Choosing between the Breville Dual Boiler and the Breville Infuser can be a tough decision, especially with each offering distinct advantages tailored to different needs. If you’re leaning towards a more professional setup and don’t mind a higher price and bulkier design, the Breville Dual Boiler might be your top choice. It stands out with its commercial-grade accessories, dual boilers that facilitate efficient multitasking, and a generous water capacity that minimizes the need for frequent refills. This model is ideal for serious coffee enthusiasts who value the ability to brew multiple drinks at once and appreciate the robustness of commercial-level features.
On the other hand, the Breville Infuser is a stellar option for those who are more budget-conscious and have limited kitchen space. It offers exceptional value without compromising on essential features. The Infuser’s compact design makes it a perfect fit for smaller countertops, while still delivering a high-quality coffee experience. Although it’s less expensive than the Dual Boiler, it doesn’t skimp on performance. The Infuser provides precise temperature control, a manual steam wand for crafting microfoam, and user-friendly features like volumetric control and a dedicated hot water spout.
Ultimately, your choice will hinge on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for versatility and professional-grade performance, the Breville Dual Boiler is a formidable contender. However, if you’re seeking a more affordable, space-efficient option that still delivers top-notch espresso, the Breville Infuser is a fantastic choice. Each machine has its strengths, so consider what aspects matter most to you before making your final decision.
Breville Dual Boiler Vs Infuser: Specs & Features Comparison
When comparing the Breville Dual Boiler Espresso Machine BES920XL and the Breville Infuser Espresso Machine BES840XL, the Dual Boiler emerges as the top choice for its advanced features and robust design. With dimensions of 20.1 x 17.2 x 17.2 inches and a weight of 30 lbs, it offers a substantial presence on your countertop. Its dual stainless steel boilers provide efficient multitasking, allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming, which is ideal for serving multiple espresso drinks quickly. The Dual Boiler’s large 2.5-liter water reservoir minimizes the need for frequent refills, and its powerful manual steam wand enables professional-quality milk frothing. The intuitive button-operated interface and professional-grade portafilter enhance the brewing experience, making it a favorite for serious coffee enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the Breville Infuser, with its more compact dimensions of 13.1 x 12.3 x 10.2 inches and lighter weight of 17 lbs, is a strong runner-up. It features a single thermocoil heating system, which heats water quickly and efficiently, though it requires a bit more time to reheat between sessions compared to dual boilers. The Infuser’s 1.8-liter water reservoir is slightly smaller but still sufficient for daily use, and its manual steam wand delivers high-quality microfoam. It provides a balance of essential features at a more accessible price point, making it a great choice for those who appreciate both functionality and affordability. With both machines offering a button-operated interface and optional filters, the Infuser stands out for its compact design, adjustable pre-infusion, and cost-effectiveness, making it an excellent value for the money.
Breville Dual Boiler vs. Infuser: Key Differences
When comparing the Breville Dual Boiler and the Infuser, the Dual Boiler stands out with a 4-3 victory, showcasing its superior features across several categories. Let’s explore their differences in detail.
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System Winner: Breville Dual Boiler
Both machines offer excellent flavor profiles and pre-infusion capabilities, but the Dual Boiler’s dual stainless steel boilers allow for simultaneous espresso brewing and milk steaming, optimizing efficiency and flavor extraction. This multitasking feature is a significant advantage for serious coffee enthusiasts. The Infuser uses a single thermocoil, which heats water quickly but requires more time for initial warming compared to the Dual Boiler’s system.
Built-in Grinder Neither machine includes a built-in grinder, which is a common feature in high-quality espresso setups. The Breville Smart Grinder Pro is a recommended companion for either model, providing precise grinding and good value. The Dynamic Duo package on Amazon includes both the Dual Boiler and this grinder, making it a convenient option.
Dosing & Tamping The Dual Boiler includes a 58-mm portafilter, while the Infuser features a 54-mm portafilter. Both machines come with pressurized and non-pressurized filter baskets, but the included tamper is basic. For optimal performance, investing in a high-quality tamper is advisable.
Heating System Winner: Breville Dual Boiler
The Dual Boiler excels with its dual boilers, providing consistent temperature control and allowing simultaneous operations. The Infuser’s thermocoil heats water rapidly but requires more time to reheat between brewing and steaming sessions.
Design & Convenience Winner: Breville Infuser
The Infuser’s more compact design (13.1 x 12.3 x 10.2 inches) and lighter weight (17 lbs) make it ideal for smaller kitchens. It is easier to maneuver and fits better in tight spaces. The Dual Boiler, while larger and bulkier, includes a roller system for easier repositioning and a top slot for convenient water refills.
Milk Frothing System Winner: Tie
Both models feature a 3-hole manual steam wand that rotates 360 degrees, offering excellent milk frothing capabilities and enabling the creation of latte art.
Drink Options & Programmability Winner: Tie
Both machines offer programmable shot volumes and brewing temperatures. They also include dedicated hot water outlets for tea and Americanos.
Other Features Winner: Breville Dual Boiler
The Dual Boiler features an auto on-off function, allowing it to preheat automatically, a convenience not found in the Infuser. Both machines have energy-saving modes, but the Dual Boiler’s programmable start is a significant plus.
In summary, while the Breville Dual Boiler offers advanced features and convenience for serious coffee aficionados, the Infuser provides a more compact, cost-effective option suitable for smaller spaces.
Quick Rundown Of Breville Dual Boiler
- Brand: Breville
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Product Dimensions: 14.7″ D x 14.8″ W x 14.7″ H
- Special Feature: Programmable
- Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine
- Capacity: 5.3 Pounds
- Material: Brushed Stainless Steel Exterior, Stainless Steel Dual Boiler
- Item Weight: 28.35 Pounds
- Wattage: 1700 watts
The Breville Dual Boiler Espresso Machine stands out with its impressive features and build quality. It comes in a sleek stainless steel finish, adding a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. Measuring 14.7 inches deep, 14.8 inches wide, and 14.7 inches high, it is a substantial machine that weighs 28.4 pounds. This robust construction houses a dual boiler system, made from stainless steel, which ensures consistent and efficient brewing and steaming.
With a powerful 1700-watt heating element, the Dual Boiler heats up quickly, allowing for simultaneous espresso extraction and milk frothing. This feature is ideal for those who value speed and efficiency in their coffee preparation. The machine’s programmable settings offer personalized brewing options, making it easy to achieve the perfect cup of coffee every time.
For best results, users should refer to the provided user guide or manual before first use. This ensures proper setup and operation, maximizing the machine’s performance and longevity.
Pros:
- Dual Boilers: Allows simultaneous brewing and steaming, enhancing efficiency and convenience.
- Large Water Tank: The sizable tank is easy to refill, reducing the frequency of water refills.
- Powerful Steam Wand: Delivers excellent frothing capabilities for rich, creamy milk and latte art.
- Professional-Grade Portafilter: Comes with a high-quality portafilter, enhancing the overall brewing experience.
- Intuitive Control Panel: Simplifies operation with user-friendly controls for precise brewing.
Cons:
- No Built-In Grinder: Lacks an integrated grinder, requiring a separate purchase for grinding coffee beans.
- Bulky: The machine’s large size may be challenging for those with limited counter space.
Quick Rundown Of Breville Infuser
- Brand: Breville
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Product Dimensions: 10.12″ D x 12.28″ W x 13.15″ H
- Special Features: Jug, Programmable, Water Filter
- Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine
- Capacity: 3.8 Pounds
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Item Weight: 17.4 Pounds
- Wattage: 1650 watts
The Breville Infuser Espresso Machine combines sophisticated technology with user-friendly features to elevate your home coffee experience. Crafted in stainless steel, this machine is both durable and stylish, designed to enhance your kitchen with its sleek appearance.
Dimensions & Capacity: Measuring 10.12 inches in depth, 12.28 inches in width, and 13.15 inches in height, the Breville Infuser fits comfortably in most kitchen spaces. It has a capacity of 3.8 pounds and an item weight of 17.4 pounds, making it a substantial yet manageable appliance for daily use.
Performance Features: The Infuser excels in delivering high-quality coffee, thanks to its precise temperature control and optimal water pressure. It utilizes a low-pressure pre-infusion process to gradually increase pressure at the start of extraction, ensuring a balanced and flavorful cup. The digital PID temperature control allows for adjustments in 4°F increments, and the built-in pressure gauge helps guide you to the perfect extraction every time.
Control & Customization: With programmable settings, the Infuser offers volumetric and shot control. You can easily choose between single and double shots or manually adjust the espresso volume to suit your taste preferences.
Milk Texturing: The 1650-watt high-power steam element ensures quick heat-up and robust steam pressure, enabling you to create rich microfoam for latte art at home.
Convenience Features: The machine includes a range of accessories, including single and dual wall filter baskets, a stainless steel jug, and cleaning tools. It also features an auto purge function to maintain optimal temperature between steaming and brewing.
Warranty: The Breville Infuser comes with a 1-year limited warranty, ensuring peace of mind with your purchase.
Pros:
- Thermocoil Fast Heating System: The Infuser’s thermocoil heating system ensures rapid heat-up, allowing you to start brewing quickly and efficiently.
- High-Quality Steam Wand: The manual steam wand delivers powerful steam for creating rich microfoam, ideal for latte art and frothy beverages.
- Compact Size: Its smaller footprint makes it a great choice for kitchens with limited counter space, fitting seamlessly into most setups.
- Adjustable Pre-Infusion: The machine offers adjustable pre-infusion settings, allowing you to fine-tune the extraction process for a balanced and flavorful cup.
- Affordable: Compared to other high-end espresso machines, the Infuser provides excellent value for its features and performance.
Cons:
- One Boiler: Unlike dual boiler systems, the Infuser has a single thermocoil, which can limit simultaneous brewing and steaming.
- No Built-in Grinder: The machine does not include a built-in grinder, so you’ll need to purchase one separately for freshly ground coffee.
Conclusion:
When deciding between the Breville Dual Boiler and the Breville Infuser, the choice ultimately depends on your priorities and preferences in espresso making.
The Breville Dual Boiler is a powerhouse for those who seek the pinnacle of home espresso craftsmanship. With its dual boilers, it allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, making it a standout choice for those who frequently entertain or enjoy multiple beverages in quick succession. Its professional-grade features, such as the large water reservoir and precise temperature control, offer unparalleled convenience and consistency. However, its bulkier size and lack of a built-in grinder might be drawbacks for some. The Dual Boiler is ideal for serious coffee enthusiasts who value advanced capabilities and are willing to invest in a top-tier machine.
On the other hand, the Breville Infuser offers excellent value for those who want a high-quality espresso machine without the premium price tag. Its compact design makes it a great fit for smaller kitchens, and it provides essential features like adjustable pre-infusion and a high-quality steam wand for crafting specialty coffee drinks. The Infuser’s single boiler and absence of a built-in grinder are its main limitations, but it remains a highly capable machine for users who appreciate affordability and simplicity.
In summary, if you’re looking for advanced functionality and are ready to accommodate a larger footprint, the Dual Boiler is the superior choice. If you prefer a more compact, budget-friendly option with essential features, the Infuser is a great alternative. Your decision should align with your space constraints, coffee-making needs, and budget.