The Difference Between Split Portafilter and Bottomless Portafilter for Espresso Extraction: Which is Better?

Introduction to Portafilter Types

Previously purchased coffee machines almost all came with spouted portafilters, typically two in total: one single-spout portafilter for single-shot baskets, and another split portafilter with two spouts for double-shot baskets, designed to divide coffee liquid equally into two cups.

Back then, 1 shot referred to coffee extracted from a single-shot basket. If more coffee needed to be served simultaneously, the split portafilter with a double-shot basket was required, capable of extracting two shots of espresso at once.

The Rise of Bottomless Portafilters

However, as some coffee shops began preferring to extract one shot of espresso using double-shot baskets, single-spout portafilters gradually fell out of use. At the same time, a new type of portafilter emerged: the bottomless portafilter. This design completely removes the bottom, creating essentially a ring that secures the filter basket.

Even today, many established coffee machine brands only come equipped with two spouted portafilters, requiring additional payment or separate purchase for bottomless ones. Therefore, split portafilters remain the most commonly used type in many establishments. Some coffee shop owners will purchase bottomless portafilters separately or even modify single-spout portafilters by cutting off the bottom to create bottomless versions.

Characteristics of Different Portafilter Types

Let's first discuss the characteristics of each type. Split portafilters have a closed bottom with two split spouts, with their primary purpose being to evenly divide one portion of coffee into two equal parts. This splitting method works better than simply pouring half the coffee liquid from one cup, as the latter approach may result in uneven distribution of crema and coffee.

Now, let's address why bottomless portafilters have gained popularity. To put it directly, the difference between bottomless and split portafilters is the removal of the closed bottom, allowing direct observation of the filter basket from below. The advantage of this design is that it enables direct observation of the espresso extraction flow and effectively reveals channeling. When channeling occurs, spraying phenomena appear at the bottom of the filter basket, which is easily visible with a bottomless portafilter but difficult to see with a split portafilter.

Furthermore, when making layered coffees like Dirty, bottomless portafilters are more convenient. Because some coffee machines have limited space between the brew head and the drip tray, using a split portafilter might not accommodate a 7cm tall cup. Bottomless portafilters save approximately 3-4cm of space.

However, when directly catching espresso in a cup, split portafilters perform better than bottomless ones. When coffee liquid flows into the cup, there's a height difference that can cause splashing. Split portafilters can easily position the spouts against the cup's inner wall, allowing the coffee to flow down smoothly. Bottomless portafilters cannot achieve this easily, and carelessness might result in splatter marks all over the cup.

Important Differences to Consider

Although there may not be significant differences in the coffee extracted using split versus bottomless portafilters, some shops might use both types simultaneously. There are several important differences to consider:

First Point: Extraction Time Difference

Some friends might consider extraction time as a measurement standard for extraction parameters. When using a split portafilter, coffee liquid typically appears 1-2 seconds later than with a bottomless portafilter because the coffee must pass through the splitter before emerging. Therefore, those who use both types of portafilters interchangeably should be aware of this difference.

Second Point: Portafilter Preheating

The previous question about whether portafilters need to be attached to the brew head for insulation generally refers to split portafilters, because in addition to the filter basket, split portafilters have splitters through which coffee liquid must flow. Coffee filter baskets are relatively thin, and typically reach temperature quickly after a hot water rinse, so they don't need to remain attached to the brew head for insulation. However, splitters are different - they're made of thicker material and are positioned further from the brew head, taking longer to heat up. This is why the practice of keeping portafilters attached to the brew head for insulation emerged.

Actually, FrontStreet Coffee recommends avoiding keeping the portafilter attached to the brew head for extended periods during non-extraction phases. If preheating is desired, the portafilter can be attached to the brew head just before extraction, and hot water can be run through to preheat it. (Remember to dry the split portafilter thoroughly to remove moisture).

Third Point: Cleaning Differences

Bottomless portafilters are simpler to clean, as coffee stains from extraction can be rinsed directly without removing the filter basket. However, split portafilters require disassembly of the filter basket after daily extraction to clean the splitter. FrontStreet Coffee once encountered a coffee shop where the owner, being new to the field, didn't realize the filter basket could be removed. When the filter basket was finally disassembled after 3 months of use, the inside of the split portafilter was covered with a layer of brown-black coffee oil stains and emitted a foul odor.

Important Notice :

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