IMS Competition Precision Filter Basket – 58 mm, flat bottom (14–16 g / 16–20 g)
Watch the crema as the shot pulls: dense, hazelnut brown, even – no bright spots, no channeling. IMS Competition perforation distributes the water right to the edge of the puck, and that's exactly what you see and taste.
Nobody needs a competition basket to pull good espresso – the original basket does its job. You want it because the cup becomes clearer, rounder, and the crema denser. This is one of many possible choices, and we respect both directions.
What makes this basket special
The Competition series is IMS's hole pattern for maximum reproducibility: 715 round holes with a conical cross-section, patented, each exactly 0.30 mm. They ensure uniform flow through the entire puck – right to the edge – and a particularly dense crema. The cylindrical shape with a flat bottom is designed for the optimal ratio of puck surface area to height. The high-gloss polished AISI-304 stainless steel resists coffee residue and lasts a long time. Espresso is extraction via a weight ratio, usually 1:2; what you taste is density, sweetness, and a round finish – clear notes of caramel, chocolate, and nuts in the glass. Taste and smell are inseparable; a large part is created retronasally. It is our observation that the choice of basket fundamentally changes the aroma profile.
At a glance
| Manufacturer |
IMS Competition, Italy |
| Material |
Stainless steel AISI 304, high-gloss polished |
| Perforation |
715 conical holes, Ø 0.30 mm (Pattern M) |
| Bottom / Design |
flat · cylindrical, minimal rim (with retaining ring) |
| Variants |
H24.5 → 14–16 g · H26.5 → 16–20 g |
| Dimensions |
Rim-Ø 70 mm · inside Ø 60 mm · Tamper Ø 58–58.4 mm |
| Compatibility |
58 mm portafilters, E61 |
Who it's for
For anyone looking for consistency and dense crema – every budget is welcome. The flat design fits both standard and bottomless portafilters. Choose H24.5 for medium doses (14–16 g) or H26.5 for the classic doppio range (16–20 g). You belong here because you love coffee – not because you use a specific basket.
What goes with it
The perforation pattern is best displayed in a bottomless portafilter. To ensure the puck is level: the tamper collection – affordable with Normcore, premium with Weber Workshops. Against clumps beforehand: WDT Tools. Plus the matching grinder. All other baskets: Precision Filter Baskets Collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
H24.5 or H26.5 – which variant?
H24.5 (24.5 mm) is designed for 14–16 g, H26.5 (26.5 mm) for 16–20 g – the classic doppio range. The fill volumes are guidelines; the basket height is the most reliable indicator.
Flat or convex bottom?
This basket has a flat bottom – the classic all-rounder. Those who prefer a focused, central stream in a bottomless portafilter should look at the convex Competition variants (e.g., B702TCH28.5E).
Does the basket fit my machine?
It is made for 58 mm portafilters (rim Ø 70 mm) and fits many E61 brew groups – including La Marzocco, Rocket, ECM, Bezzera, Rancilio, Faema, Nuova Simonelli, Victoria Arduino, Wega.
Do I need to adjust anything after switching?
When switching from a standard to a precision basket, it's worth recalibrating the grind size – the more precise perforation often allows for slightly finer grind settings.
Can I see the basket before purchasing?
Yes, in our showrooms in Bern (Gerberngasse 44) and Zurich Oerlikon (Hagenholzstrasse 50b).
Roastery Tip
A consistent basket rewards dense, aromatic beans the most. From our coffee roastery, Cozy Chocolate and Nutty Delight brew full-bodied and round. For maximum body without any acidity, stick with Very Nutty; for those who like it fruity, Wild Peach offers a lively peach note. Our recommendation – one of many.
