pressure that you need without straining or hurting yourself. However, be sure that it is comfortable for you to hold and handle.
Shape:
Espresso tampers come in two base shapes, flat and convex. So, which one should you choose? It really depends on what your needs are. They are both easy to use. A flat base is simple and allows you to gently press down evenly on the grinds.
A convex base bulges out a bit. This helps to push the espresso grinds to the edges of the portafilter to prevent channeling from occurring. They are both good, so it really is just personal preference on your part.
Material:
There are a variety of materials that the coffee tamper can be made of. The cheaper ones are usually made of plastic. However, you probably don’t want those. The heavy-duty ones usually are made of wood or metal. This makes them more durable and allows you to gently apply pressure when tamping.
If you want an espresso tamper that will give you an even tamp each time, then you should buy a tamper that has a base made out of stainless-steel or metal. While they are more expensive, they also last a lot longer.
When it comes to the handle, you want one that is made of stainless-steel or wood. This makes it more durable and easier to grip and handle while using. It is also more durable, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking on you.
Calibrated or Not?
As you are looking through the different espresso tampers you will discover that some of them are calibrated and others are not. So, which should you choose? The truth is it depends.
If you are new to making espresso at home, then you may want to buy a calibrated tamper because they are easier to use and will ensure that you apply the correct amount of pressure every time.
However, you can find high-quality espresso tampers that are not calibrated. It really comes down to your needs and which type you feel most comfortable using.
Cost:
Espresso tampers range in price. They can be extremely cheap, usually made with plastic material. This is usually the type that is included with your espresso machine when you buy it. However, these are not the best quality and won’t give you the results you want.
You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get a good, although you can ($200+). Several of the espresso tampers in this review are budget-friendly. You should have no problem finding a good one ranging from $15 to $40.
Best Espresso Tampers FAQs:
What is an espresso tamper?
So, what exactly is an espresso tamper? An espresso tamper is an essential tool that is used to compress your ground espresso down before you brew it. This is a critical step in the process of making espresso.
It is important that you use a high-quality tamper that is comfortable for you to hold and handle. Having the right espresso tamper will ensure that you get a delicious, bold shot of espresso to enjoy each day.
Why do I need to use a tamper?
Using a tamper on your ground espresso before you brew it is very important. This is because not all of the grounds are uniform in size and density. In order to ensure that the hot water will run through it evenly, we need to press and pack it down.
This will remove any air pockets and space in the grinds. Which, in turn, will force the water through them. This will make the water take longer to get through which will give you a bolder, richer, and more flavorful espresso beverage.
If you don’t do this step, then the water will flow through too fast and you will be left with a weak, watery shot of espresso. Not what you want. This is why it is so important to use a quality espresso tamper.
How do I use it? (Step by Step Directions):
If you are new to making espresso at home and confused about how to use your new espresso tamper, no problem. These directions are step by step and easy to follow so you will be making a delicious cup of coffee in no time at all.
- Fill the portafilter with ground espresso (Generally a single basket holds 7-12 grams and a double basket holds 14-21 grams)
- Hold the espresso tamper like you would a doorknob (index and thumb at the base and middle three fingers around the handle)
- Be sure that the base remains level and ensure you have a firm grip on the handle
- Place the espresso tamper on the espresso in your basket
- Push down with enough force to remove any air pockets, but not too hard
- Twist the tamper as you remove it from the ground espresso
- Clean the top of the portafilter and put it into your espresso machine
That’s it. You are now ready to brew your first cup of espresso. Your coffee maker will do the rest of the work for you.
Final Thoughts:
I believe that any of the espresso tampers in this review guide will meet your needs. They are all high-quality, affordable options for you to consider buying. You will be happy using any of them on a daily basis.
However, there is one that stands above all the rest. Therefore, if I could only recommend one espresso tamper it would be the LuxHaus Calibrated Espresso Tamper. Overall, it is the best espresso tamper that you can buy online.
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