I now have all the Ikape Variable baskets in both regular and black. Let me begin by saying I own around 20-30 conventional baskets from IMS to boutique brands costing upwards of $100 to $200, all in the endeavor of chasing those rare god-shots.
From about the 2nd to 3rd try all while getting my grind right, the Ikape Variable baskets delivered the best results yet, faster than 100+ attempts using other straight walled baskets that have yet to deliver.
I also add I don’t fixate on TDS’s and Extration %’s. I evaluate on taste alone. Is it the “god-shot”? Not sure that even exist, but I can say it’s the BEST and most consistent shot.
I’ll get to why I mark it down a star further below but suffice to say, the portafilter quality is the best I own and I have over 20 on my rack, many from the usual boutique suspects that cost hundreds of dollars for the portafilter alone.
For the price, just the portafilter by itself is worth the cost of admission yet also includes an 18g CNC convex that has yet to produce a disappointing result. It allows for a more predictable medium fine grind allowing for a controlled extraction yielding a balanced shot. After toying with Step Down workflows that yield wildly varying results, this convex basket is what I reach for when I absolutely have to get a drink right the first time for any visitors or my wife while they patiently wait.
I only mark down the PF for 2 reasons, and this may be nitpicking. First, the length of the handle is just a few MM longer than I’d like and makes storing it on a rack and working with it on a crowded counter rather awkward. Second is the height which for a PF Tailored for their Ikape Variable baskets, would hope it could accommodate both their 33mm and 38mm height baskets in a layflat prep position, but minor gripe.
But, too be clear, if lost, I’d immediately re-buy this kit without delay. It’s the best combo on the market IMO.
the suction is too weak to pick even coffee dust up unless it's pressed right against it, doesn't work to clean an electric coffee machine as the dust is about an inch away from the opening
The portafilter does not fit my gaggia. I knew it was a camble, but I had assumed that because it already had a broad compatible that I thought it would be fine. Did some more research afterward and realized it's more designed for e61 group heads. The ears are 1mm too thick to fit. I could still fit the basket in my old portafilter however. I noticed that the basket top sticks up from my porta filter and doesn't sit flush in it. Also, the basket rim design isn't flat. This creates an issue where the basket sits a few mm taller than the portafilter. I am able to properly lock it in with 16g dose, but any more than that and I wouldn't be able to fit the 0.3mm puck screen. Still happy with it and I can save the portafilter for when I upgrade my machine later on.
Good product that cleans up expresso machine mess perfectly.
