10 Best Espresso Tampers in 2024

Even after buying one of the best espresso machines, are you still not satisfied with the espresso quality? Maybe the tamper is to be blamed here, the espresso extraction also depends on the tamper quality you use.

Therefore, here we are with our list of top 10 best espresso tampers of 2022 with each of them having its unique property and usage. Moreover, we have tested them personally before writing this article.

An espresso tamper is a small tool used with an espresso machine for evenly pressurizing the coffee grounds into the porta filter. This step makes sure that the boiling water when forced into the coffee grounds extracts the espresso evenly.

Moreover, you have to make sure that you don’t put more pressure or else your espresso shot would be over-extracted and vice versa. 

At a Glance:

10 Best Espresso Tampers

DesignEspresso MachineRetailer
Best Pick1. LuxHaus 49mm Espresso Tamper
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2. 57MM Espresso Tamper
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Budget Pick3. 58mm Espresso SANTOW Tamper
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4. HIC Dual-Sided Espresso Tamper
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Staff Pick5. Espresso Coffee Tamper 51mm
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6. 53mm Coffee Distributor and Tamper
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7. LuxHaus 53mm Calibrated Espresso Tamper
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8. Youdepot Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper
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9. Espresso Tamper-58.5
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10. SILMUR Coffee Tamper 49mm
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1. LuxHaus 49mm Espresso Tamper

Best Pick

Why do we love it?

  • They made its base of food safe stainless steel of high quality 
  • Applies the right pressure for an espresso to be perfectly extracted
  • Comes with a cute red velvet pouch which makes it a good gifting option

LUXHAUS is one of the best and leading brands when it comes to small and useful kitchen appliances, be it a kettle or an espresso tamper, they are everywhere.

This espresso tamper manufactured by LUXHAUS is of 49 mm size which is kinda rare to find as not many espressos machines have a 49mm porta filter. However, if you got one, you can go for this espresso tamper. 

The perfectly flat base is made up of food grade stainless steel which is not poisonous in case it gets mixed with your coffee grounds. However, it won’t break that easily. Moreover, the handle is made of BPA free material. Also, you have to screw it into the base as it comes in two pieces.

Pros

  • Great finishing 
  • Stainless steel, base
  • Long-Lasting quality 
  • Durable handle

Cons

  • Isn’t exactly 49mm
  •  The handle may unscrew 

It’s a good option to go for if you have an espresso machine with 49 mm. Moreover, it can apply a good amount of pressure on the espresso grounds with its incredibly flat base.

Also, it’s a great gifting option for a coffee enthusiast as it comes with a nice pouch for storage. However, we encountered a flaw that the handle may unscrew while tamping grounds if twisted in an anti-clockwise direction. 

2. 57MM Espresso Tamper

Why do we love it?

  • This espresso tamper can apply up to 30 pounds of pressure with elasticity 
  • Can be easily cleaned and tossed in a dishwasher for cleaning 
  • Made out of food safe 304 stainless steel 

Comfort is one of the important factors to see while buying any appliance. With this keeping in mind, we have brought you this espresso tamper with a comfortable and easy grip handle.

Also, its size of 57mm is quite rare to find in espresso makers. However, you can use it in a 58 mm porta filter if you don’t have a choice. 

Moreover, this espresso tamper is available in 4 trendy color options so you can get the one you love. Also, the stainless steel base is of high quality and won’t wear or corrode even after rigorous usage.

Additionally, the colored handle is made of anodized aluminium with no chemical coating on the top. Therefore, it is a good option for commercial as well as domestic espresso machines.

Pros

  • Available in 4 color options 
  • Stainless steel base 
  • Anodized aluminum handle 
  • Corrosion resistant 

Cons

  • Not for small porta filters 
  • Metal may scratch 

If you got the right sized espresso tamper, this will be the best one for you. Unlike many other tampers it is not that expensive. Also, it can exert up to 30 pounds of pressure which is more than enough for a 57mm tamper.

Additionally, the materials are of outstanding quality and non-poisonous. Therefore, it is an excellent option to go for as they are available in different sizes and colors too. 

3. 58mm Espresso SANTOW Tamper

Budget Pick

Why do we love it?

  • Available in 4 different diameter sizes to fit your espresso machine’s porta filter
  • One of the best and cheapest espresso tamper of size 58mm 
  • Highly efficient and won’t wear off even after years of working with its powerful material quality 

The 58mm size is usually used in commercial espresso machines, if you are a commercial coffee maker or have a prosumer espresso machine you will need it. This tamper comes with an evenly flat and polished base for an evenly based espresso grounds.

See also  5 Best Prosumer Espresso Machines (Tested) 2024

Moreover, the base is made of food safe stainless steel. Also, the handle is made of BPA free anodized aluminium. 

You can apply a good amount of pressure you prefer with this heavy and comfortable espresso tamper.

Also, the handle gives a good grip while tamping. In addition, you can simply put it in a dishwasher for cleaning. Moreover, it is a great gifting option for a coffee enthusiast or a coffee maker as it will help them a lot.

Pros

  • Dishwasher safe 
  • Used for commercial machines 
  • Well polished 
  • Heavy 

Cons

  • Not for domestic machines 

We recommend you to get this espresso tamper as it is the cheapest and best espresso tamper of 58mm sizes. Also, the build and material quality is up to the mark and great at such a cheap price.

Moreover, there are 4 different size options available. Therefore, it’s an amazing espresso tamper to go for if you are a commercial coffee maker or plan to be or simply have an espresso machine with 58mm porta filter. 

4. HIC Dual-Sided Espresso Tamper

Why do we love it?

  • Can be used from both sides for 50mm and 55mm porta filters, respectively 
  • Additionally, it is fully made out of high quality food grade aluminium for a long-lasting life
  • Moreover, it is the cheapest and durable espresso tampers in this list of best espresso tampers 

Can be named as one of the best, cheap and unique espresso tampers for people having over one espresso machine with different porta filter sizes.

This dual sided espresso tamper manufactured by HIC is popular amongst the masses for its compact and unique design. It can be used with a 50mm porta filter as well as a 55 mm porta filter.

Also, the cost is significantly lower than any other espresso tampers in the list. Therefore, it is a good option to go for if you don’t need an expensive tamper.

However, it weighs only 4 ounces which may be or may not be a problem for some people. We recommend this tamper for people with domestic espresso machines.

Pros

  • Dual sided 
  • Exerts good pressure 
  • Aluminum body 
  • Durable 

Cons

  • Lightweight 
  • Not dishwasher safe 

It’s a good option to go for, as it is a cheap and dual sided espresso tamper. Moreover, as promised by the brand it is made from heavy food grade aluminum and can exert a good amount on those coffee grounds.

Also, it is lightweight so your hands won’t hurt while applying pressure. However, it is good to go for a slightly expensive and heavier one as they are more durable.

5. Espresso Coffee Tamper 51mm

Staff Pick

Why do we love it?

  • This espresso tamper can work with many commonly used domestic espresso machines easily
  • Made out of iron and coated with chrome for a long lasting working 
  • Way to heavier than many other overpriced espresso tampers for a great tamping 

A well cast and polished espresso tamper will work best for brewing delicious espresso shots or any other coffee recipes. One such best budget espresso tamper is this one manufactured by Apexstone.

What makes it special is its full body is made of iron and has a coating of chrome for making it corrosion resistant. The 51mm size is the most common one between domestic espresso machines. 

Moreover, the espresso tamper reviews suggest that it is best for tamping espresso with even pressure with its 1 pound weight.

The pressure exerted by the tamper is enough to make those loose grounds compressed with its heavy weight. Also, the brand Apexstone offers a warranty of 1 year which is rare to find in espresso tampers

Pros

  • Iron build 
  • Corrosion resistant 
  • Cheaper 
  • 1 year warranty 

Cons

  • Small handle
  • Too heavy

We loved this espresso tamper the most while tamping espresso grounds. It is quite heavier than many other espresso tampers; it may be a pro or a con for some. Additionally, the whole iron body and simple but polished design gives a premium look.

However, it is way too cheap than other tampers with the same features. Therefore, it is a good option to go for if you own a most commonly used espresso machine. 

6. 53mm Coffee Distributor and Tamper

Why do we love it?

  • It has one of the coolest design amongst all these espressos tampers 
  • Moreover, it weighs 1.06 pounds which is perfect for an amazing espresso shot 
  • Can be used from both sides with the distributor at one side and the leveler at another 

Don’t love the shape and working of traditional espresso tampers? Then get one of these unique espresso tampers by MATOW.

Unlike other espresso tampers in this list, this one has a unique shape with the distributor and the leveler at either side. Additionally, you can adjust the depth of tamping each time. 

Moreover, it has a diameter of 53mm, perfect for commonly used espresso machines with 54mm porta filter. Also, it has a good weight of 1.08 pounds to put the right amount of pressure on the espresso grounds.

However, it is quite expensive as compared to basic espresso tampers. Therefore, it’s up to you if you have a good budget and love this design, you can get this tamper.

Pros

  • Unique design 
  • Dual sided
  • Adjustable depth
  • Weighted 

Cons

  • Overpriced 
  • Poor build 

We would recommend this espresso tamper for anyone with a good budget and the one who is bored with the old but useful espresso tamper because it has nothing more except the unique design and dual sided distributor and leveler.

See also  6 Best Espresso Machines Under $300 in 2024

Therefore, it is good to go for other espresso tampers. However, the only benefit this tamper has over the others is its adjustable depth, heavy weight and compact design. Hence, it’s totally up to you. 

7. LuxHaus 53mm Calibrated Espresso Tamper

Why do we love it?

  • Used the calibrated compression mechanism for tamping the espresso grounds evenly and perfectly 
  • Can be used with many commonly used consumer espresso machines 
  • As promised by LuxHaus it uses food grade stainless steel for its base and BPA free material for the handle 

A calibrated espresso tamper is a good choice over the normal cheap one as you have to apply a less amount of pressure and the grounds get compressed evenly.

Moreover, this tamper is manufactured by LuxHaus which is a renowned brand and known for its quality appliances, so the material quality of the perfectly flat base is also good.

Additionally, the handle gives a good grip and is made of BPA free material. Thus, it is nonpoisonous. Moreover, there are 4 size options available.

However, it is way too expensive than other espresso tampers in the list because of its calibrated mechanism. Therefore, it’s up to you if you want to get this one for your expensive kitchen and premium espresso shot.

Pros

  • Calibrated compression mechanism
  • Non rusting stainless steel 
  • BPA free material 
  • Comfortable handle 

Cons

  • Highly expensive 
  • Not for commercial machines 

People who love having perfection in everything and have a good budget can definitely go for this one as it will make tamping more precise and easy. However, it is overpriced to be a mere espresso tamper.

The quality of material and weight is up to the mark but there are many options to go for at lower prices we will recommend you to get one of this if you have a limited budget. 

8. Youdepot Stainless Steel Coffee Tamper

Why do we love it?

  • Fully made out of iron and has an outer layer of stainless steel for a good look and shine
  • 51mm size is one of the most common porta filter sizes amongst domestic espresso machines 
  • Won’t corrode or rust easily because of its stainless steel coating on the top

The weight of an espresso tamper matters so much while brewing an espresso shot because the grounds control the espresso flavors.

Therefore, we bring before you this espresso tamper by YOUDEPOT weighing 1.25 pounds for an amazing pressure and extraction. The weight is because of its full stainless steel external body and iron internally. 

Also, other than espresso grounds tamping, you can use it for pressing anything such as patties. However, the tamper is only available in 51mm size which is most common in many espresso machines. Additionally, it is not that price and has wonderful quality and working. Hence you can think of this one. 

Pros

  • Weighs 1.25 pounds 
  • Stainless steel body 
  • Easy cleaning 
  • Chrome plated 

Cons

  • Handle unscrews 
  • Much heavy 

A heavy espresso tamper is much needed while applying a good amount of pressure on the grounds. If you have the same thought, you can get this one because it has the highest weight in this list of espresso tampers, which is a whooping 1.25 pounds.

Moreover, you don’t have to apply much pressure because the weight of the tamper does that by itself. Also, it won’t corrode easily and has a perfect price. Therefore, it is a great option for consumer espresso machines.  

9. Espresso Tamper-58.5

Why do we love it?

  • Has a size of 58.5mm specially made for IMS competition baskets 
  • It comes with a nice and sturdy wooden handle which offers a better grip 
  • Moreover, the perfectly flat stainless steel makes sure those coffee grounds get flattened evenly 

This one is kinda rare to find as this size of 58.5  is not usually available in espresso machines. They are used for IMS competition and VST baskets. Other than size, the tamper features premium looks with a wooden handle for a classic finish.

Moreover, the perfectly flat stainless steel base can apply a good amount of pressure on the espresso grounds.

Moreover, we can say the price is high as compared to other tampers in the list. However, it’s quite rare to find an espresso tamper of this size, therefore, you are left with no other option.

Also, it’s not that heavy to exert a good pressure without toiling. Therefore, it’s up to you, if you want it you can go for it. 

Pros

  • Can fit VST baskets 
  • Quality wooden handle 
  • Stainless steel build 
  • Rare to find at this price range

Cons

  • Expensive 
  • Not heavy 

If you have a IMS competition filter basket or VST type, then this espresso tamper of size 58.5 mm will work great for you. It leaves no space for grounds to be loose so that the extraction will be well balanced.

However, it’s overpriced for its features and weight, which is lesser than what you should look for while getting a good espresso tamper. You can use a small espresso tamper of 58mm or go for this one if you have a good budget. 

10. SILMUR Coffee Tamper 49mm

Why do we love it?

  • It won’t break easily because of its stainless steel, durable build even though you try it on purpose 
  • Moreover, it will last longer than any other tampers because of its corrosion resistant material 
  • You will be provided with a nice packing and a porta filter key chain 

A highly popular espresso tamper known for being one of the heaviest and worthy. This single piece espresso tamper can evenly press the coffee grounds within minutes and with precision. Moreover, the stainless steel body makes sure it will last for a longer period.

See also  8 Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machine in 2024

The 49mm size is most common in consumer espresso machines but do check out the size of your machine’s porta filter though. 

Also, it’s available in 51mm size but not in any other sizes. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about getting metal flakes inside your coffee grounds; we assure you it won’t happen with this one.

Many espressos tamper reviews also suggest that this is the best budget espresso tamper of all. 

Pros

  • Heavy weight
  • Single piece 
  • Food grade stainless steel 
  • Rust free design 

Cons

  • Small handle
  • Not for commercial ones

It’s a good option to go for but do check your porta filter’s size before choosing one. However, this espresso tamper by SILMUR is available in two sizes. Moreover, it has a good weight of 1.10 pounds and tamps the grounds perfectly.

However, the weight might be a problem for someone and a pro for many people so get this one if you can handle its weight and also handle it with care. Moreover, it makes a good gifting option for coffee enthusiasts as it comes with a neat packing and a freebie key chain. 

How to Choose an Espresso Tamper

Many beginners will be still confused about which espresso tamper to get, don’t worry, we will help you out with your problem. There we have given some factors you should consider while choosing an espresso tamper for your espresso machine.

However, do not buy an espresso tamper before getting your machine because there might be a chance that the one you buy will not be a perfect size. 

Size of the tamper

Size is the key factor to see while buying an espresso tamper because you simply can’t get any espresso tamper for your espresso tamper either it will be undersized or it won’t fit inside the porta filter. There are many tamper sizes available ranging from small 48mm to commercial sized 58mm. You simply have to measure the diameter of your porta filter from inside and select the one. However, you should get a size smaller than the porta filter. 

Weight of the tamper

An espresso or coffee tamper should be heavy enough to apply a good amount of pressure on the coffee grounds. The weight also depends on the base material used and the handle. They usually make the tamper base of stainless steel or iron, which exerts a good amount of pressure. Mostly look for a tamper weighing 1 pounds or more. 

Material of the tamper

You should take a look at the material used in a tamper. Make sure that the handle material is BPA free and durable enough to last long. Also, the base material should be stainless steel or iron with no chemical coatings. Besides that, never get a plastic or polycarbonate tamper as they won’t exert any good amount of pressure and are harmful for health. 

Price of the tamper

The price of espresso tampers range from $6 to a maximum of $40, you can get one according to your budget. However, expensive doesn’t always mean good. There are many cheap espresso tampers with good quality material, some of the best espresso tampers are featured in this article. 

Types of Espresso Tampers

Mainly there are three types of espresso tampers which have the same functions but different working mechanisms. Let’s take a look at them. 

  • Traditional tampers 
    These are the most commonly used coffee tampers and available anywhere at a cheap price. You have to manually apply pressure on the coffee grounds with these traditional tampers. 
  • Calibrated tampers
    Calibrated tampers are similar to traditional espresso tampers but only with a calibrated compression mechanism which applies a good amount of pressure evenly without trying hard. 
  • Distributor tampers 
    Distributor tampers have a unique design. Unlike calibrated and traditional ones, they have a cylindrical shape and you have to rotate them for distributing and leveling the coffee grounds evenly. They are quite expensive compared to other two tampers 

These are the most important and basic factors you should consider while choosing a good espresso tamper for your espresso machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the need of a tamper while making espresso?

Tamper is a lot more important than it looks while brewing a cup of espresso. It compresses the coffee grounds and makes them even for the water to extract the flavor out of it. Moreover, the tamping pressure also determines the concentration of your espresso. 

What size tamper should I get?

There are sizes ranging from 48mm to 58mm. The porta filter size will be specified in the user manual. If not, Measure the inner diameter of the porta filter basket and select a tamper which is slightly smaller than the porta filter basket so that it fits well inside it while tamping. 

How do you tamp coffee without a tamper?

You can use a small teaspoon and apply equal pressure on the coffee grounds. Moreover, you can use a beer bottle to apply pressure. However, make sure you apply little pressure on those coffee grounds. 

Why are coffee tampers so expensive?

Coffee tampers are expensive because of the material from which they are made. Moreover, they need to be made with precision because the espresso quality depends on the tamping. 

Conclusion 

So, that’s our list of top 10 best espresso tampers of 2021, which we have tested personally so that you don’t have a hard time searching for a coffee tamper. A coffee tamper is one of the most integral parts when it comes to brewing an espresso shot.

A slight difference in pressure will make your espresso shot either under extracted or over extracted. Therefore, it is important to get the best espresso machine tamper if you want to enjoy a well extracted espresso. 

In this article we have also included a buying guide for espresso tampers so that you don’t make any mistake while buying one. We hope that now, you will have a clear idea about coffee and espresso tampers and choose the best tamper for you from the list. 


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