Selection of knock boxes for your espresso machine

Discover our selection of knock boxes, essential accessories for optimal coffee grounds management while reducing your waste. We offer a variety of models suitable for all budgets, including DIY solutions for craft enthusiasts. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a budding maker, this article will help you choose the ideal knock box to enhance your coffee routine.

Following up on my article about scales for weighing your coffee, here’s a new selection.
Today, we’re going to talk about “knock boxes”: boxes that allow you to easily eject a coffee puck and collect it to valorize it.
There are different types of knock boxes for all budgets. At the end of the article, you’ll even find handmade models to make yourself if you enjoy crafting.

Plastic knock box

The most affordable knock boxes are made of plastic, available in several colors for an average price of around €20.
Red, black, gray… they are compact, solid and stable, perfect for daily home use. Their design (more open at the front) allows you to tap the portafilter on the rubber bar without risk to your fingers.

Stainless steel knock box

The choice of stainless steel knock boxes is more varied and more durable than that of plastic models. It’s often the aesthetics and sturdiness that guide the choice.

Round stainless steel knock box

They combine the advantages of plastic models, but with increased durability. Available in different sizes and designs, they remain offered at a fair price.
Personally, I chose this model and I’m very satisfied with it:

Square stainless steel knock box

These knock boxes are designed to be embedded in a table or in a wooden box.
Ideal if you have:

• a dedicated coffee space with discreet integration,
• a DIY project where you want to build a custom wooden support.

Wood + stainless steel knock box

These are square stainless steel knock boxes, sold with a wooden box. Larger and often more expensive, they are better suited for frequent use.
Be sure to check the dimensions before purchasing to ensure they fit your workspace.

“Drawer” knock box

These knock boxes are flat, with an integrated drawer, on which the coffee machine rests.
To empty the grounds, you simply pull out the drawer. However, I don’t particularly recommend this model for several reasons:

• High price.
• Lack of ventilation promoting humidity and mold.
• Aesthetically, it makes the coffee space look heavier.

That said, if you really lack space, it can still be an option.

Making a knock box yourself (DIY)

Here are some sources of inspiration for designing your own homemade knock box:

• A detailed tutorial (with plans) available on this blog.

• A video tutorial showing all the manufacturing steps:
  

I hope this article has helped you choose or make the knock box suited to your needs.
It’s a simple accessory but really practical for ejecting and managing your coffee pucks.
Feel free to leave your questions or feedback in the comments!