I’ve stored away my wdt tools, puck leveler even funnel. Now all I do is a light tamp and use a puck screen. This is the first really clear improvement I’ve found in espresso making in 20 years. I can grind coarser as well.
I’ve always wanted a good coffee ready and freshly brewed whenever I need it at the office, and I came across Ikape, which is affordably priced.
I really like that it can heat the water while I’m busy grinding the beans. Honestly, I’m even considering selling my home espresso machine because this portable coffee maker already does the job well enough.
The only downside is the dosing funnel provided as my grind coffee still flow out and brimmed the basket.
Good, but still could be better adjusting to the proper tamp height.
Once dialed in, the basket greatly reduces bitterness and improves flavor separation. This is a product of increased grind size from increased puck depth. The 32mm is flush with the bottom of the portafilter but I found the 38mm to be even better in terms of flavor.
I think this is well designed and produced, but there is one feature that would make it a 5 in my opinion. There needs to be a rubber or silicone base, dishwasher safe, that fits exactly on the bottom.
1-to keep it from rubbing the countertop, 2-to keep it in place while using, 3-to enable easy cleanup of any spilled coffee.
So I gave it an 80% approval as-is.