When choosing a premium microwave for your kitchen, Breville often stands out thanks to its intelligent features, sleek designs, and superior cooking performance. Two of their most popular models are the Breville Smooth Wave and the Breville Compact Wave. Although they may look similar at first glance, each microwave serves a different type of user depending on space, cooking habits, and desired functionality. In this detailed comparison, we break down the features, performance, technology, and main differences so you can confidently decide which microwave best suits your needs.
Main Difference: Breville Smooth Wave vs Compact Wave
The main difference between the Breville Smooth Wave and the Breville Compact Wave is that the Smooth Wave offers more advanced cooking technologies, larger capacity, better power output, and a wider range of presets designed for precision cooking. The Compact Wave, on the other hand, focuses on simplicity, smaller footprint, easier operation, and lower energy consumption—making it ideal for compact spaces or users who want straightforward reheating and basic cooking functions.
HTML Comparison Table
| Feature | Breville Smooth Wave | Breville Compact Wave |
|---|---|---|
| Model | BMO850BSS | BMO650SIL |
| Capacity | 1.2 cu. ft. | 0.9 cu. ft. |
| Power Output | 1250 Watts | 900 Watts |
| Technology | Smooth Wave Technology, Sensor IQ | Simplified controls, Breville basic functionality |
| Preset Functions | Smart Reheat, Smart Cook, Smart Defrost | Soft Melt, Defrost, Reheat |
| Best For | Advanced cooking, families, and versatile meal prep | Small kitchens, apartments, dorms, basic cooking needs |
- The Breville Smooth Wave Microwave takes the guesswork out of cooking with Sensor iQ...
- SENSOR iQ TECHNOLOGY: Automatically adjust power to precisely cook or reheat; Countertop...
- POWER SMOOTHING INVERTER: Microwave automatically adjusts power intensity and delivers...
- SMART COOK, REHEAT & DEFROST: Featuring 15 in-built smart presets putting all the power at...
- QUIET MICROWAVE WITH SOFT CLOSE DOOR: Countertop microwave has 80% quieter soft close door...
- With a 25L compact footprint and an easy shortcuts and foods menu, the Breville Compact...
- COMPACT MICROWAVE: This countertop small microwave has a compact footprint with 25L...
- COOKING SHORTCUTS AND FOOD MENU: One touch auto buttons including Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn...
- QUIET MICROWAVE WITH SOFT CLOSE DOOR: Countertop microwave has 80% quieter soft close door...
- DEFROST & REHEAT FUNCTIONS: Breville microwaves deliver on versatility; Defrost function...
Design & Build Quality
Breville is known for its premium stainless steel appliances, and both microwaves reflect that design philosophy. The Smooth Wave features a refined brushed stainless-steel finish that gives it a luxurious and modern look. Its clear display, dial control, and soft-close door offer a higher-end feel. The soft-close door is particularly appealing, designed to eliminate the loud slamming sound common with many microwaves. This is ideal for homes with sleeping babies or shared spaces where noise control is important.
In comparison, the Compact Wave maintains a sleek and clean appearance but in a smaller frame. Its design is more minimalistic, focusing on simplicity and ease of use. The control panel has fewer functions, which makes it user-friendly for people who prefer straightforward controls without complex menus. The Compact Wave’s lighter weight also makes it easier to move around or reposition in tight spaces.
Capacity & Size
If size matters in your kitchen, this is one of the biggest distinguishing features. The Breville Smooth Wave offers a generous 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, suitable for families, larger plates, and full-meal reheating. It easily accommodates casserole dishes, microwave-safe bowls, and bigger food containers, making it more versatile for home cooks.
The Compact Wave provides a 0.9 cu. ft. interior, making it ideal for individuals, couples, dorm rooms, and small apartments. It fits standard plates comfortably but may not be suitable for larger dishware or bulk meal prepping. If space is limited, the Compact Wave is clearly the more practical choice.
Cooking Power & Performance
The Smooth Wave delivers an impressive 1250 Watts, enabling faster and more even cooking. Its enhanced power reduces cooking time significantly while maintaining the quality of the food. Because it uses Sensor IQ and Smooth Wave Technology, it adjusts power levels and cooking time based on the food’s moisture and temperature.
In contrast, the Compact Wave runs at 900 Watts, which is strong enough for most daily cooking tasks like reheating leftovers, melting butter, warming beverages, or defrosting frozen foods. While it lacks the advanced sensor technology, it still offers dependable performance for users who do not require precision cooking.
Smart Features & Technology
The Smooth Wave stands out with its higher-end features. Sensor IQ technology automatically detects humidity and adjusts cooking accordingly. This helps prevent overcooking or uneven heating—common issues with traditional microwaves. The Smooth Wave Technology ensures softer, gentler heat distribution, which results in better texture and flavor. You get advanced features like:
- Smart Cook – Intelligent heat control for various foods.
- Smart Reheat – Adjusts heat to warm food evenly without drying it out.
- Smart Defrost – Keeps food from partially cooking during thawing.
- Soft-Close Door – Reduces noise by 80% compared to standard microwaves.
The Compact Wave keeps things simple with a reduced set of functions. It includes:
- Defrost – For frozen foods.
- Reheat – Basic reheating tasks.
- Soft Melt & Soft Defrost – For chocolate, butter, and other sensitive items.
While the Compact Wave lacks the advanced Smart functions, its ease of use and reliability make it a perfect match for users who want a straightforward kitchen appliance without extra complexity.
Ease of Use
Both microwaves are designed with user experience in mind, but the experience differs based on the model. The Smooth Wave offers more presets and sensor-based options, which can reduce guesswork for users who often cook different types of meals. It’s ideal for people who enjoy cooking or want the convenience of automated settings.
The Compact Wave is simpler. The control panel is clean, the buttons are clearly labeled, and the fewer options make it easy for users who just want quick heating. Elderly users, minimalists, or people who avoid complex technology will appreciate this microwave the most.
Noise Level
Breville put significant focus on lowering the noise level in the Smooth Wave. The soft-close door and quieter operation make it one of the most silent microwaves in its class. If noise reduction is a priority—especially in small homes, offices, or shared apartments—the Smooth Wave is the better option.
The Compact Wave also operates quietly compared to standard microwaves, but it does not feature the premium soft-close mechanism found in the Smooth Wave.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Both microwaves come with smooth interior surfaces and removable turntables that make cleaning simple. The stainless-steel exterior of the Smooth Wave adds sophistication but may require slightly more polishing to avoid fingerprints. The Compact Wave, with its smaller size, is quicker to wipe down and maintain.
Energy Efficiency
The Compact Wave uses less energy due to its lower wattage and smaller internal cavity. It’s ideal for users who want a more energy-conscious microwave. The Smooth Wave, with its 1250-Watt output, consumes more power, but this is balanced by the advanced technology and faster heating times.
Who Should Choose the Breville Smooth Wave?
Choose the Smooth Wave if you want:
- Advanced sensor technology for precise cooking
- Higher power and faster performance
- Sleek stainless-steel premium build
- Quieter operation with a soft-close door
- A microwave that handles wide food varieties with ease
Who Should Choose the Breville Compact Wave?
Choose the Compact Wave if you want:
- A space-saving microwave for small kitchens or apartments
- Simpler functions without complex controls
- Affordable, reliable performance
- Lower energy consumption
- Easy-to-use, beginner-friendly design
Final Verdict: Which One Is Better?
The winner ultimately depends on your needs. The Breville Smooth Wave is the superior choice for users wanting advanced features, greater capacity, stronger power, and a premium feel. It’s built for families, home cooks, and anyone who values high performance.
The Compact Wave shines for minimalists, small kitchens, and budget-conscious buyers who want great Breville quality without paying for features they don’t need. Both models deliver reliability, but their target audiences differ significantly.
Whether you prioritize space, power, or technology, Breville delivers exceptional performance with both microwaves—ensuring you get the right fit for your lifestyle.
