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Breville Sous Chef 12 vs 16
Choosing between the Breville Sous Chef 12 and the Breville Sous Chef 16 can feel like picking between two professional chefs — both excellent, but each better suited to different kitchens and jobs. This in-depth comparison breaks down capacity, power, attachments, build, and everyday usability so you can decide which model belongs on your counter.
Main Difference: Capacity, Motor Power and Intended Use — Which Sous Chef Fits Your Kitchen?
In short: the Sous Chef 16 is Breville’s larger, more powerful processor built for serious volume and heavy-duty tasks; the Sous Chef 12 packs many of the same precision tools into a smaller footprint and lower motor wattage, making it ideal for smaller households, counters, or cooks who value a lighter machine. The 16-cup model features a heavier-duty induction motor and a larger bowl while the 12-cup model keeps power and size balanced for everyday home cooking. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Quick specs snapshot (load-bearing facts)
| Specification | Breville Sous Chef 12 (BFP680) | Breville Sous Chef 16 (BFP810 / current 16-cup) |
|---|---|---|
| Max Bowl Capacity (dry) | 12 cups (≈ 8½ cups liquid) | 16 cups (large-capacity bowl) |
| Motor / Wattage | 1000 W induction (heavy-duty for a 12-cup). | 1450 W high-torque induction motor (handles tougher, high-volume tasks). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} |
| Feed Chute(s) | Three options (large, medium, mini) for different shapes/sizes. | Extra-large 5.5″ 3-in-1 feed chute (less pre-cutting). :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} |
| Included Discs & Blades | Adjustable slicer (24 settings), reversible shredder, S-blade, dough blade, mini bowl & blade. | Adjustable 24-size slicer, reversible shredder, French-fry disk, S-blade, dough blade, mini bowl & more. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} |
| Dimensions (approx.) | ~17″H × 8.5″W × 15.5″D; ~16 lbs (varies by listing). :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} | ~17.7″H × 11.3″W × 9.2″D; ~30.6 lbs (heavier, more robust). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} |
| Warranty | Manufacturer standard (motor & parts—check your region). | 2-year product warranty; heavy-duty motor warranty 30 years (motor warranty highlighted on product page). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} |
- Stainless steel spindle
- Micro-Serrated S-Blade
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What the numbers mean in real cooking
Capacity and motor power are the headline differences but they translate into everyday experiences: the 16-cup machine will process larger batches of dough or vegetables without needing to work in halves, and its heavier motor sits steadier during kneading or continuous shredding. The 12-cup model—while powerful—will require smaller batches for very dense doughs or very large vegetables. If you routinely make Thanksgiving-scale prep or bake big batches of bread, the 16 saves time and wear; for couples, small families or cooks with limited counter space, the 12 hits a great balance. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Design & build: stainless steel, induction motor and durability
Both machines use premium materials (stainless steel blades, robust housings) and an induction-style motor design for smoother, quieter operation than cheaper direct-drive motors. The 16’s induction motor is rated substantially higher in wattage which correlates with the ability to run longer under heavier loads without straining. The 12 keeps the same engineering approach scaled to its size so you still get the “pro” feel in a smaller appliance. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Attachments & slicing precision (why slicer settings matter)
Both models typically include Breville’s 24-setting adjustable slicer and a reversible shredder so you can dial thickness for paper-thin slices or thicker wedges. The extra discs that come with higher-end variants (French-fry disk on the 16, mini bowls on both) expand flexibility: mini bowls are perfect for small tasks (pesto, baby food) without dirtying the large bowl. Having a 24-position slicer means you get restaurant-level consistency for plated presentations and even cooking. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Practical buying guide — which should you pick?
Choose the Sous Chef 12 if:
- You have limited counter or storage space.
- You usually cook for 1–4 people or prep moderate batches.
- You want most pro features (24-position slicer, mini bowl) without the bulk.
- You prefer a lighter, easier-to-move machine for occasional large tasks.
Choose the Sous Chef 16 if:
- You prepare large batches (meal-prep, entertaining, big families).
- You need the extra motor torque for heavy doughs, continuous shredding, or repeated use.
- You value the extra-large feed chute to reduce pre-cutting time.
- You want the peace of an extended motor warranty and the heft of a pro machine. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Performance test scenarios — how they compare in real tasks
1) Kneading dough
For sticky, high-hydration doughs the 16’s higher torque and mass handle longer knead cycles with less heat buildup. The 12 will still knead well (it’s equipped with a dough blade) but might require shorter batches or slightly reduced load for consistent results.
2) Shredding cheese or cabbage
Both machines excel at shredding thanks to the reversible shredding disk, but the 16’s larger feed chute and stronger motor let you push through whole heads of cabbage or large rounds of hard cheese faster and without pauses.
3) Slicing potatoes or making fries
The 16 often ships with an actual French-fry disk and an extra-wide chute that accommodates potato wedges; the 12 can slice for fries but you may need to quarter large potatoes first. Both deliver precise thickness thanks to the 24-position slicer. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Cleaning & storage
Breville designs both machines so many parts are dishwasher-safe (check your manual for specifics and local instructions). The 16 will have more substantial parts and a larger bowl to clean; the 12’s compact footprint makes it slightly easier to store. Both models often include a storage tub or dedicated accessory case to keep discs and blades organized. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Noise & vibration
Induction motors are quieter than many low-cost motors; nonetheless the 16’s higher wattage can translate to more pronounced hum under load, but also smoother torque. Both have safety interlocks and suction/non-slip feet to reduce vibration. If noise is a deal-breaker, expect similar ranges — the added power of the 16 doesn’t mean it’s loud, but it’s built for heavier use. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
What to check before buying (practical checklist)
- Counter / storage footprint — measure the width and depth in your cupboard (16 is heavier & wider). :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Typical batch size — if you frequently double or triple recipes, consider 16.
- Warranty terms in your country — Breville lists a long motor warranty for some 16 models; confirm region specifics. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Included accessories — mini bowl, French-fry disk, dough blade — check box contents for the exact kit you’re buying. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Maintenance tips to make any Sous Chef last
- Hand-dry metal blades to avoid water spots and store blades in the provided case.
- Avoid overfilling the bowl — work in batches when processing dense or heavy foods.
- Use the correct blade for the task (mini bowl for small jobs) to reduce wear on the motor.
- Wipe the base with a damp cloth — never immerse the motor housing in water.
Common FAQs
Is the 16 worth the extra cost?
If you regularly process large batches, knead often or want the extra feed-chute convenience and motor headroom, yes — it’s an investment in time saved and machine longevity. For casual cooks who rarely process huge volumes, the 12 gives near-identical precision at lower cost and smaller footprint. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Can I use the same accessories across models?
Some accessories (like certain blades or discs) are model-specific due to bowl size and spindle differences. Mini bowls and certain blades are typically compatible across Sous Chef family members, but always double-check the part numbers before buying extras.
Which model is easier to store?
The 12 is lighter and narrower which makes it simpler to tuck into cabinets; the 16 needs more counter or cupboard space due to its wider footprint and heavier weight. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Final verdict — which one should you buy?
If you want the most flexible, heavy-duty option and regularly cook for large groups or bake often, choose the Breville Sous Chef 16 for its stronger motor, bigger bowl and extra convenience features. If your kitchen space is limited and your batch sizes stay moderate — or you value a lighter machine that still offers pro-level slicing/shredding accuracy — the Sous Chef 12 is a brilliant, space-savvy choice. Both machines deliver the precision and durability that made the Sous Chef line a favorite among home and pro cooks. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
