Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro: Detailed Review

If you’re a coffee enthusiast who appreciates the art of brewing, the Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro is a coffee grinder that promises to elevate your coffee game. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Breville Smart Grinder Pro’s features, performance, pros and cons, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you decide whether this is the right grinder for your needs.

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Key Features and Specifications

The Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro is designed to cater to a variety of coffee drinkers, from espresso connoisseurs to those who enjoy a more casual French press brew. Below are the key features and specifications that set this grinder apart from its competitors:

Feature	Description
Color	Brushed Stainless Steel
Brand	Breville
Style	French, Espresso, Drip
Product Dimensions	6.28″L x 8.46″W x 15.33″H
Item Weight	6.4 Pounds
Capacity	18 oz (1.1 pounds)
Wattage	165 Watts
Material	Stainless Steel
Recommended Uses	Grinding coffee beans for various brewing methods
Included Accessories	Portafilter Cradles (Small 50-54mm, Large 58mm), Grinds Container with Lid, Conical Burr, Cleaning Brush
Warranty	2 Year Limited Product Warranty
Voltage	110-120 Volts
Dosing IQ	Digital precision with time control, adjustable in 0.2-second increments
Grind Settings	60 grind settings ranging from fine (espresso) to coarse (French press)
LCD Display	Displays grind settings, grind time, and number of shots/cups

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Performance

When it comes to coffee grinders, performance is crucial. The Breville Smart Grinder Pro excels in providing consistent, uniform grinds that are critical for brewing a great cup of coffee, especially for precision methods like espresso. Here’s a breakdown of its performance features:

Grind Consistency and Quality

The Smart Grinder Pro features conical burrs, which are designed to provide more even and consistent grinds compared to blade grinders. This is essential for achieving a high-quality brew, as uneven grinds can lead to over-extraction or under-extraction, both of which negatively impact the flavor. The grinder operates quietly, especially compared to most entry-level burr grinders, though some users report that it can be noisy on higher settings.

60 Grind Settings

With 60 unique grind settings, this grinder gives you an impressive range of options, from a fine grind for espresso to a coarse grind for French press or cold brew. The versatility makes it suitable for all coffee brewing methods, ensuring that no matter your preference, you can achieve the grind you need.

Precision Dosing IQ

One of the standout features of the Breville Smart Grinder Pro is its Dosing IQ technology, which allows you to adjust grind time in 0.2-second increments. This provides full control over the amount of coffee ground, allowing you to dial in the exact dosage needed for your brewing method. Whether you’re making a single espresso shot or grinding for multiple cups, the Dosing IQ ensures accuracy.

LCD Display

The LCD screen is a clear and user-friendly addition that displays essential information, such as the grind size, grind time, and the number of shots or cups selected. This makes it easier to track your grind settings and adjust as necessary.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

Users find the Breville Smart Grinder Pro easy to operate and clean. The grind container is removable, and the included cleaning brush helps you maintain the grinder. Regular cleaning is necessary to keep the grinder performing optimally and to avoid any buildup of coffee oils that could affect the flavor.

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Pros and Cons

Like any product, the Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons based on user feedback and performance reviews:

Pros

Versatile Grind Settings: With 60 grind settings, the Smart Grinder Pro can handle everything from fine espresso to coarse French press grinds, making it suitable for a wide range of coffee brewing methods.
Dosing Precision: The ability to adjust grind time in 0.2-second increments ensures that you can achieve the perfect dose every time, whether you’re brewing a single shot of espresso or multiple cups.
Consistency: The conical burr design provides consistent grinds, ensuring even extraction and a better flavor profile.
Ease of Use: The LCD display and straightforward controls make it easy to set grind times, grind sizes, and dosage.
Removable Parts: The grind container is removable for easy cleaning, and the included cleaning brush makes maintenance simple.
Durable Build: The stainless steel exterior provides a sleek look and ensures long-lasting durability.
Affordable: While it offers commercial-level performance, the Smart Grinder Pro is priced relatively reasonably, offering a good balance of value for money.

Cons

Noise: While quieter than many blade grinders, the Breville Smart Grinder Pro can still be relatively noisy, especially on higher grind settings.
Inconsistent for Coarse Grinds: Some users have reported that it’s less effective at grinding consistently for very coarse grinds (e.g., French press) compared to finer settings.

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FAQ About Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro

1. How do I clean the Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro?

Cleaning the Breville Smart Grinder Pro is straightforward. The removable parts, including the grind container and burrs, can be cleaned using the included brush. Be sure to remove the beans and wipe down the grinder after each use to avoid buildup. You can also occasionally use a vacuum to clean the grinder.

2. What types of coffee brewing methods is this grinder suitable for?

The Breville Smart Grinder Pro is versatile and can accommodate nearly any brewing method, including espresso, French press, pour-over, cold brew, and drip coffee. Its 60 grind settings allow for fine adjustments for different brewing techniques.

3. Does this grinder work for espresso?

Yes, the Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro is excellent for espresso. Its fine grind setting and precise control over dosing make it a top choice for espresso lovers. You can easily adjust the grind size to suit your espresso machine.

4. How long will the Breville Smart Grinder Pro last?

With proper maintenance, the Breville Smart Grinder Pro should last for several years. The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind in case of defects or issues. Regular cleaning and care will help prolong its lifespan.

5. Is this grinder suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Breville Smart Grinder Pro is beginner-friendly. The LCD display, simple controls, and preset grind options make it easy to use, even for those new to coffee grinding.

6. Can I grind directly into a portafilter?

Yes, the Breville Smart Grinder Pro includes portafilter cradles (50-54mm and 58mm) that allow you to grind directly into the portafilter, making it convenient for espresso preparation.

Conclusion

The Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro stands out as a reliable and versatile coffee grinder suitable for a range of brewing methods. Its 60 grind settings, precision dosing, and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced coffee drinkers. While it may be slightly noisy and large for some, its performance and affordability make it a strong contender in the mid-range coffee grinder market.

Enjoyed this review of Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro? Then be sure to check out our other espresso machine guides and reviews.