If you are really picky about your espresso and want the even extraction to be perfect, then yes you need a distributor for espresso. An espresso distributor tool improves the consistency of coffee extraction which improves the quality of the crema and coffee brewing taste. If you are a perfectionist and prefer having a smaller room for error, then a distributor for espresso tools is totally worth it. Some home baristas also believe that using a toothpick is a better alternative for espresso distribution. These distribution techniques are known as WDT.