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Precision basket
A filter basket made with laser-drilled or electro-etched holes to tight tolerances (usually ±0.02mm), producing more uniform water flow across the puck.
Category: Espresso Machine — Groups & Brew Path
A filter basket with laser-cut, uniformly sized holes positioned in a precise pattern. Brands include VST, IMS, Pesado, and increasingly some OEM "competition" baskets. Different from stock baskets, which have variable hole sizes from imprecise punching.
Why it matters — Precision baskets produce more even extraction because water passes through the puck more uniformly. Most serious home and competition baristas use precision baskets as one of the cheapest single upgrades to shot quality.
Good to know
- VST and IMS baskets come in different dose capacities (15g, 18g, 20g, 22g) — match the capacity to your typical dose.
- Replace every 2–3 years for serious daily use; sooner if you notice the basket walls flexing or hole geometry distorting.
Related: Filter Baskets