Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper Review: Is This Calibrated Tamper Worth It?
Discover the dynamometric tamper Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper, a precision tool for espresso coffee tamping. In this test conducted 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 ensures consistent pressure and uniform tamping, two essential elements to avoid channeling and guarantee optimal extraction. The Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper enables, thanks to its self-leveling guide, achieving perfectly uniform tamping, while providing consistent pressure through 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 finish, flat or grooved base
Box contents
The Timemore tamper comes with:
- The complete tamper with spring mechanism
- A rubber disc for placing the tamper on the work surface
- Usage instructions
Design and ergonomics
From the moment you pick it up, the difference from other tampers is striking. At 640 g, the Timemore is noticeably more substantial than the MHW 3Bomber or the Normcore V4. This significant mass 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 brings 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 basket rim. This 69 mm support surface ensures perfectly vertical 90° tamping, essential for preventing channeling.
The self-leveling system works wonderfully and eliminates any risk of uneven 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 prevent any buildup.
The spring mechanism: precision and consistency
A dual spring system
The Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper uses a dual-spring system that delivers consistent 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 disclosed by the manufacturer, but that doesn't bother me: the most important thing is that the force is consistent with each tamp. Based on my experience, I estimate that the applied force should be between 12 and 13 kg.
Timemore did not provide replacement springs. Previously, this would have been important to me, but in practice, I have never changed the springs on my other tampers. My replacement springs are sitting in a drawer, so the absence of this option doesn't bother me.
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 crisper 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.
Comparison of bases: flat vs ripple
I had the chance 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 features concentric grooves that are noticeably deeper than those of the MHW 3Bomber. The ridges 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 between the two bases, I must admit that I have not noticed 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 confirm 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 results in less channeling, I simply find it more attractive when tamping.
No retention on the basket edges
This is probably the most important point in this test. Unlike the MHW 3Bomber and Normcore V4, the Timemore leaves no coffee residue on the filter edge after tamping.
I believe this difference is explained by the Timemore tamper's impact being stronger than that of the MHW 3Bomber and absent from the Normcore V4 (which does not have a torque click mechanism). This helps prevent coffee residue from remaining on the filter edge.
The practical advantage is clear: there will be no coffee residue left on the espresso machine's shower screen after extraction. This is a real comfort benefit, as it means less cleaning and a brewing group that stays cleaner.
For me, this is a decisive criterion in favor of the Timemore. Even though the other tampers are excellent, this absence of retention really makes a difference in daily use.
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 especially its absence of coffee retention on the filter basket edges.
- Premium and robust construction (640g)
- Ergonomics
- No coffee retention on the filter basket edges
- Effective self-leveling guide
- Consistent and precise force
- Pleasant audible click
- Deep ridges
- Finishes
- Announced durability: 60,000+ tamps
- No force adjustment (single spring)
FAQ about the Timemore Impulse Impact Tamper
What is the difference between the flat base and the ripple base?
The ripple base features deeper concentric grooves than those of the MHW 3Bomber. According to some studies, it would promote better water distribution. In my experience, I have not 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 purchasing.
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 provided force 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 clean water and drying are sufficient.
Why does the Timemore not 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 the coffee retention around the filter edge that is observed with the MHW 3Bomber and Normcore V4.
What is the lifespan of the tamper?
Timemore claims durability of over 60,000 tamps. At 4 coffees per day, this represents more than 40 years of use. The all-metal construction ensures exceptional longevity.
This article is produced as part of a commercial collaboration with Timemore. I received two tamper models (flat base and ripple base) in 58.4mm for this test. As always, my opinion remains independent and sincere.