For nearly a decade, the Breville VKJ318 has been a reliable workhorse of our kitchen. Having been in constant use boiling water since June 2015, has proved its durability with only three descalings required over its entire lifespan. It performed exceedingly well, consistently dispensing hot water in roughly 50 seconds. However, the time finally came to modernise our setup, leading us to the sleek new Breville VKT111.
The Hardy Veteran vs. The New Upgrade
The VKJ318, which we’ve dubbed “The Veteran,” set a high bar for longevity. While it still functions, the move to the VKT111 offers a fresh aesthetic and refined performance. If you are using a standard-sized mug, you can still expect that signature 50-second dispense time. Naturally, using a smaller cup results in an even faster boil as there is less water to heat.
Performance and Capacity
The new unit maintains the high standards set by its predecessor. With a 2-litre capacity, it can handle up to eight 250ml cups before needing a refill. A key feature of these dispensers is that water is only dispensed once it reaches the boiling point, ensuring your tea or coffee is brewed at the perfect temperature every time.
Furthermore, the VKT111 features a smooth, continuous flow that keeps splashing to an absolute minimum, keeping your worktops clean.
Customised for Your Favourite Mug
One of the best carry-over features from the original design is the variable dispense control. Whether you are using a small teacup or a large travel mug, you can choose from nine different cup sizes to ensure the perfect fill without any overflow.
It has been a fantastic journey with the VKJ318, but the VKT111 feels like a worthy successor for the next decade of tea rounds.
