The shower disc is the perforated disc mounted on the brew group that distributes water evenly over the ground coffee during extraction: if it's clogged or warped, the coffee comes out unevenly or too slowly.

The filter basket (portafilter basket) is the perforated basket that holds the ground coffee, available in a 1-dose or 2-dose version depending on the amount of coffee to brew; with use the holes widen and extraction quality drops, which is why it should be replaced periodically even without visible damage.

Compatibility by brand: shower discs and filter baskets available for San Marco, Rancilio (including the clip-on gr. LE/S version), Cimbali, Faema (including the old-style E61 version), Gaggia, Nuova Simonelli and Brasilia — every brand and brew group model has its own shower disc, not interchangeable with others.

For other espresso machine parts go back to Espresso Machine.

Frequently asked questions

How often should the filter basket be replaced?
Even without visible damage, the holes widen with use and extraction quality drops: it's good practice to replace it periodically, not only when it's visibly worn out.

How do I know which shower disc my machine needs?
It depends on the brand and model of the brew group (the old-style Faema E61 has a different shower disc from more recent models): check brand and version before ordering.