The objective of using the tamper is to maximize the flavor by compressing the coffee so that water has to fight to get through. It takes effort, so it's essential to have a tamper that is comfortable to use. Only with a decent tamper can you start working on using the proper techniques to prevent injuries. But which one to choose? We have listed some of our favorite tampers to help you pick one that is suitable for you. We'll make a barista out of you yet.
This is a commercial level quality tamper made of cast aluminum alloy. It has no chemical coatings that may get affected by the acids found in coffee. The dual flat sides are 51 millimeters and 58 millimeters that level and evenly compress ground coffee for a denser, richer taste. Designed by a professional barista, it's no wonder that this tamper is suitable for the expert or home espresso maker. Cleaning is also a breeze by using warm soapy water alone.
For perfectionists demanding the best tasting espresso shot, the Luxhaus Calibrated Tamper is built to ensure a perfect tamp every time. When fully compressed, the coffee grounds are compacted with consistent pressure each time. Made from food-safe 100 percent stainless steel with no coating, this tamper can easily make you forget your local coffee shop should you have one in the kitchen. Make sure your friends don't "borrow" it as you will not need to buy another tamper again.
The Rattleware Round-Handled tamper will provide endless service with consistent pressure for a perfect espresso. The 58-millimeter head will work with most espresso machines, and the rounded head gives a little more comfort on the compression. A sturdy black handle and the silver base give it a classic look while the flat head provides a consistent tamp every time.
Here is a sleek and elegant looking tamper. The all-black feature is coupled with a high-quality non-stick base that gives it the perfect function and turns heads at the same time. Cleaning is easy with a soft, non-abrasive cloth, so display it for all to see.
The Espro 3058F tamper is factory calibrated to deliver the perfect 30 pounds of force, so you don't have to re-calibrate it again. A subtle click indicates when you reach 30 pounds, so there is no need for any more guesswork. The black anodized aluminum handle and the stainless steel base give an impeccably balanced feel in your hand, so the perfect espresso is inevitable. Consistency of the espresso brew is guaranteed.
Many baristas like this rosewood handle. It is ergonomically designed and feels comfortable in hand, making a consistent espresso brew come naturally. The stainless steel base will never rust, and washing is easy with a brush. This is a tamper made to look good on the shelf also.
The Devereux Espresso tamper comes with a high-fired, glazed ceramic handle with vivid color to make it stand out. It may seem that the square handle does not sit comfortably in your hand, but the rounded edges give you that ergonomic edge. The base is also made from food-safe grade stainless steel, so cleaning is a breeze. Every time you reach for this tamper, people will notice.
Where do you put the tamper after you have brewed your espresso? That's the perfect time to use the Motta Tamping Station. It includes a tamping station, stainless steel tamper holder, and a professional flat-based 58-millimeter tamper. The tamping station provides the perfect space to rest the port filter.
It's worth picking the right tamper
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Tamping has a particular purpose, and baristas spend a lot of time perfecting their tamp techniques. Getting the perfect 30 pounds of pressure comes with a lot of practice, but the results can be gratifying. The tamper is the most critical tool, and that is why we recommend the RSVP International (TAM) Dual Sided Coffee Espresso Tamper. It has two flat heads for different filters and is made from a heavy die-cast aluminum alloy that has been designed by a professional barista. A little bit of practice, and you will be brewing espressos like the professionals. This is a tamper that is well worth the low purchase price tag it comes with.
We also very much like the Espro 3058F Calibrated Flat Tamper which is a little heavier tamper at 16 ounces, but the distinct click you feel at 30 pounds pressure is an excellent aid to getting that perfect brew every time. It also feels very balanced in your hand.
Whichever tamper you choose, it will help you perfect the art of espresso brewing, so go ahead and make the leap. Your taste buds will thank you for it.