Head-to-head · Best Bread Machines

Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker vs Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker (model # BB-PDC20BA)

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker (model # BB-PDC20BA) comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.3 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about fit for purpose — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Bread Machines

Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker

4.3

$399.95as of Jul 8

The Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker is praised for producing high-quality bread with crispy crusts and light crumb texture. Reviewers highlight its automatic fruit and nut dispenser as a standout feature, along with customizable recipe settings. TechGearLab noted it's ideal for recipe tinkerers despite average results from included recipes. However, the machine's large size and bulky design make it a significant kitchen commitment, and the collapsible paddle is considered finicky and fragile. It's best suited for serious bread makers who value customization over convenience.

Strengths

— Produces crispy-crust bread with light and fluffy crumb texture
— Features automatic fruit and nut dispenser that adds mix-ins at the perfect time
— Includes 9 custom settings to create and store personal recipes

Watch-outs

— Machine is bulky and takes up significant counter space
— The collapsible paddle can be finicky and is not scratch-proof

$399.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Bread Machines

Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker (model # BB-PDC20BA)

4.6

$454.95as of Jul 8

The Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker (model # BB-PDC20BA) is praised for its ability to produce consistent, fluffy loaves in under three hours, with features like dual kneading blades and a Crust Control setting that enhance baking results. Reviewers highlight its versatility with over 50 included recipes, including pizza dough and sourdough starter, and its suitability for sandwich loaves. While some note the need for occasional manual dough punch-downs and extra cleaning effort, the machine is considered a reliable choice for home bakers seeking convenience and quality. It's best suited for those who bake regularly and value ease of use over minimal counter space.

Strengths

— Bakes a 2-lb. loaf of bread in under three hours with rapid recipes available in just 2 hours and 25 minutes
— Features dual kneading blades and an additional heater on the lid for thorough kneading and even baking
— Includes 50+ recipes in the included recipe book, with options for sandwich loaves, pizza dough, jam, and sourdough starter

Watch-outs

— Requires occasional manual punch-down of dough to prevent over-proofing
— Cleaning requires soaking the pan to loosen baked-on dough from the detachable paddles

$454.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker	Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker (model # BB-PDC20BA)
Model	BBM800	BB-PDC20BA
Capacity	1.5-2 pound loaves	2-lb. loaf
Wattage	830	120 volts / 700 watts
Programs	9 custom settings	50+ recipes
Crust Options	light, medium, dark crust	light, medium, or dark crust
Dimensions	16.4" x 9.6" x 13.3"	18 x 10-1/2 x 12-7/8 inches
Timer	13-hour delay start timer	13-hour delay timer
Material	Brushed Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel
Voltage	120 volts	120 volts

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