Breville Barista Express Built-In Grinder or Breville Grind Control Thermal Coffee? Which Breville Model to Buy
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This comparison covers the breville bes870xl barista express espresso vs bdc650bss grind control. Both machines feature integrated grinders and Breville branding. They share a brushed stainless steel finish and include free coffee bags upon registration. The main difference lies in their function. The BES870XL is an espresso machine with a steam wand. The BDC650BSS is a drip coffee maker with a thermal carafe. You need to choose based on your preferred beverage type.
Key differences
| Aspect | Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder | Breville Grind Control Thermal Coffee Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Drink Type | Espresso | Drip Coffee |
| Grinder Type | Precision conical burr | Adjustable |
| Capacity | 67 oz water, 1/2 lb beans | 60 oz water, 1/2 lb beans |
| Carafe Type | Not listed | Dual wall stainless steel thermal |
| Milk Frother | Steam wand | Not listed |
| Dimensions | 12.5 x 15.9 x 13.8 inches | 4.92 x 6.42 x 3.35 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder if
- You want to make espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos
- You need a steam wand for microfoam milk texturing
- You prefer low pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction
Choose Breville Grind Control Thermal Coffee Maker if
- You prefer brewing a full carafe of drip coffee
- You want to use a thermal carafe to keep coffee hot
- You need multiple strength settings for custom brewing
Verdict: The BES870XL suits those seeking espresso craftsmanship with manual microfoam. The BDC650BSS serves users who want convenient, full-pot drip coffee. Choose based on whether you prioritize espresso or brewed coffee.
Barista Express vs Grind Control
drink type
You need to decide what kind of coffee you drink daily. The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is an espresso machine. It uses a precision conical burr grinder to grind beans directly into the portafilter. It focuses on single or double shots of espresso. The Breville Grind Control BDC650BSS is a drip coffee maker. It uses Steep and Release technology to brew into a carafe, tall cup, or travel mug. It handles up to twelve cups. If you want espresso drinks, choose the Barista Express. If you want standard brewed coffee, choose the Grind Control.
milk frothing
Milk texture matters for lattes and cappuccinos. The Barista Express includes a powerful steam wand. It is designed to create smooth, flavorful microfoam for latte art. You can manually control the texture. The Grind Control does not have a steam wand. It is not designed for milk-based espresso drinks. It only brews black coffee into a carafe or cup. If you enjoy milk drinks, the Barista Express is the clear choice. The Grind Control cannot produce the foam needed for these beverages.
brew capacity
Capacity differs significantly between the two models. The Grind Control holds sixty ounces of water. It brews up to twelve cups at once. This is ideal for households or offices. The Barista Express does not list a total water reservoir capacity in the provided data. It is designed for individual shots. You brew one or two shots at a time. For serving multiple people, the Grind Control is superior. For single servings, the Barista Express is sufficient.
extraction control
Control over extraction affects flavor balance. The Barista Express features digital temperature regulation with PID. It ensures water is at the precise temperature for espresso. It also uses low pressure pre-infusion. This gradually increases pressure to draw out flavors evenly. The Grind Control offers eight strength settings. You can adjust the grind size. However, it does not mention pre-infusion or PID temperature control. The Barista Express offers more precise control over the espresso extraction process.
carafe type
The Grind Control includes a dual wall stainless steel thermal carafe. This keeps coffee hot without a heating plate. It is included in the box. The Barista Express does not include a carafe. It serves drinks directly into your cup or portafilter. If you need a carafe for serving, the Grind Control provides one. The Barista Express requires you to drink immediately or use a separate vessel. The thermal carafe is a key feature of the Grind Control.
dimensions
Size and footprint matter for your counter. The Barista Express is larger. It measures thirteen point eight inches in length, twelve point five inches in width, and fifteen point nine inches in height. It weighs twenty-two point one pounds. The Grind Control is smaller. It measures three point three five inches in length, four point nine two inches in width, and six point four two inches in height. It weighs sixteen point one pounds. The Grind Control takes up less space on your counter.
Which Breville Machine Fits You
You want espresso and latte art
The Barista Express BES870XL is designed for espresso. It features a precision conical burr grinder that doses directly into the portafilter. A steam wand creates microfoam for lattes. Digital PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction. Low pressure pre-infusion enhances flavor. This machine is for single or double shots.
You prefer drip coffee for groups
The Grind Control BDC650BSS brews up to twelve cups. It uses steep and release technology for balanced flavor. The adjustable grinder fits any bean. You can brew into a thermal carafe, tall cup, or travel mug. Eight strength settings let you customize taste. It also accepts pre-ground coffee for flexibility.
You need a compact footprint
The Grind Control is significantly smaller. It measures 4.92 inches wide and weighs 16.1 pounds. The Barista Express is larger at 12.5 inches wide and 22.1 pounds. If counter space is limited, the Grind Control fits better. Its medium size suits smaller kitchens without sacrificing grinding capability.
You want precise temperature control
The Barista Express includes digital PID temperature regulation. This delivers water at precise temperatures for optimal espresso extraction. The Grind Control focuses on strength settings and grind size. It lacks explicit PID temperature data in its specs. For espresso purists, the Barista Express offers more thermal precision.
The products compared
Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder
Best for: manual espresso preparation and latte art
- Coffee Compatibility
- Beans
- Capacity
- 67 oz
- Brew Sizes
- Single or double shots
- Milk Frother
- Manual steam wand
- Integrated Grinder
- Conical burr
- Pump Pressure
- Low pressure pre-infusion
View on Amazon: Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder Affiliate link
This machine combines a precision conical burr grinder with espresso brewing. You get a 67 oz water reservoir and a 1/2 lb bean hopper. Digital PID temperature regulation ensures consistent extraction. The steam wand creates microfoam for lattes. It is ideal for users who want to grind beans directly into the portafilter for fresh espresso.
Pros
- Integrated precision conical burr grinder
- Digital temperature regulation (PID)
- Low pressure pre-infusion
- Steam wand for microfoam
Cons
- Only brews single or double shots
- No thermal carafe included
- Large footprint at 12.5 inches wide
Good fit if
- You want fresh grounds for every shot
- You enjoy creating latte art
- You prefer manual control over brewing
Skip if
- You need a thermal carafe
- You want multiple brew sizes
- You have limited counter space
Verdict: Breville Barista Express Built-In Grinder suits those who value fresh grinding and manual milk texturing. It fits users who want espresso-focused control rather than convenience carafes.
Breville Grind Control Thermal Coffee Maker
Best for: freshly ground drip coffee lovers
- Coffee Compatibility
- Whole beans, pre-ground coffee
- Capacity
- 12 Cup
- Brew Sizes
- Large carafe, tall cup, travel mug
- Integrated Grinder
- Stainless steel burrs, adjustable
- Carafe Type
- Dual wall stainless steel thermal
- Features
- Built-In Grinder
View on Amazon: Breville Grind Control Thermal Coffee Maker Affiliate link
The Breville Grind Control brews drip coffee using an integrated adjustable grinder and Steep and Release technology. It holds 60 ounces of water for 12 cups and features a dual-wall thermal carafe. You get eight strength settings and can use whole beans or pre-ground coffee. This model suits those who want fresh ground flavor without the complexity of espresso machines.
Pros
- Integrated adjustable grinder captures bean freshness
- Steep and Release technology for balanced flavor
- 8 strength settings for customization
- Compatible with pre-ground coffee option
- Dual-wall stainless steel thermal carafe
Cons
- 1-year limited warranty is shorter than typical competitors
- 1/2 lb bean hopper limits batch brewing
- 1100-watt power output is modest for fast brewing
Good fit if
- You want freshly ground coffee without manual grinding
- You prefer thermal carafes over glass pots
- You like adjusting strength and grind size
Skip if
- You need an espresso machine for milk drinks
- You want a large capacity for many cups
- You prefer programmable timers over manual control
Verdict: Breville Grind Control Thermal Carafe delivers fresh, customizable drip coffee for users who value grind freshness and thermal retention over speed or large volume.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Breville Barista Express with Built-In Grinder | Breville Grind Control Thermal Coffee Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Compatibility | Beans | Whole beans, pre-ground coffee |
| Capacity | 67 oz | 12 Cup |
| Brew Sizes | Single or double shots | Large carafe, tall cup, travel mug |
| Milk Frother | Manual steam wand | not stated |
| Integrated Grinder | Conical burr | Stainless steel burrs, adjustable |
| Pump Pressure | Low pressure pre-infusion | not stated |
| Carafe Type | not stated | Dual wall stainless steel thermal |
| Features | Built-In Grinder | Built-In Grinder |
| Drink Type | not stated | Drip Coffee |
| Intended Use | Home | not stated |
| Operation | Manual | not stated |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Silver |
| Dimensions | 13.8 × 12.5 × 15.9 inches | 3.35 × 4.92 × 6.42 inches |
| Weight | 22.1 pounds | 16.1 pounds |
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Model | BES870XL | BDC650BSSUSC |
Frequently asked questions
Which Breville machine is better for making lattes?
The Breville Barista Express BES870XL is the better choice for latte lovers. It includes a steam wand designed for manual milk texturing, which allows you to create microfoam for latte art. The Grind Control is a drip coffee maker and does not have the equipment needed for milk-based espresso drinks.
How big is the Breville Barista Express BES870XL?
The Barista Express is a large machine with substantial dimensions. It measures 12.5 inches in width, 13.8 inches in length, and 15.9 inches in height. It also weighs 22.1 pounds. You need a spacious counter area to accommodate its brushed stainless steel frame and integrated grinder components.
Is the Grind Control BDC650BSSUSC a small machine?
The Grind Control is classified as a medium-sized appliance. Its footprint is narrower, measuring 4.92 inches in width and 3.35 inches in length. It stands 6.42 inches tall and weighs 16.1 pounds. This compact design makes it easier to fit on smaller kitchen counters compared to the espresso machine.
Does the Breville Grind Control keep coffee hot?
Yes, the Breville Grind Control Thermal Coffee Maker features a thermal carafe. This design retains heat without a hot plate, ensuring your drip coffee stays warm. It is ideal for users who prefer freshly ground coffee that maintains its temperature over time, rather than relying on external heating elements.
Can I grind beans fresh with both machines?
Both models feature built-in grinders for fresh bean processing. The Barista Express uses a precision conical burr grinder that doses directly into the portafilter for espresso. The Grind Control also grinds beans fresh for drip coffee. Both ensure you start with whole beans for optimal flavor in your daily brew.
What is the main difference in drink type between these models?
The primary difference is the beverage style. The Barista Express BES870XL is an espresso machine focused on single shots and milk drinks. The Grind Control BDC650BSSUSC is a drip coffee maker. You should choose the espresso model for concentrated shots or the drip model for larger, filtered cups.
Which machine is lighter to move around?
The Breville Grind Control Thermal Coffee Maker is lighter. It weighs 16.1 pounds, making it easier to handle or relocate than the Barista Express. The espresso machine weighs 22.1 pounds due to its heavier internal components and larger build. Consider your counter space and mobility needs when choosing.