The Breville Knock Box (BCB100) and the Breville Knock Box Mini (BES001XL or BES100GBUK) are some of the best knock boxes on the market. They are made with high-quality materials and are super simple to use. In this short review, we will compare these two models to help you decide which one is right for you. For first-time users, we’ve also included a simple how-to guide to using a knock box at the end of the article.
Comparison of the Breville Knock Box vs. Knock Box Mini
The main difference between the Breville Knock Box and the Breville Knock Box Mini is the size.
The larger 1.8L Breville Knock Box has more than three times the capacity and can hold up to 26 shots of coffee pucks before needing to be emptied. However, its larger footprint may not be ideal for smaller kitchens and those who prefer something less noticeable since it can resemble a small trash can sitting next to your coffee maker.
On the other hand, the Breville Knock Box Mini has a smaller capacity of 0.5L, allowing you to dispose of up to 8 pucks. Personally, we don’t mind that it needs to be emptied more frequently since the wet and warm pucks tend to grow mold rather quickly and smell after a while anyway.
Another key difference between these two knock boxes is that the larger Breville Knock Box has a removable inner bowl, which is dishwasher safe.
On the other hand, the Mini does not have a removable inner bowl and is designed to be hand washed only. However, unlike its larger brother, the Knock Box Mini has a removable knock bar, which allows for a mess-free emptying and easy cleaning experience.
With the larger knock box, you need to be extra careful when emptying it, as the non-removable bar can get in the way and cause a mess.
Both of these knock boxes feature solid steel construction that can stand up to the demands of daily use and a functional anti-slip rubber base that ensures stability. In certain countries, Breville also offers a Black Truffle variant of the Knock Box Mini, so that’s something to look out for if you have a preference in terms of color.
Pricewise, the larger Breville Knock Box has an understandably higher price tag at $29.95, while the Breville Knock Box Mini costs $19.95, making it more affordable. We think both of them are well worth their price.
So which one is right for you? With these key differences in mind, the choice mainly comes down to your size preferences, the number of pucks you typically discard, and the money you are willing to spend.
Whether you go with the Breville Knock Box or the Breville Knock Box Mini, you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality product that will last for years to come.
Quick Summary
Here is a quick summary of the main differences and similarities between these two knock boxes:
Breville Knock Box
Mini
(10,9 x 10,9 x 11,5 cm)
Max Capacity: 8 pucks
Build Material: Stainless Steel
Anti-slip Base: YES
Dishwasher Safe: NO
Removable Inner Bowl: NO
Removable Knock Bar: YES
Breville Knock Box
(Large)
(17,5 x 17,5 x 18 cm)
26 pucks
Stainless Steel
YES
YES
YES
NO
What is a Knock Box?
A knock box is a trashcan-like coffee accessory that allows for an easy and mess-free way to dispose of your used coffee pucks by knocking them out from the portafilter after making an espresso.
How to Use a Knock Box
Once you’re done making a shot of espresso, simply tap the portafilter head against the knock bar to discard the used coffee puck.
Do You Need a Knock Box?
A knock box may not be necessary for those with a trashcan within reach of their espresso machine. However, suppose you don’t have a trashcan easily accessible and want the most convenient and mess-free way to dispose of coffee pucks. In that case, a knock box will be a much-appreciated accessory.
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