The stainless steel and aluminum tamper distributor is best for building a more consistent espresso puck before you pull a shot. It helps you level grounds, then tamp to a repeatable depth so extraction is easier to dial in at home.
This tool is designed to fit 58 mm portafilter baskets. If your basket is a different size, it will not sit correctly for leveling and tamping.
After dosing your coffee, use the distribution side to spread and level the grounds in the basket. Then flip to the tamper side to compress the puck with a consistent press before brewing.
Adjustable depth is helpful when you want the tamper to stop at the same point each time. That repeatability can make it easier to compare changes in grind or dose without wondering if your tamp changed.
A more even distribution and a consistent tamp can help reduce channeling and uneven density in the puck. While it cannot replace good grinding and dosing, it supports a cleaner, more repeatable prep routine.