Unlock Espresso Excellence: Discover the Top 5 Must-Have Espresso Accessories

Looking to up your espresso game even more? Look no further! We put together this comprehensive guide for the top 5 must-have espresso accessories. 

Scale

The first tool you'll want to look into after purchasing your espresso machine is a scale. A scale ensures you are dosing the right amount of espresso every shot, for consistently delicious espresso! Scales range in price from $30-$400, but don't worry a kitchen scale will suffice. Check out some of the scales we carry here. Some scales like the Bodum, and Acaia Pearl are equipped with a shot timer as well, so you can optimize your rate of pour. 

Upgraded Tamper

Next take a look at your tamper, do you think it could be upgraded? Usually the tampers that come with espresso machines can get the job done, but could also be upgraded. There are so many tamper options out there is can get a little overwhelming. So let's break down the different types of tampers and why they are beneficial!
1. The calibrated tamper: This tamper applies the correct amount of pressure without you have to guess! You will press down on the handle which will tamp the espresso. These tampers tend to be a little more expensive. Check out the ECM pressure regulating tamper, and the ESPRO calibrated tamper. 

2. The tamper & distributor: This tamper is both a leveller AND a tamper, so a 2-in-1. This tamper will ensure that you have a level tamp and are not tilting to one side! They tend to be a little heavier as well. Check out the CREMA options we carry! They have both 58mm options, and 53.4mm options which are Breville compatible. 

3. The regular tamper:  Sometimes just upgrading to a better quality tamper makes all the difference! These options are less expensive and definitely get the job done. You need to ensure you are getting the correct size for your portafilter, so we recommend either purchasing from the same brand that manufactured your machine, going .5mm-1mm smaller than your portafilter, or if possible, bringing your portafilter into one of our locations to ensure it fits! 

Shop all our tampers here. 

WDT Tool

A WDT tool is a little newer in popularity, it has a little handle with 4-10 prongs that break up espresso clumps to ensure your espresso is evenly distributed. After grinding, or once your espresso is in your portafilter you would use your WDT tool, and then tamp! This will help your espresso to not channel and get an even extraction. See the WDT tool we carry here. 

Puck Screen

A Puck screen is also a little newer in popularity, and is the perfect pair with a WDT tool. A puck screen will sit on top of you tamped espresso and help to evenly distribute the water over the espresso. Puck screens come in various sizes, and you will want to ensure the one you are purchasing sits nicely in your portafilter. The screen is made of metal, and is an inexpensive way to upgrade your brew. See the puck screens we carry here! 

Funnel

The final tool you'll want in your set up is a funnel! A funnel sits on top of your portafilter to help keep all the espresso grinds in your portafilter while you are grinding, and prepping your espresso puck. This means less or no espresso grinds on your counter top! Shop the funnels we carry here! 

Remember, these tools are not necessary to get a good espresso shot but they could definitely help. Have fun and enjoy the process! 

 *Note: If you have an espresso machine with an integrated tamper, the funnel, tamper and WDT tool may not be applicable.