Breville Grind Control Review 2024: A Guide to Effortless Grind & Brew Coffee

In the world of coffee enthusiasts, the name Breville stands out as a beacon of innovation and user-friendly coffee gear. They've mastered the art of simplifying complex processes and one prime example of their prowess is the Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control 12 cup coffee maker. In this comprehensive review, we'll dive deep into what makes this machine a standout choice for those seeking the perfect cup of grind and brew coffee.

Overview of the Breville Grind Control

Design and Appearance

When you first lay eyes on the Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control it's hard not to be impressed by its design and appearance. This coffee maker is more than just a functional appliance; it's a statement piece for any kitchen. The stainless-steel body not only adds a touch of modern elegance but also ensures the machine's durability.

But it's not just about looks; the design is smart and user-friendly. The illuminated controls are not only visually appealing but also incredibly intuitive. Even if you're not a tech-savvy coffee enthusiast you'll find yourself navigating this machine with ease.

The clear LCD screen is the cherry on top providing a sleek and high-tech interface that keeps you informed throughout the brewing process. Whether you're adjusting settings or simply checking the progress of your brew the LCD screen makes it a breeze.

Grind Control Coffee Maker Feature Set

Now let's dive into what makes this coffee maker truly shine—the feature set. At the heart of the Breville Grind Control lies a set of flat stainless-steel burrs. These burrs are a pivotal component that separates this machine from the rest.

Why are they so important? Well, these burrs ensure that your coffee beans are ground to perfection resulting in a consistently delicious cup of coffee every time. With six grind settings at your disposal, you have the power to customize your coffee's particle size to match your preferences precisely. Whether you prefer a fine grind for a rich espresso or a coarser one for a milder brew the choice is yours.

The adjustable burr grinder is conveniently housed near the half-pound bean hopper. This proximity allows for easy access and maintenance. And speaking of maintenance the LCD screen provides real-time feedback on your grind size selection making the process even more user-friendly.

Brewing Process

Integrated Coffee Grinder

Now let's explore the heart of the Breville Grind Control's capabilities—the integrated coffee grinder. What sets this machine apart from traditional coffee makers is its ability to grind and brew coffee automatically. Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly ground beans and the anticipation of a hot cup of coffee ready to greet you.

The built-in stainless steel burr grinder is where the magic happens. It ensures that each coffee bean is ground to the same size, a crucial factor in unlocking the full flavor potential of your coffee. The grind size is a key element in determining your coffee's taste and with the Breville Grind Control you have full control over it.

Adjusting the grind size is a breeze thanks to the user-friendly dial located on the top of the machine. As you turn the dial, you'll notice the grind size number change on the LCD screen providing real-time feedback on your settings. This feature allows you to fine-tune your grind size with precision catering to your specific coffee cravings.

Large Capacity

Coffee lovers rejoice! The Breville Grind Control doesn't compromise when it comes to capacity. This machine boasts the ability to brew a 12-cup carafe making it the perfect companion for large gatherings, family breakfasts or simply satisfying the caffeine needs of a coffee-loving household.

The double-walled stainless-steel carafe not only complements the machine's aesthetics but also serves a practical purpose. It keeps your freshly brewed coffee piping hot for hours ensuring that every cup is as enjoyable as the first.

But what if you're in a hurry and can't wait for a full carafe to brew? The Breville Grind Control has you covered. It offers the flexibility to brew directly into a travel coffee mug accommodating those busy mornings when time is of the essence.

Brew Controls

While the Breville Grind Control may not overwhelm you with a plethora of customization options it certainly provides the essential controls you need for a satisfying coffee experience. The simplicity of these controls is part of what makes this machine so appealing to a wide range of users.

Firstly, you can select your batch size catering to your current needs. Whether you desire a single cup to kickstart your day or a full 12-cup carafe for a leisurely weekend brunch with friends the choice is yours. The machine adapts effortlessly to your requirements.

Additionally, the Breville Grind Control offers eight different strength settings. These settings are not just about adjusting the taste; they determine the amount of coffee used for each brew. The higher the strength setting the more beans the machine will use resulting in a bolder and more robust cup. While you can't fine-tune the coffee dose in grams or program a bloom phase these settings provide enough flexibility for most coffee enthusiasts.

Filter Options

When it comes to filtering your coffee the Breville Grind Control offers you a choice allowing you to tailor your brewing experience to your taste preferences.

Gold Tone Filter

The first option is the included gold tone filter. This choice is perfect for those who appreciate a fuller-bodied cup of coffee reminiscent of the robustness found in French press brewing. The gold tone filter allows more fine particles and coffee oils to pass through resulting in a cup with a rich and bold flavor profile. It's the ideal choice if you savor the depth and complexity of your coffee and prefer a brew that leans towards the bolder side of the flavor spectrum.

Paper Filters

On the flip side the Breville Grind Control offers the flexibility of using standard flat bottom paper filters. Opting for paper filters ensures a cleaner cup of coffee akin to the precision and purity associated with V60 pour-over brewing. Paper filters effectively capture fines and trap coffee oils leading to a brew that's bright crisp and free from sediment. If you prefer a cleaner, more delicate taste that highlights the nuanced flavors of your coffee beans, paper filters are the way to go.

The ability to choose between these two filtering options demonstrates the versatility of the Breville Grind Control. It accommodates both those who relish the full-bodied richness of coffee and those who seek a cleaner, more refined coffee experience. This adaptability is a testament to the machine's commitment to providing a coffee that suits your individual preferences.

Wake Up to Freshly Ground and Brewed Coffee

One of the standout features of the Breville Grind Control is its ability to transform your morning routine into a coffee lover's dream. While many coffee machines require you to add pre-ground coffee to the brew basket the night before, this machine takes a different approach—one that ensures your coffee is as fresh as it can be.

Imagine this scenario: you load your favorite coffee beans into the bean hopper the evening before excited about the prospect of a delightful cup of coffee the next morning. However the magic of the Breville Grind Control lies in the fact that it refrains from grinding the beans until you've set it to brew.

This ingenious design ensures that your coffee beans are ground just moments before they meet hot water preserving their inherent flavors and aromas. The result is a cup of coffee that's not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly aromatic, awakening your senses and setting a delightful tone for your day.

The programmable auto-start feature allows you to schedule your coffee's brewing time ensuring that your coffee is ready precisely when you need it. Whether you're an early riser or someone who cherishes a few extra moments of sleep, the Breville Grind Control ensures that your morning routine begins with the freshest cup of coffee possible.

User-Friendly Experience

The Breville Grind Control is designed with one principle in mind—simplicity. You don't need to be a seasoned barista or a coffee aficionado to operate this machine effectively. Its user-friendly interface ensures that everyone from beginners to experienced coffee drinkers can enjoy a seamless brewing experience.

At the heart of this user-friendly experience is the LCD screen. This intuitive display serves as your coffee companion providing all the necessary information to make your brewing process effortless. From monitoring water levels to adjusting brew strength and cup size the LCD screen keeps you informed every step of the way.

One of the standout features is the ease with which you can adjust your grind size. Gone are the days of complex settings and guesswork. With the Breville Grind Control all it takes is a simple taste of your coffee. If your brew is too watery and thin a quick adjustment to a finer grind size is just a dial turn away. If you find your coffee slightly bitter or dry a coarser grind size is equally accessible. Its coffee customization is simple ensuring that your cup of coffee always matches your taste preferences.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Now let's talk about a critical aspect of coffee machine ownership—cleaning and maintenance. Coffee, especially when roasted to darker profiles, tends to release oils that can accumulate over time. The Breville Grind Control with its various parts and components is not immune to the challenges of coffee residue buildup.

Regular cleaning is essential to keep your machine performing at its best and to prevent any potential blockages. The grinder and the area around the filter basket are particularly susceptible to clogs caused by coffee oils.


Breville understands how important it is to keep your coffee machine in good condition, so they have provided users with easy-to-follow cleaning instructions. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Breville Grind Control remains in top shape and consistently brews great coffee. Taking the time for cleaning is a price to pay for the continued enjoyment of your favorite morning routine.

Overall Value

At first glance the Breville Grind Control may seem a bit expensive compared to other coffee machines. However, it's crucial to consider the features it offers.

It's not just a drip coffee maker; it also comes with an integrated coffee grinder. Having a high-quality grinder built in is a game changer for those who appreciate the taste of freshly ground coffee. However, it's worth noting that this grinder is specifically designed for use with this machine and cannot be used independently.

If you're starting from scratch without any existing coffee equipment or if you prefer the convenience of an all-in-one solution, then the Breville Grind Control provides value. It offers a hassle-free way to enjoy brewed and freshly ground coffee, with minimal effort.

However, for those who have a desire to explore brewing techniques to dive into brewing or have precise control over the size of their coffee grounds it may be more suitable to consider separate options for a grinder and a coffee maker. While the Breville Grind Control performs well in its designated functions it may not cater to the requirements of the most discerning coffee enthusiasts.

Who Is It For?

The Breville Grind Control specifically caters to a group of coffee enthusiasts by providing them with a customized coffee experience that aligns perfectly with their preferences and lifestyle.

Perfect for Freshness Seekers

If you find yourself longing for a flavorful cup of coffee without the complexities of grinding beans, then the Breville Grind Control is an ideal companion. It has been designed for individuals who prioritize a pure coffee experience.

Simplicity and Convenience

This coffee maker epitomizes simplicity and convenience. It is a great choice if you have no interest in exploring brewing methods or if you value a hassle-free morning routine. With the Breville Grind Control you can enjoy your coffee ritual without needing extensive preparations or extensive knowledge about coffee.

Not Suitable For…

Although the Breville Grind Control performs well in aspects it may not be the ideal option, for everyone, especially those who have specific preferences and needs.

Exploring Other Brew Methods

If you're someone who loves to explore coffee experiences like experimenting with shots, indulging in the precision of pour over brewing or mastering different coffee styles this machine might not fully meet your expectations. Its primary focus on simplicity in grinding and brewing may not align with your desire for versatility and trying out new things.

Maintenance-Free Machines

For individuals who prioritize low maintenance equipment there are alternatives that might be more appealing. The Breville Grind Control, like any coffee machine, requires cleaning. Care to ensure consistent performance. If you're looking for a setup that demands less maintenance effort you could consider using a hand grinder paired with a brewer instead. This combination can offer simplicity and durability with fewer moving parts to worry about.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Convenient Grind and Brew Functionality: The standout feature of the Breville Grind Control is its ability to seamlessly grind and brew your coffee. It simplifies your morning routine by automating these essential steps.

• Stainless Steel Flat Burr Grinder for Consistent Results: The inclusion of a high-quality stainless steel flat burr grinder ensures that your coffee beans are ground consistently. This consistency is key to unlocking the full flavor potential of your beans.

• Large 12-Cup Capacity: Whether you're organizing a get together or have a household of coffee enthusiasts the Breville Grind Control can cater to your needs with its capacity of 12 cups. It's the perfect fit for those moments when a single cup won't suffice.

• User-Friendly Controls: The controls are designed to be user friendly, and the informative LCD screen makes operating this machine a breeze. Even if you're not an expert in all things coffee you'll find it effortless to navigate its features.

Cons:

• Grinder Exclusively Designed for This Machine: However there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. The grinder is limited to working with this machine, which might be off putting for those who prefer equipment with broader compatibility. It's designed as an all-in-one grind.

• Requires Regular Cleaning for Optimal Performance: Like any coffee equipment, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for performance. Neglecting this aspect could result in clogs that affect the machine's effectiveness. Allocating time for care is necessary to ensure results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control 12 Cup coffee maker is a user-friendly machine that effortlessly delivers cups of coffee. While it may not include features it's a choice, for those looking for a straightforward grind and brew solution.

If you're looking for a coffee maker that can handle large amounts of coffee and provide freshly ground beans every morning the Breville Grind Control is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use the grinder separately for other brewing methods?

No, the built in grinder, in the Breville Grind Control is specifically designed for use with this machine only. It cannot be used separately for brewing methods.

2. How do I clean the Breville Grind Control effectively?

Cleaning the Breville Grind Control is important to maintain its performance. Breville provides a user cleaning protocol that includes cleaning of the grinder and areas around the filter basket. Following these guidelines will help keep your machine in condition.

3. Is the coffee carafe insulated to keep the coffee hot?

Yes, the Breville Grind Control comes with a stainless-steel carafe. This design effectively retains the heat of your brewed coffee ensuring it stays hot for a period so you can enjoy a piping cup whenever you want.

4. Can I brew a single cup of coffee with this machine?

Absolutely! The Breville Grind Control offers flexibility to brew a cup of coffee if that's your preference. Its versatile batch size settings allow you to choose the desired quantity whether its one cup or a full 12 cup carafe.

5. Are there any recommended grind settings for specific coffee types?

The Breville Grind Control has six grind settings, primarily designed for batch brewing, rather than coffee types. However, you can adjust the grind size to suit your coffee preferences. Finer grinds are typically used for brews while coarse grinds are often preferred for milder flavors.

6. What is the warranty coverage for the Breville Grind Control?

It's important to note that warranty coverage may vary depending on your region and the retailer you purchase the Breville Grind Control from. It's recommended to review the specific warranty terms before making your purchase. Breville usually provides warranties for their appliances. The duration and coverage details may differ.

7. Can I use paper filters and the gold tone filter interchangeably?

You have the flexibility to use either the included gold tone filter or standard flat bottom paper filters with the Breville Grind Control. This choice allows you to customize your brewing experience based on your preferences. The gold tone filter offers a cup of coffee while paper filters ensure a cleaner brew, without any sediment.

Check out Lifeboost Coffee Automatic Pour Over Coffee Machine.