Portafilter sizes by machine: 51, 54 and 58 mm

Portafilter sizes for popular machines

The table lists sizes that are widely documented for these machines. Where a brand varies across its range, we say so rather than guess. Check your manual for the exact figure.

Why 58 mm is common

58 mm is the size used by most commercial espresso machines, so it has the widest choice of baskets, tampers and accessories. A wider basket also gives a shallower coffee bed for the same dose, which some people find more forgiving.

54 mm and 51 mm baskets are deeper for the same dose and fit smaller, more compact machines. They make excellent espresso, but the accessory choice is narrower. Sage's 54 mm size is popular enough that many third party accessories are made for it.

How to measure your portafilter

If you cannot find the size, measure. Use a ruler or calipers on the basket, not the outside of the portafilter handle.

1. 1

   Remove the basket from the portafilter.

2. 2

   Measure the inside diameter across the top rim.

3. 3

   Round to the nearest common size: 49, 51, 53, 54, 57 or 58 mm.

4. 4

   For a tamper, choose the size that matches. Some makers sell sizes such as 58.35 mm for a closer fit in specific baskets.

Note:Let the portafilter cool before handling it after brewing. The metal stays hot for some time.

Pressurised and non-pressurised baskets

Many home machines come with two kinds of basket. Pressurised, or dual-wall, baskets have a single small exit hole and make crema even with pre-ground coffee. Non-pressurised, or single-wall, baskets rely on a fresh, fine grind and good tamping, and give better results with a capable grinder. When you buy replacement baskets, match both the diameter and the type. Our Sage Barista Express no pressure guide explains how basket type affects the pressure gauge.

Group head gaskets are also sized to the group, so when one wears out, order the part for your exact model. See why is my espresso machine leaking.

Accessories that depend on basket size

Once you know your size, several upgrades become possible. Each must match your basket diameter, and some also depend on the shape of the portafilter or the depth of the basket, so read the product details before buying.

• Tamper: a solid, flat tamper that fills the basket edge to edge gives a more even puck than a small plastic one.
• Dosing ring: sits on top of the portafilter so grounds do not spill while grinding or distributing.
• Distribution tool: levels the coffee before tamping, which helps avoid channelling.
• Bottomless portafilter: shows how evenly the shot flows, useful when learning, but must fit your group head.
• Precision baskets: single-wall baskets with more uniform holes, available in common sizes such as 54 and 58 mm.
• Shower screen and gasket: sized to the group head, so order the part for your model.

Choosing a machine by portafilter size

Portafilter size alone should not decide your machine, but it is worth knowing if you plan to upgrade baskets and tools. A 58 mm machine gives the widest choice. A 54 mm Sage gives good choice thanks to its popularity. Our Sage espresso machines compared and Gaggia coffee machines compared guides cover those ranges, and the best espresso machines for beginners includes several sizes. For dose by basket, see espresso dose and ratio.

Frequently asked questions

What size is the Sage Barista Express portafilter? 54 mm. The same size is used across Sage's Bambino, Barista Express, Barista Pro and Barista Touch machines.

What size is the Gaggia Classic portafilter? 58 mm, the commercial standard, so most 58 mm baskets and tampers fit.

Can I use a 58 mm basket in a 54 mm portafilter? No. Baskets must match the portafilter and group size. Buy the size your machine uses.

Does tamper size need to be exact? Close is best. A tamper that is too small leaves an untamped ring at the edge, which can cause channelling. Match your basket diameter.