The basket size influences everything! It shapes the machine’s design and, ultimately, the espresso quality too. This was my first major decision-making milestone on my journey to design the espresso lever machine.
At first, I thought about following the industry giants. Yes, that would be the easiest way to solve this dilemma. Their concept is proven, and many home barista machines also embrace the 58mm standard. But is it really the right choice? Does this 60-year-old standard still meet today’s trends and needs?
On the other hand, I recall my first attempts with the smaller 51mm basket. It took me three tries to brew a decent espresso. Compared to the 58mm, I wasted a lot more coffee before I was satisfied. By the way, I inherited a machine from a friend who struggled (probably lacked patience) to pull a good shot after many tries and errors—so I know that easy handling and quick success are vital for beginners.
Henry Ford once said, “Any customer can have a car painted any colour that he wants, so long as it is black”. That made sense when the market was immature and didn’t demand more. But today, coffee is about taste, mood, and relationships. Sometimes, all I want is to enjoy the silence with a single shot. Other times, I want to offer something special to friends—maybe a double shot, one for me and one for them.
Offering two basket sizes makes my work a bit more complicated, but it’s a small price to pay for the perfect cup of espresso, whether it’s for friends or just for myself.
