What Is a Good Espresso Tamp — And How Much Pressure Do You Really Need?

What Is a Good Espresso Tamp — And How Much Pressure Do You Really Need?

Tamping espresso is one of the simplest steps in the brewing process — but for beginners, it’s also one of the most confusing. One of the most common questions we get is:

“How hard should I tamp? Does it have to be exactly 25 or 30 pounds of pressure?”

You might have read or heard that the “magic number” for tamping pressure is 30 pounds. Some people even ask us, “Does your tamper apply exactly 30 pounds of pressure? Otherwise, I don’t want to buy it.”

Let’s clear that up.


☕ The Real Purpose of Tamping

The goal of tamping isn’t to hit a specific number on a scale — it’s to:

  • Evenly compress the coffee grounds

  • Create uniform density throughout the puck

  • Remove air pockets that can cause channeling

  • Ensure the surface is flat and level

That’s it. The actual amount of pressure — whether it’s 20lb, 25lb, or 35lb — doesn’t matter nearly as much as consistency and evenness.


📹 Backed by Testing: Does Pressure Really Matter?

In this excellent video by Lifestyle Lab (watch here), a side-by-side test compares shots tamped at different pressures — 20lb to 35lb. The result? There was no measurable difference in extraction or shot quality, as long as the tamp was level and the puck was properly compressed.

So don’t stress about hitting exactly 30lb every time. What matters most is that the puck is:

  • Evenly tamped

  • Fully compacted

  • Free of air gaps

  • Level at the surface


🔧 So How Do You Achieve a Good Tamp?

  1. Distribute the Coffee Evenly:
    Use a distribution tool or WDT (Weiss Distribution Technique) to break up clumps and create an even bed before tamping.

  2. Use a Leveling Tamper:
    Our BC Auto-Levelling Tamper ensures your tamp is flat and consistent — every time. The tamper base stops when it touches the rim of the basket, guiding you to apply consistent pressure and create a level surface.

  3. Firm, Controlled Pressure:
    If you’re able to press our tamper down, you’re already applying the right amount of pressure — no need to overthink it.


✅ In Summary

  • You don’t need to hit exactly 30lb of pressure.

  • What does matter is consistency, levelness, and full compression.

  • Combine even distribution with our auto-levelling tamper for reliable, repeatable results.

Want better espresso at home? Focus on technique, not tension — and let the right tools do the hard part for you.

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