Does VST basket make a difference?
Unlike your standard basket, VST baskets undergo laser measurements to ensure uniform hole size and spacing. This helps water flow evenly through the coffee puck, giving you a smoother, more balanced extraction. Think of it like this: your espresso basket is like the filter in your coffee machine—only way more precise. From what I’ve seen, if consistency and flavour matter to you, then yes, it’s totally worth it. Standard baskets usually produce uneven results. Sometimes your espresso tastes great; sometimes it’s a bit disappointing. VST baskets cut down on this inconsistency significantly.
Which is better IMS or VST precision basket?
IMS: While IMS baskets are very well made and have relatively tight tolerances, VST baskets are often regarded as the gold standard when it comes to uniformity. VST’s rigorous optical analysis ensures that every basket performs the same, minimizing variability between shots. VST is a brand of precision fabricated baskets where all the holes are the same size and distance apart from each other, allowing for a more uniform extraction. IMS is another brand you can get as well. These baskets can produce a better quality shot, but are also less forgiving of mistakes.
How to clean a precision basket?
The best way to clean your portafilter basket is simple: rinse it under hot water immediately after each use. For deeper cleaning, occasionally soak it in a dedicated coffee equipment cleaner. This keeps the holes clear and prevents old oils from ruining your espresso’s taste. Think of the portafilter basket as a metal filter; they last long but won’t function optimally forever. Like the shower screen and group head gasket, these are wear and tear parts that break down with use. Ideally, you replace all three every 12-14 months* to keep your coffee tasting clean and fresh.Portafilter baskets wear out Ideally, you replace all three every 12-14 months* to keep your coffee tasting clean and fresh.