Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper Pressure Tamper Test
Discover the dynamometric tamper Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper, a precision tool for espresso coffee tamping. In this test carried out as a commercial collaboration, I received two models: flat base and ripple base. I compare them to the MHW 3Bomber and Normcore V4 tampers that I had purchased. I share my opinion on this accessory that stands out for its build quality and exceptional ergonomics.
When it comes to extracting a quality espresso, tamping is a crucial step. A good tamper allows you to achieve consistent pressure and uniform tamping, two essential elements to avoid channeling and ensure optimal extraction. The Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper allows, thanks to its self-leveling guide, to achieve perfectly uniform tamping, while offering consistent pressure thanks to its dynamometric mechanism.
Presentation of the Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper
The Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper is part of the Espresso Series range from Chinese manufacturer Timemore, renowned for its manual coffee grinders and quality accessories.
Technical specifications
Here are the technical specifications of the Timemore tamper:
- Weight: approximately 640 g
- Base diameter: 58.4 mm
- Support surface: 69 mm wide for excellent stability
- Materials: stainless steel and anodized aluminum alloy
- Tolerance: gap less than 0.05 mm between the tamper and the body
- Durability: over 60,000 tamps announced (more than 40 years of use at 4 coffees per day)
- Availability: black or white color, flat or grooved base
Box contents
The Timemore tamper comes with:
- The complete tamper with spring mechanism
- A rubber disk for placing the tamper on the work surface
- Instructions for use
Design and ergonomics
From the first moment you pick it up, the difference from other tampers is striking. At 640 g, the Timemore is significantly more massive than the MHW 3Bomber or the Normcore V4. This substantial weight provides a feeling of quality and solidity.
The entirely metal construction combines an anodized aluminum handle and a stainless steel base. The handle features ergonomic shapes that fit well in the palm of the hand, offering good comfort during use. I particularly appreciate the shiny ring added around the handle, an aesthetic detail that adds a touch of elegance to the design.
The Self-Leveling Guide: Perfect Tamping Every Time
Like the MHW 3Bomber and Normcore V4, the Timemore features a guide that rests on the filter basket rim. This 69 mm support surface guarantees perfectly vertical tamping at 90°, essential for avoiding channeling.
The self-leveling system works wonderfully and eliminates any risk of crooked tamping.
Like all tampers equipped with a guide, the Timemore shows slight coffee retention between the guide and the base. This is a common phenomenon and not really avoidable with this type of design.
Fortunately, this retention remains minimal and does not contaminate the coffee. Simply clean the tamper regularly to avoid any buildup.
The Spring Mechanism: Precision and Consistency
A Dual Spring System
The Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper uses a dual spring system that delivers constant compression force with each use. Unlike the Normcore V4 which offers three interchangeable springs, the Timemore is calibrated to a single force value. This value is not communicated by the manufacturer, but that doesn’t bother me: the most important thing is that the force is constant with each tamp. Based on my experience, I estimate that the applied force should be between 12 and 13 kg.
The automatic return and the satisfying “click”
The Timemore produces an audible “click” when the force is reached. This acoustic feedback is very pleasant, especially since the click is louder and more distinct than on the MHW 3Bomber.
The automatic return mechanism is smooth and resets with a snap. The feel is very premium, much more refined than on the MHW 3Bomber.
Consistency and precision
I tested the tamper over several dozen tamps and the consistency is perfect. Each tamp applies exactly the same force, which results in more uniform and reproducible extractions.
Base comparison: flat vs ripple
I was fortunate enough to test both versions of the Timemore tamper: flat base and ripple base (grooved).
The flat base features a perfectly smooth and polished surface. The machining is impeccable and the flatness is flawless. This is the classic version that suits all uses. The ripple base, on the other hand, has concentric grooves significantly deeper than those of the MHW 3Bomber. The grooves are well defined and form a regular pattern across the entire surface. According to a study by Robert McKeon Aloe, ripple bases would promote better water distribution and reduce channeling.
After several weeks of alternating use of both bases, I must admit that I did not notice any significant taste difference between the flat base and the ripple base. The extractions are similar in terms of aromas, body and balance. I may have observed slightly less channeling with the ripple base, but this remains difficult to state with certainty (knowing that I very rarely experience channeling). However, I use the tamper with the ripple base much more often. Beyond the fact that it potentially produces less channeling, I simply find it more beautiful when I tamp.
No retention on the filter edges
This is probably the most important point of this test. Unlike the MHW 3Bomber and Normcore V4, the Timemore leaves no coffee on the edge of the basket after tamping.
I think this difference is explained by the impact of the Timemore tamper which is stronger than that of the MHW 3Bomber and absent from the Normcore V4 (which doesn’t have a torque click). This helps prevent coffee residue from remaining on the basket edge.
The practical advantage is clear: there will be no coffee left on the shower screen of the espresso machine after extraction. This is a real comfort, as it means less cleaning and a brew group that stays cleaner.
Conclusion and Final Opinion
The Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper is an excellent calibrated tamper that stands out for its exceptional build quality, its refined ergonomics and above all its absence of coffee retention on the filter basket edges.
Buy the Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper on Amazon
Discover the Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper on the official website
- Premium and robust construction (640g)
- Ergonomics
- No coffee retention on the filter basket edges
- Effective self-leveling guide
- Constant and precise force
- Pleasant audible click
- Deep grooves
- Finishes
- Announced durability: 60,000+ tamps
- No force adjustment (single spring)
My rating: ★★★★★
What is the difference between the flat base and the ripple base? The ripple base features concentric grooves that are deeper than those of the MHW 3Bomber. According to some studies, it would promote better water distribution. In my experience, I haven’t noticed any significant taste difference, but I appreciate the aesthetic appearance of the pattern left on the coffee puck.
Is the Timemore compatible with my portafilter? The Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper is available in 58.4 mm diameter, compatible with standard 58 mm portafilters used on the majority of espresso machines (Lelit, Rancilio, Gaggia, La Pavoni, etc.). Check your filter diameter before purchase.
Can the tamping force be adjusted? No, unlike the Normcore V4, the Timemore uses a fixed spring system. The compression force is not adjustable. However, the force provided is suitable for the vast majority of espresso uses.
Does the Timemore tamper require special maintenance? Maintenance is minimal. Simply clean the base regularly and the space between the guide and the base to prevent coffee residue buildup. Rinsing with clear water and drying are sufficient.
Why doesn’t the Timemore leave coffee on the filter edges? Thanks to its ultra-precise tolerances (< 0.05 mm) and quality machining, the Timemore perfectly fits the 58.4 mm diameter, thus avoiding coffee retention on the filter edge that is observed with the MHW 3Bomber and Normcore V4.
What is the tamper’s lifespan? Timemore announces a durability of more than 60,000 tamps. At a rate of 4 coffees per day, this represents more than 40 years of use. The all-metal construction ensures exceptional longevity.
