The Breville Air Fryer 860 and Air Fryer 900 are two high-performance machines from Breville, but they target different users through their capacity, features, and price. The 860 is a compact 4-quart model with a max temperature of 450°F, perfect for smaller households, while the 900 is a larger 5-quart unit that reaches 500°F and includes more accessories for added versatility.
Here’s a detailed look at both models to help you decide which air fryer is right for your kitchen.
Breville Air Fryer 860
The Breville Air Fryer 860 is a straightforward, powerful appliance designed for efficiency in smaller kitchens. It combines a user-friendly digital touchscreen with Breville’s reliable construction, delivering crispy results for everyday meals without taking up excessive counter space.
- What it is: A compact 4-quart air fryer suited for individuals, couples, or small households.
- Key features: Digital touchscreen with preset cooking functions, rapid air circulation for even cooking, and a non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket for easy cleanup.
- Price: Around $200 - $250.
- Dimensions: Approximately 13” H x 11” W x 12” D.
- Temperature Range: 180°F to 450°F.
- Style: Sleek and modern with a simple, matte finish that fits well in minimalist kitchens.
- Pros: Compact footprint saves counter space. Intuitive digital controls are easy to use. Great value for core air frying performance. Fast and even cooking for smaller batches.
- Cons: 4-quart capacity may be too small for families or cooking large meals. Lower maximum temperature than the 900 model. Lacks the advanced cooking modes featured in the upgrade.
This model is ideal for anyone who needs a reliable, high-quality air fryer for daily use but doesn't have a lot of counter space or the need to cook for a crowd.
Shop this product: breville.com/air-fryer-860
Breville Air Fryer 900
The Breville Air Fryer 900 is the larger, more powerful upgrade for home cooks who need more capacity and culinary flexibility. With its higher temperature range, additional accessories, and bigger basket, it's built to handle everything from large family dinners to more ambitious roasting and grilling recipes.
- What it is: A larger 5-quart air fryer with enhanced features for families and cooking enthusiasts.
- Key features: Advanced digital interface with a rotary dial, improved rapid air technology, and accessories including a baking pan, crumb tray, and skewers.
- Price: Around $300 - $350.
- Dimensions: Approximately 15” H x 13” W x 14” D.
- Temperature Range: 180°F to 500°F.
- Style: A premium, industrial look with a brushed stainless steel exterior that makes a statement in modern or professional-style kitchens.
- Pros: Generous 5-quart capacity is great for families. Higher 500°F temperature allows for better roasting and broiling. Includes versatile accessories for more than just air frying. Durable, premium construction.
- Cons: More expensive than the 860 model. Larger size requires significantly more counter space. May have more features than the average user needs.
The Air Fryer 900 is for families or serious home chefs who will take advantage of the larger capacity, higher heat, and added versatility for everyday cooking and entertaining.
Shop this product: breville.com/air-fryer-900
Breville Air Fryer 860 vs. Air Fryer 900 Comparison
Capacity & Dimensions
The most noticeable difference is size. The Air Fryer 860 has a 4-quart basket, which is perfect for cooking for one or two people - think two chicken breasts or a generous portion of fries. It's compact (13x11x12 inches), making it an easy fit in an apartment or kitchen with limited counter space.
The Air Fryer 900 steps up to a 5-quart capacity, allowing you to cook for a family of three or four. The basket can handle 4-5 chicken breasts or a small roast. This extra room comes with a larger footprint (15x13x14 inches), so you'll need dedicated space for it.
Performance & Features
Both models use rapid air technology for crispy, even results, but the 900 has a slight edge. Its temperature goes up to 500°F, while the 860 tops out at 450°F. That extra 50°F on the 900 is great for getting a better sear on steaks or achieving a crispier skin on chicken. It also boasts "improved" air circulation technology for slightly faster cooking times.
The 900 also comes with more functional accessories, such as a baking pan and skewers, expanding its capabilities to roasting, grilling, and baking. The 860 is more focused on core air frying functions.
Materials & Aesthetic
Breville builds both appliances to last, using high-quality stainless steel and durable components. The Air Fryer 860 sports a clean, minimalist design with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and blends in nicely. The Air Fryer 900 has a more premium, industrial look with its brushed stainless steel exterior. It feels more robust and is designed to be a centerpiece appliance on a countertop.
Price & Value
The Breville Air Fryer 860 retails for about $100 less than the 900. It offers fantastic value for those seeking Breville's quality engineering for core air-frying tasks. You get a reliable, user-friendly machine that does its main job exceptionally well.
The bigger price tag on the Air Fryer 900 is justified by its larger capacity, higher cooking temperature, and added versatility with accessories. If you plan to cook larger meals or use your appliance for more than just air frying, the 900 provides better long-term value and functionality.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both Breville machines are excellent options, but they are built for different kitchen needs and user habits.
Choose the Breville Air Fryer 860 if:
- You have limited counter or storage space.
- You typically cook for just one or two people.
- Your budget is under $250.
- You need a straightforward appliance primarily for air frying, reheating, and roasting.
Choose the Breville Air Fryer 900 if:
- You cook for a family of three or more, or often host guests.
- You want the versatility of additional cooking functions like grilling and baking.
- A higher temperature for better searing and faster cooking is important to you.
- You have ample counter space and a bigger budget for a premium appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Breville 860 and 900?
The primary differences are capacity (4-quart vs. 5-quart), maximum temperature (450°F vs. 500°F), included accessories, and price. The 900 is bigger, hotter, more versatile, and more expensive.
Is the Breville Air Fryer 900 worth the extra money?
If you have a larger family or want to be able to cook more than just standard air-fried foods, the extra capacity, higher heat, and included accessories make the 900 a worthwhile investment. For individuals or couples just needing the basics, the 860 offers better value.
Which Breville air fryer is better for a small kitchen?
The Air Fryer 860 is the clear choice for small kitchens. Its compact footprint is designed specifically to save counter space without sacrificing performance.
Can you cook a whole chicken in these air fryers?
The 5-quart capacity of the Air Fryer 900 is large enough to handle a small chicken (around 3-4 lbs). The 4-quart 860 model would likely be too small for a whole chicken but is perfect for chicken pieces like wings, thighs, and breasts.
Are the baskets dishwasher safe?
Yes, both the Breville Air Fryer 860 and 900 feature non-stick baskets and accessories that are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup quick and easy.
How loud are these Breville air fryers?
Breville appliances are generally known for being relatively quiet during operation compared to other brands. The Air Fryer 900, in particular, is noted for its efficient and less noisy fan.
What kind of accessories come with the Air Fryer 900?
The Air Fryer 900 typically includes a baking pan, a grilling rack/skewer set, and a crumb tray, which significantly expands its cooking capabilities beyond just air frying.
Does the higher temperature of the 900 make a big difference?
Yes, the 500°F maximum temperature on the Air Fryer 900 allows for better caramelization and searing on meats. This results in a crispier finish on foods like chicken skin and a better crust on roasted vegetables compared to the 860's 450°F limit.
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