Are you interested in creating the best espresso drinks at your residence or place of business? The greatest espresso tamper on the market should then be acquainted to you. The tamper is crucial to brewing the ideal espresso for a latte or cappuccino, even if numerous other elements, including as water hardness and the date of coffee bean roasting, have an impact on the quality of these drinks.
Even while it might seem like any espresso tamper on the market would be adequate, some are actually much more effective than others. We have spent the time to identify the top 12 espresso tampers and explain why they have received such excellent ratings, rather than forcing you to sort through hundreds of possibilities. We’ll also discuss the importance of an espresso tamper and how to pick the best one for your needs.
Best Pick
Before preparing flavorful espresso, it’s a good idea to tamp down freshly ground coffee beans using the BlueSnail Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper. For the greatest outcomes, it has a 51mm base and a stainless steel construction.
Budget Pick
The RSVP International Dual Sized Coffee Espresso Tamper, which is composed of cast alloy to stop corrosion from coffee beans, is another excellent option. Depending on your particular requirements, it has a dual-sided design with a 51mm and 58mm tamper to utilize.
10 Best Espresso Tampers for Delicious Coffee
RSVP International Dual Sized Coffee Espresso Tamper
Featured Features
- Features an easy-to-clean design that can be hand-washed with just soap and water
- Made from cast metal with no corrosion-preventing coatings
- Can also be used to create sliders or push pastry dough onto cooking pans.
The RSVP International Dual Sized Coffee Espresso Tamper is the best option when you want a cheap tamper that will hold up to heavy use. The tamper may be used with both small and big espresso makers because its two flat ends on either end are 51mm and 58mm, respectively.
The 4 ounce weight of this tamper may seem a bit light to some, but others won’t have any trouble applying a little more pressure to make up for it. With incredibly small dimensions of 2.75 x 2.75 x 2.75, storage will never be a problem while it’s not in use. While this tamper is an excellent option for everybody due to its high quality and affordable price, beginners should take particular note of its suitability.
HIC Dual Sided Espresso Tamper
Featured Features
- Made from sturdy metal to withstand the acids in your coffee’s brew.
- Under four ounces in weight, and measures less than three inches on all sides for convenient storage.
- Features a tough construction that is simple to wash by hand in soap and water
Another variant with two sizes—one on either end of the tool—is the HIC Dual Sided Espresso Tamper. This dual-sided tamper offers a different fit than the previous one we looked at because one end in this case is 50mm and the other is 55mm. It is simple to use to compact coffee grounds into a puck to create delectable espresso drinks.
Although it is the perfect size to work with many other popular standard machines on the market, this espresso tamper is a great option for the Mr. Coffee espresso machine. It guarantees a strong, consistent flavor whether you’re creating espresso shots, cappuccinos, or any espresso beverage. Additionally, it creates a space between the machine and the grounds so that they can’t swell up underwater and clog the machine.
Apexstone Coffee Tamper
Featured Features
- Features a comfortable ergonomic shape for the hand
- Provides a classy all-metal appearance that highlights the high caliber of the construction
- Weighing just more than one pound, it is small enough to be stored safely.
This Apexstone coffee tamper has a sturdy construction out of iron with a chrome finish. It tamps down grounds and makes a puck for the greatest espresso beverages you can imagine using any machine that needs a 51mm portafilter. Additionally, it offers great value for the money and is affordable, especially for those on a tighter budget.
This tamper’s ability to resist rust and corrosion means that it won’t have problems if it comes into touch with water, which is one of the factors that makes it such a fantastic tamper. It is well-built, and most people will adore the design. Any newbie who wants to start brewing espresso without spending a lot of money should use this.
LuxHaus Calibrated Pressure Tamper for Coffee and Espresso
Featured Features
- Offers two sizes to match a wide range of well-known espresso equipment.
- Made from food-grade stainless steel to avoid flaking, rusting, and other problems.
- Includes a red velvet pouch to keep the tamper safe and secure while not in use.
As the first calibration tamper on our list, the LuxHaus Calibrated Pressure Tamper for Coffee and Espresso is a great alternative for someone who is just starting to brew espresso. When you apply 30 pounds of pressure, it makes a clicking sound, letting you know your espresso is ready to begin brewing.
Because the handle on this particular model is not constructed of metal, it provides a nice grip that many people will find preferable than grips made of metal. The tamper only comes in 49mm and 51mm variants, therefore it’s crucial to make sure it will suit your espresso maker.
De’Longhi DLSC058 Coffee Tamper
Featured Features
- Comes in a 51mm size that is compatible with the majority of tiny pump espresso machines available today.
- Offers a comfortable grip made of natural wood and a base made of enduring stainless steel.
- Has dimensions of 2.01 x 2.01 x 3.58 inches and only weighs 10 ounces.
Another calibrated type that makes it simple to tamp down espresso to the ideal level is the De’Longhi DLSC058 Coffee Tamper. You’ll notice that this model feels considerably more substantial in your hands than a cast-metal tamper if you’re switching from one, and the dual materials also make it look fantastic on display. Although you might anticipate this device to be somewhat expensive, it is available for a rate that is within almost any budget’s reach.
This tamper’s flat bottom ensures the ideal uniformity of your coffee grounds throughout the portafilter. This will provide you much smoother functioning and greater flavor in every beverage than the basic plastic model that came with your espresso machine.
Omgogo Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
Featured Features
- Is available in a wide range of sizes, ranging from 49mm to 58mm, to fit a number of espresso makers.
- Features one of the most affordable rates on the list with a lovely dual-material design.
- Provides a cozy, ergonomic handle that is simple to move around and use for tamping.
The stunning rosewood handle of the Omgogo Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper is certain to catch people’s attention right away. It attaches to a base made of food-grade stainless steel that is completely safe to use with espresso or other consumable items.
This is a premium option that will be suitable for people who dislike cold, hard stainless steel handles. In addition to making the greatest possible espresso your machine is capable of producing, it tends to feel better in the hand. The only major concern is that because it doesn’t have a unibody build, it can shatter if it is dropped, so use caution.
Youdepot Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
Featured Features
- For smaller espresso machines, it is 51mm in size and weighs 1.25 pounds.
- At a great price, it has inside iron and stainless steel to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Can be easily hand-washed with water and soap
This inexpensive Youdepot Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper is great for people with compact espresso makers. You don’t need to exert much force to tamp down the coffee grounds you’re using to prepare espresso because it has a great, substantial weight. It’s a great option for everybody, from a beginner at home to an experienced barista in a business.
This tamper’s design allows for other uses in the kitchen, such as pushing down pie dough before filling it. However, this espresso tamper lacks a unibody, which some people will perceive to be a drawback of an otherwise useful espresso tamper. Otherwise, it’s a really reliable tamper that will probably make making lattes simpler and easier than before.
Espro 3058F Calibrated Flat Tamper
Featured Features
- Offered in a range of sizes, including 53mm, 57mm, and 58mm for various machines.
- Has an option of a red or a black handle so you can make sure it complements your kitchen.
- All espresso tampers have a flat bottom that is perfect for espresso baskets with flat bottoms.
The Espro 3058F Calibrated Flat Tamper is probably going to fit your espresso machine no matter what size it is. This type has been calibrated, so when you reach 30 pounds of pressure, it makes a tiny click without disturbing the ground coffee or creating any problems. This extra help will be appreciated by those who desire the most consistent coffee grounds for lattes and cappuccinos.
This culinary tool is praised for its dependability, durability, and user-friendly design. It costs a little more than standard tampers, but that is to be expected given its improved features. Additionally, it is the perfect weight of one pound and tiny enough to stow in a drawer when not in use.
Zoie + Chloe Stainless Steel Espresso Coffee Tamper
Featured Features
- Even by people who are new to creating espresso-based drinks, it was designed to be simple to operate.
- Provides easy washing with soap and water or can be dried with a towel.
- Has a 49mm base that fits a number of the most widely used tiny espresso makers.
This eye-catching espresso coffee tamper from Zoie + Chloe is offered in a selection of vibrant hues, such as red, blue, or rose gold. It works well in a home kitchen but can also withstand the demands of a commercial café that needs to make a lot of espresso drinks every day. It is composed of high-quality stainless steel and has some heft without being overly heavy or cumbersome.
Unfortunately, there is just one size available for this espresso tamper. You should also be aware that it is not a single-piece model, as some baristas prefer; rather, it has a screw-off handle. If it suits your espresso maker, on the other hand, this might be the ideal addition to your collection of culinary tools.
Calibrated Coffee Tamper 58mm
Featured Features
- Offers a robust operation that will last for a long time after purchase.
- Ideal for usage by both novices and seasoned professionals while brewing espresso
- It has a 58mm size so that it will fit the majority of the common espresso machines available.
This FEENM Calibrated Coffee Tamper is ideal for continuous usage when you need all of the espresso to have the same consistency and is ideal for a professional coffee business. Because it’s a calibrated model, it lets you know when you’ve found the sweet spot with a tiny click. For the greatest flavor, it has enough force to condense ground coffee into a thick layer.
This coffee tamper is made of corrosion- and rust-resistant #304 stainless steel, so it will endure a long time. Although the handle is ergonomic and pleasant, you will need to use additional caution when using it because it is made of plastic. For your peace of mind, all of the building materials utilized in the construction are food safe.
Why a Tamper is Essential for Making Espresso Beverages
When selecting an espresso tamper, there are several factors to consider, including the size, construction materials, and even the shape of the implement you’ll use to press down on freshly ground coffee beans. You might be wondering why a coffee tamper is so important and why it should be in your house, café, or restaurant before we go any further.
The richness and depth of taste that espresso has when compared to a typical cup of drip coffee is one of the things that people enjoy about it. However, the coffee grounds used in an espresso machine must be closely packed next to one another in order to produce the characteristic flavor. A tamper is specifically made to prevent air pockets from getting to the beans, which is something that must be avoided.
The same holds true for actually employing the tamper. The espresso shot you make won’t have the flavor you want if the grounds aren’t thoroughly tamped down to remove all of the air. The tamping process can be sped up, which can result in places that are less squeezed than others and a shot that isn’t as good as it could be.
The espresso machine will not coat the grounds as thoroughly as it should in order to extract all the flavors from them because when it pumps water through the grounds, it will look for places that contain air. You may form a “puck” of coffee with a tamper and put it into the portafilter to make better espresso drinks than ever.
Top Features to Be Aware of When Buying the Best Espresso Tamper
Now that you know why using an espresso tamper is so important while making espresso beverages, let’s explore the many characteristics that set different tampers apart from one another. To help you choose the finest purchase for your unique needs, we’ll look at everything from the size of tampers to the materials they are constructed of and how much they weigh.
How to Choose the Correct Size for Your Espresso Tamper
Espresso tampers are often measured in millimeters, as you will see. Tampers exist in a variety of sizes, but the majority of those you’ll find on the market fall between 48mm and 58mm. So how can you choose which tamper size will be ideal for your requirements?
The tamper that is the exact same size as the basket you use for your espresso maker is the one you should use. It’s crucial to make sure the tamper you choose is compatible before you decide to buy it because this can vary considerably.
Sometimes, finding the manufacturer’s name on the tamper or its specifications will suffice. Other times, though, it could be more challenging. Now is the ideal moment to pull out your handbook and see what it says if you’re not entirely sure how big the basket is for your particular espresso machine.
This information is frequently available online for those who don’t have a manual or are having problems finding one. See what comes up when you search for the word manual and the model of your espresso maker. It doesn’t matter how you learn this information; what matters is that you have it because using the wrong size tamper won’t work.
Selecting a Espresso Tamper with the Right Weight
It’s challenging to say with certainty what weight is ideal for your espresso machine, but one thing is certain: in order to effectively press the beans, you must apply about 30 pounds of pressure. One-pound tampers are preferred by certain persons, while lighter and heavier alternatives are preferred by others.
Choose a greater weight tamper if you’re looking for the easiest solution. As a result, you will have to apply less force when pressing the beans into a puck to prepare caffeinated drinks. This is one of the reasons professionals will advise you to avoid plastic tampers in favor of those made of stainless steel, which are more durable.
Making the Right Material Selections for Your New Espresso Tamper
Stainless steel is frequently advised for espresso tampers, as we just explained. The fact that it is somewhat weighty is a factor, but it’s not the only one. Any tamper that delivers tough materials can be used; however, stainless steel is the most widely accessible and frequently costs less than other materials.
Stainless steel is also recognized for being straightforward and quick to clean, and it won’t react with your coffee beans to produce an unpleasant flavor. While various materials can be used, make sure the tamper has a lot of these features so you can use it frequently.
Making a Calibrated or Traditional Espresso Tamper Decision
Both picking a solid tamper and using a calibrated tamper have advantages and disadvantages. Baristas who have been working in the industry for a while and have a lot of experience tamping espresso frequently use a sturdy tamper. On the other hand, a calibrated tamper guarantees that you exactly tamp the coffee down for the greatest flavor.
In essence, calibrated models have a base and handle that are separate yet connect and emit a noise when you apply 30 pounds of pressure. This eliminates all guesswork from your tamping and guarantees the optimum flavor for each beverage you brew. These are often effective for beginners to producing espresso, although they can also be a little more pricey than other types.
Choosing a Flat or Convex Tamper for Making Espresso Drinks
You’ll also observe that different tampers have different bottom shapes; some have a perfectly flat bottom, while others have a slight curve. In order to avoid water from getting into the portafilter, which could result in a shot tasting worse than planned, the latter is made in this fashion. However, both can provide a tasty shot; it just depends on your preferences and which suits your demands the most.
A person with more espresso experience will discover that a flat tamper can produce results similar to those produced by a convex one. The rounded tamper’s added simplicity, however, might be appreciated by beginners. Consider your level of expertise before making a purchase.
Examining the Various Handles Found on Espresso Tampers
When choosing between different tampers, you should consider the handle to make sure it is constructed of a strong material that will last. While some of these tampers have handles made of plastic, wood, or other materials, others could be composed of a single piece of stainless steel. If you prepare a lot of espresso drinks every day, you want to make sure it will last and that you won’t need new tamper in a few months.
The comfort of the handle is something else to keep an eye out for. It can be difficult to do this online, however reviews frequently indicate whether the handle has a great grip and is simple to use. Use the handle of the tamper you are replacing as a model if you like the way it functions.
Don’t Forget to Consider Your Budget When Using a Espresso Tamper
Although the majority of tampers on the market are reasonably priced and fall into the same price range, you should be sure your budget can support the one you select. This will enable you to determine whether you should wait to get the product of your choice or whether you can afford the quality you desire with it.
If one tamper is out of your price range but another is exactly inside it, it’s always a smart idea to match your budget with longevity and quality rather than appearances. Knowing your budget from the start will also enable you to narrow down the options so that you don’t end up spending more than you intended.
Conclusion
Getting the greatest espresso tamper within your price range makes a significant impact when creating beverages, whether you are purchasing your first one or replacing a lost or broken one. All 12 of the aforementioned options are suitable, but before selecting one, think about your own priorities. You’ll soon be preparing the tastiest beverages for yourself, your loved ones, or clients.
