The Meraki Guides
Choose compatible tools first, then use them for a repeatable preparation routine. Explore basket and portafilter sizes, tampers, distribution tools and ways to observe a shot.
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MERAKI / GUIDE LIBRARY
Match the portafilter and basket
9 GUIDESStart with the size, fit and basket choice before changing preparation tools.
- What Is a Portafilter? Types, Sizes and How It Works
- What Is a 58mm Portafilter and Why Does It Matter?
- 58mm E61-Compatible Portafilter: Choosing Espresso Accessories
- Portafilters and Baskets: 58mm, 54mm, and What Size Means
- Bottomless Portafilter: Benefits, Drawbacks, and What It Reveals
- Espresso Baskets: Single, Double, and Precision Options Explained
- Portafilter Seasoning: Breaking In New Baskets
- 58mm vs 54mm Portafilter: What the Size Changes
- Espresso Basket Sizes: 18g, 20g, and What Fits Your Machine
Distribute and tamp the coffee
7 GUIDESCompare tools by the preparation step they change, rather than by adding more steps.
- What Is the Best Espresso Tamper for Consistent Home Brewing?
- What Is a Coffee Distributor and How Does It Improve Espresso?
- WDT, Distributors, and Levelers: Espresso Distribution Tools Explained
- WDT Tools vs Distributors: Which Fixes Your Puck
- Tamper Size Chart: Finding Your Perfect Fit
- Distribution Tools: Leveling the Puck Before Tamping
- Tamping Mats: Protecting Your Counter and Your Puck
Observe the shot and finish the setup
3 GUIDESExplore the remaining tools for checking a pour or keeping the preparation area organized.
More guides in this topic
11 GUIDES- Puck Prep: The Sequence That Makes Great Espresso
- Espresso Puck Headspace: The Coin Test and Better Ways to Check It
- Paper Filter for an Espresso Basket: Check Fit Before Buying in Bulk
- Coated vs Uncoated Espresso Baskets: Does the Finish Matter?
- Espresso Filter Paper on Top vs Bottom of the Puck
- Spring-Loaded Tamper vs Manual: What Repeatability Claims Mean
- Self-Leveling Tamper Guide: Check the Rim Reference and Travel
- WDT Needle Size: Choosing 0.25 mm, 0.3 mm, or 0.4 mm
- Magnetic vs Twist-Lock Dosing Funnels for Espresso
- Bottomless Portafilter Basket Compatibility: Three Fits to Confirm
- What Changes When You Move From a 54 mm to a 58 mm Basket?
