The Breville Grind Control Coffee Maker has earned its reputation as one of the most versatile and user-friendly coffee makers.
Combining an integrated grinder with programmable features and customizable brewing options, this machine offers an elevated coffee experience for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Whether you’re a single-cup sipper or need a full carafe to fuel your day, the Breville Grind Control covers you. Here’s a deep dive into its features, performance, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Breville Grind Control impresses with its sleek, brushed stainless steel exterior. It’s modern and stylish, making it a great addition to any kitchen. The build quality is robust, giving you the confidence that it’s built to last. Its compact size ensures it fits comfortably on most countertops, a plus for those with limited space.
The user interface is equally well-designed, with an easy-to-read LCD screen and intuitive controls. Navigating through the settings feels natural, and the layout is straightforward enough for both beginners and seasoned coffee lovers. The design includes a removable drip tray that accommodates travel mugs and a thermal carafe for larger brews. These thoughtful details make it clear that Breville prioritizes both form and function.
Integrated Burr Grinder
One of the standout features of this coffee maker is its built-in burr grinder. Unlike blade grinders, burr grinders ensure a consistent grind size, which is essential for proper extraction and flavor. The Grind Control allows you to adjust the grind size with six preset levels, ranging from coarse to fine. This level of customization is a game-changer for those who like experimenting with their coffee’s taste and strength.
The grinder feeds freshly ground coffee directly into the brewing chamber, preserving the beans’ natural oils and aromas. While some machines rely on pre-ground coffee, the Breville’s grinder ensures every cup is as fresh as possible. It’s perfect for anyone who values the flavor difference that comes from grinding just before brewing.
Customizable Brewing Options
The Breville Grind Control shines when it comes to customization. It offers eight strength settings, allowing you to tailor the intensity of your coffee to your taste. Whether you prefer a mild morning brew or a bold pick-me-up, this machine has you covered.
Another key feature is its flexible brewing volume. You can make as little as a single 5-ounce cup or fill the 12-cup thermal carafe for a group. The single-cup option is particularly convenient, as it eliminates the waste that often comes with larger brews. For busy mornings or coffee breaks, this feature is invaluable.
Steep and Release Technology
Breville’s proprietary Steep and Release technology sets this machine apart. This process ensures the coffee grounds are steeped for the optimal amount of time before releasing into the carafe or cup. The result? A richer, more balanced cup of coffee that captures the full spectrum of flavors from your beans. This feature is especially noticeable when brewing single servings, as it prevents the coffee from tasting watered down.
Programmable Auto-Start
Convenience is a big selling point for the Grind Control, and the programmable auto-start function delivers in spades. You can set the machine to start grinding and brewing at a specific time, so your coffee is ready when you wake up or return from a break. This feature is perfect for anyone with a busy schedule who wants to enjoy freshly brewed coffee without the wait.
Thermal Carafe
The included thermal carafe is another highlight. Its double-wall stainless steel design keeps coffee hot for hours without the need for a warming plate, which can sometimes overheat and degrade the flavor. The carafe pours smoothly without spills, and its large capacity makes it ideal for entertaining guests or extended coffee-drinking sessions.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Breville has done an excellent job making the Grind Control easy to use and maintain. The removable drip tray and grinder components make cleaning straightforward, and the machine even includes a cleaning alert to notify you when it’s time to descale or clean the grinder. Regular maintenance ensures consistent performance and extends the life of the machine.
One minor downside is that the grinder can be slightly noisy during operation. However, this is common with most machines that include a built-in grinder and is a small trade-off for the benefits of freshly ground coffee.
Performance and Coffee Quality
The Breville Grind Control consistently produces excellent coffee. The combination of a burr grinder, customizable strength settings, and precise brewing ensures that every cup meets high standards. The coffee retains its natural oils and complex flavors, making it comparable to what you’d get from a high-end coffee shop.
Single-cup brews are just as satisfying as full carafes, thanks to the Steep and Release technology. The thermal carafe keeps coffee hot and flavorful for hours, making it perfect for those who don’t want to brew multiple times a day.
Who Is It For?
The Breville Grind Control is ideal for coffee lovers who appreciate freshly ground beans and value convenience. It’s perfect for households with varying coffee preferences, as its customizable settings cater to different tastes. It’s also great for anyone looking to reduce waste with its single-cup brewing option. However, if you’re looking for a budget option, this machine’s higher price point might be a consideration.
Final Thoughts
The Breville Grind Control Coffee Maker is a premium machine that delivers on its promises. Its combination of a built-in grinder, customizable brewing options, and user-friendly design makes it a standout choice for coffee enthusiasts. While it comes at a higher price point, the quality, convenience, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their coffee.
If you’re ready to elevate your coffee game and enjoy freshly ground beans brewed to perfection, the Breville Grind Control is an excellent choice.
