The Capresso and Breville milk frothers serve the same basic function but differ significantly in features, price, and target audience. A Capresso milk frother is a straightforward, budget-friendly appliance that delivers consistent foam with simple controls, while a Breville milk frother is a premium device offering advanced features like variable temperature settings, greater milk capacity, and a high-end build.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which milk frother is the right fit for your home coffee bar.
Capresso Milk Frother
Capresso frothers are known for their simplicity, reliability, and affordability. They provide home users with an easy way to create frothed milk for lattes and cappuccinos without a steep learning curve or high upfront cost. Their compact, functional design makes them a popular choice for those with limited counter space or who want a no-fuss machine.
- What it is: An electric milk frother designed for simple, one-touch operation to create warm or cold milk foam.
- Key features: Typically includes multiple frothing disks for different textures, scratch-resistant pitcher, and simple push-button controls for hot froth, cold froth, and warming milk.
- Price: Generally ranges from $50 to $80.
- Style: Minimalist and compact with a simple plastic and stainless steel finish that fits easily into most kitchen decors.
- Capacity: Suitable for single or double servings, typically holding between 4-8 ounces of milk for frothing.
- Pros: Very affordable entry point for home frothing. Extremely easy to use with one-touch controls. Compact size is great for small kitchens. Heats milk quickly and consistently.
- Cons: Smaller capacity is not ideal for making multiple drinks at once. Lacks the temperature and texture control of more premium models. Construction feels less durable than premium alternatives.
The Capresso frother is ideal for the casual coffee drinker who wants a reliable, easy-to-use device for single servings without breaking the bank.
Shop this product: capresso.com/froth-pro-automatic-milk-frother.html
Breville Milk Frother
Breville's milk frothers are high-performance appliances designed for coffee enthusiasts who demand precision and quality. Known for their premium construction, advanced features like variable temperature control, and larger capacity, Breville frothers are built to replicate cafe-quality results at home. Their sophisticated design and superior functionality justify the higher price point for those serious about their coffee.
- What it is: A premium, induction-powered milk frother with customizable temperature and foam texture settings.
- Key features: Adjustable temperature dial, interchangeable frothing discs for lattes and cappuccinos, cold stir setting, and a large stainless steel jug.
- Price: Usually priced between $100 and $200.
- Style: Sleek and modern with a brushed stainless steel finish and a more substantial presence on the counter.
- Materials/Construction: High-quality stainless steel and durable components, often featuring double-walled construction for heat retention.
- Capacity: Larger capacity accommodates multiple drinks, holding around 8-20 ounces of milk.
- Pros: Precise control over milk temperature and foam texture. Creates exceptionally smooth microfoam. Large capacity is great for families or guests. Durable, high-end build quality. Jug is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than Capresso models. Larger countertop footprint. Can be more complex than a casual user needs.
This is an excellent appliance for home baristas and coffee lovers who value customizable results, professional-grade foam, and a durable build.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/bmf600.html
Capresso vs. Breville Milk Frother Comparison
Price &, Value
There's a clear price difference between the two brands. A Capresso will typically run you between $50 and $80, offering fantastic value for its straightforward function. It does its job well at an accessible price, making it a great entry point.
The Breville sits in the $100 to $200 range, representing a more serious investment. However, its value comes from its advanced features, superior build quality, and lasting performance. If control and quality are your top priorities, the higher price is justified by the cafe-level results it produces.
Features &, Performance
The Capresso focuses on simplicity. You typically get three settings: hot froth, cold froth, and hot milk. It’s effective and consistent for basic coffee drinks. Performance is reliable, though the foam might not be as finely textured as a high-end machine.
Breville excels in this area. It uses induction heating for even and precise temperature control, which you can adjust on a dial. The inclusion of different frothing discs allows you to create silky smooth microfoam for a latte or a stiffer, airy foam for a cappuccino. The ability to fine-tune your results gives it a clear performance edge for a wider variety of drinks.
Materials &, Construction
Capresso frothers are well-built for their price point, generally combining a durable plastic base with a non-stick or stainless steel pitcher. They are designed for regular home use but may show wear more quickly than a premium product.
Breville frothers feel like professional kitchen equipment. They are constructed primarily from brushed stainless steel, giving them a heavy, sturdy feel. The high-quality materials, from the jug to the induction base, are designed for longevity and frequent use, backed by a stronger warranty.
Capacity &, Size
Capresso frothers are compact, making them ideal for small kitchens and single users. Their capacity of 4 to 8 ounces for frothing is perfect for making one or two drinks at a time. This keeps their countertop footprint minimal.
Breville models are larger in every aspect. With a capacity that can froth up to 20 ounces of milk, you can easily prepare drinks for multiple people simultaneously. This size and capability make it a better fit for households with several coffee drinkers or for those who entertain guests.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both devices are great at what they do, but they are built for different types of coffee drinkers.
Choose a Capresso if:
- You're looking for an affordable and simple way to froth milk.
- You typically only make one coffee drink at a time.
- You have limited counter space in your kitchen.
- You prefer straightforward, one-touch operation over customization.
Choose a Breville if:
- You are a specialty coffee lover and want precise control over milk temperature and texture.
- You often make lattes or cappuccinos for family or guests.
- You are willing to invest more for a durable, premium appliance that delivers professional results.
- You want your milk frother to be a high-performance, stylish part of your coffee setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Capresso and Breville frothers?
The primary difference is control vs. simplicity. The Breville Milk Cafe offers customized temperature and foam texture settings for fine-tuning your drink, while the Capresso offers simple, one-touch buttons for hot froth, cold froth, and heating milk. Breville is for precision, and Capresso is for convenience.
Which brand makes better quality foam?
Breville generally makes higher quality foam, known as "microfoam," due to its induction heating and specially designed frothing discs. This silky, smooth texture is ideal for latte art and a professional mouthfeel. Capresso produces a good, consistent foam, but it may be a bit more bubbly and less refined.
Are Breville frothers worth the extra money?
If you're particular about your coffee and can tell the difference in milk texture, then yes. For a daily latte or cappuccino drinker who wants a cafe-quality experience at home, the investment in a Breville is often worth it for the improved control and results.
Which milk frother is easier to clean?
Both are relatively easy to clean. The Capresso typically has a non-stick interior you can rinse and wipe out. The Breville's stainless steel jug is often top-rack dishwasher safe, which many users find more convenient for thorough cleaning.
Can I use non-dairy milk in these frothers?
Yes, both frothers work with non-dairy milks like oat, almond, and soy. However, results can vary based on the brand and protein content of the milk. The adjustable settings on the Breville may give you a better chance to dial in the perfect texture for a specific type of non-dairy milk.
How much milk can each frother hold?
A typical Capresso model can froth around 4-8 oz of milk or simply heat up to 12 oz. A Breville frother has a much larger capacity, often able to froth up to 20 oz of milk, which is enough for three or four lattes.
Do I need a milk frother with temperature control?
Temperature control is important for taste. Coffee aficionados argue that milk tastes sweetest between 140-150°F. Breville allows you to set this temperature precisely, preventing scorching. While not essential for a casual user, it's a key feature for anyone trying to perfect their drinks.
Which frother is better for a small kitchen?
The Capresso frother is the clear winner for small kitchens. Its smaller size and vertical design take up significantly less counter space than the larger, more robust Breville model.
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