Espresso & Coffee

Portafilter

The handle that carries the basket and locks into the group

Setup stage
Portafilter — illustrated reference plate
Specification
What it doesCarries the dose, holds the basket, and seals against the group head gasket under pressure.
Basket or pressurisedA standard basket has one perforated wall and relies on the puck for resistance. A pressurised basket forces the coffee through a single small hole to fake crema; it hides bad grind, so it also prevents you learning.
Spouted or bottomlessA spouted filter hides the underside of the basket. A bottomless (naked) filter shows the extraction as it happens — channelling, spritz and uneven flow are all immediately visible.
Basket sizeMust match the machine. A 58 mm basket does not fit a 54 mm group, and the bayonet lugs differ between brands.
Weight and balanceA heavier handle stays put when you set it down and conducts less heat into the hand. It is a comfort upgrade, not a quality one.
CareRinse and dry after every shot. Coffee oil left in the spouts turns rancid within days.

Overview

A metal handle holding a perforated basket, locked into the group head with a bayonet fitting. It is the one part of the machine you touch on every single shot.

Espresso
Safety

The basket and handle are hot immediately after a shot. Hold the handle, not the basket, and knock the puck into a knock box rather than a bin you have to reach into.

Technical parameters

At a glance
Basket diameter58 mm standard · 51–54 mm compact
DoseSingle 7–9 g · double 16–22 g
MaterialChrome-plated brass or stainless steel
TypesSpouted · bottomless (naked) · pressurised
CleaningRinse daily; detergent backflush weekly

What actually goes wrong

  • A bottomless filter is the cheapest diagnostic tool in espresso — buy one before any upgrade.
  • Keep the basket dry. A wet basket makes the dose stick and clump.
  • Match basket capacity to dose; under-filling leaves a soupy puck, over-filling hits the screen.

What it has to match up with

  • 58 mm group head
  • Basket matched to dose
  • Tamper of the same diameter

This guide is an independent educational reference. It is not a substitute for the instructions supplied with your own equipment, and nothing here is sold, sponsored or endorsed by any brand.

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